From Powells.com
Discover the books that made our 2022 list.
Staff Pick
This whimsical adventure of Rabbit on a quest to find the perfect gift for his Nana uses lush and quirky artwork with fun typography that bounces and flies, to tell a sweet, simple story about kindness and love. Made me want to hug the whole world. Recommended By Gigi L., Powells.com
Synopses & Reviews
Two-time Caldecott Honor author/illustrator Lane Smith tells a whimsical story about a little rabbit searching for the best gift for someone very special.
A thoughtful little Rabbit sets out to find the perfect gift for his Nana. He knows she will love anything he brings her but Rabbit wants this gift to be extra special. As he travels on his quest, Rabbit encounters an assortment of creatures — a crow, a smiling full moon, a stickler (whatever that is), a big fish, and a volcano. Each is certain they offer the best advice but nothing they suggest seems right for his Nana. It's not until Rabbit reaches the highest peak, that he finds exactly what he's been searching for.
The award-winning illustrator of bestsellers including Penguin Problems and Giraffe Problems, brings originality and gentle humor to a story that parents and grandparents will be sharing with their children for years to come.
Review
“Denise gives youngsters an old-fashioned story with an amusing twist and a cute-as-a-button protagonist that charms on every level. This will satisfy a wide range of readers, from Dragons Love Tacos fans to wannabe knights.” Booklist (Starred Review)
Review
“A cozy story that will transport readers to faraway places.” Kirkus Reviews (Starred Review)
Review
"It's dangerous to label any picture book a 'contemporary classic,' but Knight Owl tempts you to try....Sweet and epic by turns."
NPR
Review
“Conveyed in a leisurely pace punctuated by flashes of humor.” Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)
Review
“A quirky and lovely ode to the unconditional love of grandparents and the unexpected delights and challenges of going on a quest….Perfect for story hours…and for discussions of intergenerational love.” School Library Journal
Review
“[A] tenderhearted adventure….Themes of familial love, appreciation, and gratitude resist saccharine cliché thanks in large part to Smith's subversive sense of humor and offbeat writing.” Horn Book Magazine
About the Author
Christopher Denise spent much of his childhood in Shannon, Ireland, exploring castles and dreaming of great adventures. He is the illustrator of many critically acclaimed books for young readers, including Anika Aldamuy Denise's Bunny in the Middle, Alison McGhee's Firefly Hollow, Rosemary Wells's Following Grandfather, and Anne Marie Pace's Groundhug Day, as well as several in Brian Jacques's award-winning Redwall series. His books have appeared on the Indie Next List and the New York Times bestseller list and in the Society of Illustrators' Annual Exhibition. Knight Owl marks his author-illustrator debut. Christopher's current adventures include exploring coastal Rhode Island, where he lives with his family.