| Kids Books=Graduation Gifts Dec 17th 2011, 11:02 Oh, the Places You'll Go by Dr. Seuss is one of several children's books that make excellent gifts for graduates. If you are looking for a unique graduation gift for a high school or college graduate, I recommend these children's books for their entertainment value, wit, and wisdom. If you can't decide which of the first four you want, consider buying the fifth book, a collection of quotations from children's books. 
Random House This picture book by Dr. Seuss has become a favorite graduation gift for high school and college students. It's an inspirational book in rhyme that speaks directly to the reader and provides an uplifting sendoff for people entering a new phase in their lives; Dr. Seuss also points out that there will be difficult times as well as good times. This book follows a boy as he goes out into the world and features Dr. Seuss’ wildly imaginative illustrations. (Random House, 1990. ISBN: 0679805273) In honor of the 20th anniversary of Oh, the Places You’ll Go in 2010, Random House published a pop-up version, with the complete text of the original book. Compare prices of the pop-up edition. 
Rising Moon Books In this picture book written and illustrated by Linda Kranz, a mother and father decide it is time to share their wisdom with their son, Adri. Adri and his parents are colorful "rockfish" and live in a large community of brightly colored and intricately decorated rockfish. While Adri's parents' words are indeed wise, it is the mixed media artwork illustrating their meaning that makes this book so special. For example, "If something gets in your way, move around it" is illustrated with a line of rockfish that detours around a fishing line with a worm on it. The clever illustrations keep the book from seeming "preachy," getting across some important points with wit and good cheer. (Rising Moon Books, 2006. ISBN: 9780873589017) 
Houghton MifflinThe author and artist, D.B. Johnson, uses a quotation from Henry David Thoreau as the basis for the plot. The lively artwork and seeing Thoreau and his friend portrayed as bears adds to the enjoyment. However, there is an important message here. Thoreau stressed the importance of simplicity rather than material goods. With all of the emphasis on getting ahead in life, this book helps to put things in perspective. (Houghton Mifflin, 2000. ISBN: 0395968674) This oversized book is beautiful, more like a coffee table book than a children’s book. Helen Ward has illustrated twelve of Aesop's fables with exquisite watercolor and ink paintings. The tales themselves, a combination of little and well-known fables, all of which are worth knowing, the artwork, the size of the book, and the quality of the paper all add to its appeal. (Chronicle Books, 2004. ISBN: 0811844501) Istvan Banyai's Zoom is a bright and colorful wordless book that is sure to amuse graduates while reinforcing the importance of standing back and looking at the "Big Picture" and getting all the information you need before making decisions. This book is perfect for the graduate who says s/he is looking at the Big Picture when planning for the future but actually has tunnel vision. (Penguin Putnam Books for Young Readers, 1998. ISBN: 0140557741) 
Algonquin BooksAs Judith Viorst says in the foreword, "At their best, children's books offer insights we'll want to remember and ponder and savor and learn from and revel in." This collection of quotations from children’s books is amazingly varied. They range from the profound to the funny, but wise, and are arranged by theme. Themes include faith and courage, love and friendship, family woes, character and individuality, acceptance, sadness, and goodness. (Algonquin Books, 2004. ISBN: 1565124510) Are there other children's books you recommend as graduation gifts? Join the discussion on the About Children's Books Forum.  | |
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