As the final post for 2017, I want to share three beautifully illustrated picture books that touched my heart. Each one involves winter, animals, and caring for each other. The first is a unique take on researching a science report - The Bear Report by Thyra Heder Through dreamy watercolor illustrations and sparsely worded dialogue, emerges the story of a girl's discovery of the wonders of the north pole and polar bears. Bored with a mundane assignment, Sophie is magically tr

When I first decided to write a PPBF post on this book, I didn't realize how often my life imitates art. Instead of getting right to it, I ended up imitating Tortoise. While not actually hibernating, I definitely withdrew and burrowed into decorating, cookie making, and spending some glorious time with my kids. And, like Tortoise, I also rediscovered the simple joys of winter and friends. I had almost forgotten how fun it is to ice skate and play in the snow. In a worthy sequ

In this busy season of cleaning, baking, decorating, shopping, and wrapping it's important to find time for yourself. Why not take a moment away from everything and read some wonderful holiday stories. Check out the links, but also be sure to scroll through the comments for some great surprises. https://susannahill.com/2017/12/07/ho-ho-ho-the-7th-annual-holiday-contest-is-here/ The rules are: Write a children’s holiday story (for age 12 and under) about A Holiday Surprise! A