So now that I'm in the children's books and authors "scene," I thought it would be fun to share the children's books that Nina and I love to read together. I was thinking maybe once a month I'd write a quick post on our current bedtime books.

Nina and I read for about thirty minutes before bedtime. She likes to read the same four or five books for about a week, then I try to sneakily cycle a new batch in, because Mom has a limit on some of those books. Some may even disappear for awhile...

Here are two that are "in cycle" right now that we both LOVE!

The Pink Umbrella by Amelie Callot. Here it is on Amazon.

The cover and illustrations alone are just darling! The story takes place on the French countryside, and it has the French-chic flair while still remaining charmingly simple.

The main character, Adele, owns a popular, quaint cafe. She is vibrant, dedicated and caring, but the bad weather and rain really kill her spirits (same girlfriend, only I'll take rain over snow). Reading this book in February in South Dakota is a great reminder to keep a positive attitude, and that life is what you make it! Super cute book with a heart-warming twist at the end.

Here is the official book description:

"When it's bright outside, Adele is the heart of her community, greeting everyone who comes into her café with arms wide open. But when it rains, she can't help but stay at home inside, under the covers. Because Adele takes such good care of her friends and customers, one of them decides to take care of her too, and piece by piece leaves her little gifts that help her find the joy in a gray, rainy day. Along with cute-as-a-button illustrations, The Pink Umbrella celebrates thoughtful acts of friendship."

Love Is by Diane Adams. Here it is on Amazon.

Again, the illustrations are to die for! Sophisticated and stylish but so appropriate for kids. Reminds me a little bit of the original, first Amelia Bedelia book!

So grab a tissue for this one. It's similar to "Love You Forever" on the cry-o-meter. I'm just going to drop the official book's description in here because I can't describe it better:

"Perfect for any fond gift or tender moment, this story of a girl and a duckling who share a touching year together will melt hearts old and young. In this tenderly funny book, girl and duckling grow in their understanding of what it is to care for each other, discovering that love is as much about letting go as it is about holding tight. Children and parents together will adore this fond exploration of growing up while learning about the joys of love offered and love returned."

So this adorable girl takes care of this adorable duck, and the whole time you're thinking, "This is what it's like to take care of you!" And then things get real. And then they get a little heartbreaking. And then you'll cry. And then you'll ugly cry. And then it will be okay.

Both of these books are wonderful to talk in-depth about with Nina. We always discuss the illustrations and what the characters are feeling. Nina becomes so invested! Highly recommend both books!

Speaking of LOVE and being a mommy, I shared some fun news last week on Valentine's Day:

2018 is proving to be a big year for the Flynns! We have so much to praise God for!

Have a great week and happy reading!

Flynn Story Time: What we're reading!