When your child loves a specific book or author and you are tired of reading the same pages every night, here are some recommendations to stop the monotony.
James Dean and the Pete the Cat series
Have you found your child reaching for "Pete the Cat" books by James Dean? Why wouldn't they? The stories are easy to read, funny, and repetitive. The stories flow so gracefully that not only children but parents love to read these books. Even though there are over 16 books in this series, sometimes you want a change of pace or a break from the silly blue cat with wonderful shoes. If you are in this stage, I would suggest the Llama Llama series by Anna Dewdney.
The Llama Llama books, like "Llama Llama Red Pajama" are funny, repetitive, and easy to read. These stories also have a similar cadence of Pete the Cat. The stories are heartwarming and perfect for a bedtime routine. This particular story is about a llama who is lonely and just wants his mothers attention before bed. "Llama Llama Red Pajama" is extremely catchy and your child will be reading it to you in no time.
Mo Willems
Mo Willems is the mastermind behind many wonderful picture books such as "Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus", "Knuffle Bunny", and the Elephant and Piggy books. Mo Willems books are silly, character driven, expressive, and allow the reader to participate in the story. Mo Willems stories often illicit reader interaction by expressive illustrations. Mo Willems has a lot of variety in the over 50 books that he has written but sometimes you might want a change of pace. I would suggest "Scaredy Squirrel" by Melanie Watt or "Olivia" by Ian Falconer.
"Scaredy Squirrel" is the first in the series and a cartoon is loosely based on the character. "Scaredy Squirrel" follows a squirrel who is afraid to leave his comfort zone. Scaredy interacts with the reader in a beautiful way by creating lists and taking the reader on an adventure through decision making. "Scaredy Squirrel" is a fun and interactive story that any child would enjoy.
"Olivia" by Ian Falconer is also the first in its series.
Olivia is a rambunctious pig who is given a time out before bedtime. The illustrations in "Olivia" allow the readers to interact with the story and ask questions about the character to further their understanding of the story. "Olivia" is an easy read with a beautiful and sweet story. For a change of pace, "Olivia" will not disappoint.
All of these books are available in the picture book section of Pocono Mountain Public Library.