I’ve been thinking a lot about children’s books recently.
In the coming months, the Woodson Art Museum will renew its biennial commitment to the art of children’s illustrated literature with an exhibition featuring the exuberant work of Christian Robinson, What Might You Do?, on view December 4, 2021 through February 27, 2022.
I’m a regular reader of Meghan Cox Gurdon’s Wall Street Journal weekend columns focused on children’s books, which I share with Woodson curators and educators and also mine for new titles appropriate for our grandsons, who soon will turn two and four.
Recently, my husband and I welcomed a granddaughter, a cousin to the boys. My children’s book quest took on an added dimension.
While we knew the new baby would be a girl, her name wasn’t shared until she was born. For months, we referred to her simply as “Baby Girl.”
To our surprise and delight, her name is Madeline, which, of course, brings to mind Ludwig Bemelmans’ memorable and heartwarming books.
I can hardly wait to read the Madeline books to our Madeline. I know her bookshelf will be filled with not only Bemelmans’ classic titles, but also with an assortment of terrific books, including the latest by Christian Robinson.
