I scanned the book selection at Walmart with my 2-year-old sitting in the shopping cart. He spied it almost instantly... a book based on The Jungle Book movie, which is my son's current obsession.

He asked if he could have it. “But you already have two Jungle Books,” I reasoned.

My 2-year-old has learned the art of procrastination. Even worse, he has figured out that he can combine his love for books, his aversion to bedtime, and our parental paranoia that he might need to go potty. Put them all together and he comes up with a Get Out of Bed Free Pass... good for at least 15 minutes of story time while he sits on the potty, not going to bed.

"Lola Loves Stories"

Written by Anna McQuinn. Illustrated by Rosalind Beardshaw

Ages 2 to 5

"Sally's Great Balloon Adventure"

Written and illustrated by Stephen Huneck

Ages 4 to 8

As soon as I saw "Sally's Great Balloon Adventure" I knew it would be a storytime winner. Sally, a black Lab, climbs into the gondola of a hot-air balloon in pursuit of the enticing smell of fried chicken. Soon the balloon is aloft. Spectacular woodcuts illustrate Sally's reactions to her flight and the ongoing efforts to rescue her. A suspenseful plot, humor and striking artwork make "Sally's Great Balloon Adventure" a standout picture book.

Youngest readers (Ages 4 to 8)

1. "How I Became a Pirate" by Melinda Long

2. "Spencer's Savannah" by Spencer and Mom

3. "Amazing Grace" by Mary Hoffman

Young readers (Age 7 to 12)

1. "Jokelopedia" by Illana Weitzman

2. "Stargirl" by Jerry Spinelli

3. "Phantom Tollbooth" by Norton Juster

Older readers (Ages 9 and older)

1. "Alas, Babylon" by Pat Frank

"Lots of Spots"

Written and illustrated by Lois Ehlert

Ages: 4 to 8

The
author/illustrator of "Planting a Rainbow," "Feathers for Lunch" and
"Oodles of Animals" has released another wonderful picture book.

"Lots
of Spots" is filled with her creative, innovative, multi-textured,
multi-hued collage art depicting different animals who have spots.

The
text is rhythmical, charming and humorous. ("There's no dispute, Goat's
face is cute, But its horns can hit, Right where you sit.") What's not
to love?

By Terri Schlichenmeyer, for the Savannah Morning News

With truly mixed feelings, you awaited the day. On one hand, you couldn't wait to see your child take his first steps. It was you, after all, who helped him practice by holding his little fingers as he tippy-toed between your knees.

On the other hand, you knew that as soon as he took those first steps, nothing would be safe any more, including him. Not only could he reach for breakable things, but he could also reach for the stars.