Check It Out:

Have you ever heard the saying “Don’t judge a book by its cover”? Well, while that may be true in many cases, in all honesty, covers have a lot to do with how we decide which book to read. Thankfully, the publishing world has taken note of this phenomenon and has judiciously started to repackage and redesign classic children’s books for today’s readers. Many new editions add modern artwork to classical works to inspire young readers to select great books that might otherwise be left on the shelf. You might want to take a second look at some of these classics.

In artist Nicola Bayley’s rendition of “The Jungle Book” by Rudyard Kipling, the illustrations bring even more life to the stories that have long captured the imagination of children and adults. The book tells the story of Mowgli, a boy raised by wolves in the wilds of the Indian jungle.

Lauren Child has added her original and unique style to Astrid Lindgren’s “Pippi Longstocking.” The red-headed girl Pippi will continue to delight children with her zany never-ending adventures. Pippi lives with a horse and a monkey, but without parents. Just imagine what mischief she can get into.

In celebration of the 100-year anniversary of “The Wind in the Willows” by Kenneth Grahame, Robert Ingpen, an award-winning artist has graced this tale with his talents. This story follows the escapades of Mole, Ratty, Badger and Mr. Toad as they gallivant through an idyllic English countryside.

Children’s illustrator Helen Oxenbury has joined her artistic style with Lewis Carroll’s beloved “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.” She is able to portray Alice as a modern child, who enjoys the same magical adventures.

The “Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle” books by Betty MacDonald have entertained generations of families. The unorthodox “cures” for common childhood misbehavior are still pleasing to today’s readers. Children will also enjoy “Happy Birthday, Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle” by Anne MacDonald Canham, daughter of Betty, a recently released collection with even more Mrs. Piggle Wiggle tales.

Children will also enjoy recently published “Return to the Hundred Acre Woods” by David Benedictus. The book joins the world of A.A. Milne, continuing the story of “Winnie the Pooh.” In a few months, “Return to the Secret Garden” by Hilary McKay will continue the “The Secret Garden” by Frances Hodgson Burnett. McKay is a fine children’s author, a great choice for carrying forward Burnett’s work.

Jan Birdsall, author of “The Penderwicks” and “The Penderwicks on Gardam Street,” is a contemporary author whose books have the same old-time feel as many of the classics listed above. While still appealing to modern children, the books are timeless in that they make no mention of popular media or political happenings. They focus on characters, four lovable girls and their relationships with family, friends and pets.

Take the time to revisit one of these “updated” classic stories with your child. Create memories together and discover that there is still, a great hunger for good old-fashioned literature.

CHECK IT OUT is written by the staff of the Newport Beach Public Library. All titles may be reserved from home or office computers by accessing the catalog at www.newportbeachlibrary.org. For more information on the Central Library or any of the branches, please contact the Newport Beach Public Library at (949) 717-3800, option 2.