My daughter’s occupational therapist introduced us to the world of Karen Katz, and we have enjoyed every moment of reading this author’s incredible, memorable works. All of her books share her trademark roly-poly, joyous children exploring the wonders of the world. They encompass many different cultures, activities, and holidays, but one thing they all have in common is their fantastic bright pictures of babies.

Katz cites traditional folk art for her inspiration in much of her art and writing. After a long career in various arts, it was adopting a daughter from Guatemala that inspired Katz to start writing children’s books. Her first book, Over the Moon, was written for her daughter and many more soon followed. Katz says that her teen daughter remains her biggest inspiration, even twenty-two books later.

Perhaps our favorites in Katz’s collection are the holiday books. We especially enjoyed her My First Chinese New Year, in which a little girl learns all about the tradition of welcoming in the New Year. Other holiday books include Counting Christmas, My First Ramadan and My First Kwanzaa, as well as books with Halloween, Valentine’s and other themes.

She also delves into other colorful and exciting cultural stories for children in The Colors of Us and Can You Say Peace? All of the characters in her stories are simple enough for a child to understand, yet varied and vibrant, depicting all walks of life.

Katz’s books also discuss various virtues and good manners. Titles such as No Biting!, No Hitting! I Can Share, and Excuse Me! all teach important yet simple skills that all children need to learn. Counting skills, body awareness and other concepts are also introduced in other books, such as Where is Baby’s Belly Button? (one of my daughter’s favorites) and Ten Tiny Tickles.

Katz’s books are so popular, they have their own merchandise associated with them. Peek and play cubes (blocks with toys inside), puzzles, soft cloth books and more are all available for purchase wherever Katz’s books are sold. Gift sets, dolls, posters and other merchandise are also based on Katz’s books. Like the books, they are made with smiley, round babies and bright cheerful colors.

 If you’re on the lookout for a great book series to start with your little ones—or for the perfect gift for a new parent, or even a library addition—look no further than Karen Katz’s sweet series.