A gorgeous tribute to the bond of siblings, the power of a storm, and the thrill of adventure.

When curiosity captures a sibling pair, they decide to venture out to the seaside to watch a storm approach. But as the wind gets stronger and the waves thunder against the shore, the children must decide what to do--make their way to safety or continue on and risk getting caught in the squall.

Told with lyrical language as lovely and captivating as the vivid illustrations, this story thrusts readers into the action from the very beginning. With every page turn, the intrigue--and danger--increases as the powerful force of a storm is explored. Island Storm is sure to inspire readers' curiosity about weather disturbances, and would make an excellent catalyst for conversations about storm safety, weather patterns, and the special bonds within family.

Here are a few activities that align with the themes of this book:

• From a safe distance and in a safe location, with the supervision of a trusted adult, watch a storm approach. What do you see? Smell? Hear? Feel?
  
• If you were one of the children in this story, what would you have done? Write a story or draw a picture about what decisions you would have made.
• Conversation starters: "The children in the story encountered a storm. How do you think they felt?" "Have you ever been caught in a storm? How did you feel? What did you do?"

Looking for more perfect picture books? Check out Susanna Leonard Hill's website!

A poignant story about a tough machine with a tender heart. 

Digger is a tough machine, built for tough work. But when he finds a little flower, something surprising takes place--the excavator becomes the protector. He waters and nurtures and cares for the little plant, until the unexpected happens. Then, it is up to Digger to find a way to ensure that future life is guarded and nourished. 

This durable little board book overflows with heartfelt messages of care and compassion, loss and grief, and rebirth and renewal. Additionally, its boldly illustrated pages may prompt young readers to begin to consider the impact of urbanization and the importance of protecting the natural world. With tender storytelling and captivating illustrations, The Digger and the Flower is sure to delight and inspire readers of any age.

Here are a few activities that align with the themes of this book:

• Discuss all the things a little seed needs to grow and flourish:  soil, light, air, water.  Plant a seed and watch it grow. Record its progress. 
• With a parent or caregiver, observe a construction site from a safe distance.  Watch the machines build. Which machines do you see? Can you identify the three machines featured in this book?
• Pair with other books in the Digger series, Digger and the Duckling, Digger and the Butterfly, Digger and the Dark, and Digger and the Christmas Tree (released September 16, 2025).
• Conversation starters:  "Digger lost something important to him. What feelings do you think he felt?" "How did Digger respond to his loss?" "When something unexpected or sad happens, what feelings do you feel? How do you respond to those feelings?"

Looking for more perfect picture books? Check out Susanna Leonard Hill's website!