Two new picture books that Mom will love reading again and again are “Mama’s Kisses” by Kate McMullan and “If I Were a Kangaroo” by Mylisa Larsen — instant classics that will be cherished gifts.
McMullan’s “Mama Kisses” is a dive into a lush rain forest where four different animal moms search for their children to put them to bed. The Manhattanite’s sweet, cuddly, rhyming tale is a departure from her bestselling “I Stink!” series. Tao Nyeu’s stunning illustrations, rendered in a unique, cool palette, depict playtime and bedtime with a quiet charm that reminds us of Babar and Pooh.
Larsen’s “If I Were a Kangaroo” is a roundup of the endearing details of how animal moms care for their kids. Larsen’s text is also illustrated with a muted palette, this time with awww-inducing ink washes and pencil by Brooklynite Anna Raff.
“Mama’s Kisses” book by Kate McMullan, $16.99, “If I Were a Kangaroo” book by Mylisa Larsen, $17.99, www.barne
