A batch of back-to-school books for our youngest readers

This month thousands of young children are having their first classroom experiences. As they are learning how to read some will be developing a lifelong affection for books. Here are some new books that our youngest readers might enjoy.

“The Mermaid” by Jan Brett (Putnam, 32 pages, $18.99, ages 4-8)

This modern update of “Goldilocks and the Three Bears” is an underwater adventure. A young mermaid discovers an undersea home. The occupants are not there. When the missing residents return-they have tentacles.

Beautifully illustrated.

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“Creepy Pair of Underwear” by Aaron Reynolds (Simon and Schuster, 42 pages, $17.99. ages 4-8)

This is the story of a young bunny and his haunted undies. This creepy tale should be a hit with those more reluctant readers who prefer some humor and excitement in their reading. Perfect for Halloween.

“Bear Make Den” by Jane Godwin and Michael Wagner (Candlewick, 34 pages, $16.99, ages 4-8)

A bear makes his den and furnishes it with all sorts of stuff. He keeps thinking that there is something missing. What could that be?

“This Beautiful Day” by Richard Jackson (Atheneum/Caitlyn Dlouhy Books, 32 pages, $15.99, ages 4-8)

This whimsical story is a celebration of life and the beauty that is all around us. It is uplifting and positive and inspiring.

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“The Shape of the World-a Portrait of Frank Lloyd Wright” by K.L. Going (Beach Lane, 32 pages, $17.99, ages 5-10)

A biography of the architectural genius Frank Lloyd Wright introduces young readers to a man who was able to make the things he envisioned become real buildings that continue to impress us today.

“Peanut Butter and Aliens” by Joe McGee (Abrams, 32 pages, $16.95, ages 3-7)

This “zombie culinary” tale will entertain and amuse. The illustrations are hysterically funny. Another great read for Halloween.

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“Muddy — The Story of Blues Legend Muddy Waters” by Michael Mahin (Atheneum, 44 pages, $17.99, ages 4-8)

This biography of the blues musician Muddy Waters has some striking illustrations by Evan Turk. The pictures are impressionistic, colorful, and they possess a raw power.

“Big Machines — The Story of Virginia Lee Burton” by Sherri Duskey Rinker (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 48 pages, $17.00, ages 4-7)

This book is a biographical tribute to the writer and illustrator Virginia Lee Burton, also known as Jinnee, who 75 years ago was the creator of books like “The Little House” and “Choo Choo.” This is a children’s book about her book creations for children.

“Salam Alaikum - a Message of Peace” by Harris J (Aladdin, 32 pages, $17.99, ages 4-8)

Here’s another book with an inspiring feel good message. Kindness, sharing, being peaceful, and considerate are the themes being presented here. This is a hopeful volume with an optimistic intent; to make this a pleasant, more caring and happier world.

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