One Book Every Young Child: 2018 Staff Picks

One Book Every Young Child (OBEYC) is a Pennsylvania initiative formed specifically to promote early literacy development in children ages 3-6 years old. Every year since 2006 librarians, early childhood educators, and museum educators have come together to choose a book which encourages imagination and fosters a love of reading in children. This year’s selection is My Cousin Momo by Zachariah O’Hora. Parents and professionals will appreciate the thoughtful conversations and activities that can come from sharing Momo with a young child.

Aside from the obvious topic of squirrels, there are many themes within Momo’s story. Notably, individuality, family, and treating others with kindness are topics that are likely to come up in conversation. Here are a few of my favorite books on each of these topics!

My Cousin Momo

When Momo the flying squirrel arrives for a much-anticipated visit with his cousins, they think Momo is no fun until they try doing things his way.


Be a Friend

Dennis is an ordinary boy who expresses himself in extraordinary ways. Some children do show-and-tell. Dennis mimes his. Some children climb trees. Dennis is happy to BE a tree … But being a mime can be lonely. It isn’t until Dennis meets a girl named Joy that he discovers the power of friendship–and how special he truly is!


The Family Book

Represents a variety of families, some big and some small, some with only one parent and some with two moms or dads, some quiet and some noisy, but all alike in some ways and special no matter what.



John Jensen Feels Different

John Jensen, a crocodile, cannot quite understand why he feels so different from everyone else, but a kindly doctor reassures him that no one is exactly the same as anyone else.


Nanette's Baguette

It’s Nanette’s first trip to get the baguette! Is she set? You bet!


One Family

A family can be many things, in this story that introduces numbered groups from one to ten.


Pass it On

Illustrations and rhythmic text encourage the reader to relish and pass along smiles, chuckles, and joy.


The Secret Life of Squirrels

Mr. Peanuts, a rather unusual squirrel who enjoys playing the piano and reading, learns that everything is more fun with a friend.




Thank You Bear

Despite the criticism of others, a bear finds the perfect gift for his mouse friend.


Yo? Yes!

Two lonely characters, one black and one white, meet on the street and become friends.