Kids Books A to Z: H is for Henkes

I was first introduced to Kevin Henkes in my children's lit class in college. One of my classmates did a project using Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse, in which a little mouse named Lilly is obsessed with her new accessory. Unfortunately, it causes too many distractions in class and her teacher takes it away from her. She becomes furious and tries to extract her revenge. She feels bad about it and then tries to make amends.


Another one of my favorites was Owen. Owen loves his blankie and takes it everywhere with him. The meddling neighbor, Mrs. Tweezers, thinks he is too old to still have his blanket. Mom finally agrees when it is time for Owen to start school. They come up with a great compromise.

I loved this book because I also had a special blanket. While I didn't take it to school, it did accompany me on overnights and vacations until I lost it at the age of 13.


In Wemberley Worried, the title character is afraid of everything. She worries about everything, even things that seem completely ridiculous to adults. She is especially worried about starting school. Once she gets there, though, she meets someone else who is just as worried as she is. She decides that perhaps she doesn't need to waste so much time worrying, after all!


Kevin Henkes has penned and illustrated dozens of pictures books for children. Many of them feature his beloved mouse characters. Look through the collection to find your favorites!