the illustrated atlas of architecture and marvelous monuments

The Illustrated Atlas of Architecture and Marvelous Monuments takes us on a trip through 5 continents and 80 countries to explore extraordinary buildings, structures and monuments.  Characteristics, interesting facts and unique details of each masterpiece are offered along with crisp, modern illustrations.  Did you know that only UK residents are allowed to visit Big Ben?  Gaudí’s Sagrada Família will have been under construction for 144 years by the time it comes to a finish in 2026.  Seattle Central Library can hold up to 1.5 million books.  Trong Nghia received 11 architectural prizes for the sustainable nursery school he designed with a plant-covered roof that regulates the temperature.  Its plants are irrigated with the recycled water from a nearby shoe factory.  So much to learn, discover and marvel at, in this oversized architectural compendium by Sarah Tavernier and Alexander Verhille.  Published by Little Gestalten.

XO, OX: A Love Story

Hapless and hopeless romantic Ox writes a series of love letters to gorgeous (and absolutely vain) Gazelle who can't be bothered to give anyone the time of day, much less a "thick and ungrateful and awful and unlovely" ox.  And don't forget unlovable.  An endearing story just in time for Valentine's Day.

XO, OX: A Love Story was written by Adam Rex, illustrated by Scott Campbell and published by Roaring Brook Press.

little lit book series: words and wordplay

This month's edition of #littlelitbookseries is all about words and word play.   We're featuring books that celebrate the cleverness and nuances of language and its sounds, grammar, linguistic devices, various lexicons—the big and little things that contribute to the beauty and complexity of language.  Word mavens and logophiles, be sure to check in on our feed @littlelitbookseries as we share more linguistic wonders there throughout the month.

If you've ever questioned whether or not commas do make a difference, look no further than the picture book version of Eats, Shoots & Leaves written by Lynne Truss and illustrated by Bonnie Timmons.  It'll make you think twice the next time you see a badly punctuated sentence, and either cringe or chuckle at it.

Take a look at what everyone else is sharing today by searching for the hashtag #littlelitbookseries on Instagram.