Three appealing children's picture books bought in NYC yesterday

Mr. Zinger's Hat Written by Cary Fagan Illustrated by Dusan Petricic Imprint: Tundra Books Format: Hardcover  US$$17.95 Leo’s mother has told him not to disturb Mr. Zinger, who’s a writer, but when Leo’s ball sends Mr. Zinger’s hat flying, the old man invites Leo to sit and talk. The man begins by gazing into his wayward hat to see what made it fly off. “Ah, I see now,” he says. “It’s a story. A story trying to get out.”. Ages 4–6.

Goodnight iPad a Parody for the next generation Blue Rider Press Ann Droyd - US$14.95 In a bright buzzing room, in the glow of the moon-and iPhones and Androids and Blackberries too-it is time to say goodnight... Modern life is abuzz. There are huge LCD WiFi HD TVs and Facebook requests and thumbs tapping texts and new viral clips of cats doing flips. Wouldn't it be nice to say goodnight to all that? Like the rest of us who cannot resist just a few more scrolls and clicks, you may find yourself ready for bed while still clinging to your electronics long after dark. This book, which is made of paper, is a reminder for the child in all of us to power down at the end of the day. This hilarious parody not only pokes loving fun at the bygone quiet of the original classic, but also at our modern plugged-in lives. It will make you laugh, and it will also help you put yourself and your machines to sleep. Don't worry, though. Your gadgets will be waiting for you, fully charged, in the morning.  For adults more than children I suspect! The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore by William Joyce and Joe Bluhm Published by Atheneum Books for Young Readers Morris Lessmore Website Pages: 52 Ages: 4-8 US$17.99 Morris Lessmore loved words. He loved stories. He loved books. But every story has its upsets. Everything in Morris Lessmore’s life, including his own story, is scattered to the winds. But the power of story will save the day. Stunningly brought to life by William Joyce, one of the preeminent creators in children’s literature, The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore is a modern masterpiece, showing that in today’s world of traditional books, eBooks, and apps, it’s story that we truly celebrate—and this story, no matter how you tell it, begs to be read again and again.