Kid Picks with Philip Potempa for Thursday, Dec. 1, 2011

Here's our monthly showcase of the latest and greatest new selections in media for youth.

From books and games to educational toys and DVDs, there's never a dull moment for active and eager young minds.

BOOKS

Little, Brown and Company, $14.99, Ages 6 and older

"The Muppets Joke Book: Frogs Are Funny!" by The Muppets with Brandon T. Snider

The Muppets are back in every way, from a new film on the big screen to this 200-page hardcover joke book with funny lines from all the favorites made famous by Kermit and Co. Along with fun illustrations and photos of all the Muppet greats, the jokes are from the greatest Muppet moments from the popular TV series and lines from all of the previous films. It's available in stores now or at lb-kids.com.

Little, Brown and Company, $16.99, Ages 1 to 3

"Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" by Jerry Pinkney

As a curious little chipmunk leaves his nest to greet the twilight, he gazes at the glittering sky above him. He can't help but notice the sparkling dewdrops on a spider's web, as well as the lights of the fireflies and the shimmers of moonlight on the water. With beautiful watercolor illustrations from the author, this 36-page hardcover follows a lullaby's dreamlike quest of discover. It's available in stores now or at lb-kids.com.

HarperCollins Publishers, $17.99, Ages 4 to 8

"The Happy Elf Book and CD" by Harry Connick Jr.

Based on his beloved holiday song of the same name and the popular Christmas TV special, Grammy Award-winning singer Harry Connick Jr. has preserved his seasonal pointy-ear alter ego with a great new 32-page hardcover storybook, which is also his first children's book. It includes a song CD to pair with the fun illustrations by Dan Andreasen. It's available in stores or at harpercollins.com.

HarperCollins Publishers, $12.99, Ages 2 to 5

"A Christmas Goodnight" by Nola Buck

The biblical story of the first Christmas in the manger is introduced to young readers with this 26-page hardcover filled with inspired illustrations by Sarah Jane Wright. Sheep, camels, kings and shepherds surround a newborn child for an explanation of the "true meaning of Christmas." It's available in stores or at harpercollins.com.

HarperCollins Publishers, $17.99, Ages 4 to 7

"Fancy Nancy: Splendiferous Christmas" by Jane O'Connor

This new edition of the popular hardcover about everyone's favorite fussy and fun little girl has now been given added sparkle with a special shining hardcover edition for the holidays. With whimsical illustrations by Robin Preiss Glasser, whether she's baking or decorating, Nancy always adds something extra special to her projects. It's available in stores or at harpercollins.com.

DVD

HIT Entertainment, $24.98, Ages 2 to 5

"Thomas & Friends: Steam Team Collection" by Lionsgate

This special four-DVD gift set offers 16 tales of action and adventure, along with important lessons to share with viewers. With a "full-steam ahead" running time of 192 total minutes of viewing time, all of the favorite locomotives from Sodor are geared up for fun and learning. It includes exclusive content never before seen on the TV series. It's available in stores or at lionsgate.com.

The opinions expressed are solely those of the writer. He can be reached at philip.potempa@nwi.com or (219) 852-4327.