ThreeBookworms

Mark your calendars for February 2nd when Punxsutawney Phil decides if there will be 6 more weeks of winter. This tradition began in the early 1800’s in Pennsylvania when German settlers came to the United States. While I love the movie Groundhog Day, here are some great picture books to share with your readers to celebrate the occasion.

Phil’s Big Day: A Groundhog’s Story by Liza Woodruff

Phil is nervous about having to step outside to decide if he sees his shadow. He gets up to make his famous pancakes and his sister helps him practice but nothing is making him feel better. The big morning is here, everyone is waiting, but he needs help to be confident. Don’t miss the pancake recipe on the back because they are delicious.

Groundhog Gets It Wrong by Jess Townes and Nicole Miles

It is Groundhog’s first time doing the prediction. The big morning comes, and he tells people that spring is coming tomorrow. Problem is that winter is still there next morning and no one is happy. After trying out other jobs, Groundhog realizes he needs to study meteorology to help him make the right prediction.

Groundhog’s Day Off by Robb Pearlman and Brett Helquist

Groundhog is feeling unappreciated since no one seems to care about him, only what he will say about the weather one day a year. So, he leaves town, and the people hold auditions for animals to be the new Groundhog. After seeing the town worry about where Groundhog went, he returns!

Groundhug Day by Anee Marie Pace and Christopher Denise

All the animals are planning a Valentine’s party and realize that if Groundhog sees his shadow, he will go back to bed missing the party. They go into trying to help Groundhog not be scared of shadows and feel warm enough to make it to the party. This book incorporates both Groundhog Day and Valentine’s Day so could be read for both events.

Groundhog Weather School by Joan Holub and Kristin Sorra

Professor Groundhog starts his own Groundhog Weather School to help other Groundhog’s learn about their background. Each groundhog learns about how to look at different weather predictors and have to pass a test to graduate. This book has more non-fiction facts about groundhogs, seasons, and weather. It is the perfect book for a classroom or a homeschool study this time of year.

Groundhog’s Dilemma by Kristen Remenar and Matt Faulkner

Bear and Rabbit want 6 more weeks of winter, while Squirrel and Sparrow are ready for spring. All of his friends try to convince Groundhog to pick what they want on February 2nd. He soon feels the dilemma of letting friends down, but he knows he needs to tell the truth. This story does have a good ending and great message of still doing what is right.

Are you hoping for 6 more weeks of Winter or an early Spring?