by Bob Walch

Count to Sleep San Francisco (Our World of Books, 10 pages, $4.95), by Adam Gamble (author) and Joe Veno (illustrator)

Here’s a counting book for toddlers with a regional appeal. As you page through this board book you’ll find many of the iconic landmarks of San Francisco. For example, after seeing the Golden Gate Bridge gleaming in the sun, you’ll discover two brightly painted cable cars, three redwoods in Muir Woods, and four cars twisting and turning down the hill on Lombard Street.

Dungeness crabs, the Victorian houses known as the “Painted Ladies,” seals hanging out at Pier 39 and even Coit Tower on the book’s back cover are pictured in this cute little book. And on the final page, you’ll discover ten little children sound asleep in their beds in the City by the Bay!

Cool Animal Names (Imagine Publishing, 80 pages. $14.95), by Dawn Cusick

This well-illustrated book for children 7 and older is filled with surprises. Every page features three or four creatures whose names will remind you of other animals. For example, on the “skunk” page you’ll discover not only a regular skunk but also a skunk bear, skunk clownfish and a skunk beetle. A photo of each critter is accompanied by a short paragraph that tells you something about it.

More than 250 animals are featured in this book, and most young readers will be totally fascinated by all the little tidbits they will discover about these cool creatures.

Should I Share My Ice Cream? (Hyperion, 64 pages, $8.99), by Mo Willems

This picture book begins with Gerald the elephant purchasing an ice cream cone. But before he can even begin enjoying it, he wonders, “Piggie is my best friend. Should I share my ice cream with her?”

The debate continues for quite a few pages before Gerald makes up his mind whether to share with his best friend. But by the time he has reached a decision, the ice cream cone has melted. Now that could mark the end of the story, but there’s definitely more.

It is the bittersweet conclusion of this tale that makes it so special, humorous and, yes, heartwarming. I won’t ruin it by explaining what happens — but trust me, you’ll find the ending quite touching.

Let’s Look at Dinosaurs: A Flip-the-Flap Book (Candlewick Press, 32 pages, $12.99), by Frances Barry

Children love dinosaurs, and this hands-on novelty book offers a fun look at dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures. Striking collage illustrations, bold flaps and die-cut surprises await youngsters as they delve into this fascinating world of prehistoric critters of every shape and disposition.

On one page a large pterodactylus spreads its huge wings; on another an ankylosaurus shakes its long tail. And then you’ll have to slip back the green foliage to discover a stegosaurus hiding in the undergrowth.

There’s lots to amuse a child in this interactive book and the handy pronunciation key will help parents get the names right as they read this book aloud at bedtime.