Igor The Bird Who Couldn’t Sing by Satoshi Kitamura – I just love this author/illustrator… This book is about a bird who couldn’t wait to sing for the...moreIgor The Bird Who Couldn’t Sing by Satoshi Kitamura – I just love this author/illustrator… This book is about a bird who couldn’t wait to sing for the first time and when he finally does he is criticized… He tries many things but finally isolates himself so that he can enjoy making his song. There’s a sweet little solution to the story as well. Great message of: ‘be yourself’ coming through… (less)
All My Noble Dreams and then What Happens by Gloria Whelan - How much I loved Small Acts of Amazing Courage… but honestly, this book can be read indep...moreAll My Noble Dreams and then What Happens by Gloria Whelan - How much I loved Small Acts of Amazing Courage… but honestly, this book can be read independently. Incredible, powerful title filled with reflection, confidence, and voice. I especially loved being thrown back in time to feel the turmoil that people in India were living in and how another country reacted to British rule. (Since Hong Kong used to be under British rule, I am able to compare experiences I read in Gweilo to experiences in All My Noble Dreams…) Well worth the read, can’t wait to share with others!(less)
How to Catch a Star by Oliver Jeffers – I can’t go too many weeks without reading an Oliver Jeffers book… this one is really special. A boy aspires to...moreHow to Catch a Star by Oliver Jeffers – I can’t go too many weeks without reading an Oliver Jeffers book… this one is really special. A boy aspires to catch a star to have of his very own… Great example for discussing creative solutions to a problem: ask a seagull to fly you up to the star, use a life preserver to catch it, use a spaceship… *This was Oliver Jeffers first author/illustrator book!! (less)
Matthew and Tilly by Rebecca C. Jones, illustrated by Beth Peck – one of those beautiful stories of people living in a diverse neighborhood in a large...moreMatthew and Tilly by Rebecca C. Jones, illustrated by Beth Peck – one of those beautiful stories of people living in a diverse neighborhood in a large city, specifically focused on two friends who have an argument and find a way to forgive one another so they can have fun again. (less)
The Most Magnificent Mosque by Ann Tungman, illustrated by Shelley Fowles – Fascinating to jump back in time to 1236 Cordoba where Spaniards have hist...moreThe Most Magnificent Mosque by Ann Tungman, illustrated by Shelley Fowles – Fascinating to jump back in time to 1236 Cordoba where Spaniards have historical pride when three religions lived peacefully side by side. How powerful is a story that has three religious communities “with one voice” are able to speak up to their new king to help all citizens. I’d share this voice in connection with units where you are talking about taking action and how a small voice can still be powerful. (less)
Doug-Dennis and the Flyaway Fib by Darren Farrell – I picked up this book because last week I read an early chapter book that had to do with exaggerat...moreDoug-Dennis and the Flyaway Fib by Darren Farrell – I picked up this book because last week I read an early chapter book that had to do with exaggerating/lying and I wanted to find a partner book. I found one about a few characters that were bored and decided to go to the circus. Hilarious when one of the characters tells a fib and people were flying in outer space still telling the fibs… I loved how there was a “big bold truth” that helped resolve the issue. Thrilled with this find… (less)
Silly Chicken by Rukhsana Khan, pictures by Yunmee Kyong – Lovely little picture book with a funny chicken who is well loved by a family… goes into lo...moreSilly Chicken by Rukhsana Khan, pictures by Yunmee Kyong – Lovely little picture book with a funny chicken who is well loved by a family… goes into loss and hope as well! -I’d partner this story with My Painted House, My Friendly Chicken and Me by Maya Angelou- to compare writing styles, settings, and connections with chickens… (less)
The World is Waiting for You by Barbara Kerley - Barbara has done it again, original incorporation of inspiration for children’s future! Special infor...moreThe World is Waiting for You by Barbara Kerley - Barbara has done it again, original incorporation of inspiration for children’s future! Special information at the end of the book introducing different explorers in our world today. (less)
Lunch Lady and the Video Game Villain by Jarrett J. Krosoczka – Loved reading this new Lunch Lady. Warning: there is a cliffhanger that will leave you...moreLunch Lady and the Video Game Villain by Jarrett J. Krosoczka – Loved reading this new Lunch Lady. Warning: there is a cliffhanger that will leave you hanging for the next book release and quite possibly yelling at Jarrett for leaving you hanging… (less)
Leave Your Sleep – A collection of classic children’s poetry by Natalie Merchant & Barbara McClintock – How beautiful can a collection of poetry b...moreLeave Your Sleep – A collection of classic children’s poetry by Natalie Merchant & Barbara McClintock – How beautiful can a collection of poetry be? Way too beautiful for words. Especially if you’ve played Natalie Merchant’s poem interpretation as you enjoy the book. I must say, the collection of poems is quite special, different, and intriguing. My son and I loved reading the poem/song – Adventures of Isabel by Ogden Nash. Ok, I lied, I loved reading it, my son freaked out and said “Ok Mom, that’s enough of those poems for the night. That one was too much.” — glad he didn’t have nightmares from it. I still love reading it. Especially when I can hear Natalie Merchant singing it! Highly recommended.(less)
Follow Follow by Marilyn Singer, illustrated by Josee Masse – Beautiful companion book to Mirror Mirror. Always love reading Marilyn Singer’s poems! G...moreFollow Follow by Marilyn Singer, illustrated by Josee Masse – Beautiful companion book to Mirror Mirror. Always love reading Marilyn Singer’s poems! Gorgeous new illustrations and poetry connections. (less)
I Haiku You by Betsy Snyder – Thoughtful poetry book full of lovely haiku poems. Simple but special. Loved showing the book trailer to my students and...moreI Haiku You by Betsy Snyder – Thoughtful poetry book full of lovely haiku poems. Simple but special. Loved showing the book trailer to my students and can’t wait to finally share the actual book with them! (less)
Forest Has a Song- Poems by Amy Ludwig Vanderwater, illustrated by Robbin Gourley – Beautiful poetry book with a variety of styles, voices, and gorgeo...moreForest Has a Song- Poems by Amy Ludwig Vanderwater, illustrated by Robbin Gourley – Beautiful poetry book with a variety of styles, voices, and gorgeous poems that beg to be read aloud! Just love the amazing illustrations as well! (less)
Mary’s Hair by Eoin Colfer, illustrated by Richard Watson – this is part of the Little Gems book series from Barrington Stoke. I really loved it. I’ve...moreMary’s Hair by Eoin Colfer, illustrated by Richard Watson – this is part of the Little Gems book series from Barrington Stoke. I really loved it. I’ve read loads of books by Eoin Colfer before that appeal to so many readers and now to read this easily approachable early chapter book… couldn’t be happier. So Mary has that type of curly hair that is curly in some places and straight in others. Don’t most people tire of fights with their hair. Mary decides she’ll solve her hair problems by cutting it herself. I was amused by this since I remember the time when I hated my curly hair- never cut it myself but somehow when I was sick at home with a fever I had the idea it would be interesting to cut my eyebrows… right before a school picture day… Eoin Colfer integrates friendship issues and creativity easily into this book and I know kids will simply love reading it… *Pictures also are fantastic!(less)
Penguin on Vacation by Salina Yoon – This character is fast becoming a favorite character for me. Brilliant new story with Penguin making a new friend...morePenguin on Vacation by Salina Yoon – This character is fast becoming a favorite character for me. Brilliant new story with Penguin making a new friend and learning how to enjoy a vacation! (less)
Scaredy Squirrel goes Camping by Melanie Watt – I am never disappointed reading a Scaredy Squirrel book. Neither are any of my students! Cannot wait t...moreScaredy Squirrel goes Camping by Melanie Watt – I am never disappointed reading a Scaredy Squirrel book. Neither are any of my students! Cannot wait to get this on the shelf. I know I won’t see it for the rest of the school year once it is released to the students! *Warning, if you decided to read it aloud, pace yourself. I shared with my Year 1 students who simply love Scaredy Squirrel and my Year 2 students who are learning about use of public spaces and reading maps… I’m a tiny bit Scaredy Squirreled out now. (less)
That Is NOT a Good Idea! by Mo Willems – What a hilarious, unpredictable book- at least for my son. He found it to be quite the fantastic new release....moreThat Is NOT a Good Idea! by Mo Willems – What a hilarious, unpredictable book- at least for my son. He found it to be quite the fantastic new release. He told me “Mom, Mo Willems is one of my favorite authors of all time…” and so far, the kiddo has met a LOAD of authors… (less)
Mimi’s Village and How Basic Health Care Transformed It by Katie Smith Milway, illustrated by Eugenie Fernandes - Inspiring and hopeful new story from...moreMimi’s Village and How Basic Health Care Transformed It by Katie Smith Milway, illustrated by Eugenie Fernandes - Inspiring and hopeful new story from Citizen Kid. Set in Western Kenya- fictional story but so realistic at the same time. Recommend for those who want to develop world awareness and action. *Not the strongest writing in the book, but worth it for the story and information. (less)
The Lonely Book by Kate Bernheimer, illustrated by Chris Sheban - Gorgeous words, amazing loving illustrations, favorite read aloud in a long time. Th...moreThe Lonely Book by Kate Bernheimer, illustrated by Chris Sheban - Gorgeous words, amazing loving illustrations, favorite read aloud in a long time. This read aloud led to the perfect snuggle with my kiddo and applause at the end. Fantastic book I highly recommend!(less)
Alvin Ho Allergic to Babies, Burglars, and Other Bumps in the Night by Lenore Look, illustrated by LeUyen Pham – 1st grade and up! How fantastic was t...moreAlvin Ho Allergic to Babies, Burglars, and Other Bumps in the Night by Lenore Look, illustrated by LeUyen Pham – 1st grade and up! How fantastic was this Alvin Ho? I really do believe Lenore Look outdoes herself with every new Alvin Ho book she writes! I’ve been obsessed with Rube Goldberg for quite a while… what do you know? Lenore incorporated his creations into her story, in the most fitting way! Sympathetic pregnancy? Why yes, Alvin suddenly thinks he’s pregnant as well as his mom… Accidentally losing your entire savings and being simultaneously thought of as a hero? Yes, thank you. Getting into the head of a child who gets mixed up, misunderstands, is sometimes oblivious, and often quite nervous would be quite the feat for another author, but not Lenore Look. That’s the thing about enjoying a great book by an author, at the end, you’re throwing the book up in the air and crying, “Where’s the next one?” and “But what happened with this… that…. and the other part…” Cannot wait to find out what happens next to Alvin. Also… I love how you can completely enjoy these books out of order! (less)
National Geographic Kids Ultimate U.S. Road Trip Atlas by Crispin Boyer – This book took quite a long time for my son and I to read through. We read a...moreNational Geographic Kids Ultimate U.S. Road Trip Atlas by Crispin Boyer – This book took quite a long time for my son and I to read through. We read about a US state each day and then enjoyed the extra activities throughout. Interesting to read what is thought to be special about states I’ve lived in. (less)
Sensible Hare and the Case of Carrots by Daren King, illustrated by David Roberts – Really enjoyed this early chapter book with a somewhat clueless de...moreSensible Hare and the Case of Carrots by Daren King, illustrated by David Roberts – Really enjoyed this early chapter book with a somewhat clueless detective. Sometimes I sat back and wondered how this detective solved all the other mysteries in the past with the nature he went about solving the case he had. I enjoyed all the extra secretive elements that were introduced through the story but overall, I’m not sure what age will really enjoy this story. Perhaps a 4/5th grader who is struggling to read and would enjoy a mystery at a 2nd/3rd grade reading level. I am not positive about how much the 2nd graders will enjoy the romance in the story.(less)
The Colossus Rises – Seven Wonders – by Peter Lerangis – 4th/5th and up- Fantasy- Boy, I really wanted to enjoy this book more. I know my Rick Riordan...moreThe Colossus Rises – Seven Wonders – by Peter Lerangis – 4th/5th and up- Fantasy- Boy, I really wanted to enjoy this book more. I know my Rick Riordan students are going to love this new series. I felt like the beginning was wonderful, great set up for the book but as we worked our way into the book, I had doubts and was not as engaged as I normally am with Peter Lerangis books. Why was this? Perhaps the main character didn’t strike me as a believable protagonist, I’m not positive. Also, the book leaves you hanging quite a bit at the end which is a little tiresome for someone who has read way too many series lately. I always respect the authors of series more if there is a clear conclusion but also hope for another book vs. a rude page turning realization that you are going to have to read the next book to get any resolution. I do recommend this title for those students who really enjoy fantasies and are looking for the next series to go with Percy Jackson.(less)
The Village by the Sea by Anita Desai – for mature 4th graders and up – Realistic Fiction- quite the powerful book, I couldn’t stop reading this one....moreThe Village by the Sea by Anita Desai – for mature 4th graders and up – Realistic Fiction- quite the powerful book, I couldn’t stop reading this one. I just loved reading the perspectives of children living on a quiet island where development of their area is inevitable with a fertilizer company moving in and how desolate a situation can feel. Additionally, the helpless feeling conveyed in the story with two parents barely helping the family survive was quite heart wrenching. The character development within the story and cultural perspective naturally integrated in was incredible. I think this book is an ideal story to read for children developing their international perspective. Thrilled that this is one of the books my Year 6 students are reading for our Flipped Reading project. Here are two portions that were my favorite in the book: p. 214: … Hari said, ‘Mr. Panwallah, you celebrate Coconut Day and Diwali and yet you are not a Hindu, are you? I thought you are a Parsee that celebrate only the Parsee festivals.’ ‘Oh no, no, no, boy,’ cried Mr. Panwallah comically. ‘What would be the fun of that? And why should I miss the fun of all the Hindu and Muslim festivals? No, no, I believe in sharing everything, enjoying everything. That is why I have so much fun, eh? No gloom for me, eh?” p. 240: … Hari was silent and listened to Ramu as he went on shouting in his usual fashion: ‘Everything has to change over here – everything is going to be different.’ ‘But, Ramu,’ interrupted Hari at last, ‘we have to change too, we shall have to become different as well.’ Those two portions resonated for me. They were perfect examples of being internationally minded.(less)
Big Bad Ironclad! - Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales by Nathan Hale - For those children who love reading historical fiction and learning about US Histor...moreBig Bad Ironclad! - Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales by Nathan Hale - For those children who love reading historical fiction and learning about US History, this is a perfect graphic novel. http://hazardoustales.blogspot.hk/p/b...(less)
Vader's Little Princess by Jeffrey Brown - how happy was I when I saw this on the bookshelf at the new-to-me bookstore I was exploring! This book did...moreVader's Little Princess by Jeffrey Brown - how happy was I when I saw this on the bookshelf at the new-to-me bookstore I was exploring! This book did not disappoint. Every page had a funnier image.(less)
Chinese Fables The Dragon Slayer and Other Timeless Tales of Wisdom by Shiho S. Nunes, illustrated by Lak-Khee Tay-Audouard - I enjoyed reading this b...moreChinese Fables The Dragon Slayer and Other Timeless Tales of Wisdom by Shiho S. Nunes, illustrated by Lak-Khee Tay-Audouard - I enjoyed reading this book the other day. Interesting to sit back and think on each story. No explanation for the underlying lesson for each story which can also lead to excellent classroom discussions.(less)
Book Uncle and Me by Uma Krishnaswami - I just love this author. Really enjoyed her book The Grand Plan to Fix Everything many months ago. Now I've re...moreBook Uncle and Me by Uma Krishnaswami - I just love this author. Really enjoyed her book The Grand Plan to Fix Everything many months ago. Now I've read her new book... Book Uncle and Me introduces a young girl who has the ambitious goal to read a book a day for life. Unfortunately, she was a bit distracted by the books and didn't notice problems occurring around her at first with her best friend. I loved how when she was personally impacted by a city permit injunction she suddenly became invested and took action to help others. True to life with children and how they can get involved, this girl was able to help her whole community and help people care and hope. (less)