Around the Oak by Gerda Muller

Nick has a favorite oak tree in the forest.  He shares this awesome tree with his cousins Ben and Caroline whenever they come throughout the year.  Together they observe and celebrate the oak through the seasons.  At the end the author offers more insight into photosynthesis, determining the age of a tree, various creatures, plants and trees found in the forest.
Told in a story format so one is learning in an entertaining manner.

The Story of Salt by Mark Kurlansky illustrated by S.D. Schindler*

WOW!  Who knew how important salt was to our history?!!  This book offers  lots of history, some chemistry and economics.  In the back has a timeline of "salt through the centuries".
Highly recommend.

Too Hot? Too Cold? Keeping the Body Temperature Just Right by Caroline Arnold illustrated by Annie Patterson

The reader will learn how his/her body temperature is regulated plus how other animals survive their habitats with their natural temperature regulators-from hibernating to estivating to migrating to many other ways to adjusting body temperature.
Nonfiction text structures- diagrams, glossary, headings, cross sections, labels, close ups, picture captions

That's a Possibility! A Book About What Might Happen by Bruce Goldstone

Through colorful photographs, Mr. Goldstone discusses probability and the vocabulary used when talking about probability.  Each page involves the readers and requires them to think about the concept.  Additional activities are provided at the end of the book.
Great book to use in a probability unit.

Even an Octopus Needs a Home by Irene Kelly

This book is full of facts about various animals and how they build their homes or unique features about their homes.  The book's main idea is that all animals (including humans) need a safe place to sleep, store food and raise their families.
Text features-cross sections, labels, diagrams, step by step process, close-ups, "actual size",.

If You Were a Panda Bear by Wendell and Florence Minor

Rhyming text pleasantly explores all types of bears.  The text is short so it can be shared with toddlers/preschoolers but in the back are more facts and details about each bear.  Therefore, the book can be used with multiple ages.

Seahorses by Jennifer Keats Curtis illustrated by Chad Wallace

A detailed account how seahorses begin their lives, grow and then mate.  The mating processing is actually quite detailed but not gross.  I read it to my three and six year old.  Blue and green hues in illustrations make the reader feel like he/she is swimming with the seahorses.

I Still Hate to Read by Rita Marshall illustrated by Etienne Delessert

Most people still think Victor hates to read.  He has kept his secret of loving to read from everyone except his dog Page.  His passion for reading transforms his class and . . . then his secret is revealed!

I Hate to Read! by Rita Marshall illustrated by Etienne Delessert

Victor avoids reading every chance he gets.  Some colorful characters may change his mind.
Great to read aloud when reinforcing how books can introduce us to wonderful characters and take us on incredible adventures.

My New Teacher and Me by Al Yankovic

Funny, imaginative . . Billy, the main character will amuse readers.  Hints from previous stories about Billy are included in the illustrations.

If I Built a Car by Chris Van Dusen

Another fun, imaginative book by Mr. Van Dusen!  In all of his books the reader can find Mr. Magee and his little dog Dee in one illustration!

Open Very Carefully by Nick Bromley illustrated/created byNicola O'Byrne

A very fun and interactive book!

Along a Long Road by Frank Viva

Follow a bicyclist on a long road that is continuous throughout the book and back to the beginning again.
Not a favorite.

The Circus Ship by Chris Van Dusen

We really like this author!  A circus ship sinks at sea.  The cruel ringmaster lets the animals to drown.  Fortunately the animals swim to a nearby inhabited island. At first the residents are not pleased but when the tiger rescues a little girl from a fire, they embrace and welcome these creatures.  The ringmaster hears that they survived and comes to bring them back.  The townspeople help them hide.  This one page is fun to try to find the camouflaged animals!
The story is loosely based on a circus steamer that caught on fire at sea in 1836.

Enemy Pie by Derek Munson

Jeremy Ross has ruined the main character's summer.  Jeremy Ross moved into the neighborhood right next to HIS best friend.  The main character's father knows how to solve the problem-Enemy Pie!
Funny and entertaining!  Great message.
*Like how the father is very involved in son's life.  No mom is ever mentioned.  Dad even cooks/bakes.
Strategies: predicting, inferring, connections

First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg illustrated by Judy Love

Sarah Jane Hartwell does not want to go to her new school!  Her feelings are expressed very well throughout the story.  The reader never fully sees her until the last page-there is a reason!
Strategies: connections

National Geographic Readers series by various authors *

These books are full of photographs and lots of nonfiction text features.
Features: table of contents, labels, word definitions on a page, close ups, section heading, picture captions, maps, charts, diagrams, picture glossary,word pronunciations, "stump your parents" questions in some books, jokes/riddles.
Five different levels for every reading level: Pre-readers, level 1 (starting to read), level 2 (reading independently), level 3 (fluent reader) and level 4 (chapter books).
Some titles for Level 1- Trains by Amy Shields; Frogs! by Elizabeth Carney; Dinosaurs by Kathy Weidner Zoehfeld; Storms by Miriam Busch Goin
Some titles for Level 2- Sharks! by Anne Schreiber; Rocks and Minerals by Kathleen Weidner Zoehfeld; Tigers by Laura Marsh; Lizards by Laura Marsh
Highly recommend.

The Last of the Really Great Whangdoodles by Julie Andrews Edwards

The three Potter siblings and Professor Savant travel to a fantastical world of the Whangdoodle.  This world is colorful and delightful but harbors very menacing creatures who are protecting the only existing Whangdoodle.  With the Professor's insight into genetics and the children's belief in the seemingly impossible, there may be hope for the lonely Whangdoodle.
Entertaining and exciting-a great read aloud!

Poems to Learn by Heart collected by Caroline Kennedy illustrated by Jon J Muth

A wide variety of poems are showcased in this anthology.  Ancient poets to modern day poets are featured.  Ms. Kennedy brings the case for the need to memorize and the power of it.  Poems are divided into ten sections:  self; family; friendship/love; fairies, ogres, and witches; nonsensical poems; poems about school; poems about sports and games; war; nature; extra credit-longer classics.

Earthshake Poems from the Ground Up by Lisa Westberg Peters illustrated by Cathie Felstead

A great book that brings poetry/language arts and science together.  Twenty two poems about geology.. . end notes explain more about the science behind each poem.

Stardines Swim Across the Sky and other poems by Jack Prelutsky illustrated by Carin Berger

Very creative poems about fanciful creatures (based on a real animal and then clever wordplay to create a fun imaginary creature).
Ms. Berger's dioramas add to the fancifulness of the story.
Highly recommend.
Great for springboard for creative writing-kids could create own creature using wordplay.

How Big Could Your Pumpkin Grow? by Wendell Minor

Mr. Minor's illustrations are always bold and fill the page.  This book  utilizes imagination as to what one could do with a giant pumpkin.  Cleverly, each idea is located in a different state in the U.S.  The end notes tell a bit more about the location.  Learn a bit of history.
Good book to use for a writing prompt.

Dreaming Up A Celebration of Building by Christy Hale *

An unique book!  Love its creativity and layout!  On the left page is an illustration of kids building with various building materials and then on the left are actual buildings made by similar materials.  These amazing structures are all over the world.  In the back is a spreadsheet with more information about the buildings and a short bio for the architect of each the building plus a drawing of the architect and a quote by him/her.
Highly recommend.

Papa's Mechanical Fish by Candace Fleming illustrated by Boris Kulikov

An invention story loosely based on the life of Lodner Phillips.  He created one of the first submarines.  Very fun as it involves the constant encouragement of his family.  It also reveals the diligent, persistent work an inventor and scientist must put forth before success occurs.
An author's note at the back share more about the life of Lodner Phillips.

The Boy Who Loved Math The Improbable Life of Paul Erdos by Deborah Heiligman illustrated by LeUyen Pham

A must read for any person who loves math and numbers.  The illustrator put a lot of research and thought into the illustrations.  At the back there is a note from the illustrator explaining more about Paul and his amazing contributions to the math world.

The Adventures of Bella and Harry Let's Visit Venice by Lisa Manzione illustrated by Kristine Lucco

Bella, the old sister, and Harry, the younger brother, both chihuahuas set out with their owners to explore Venice.  The country is discussed and located on the map as well as what a continent is.  Main attractions in Venice are presented and explained.  Italian words and phrases are included at the back.
More titles in this series: Let's Visit- Paris; London; Cairo; Athens; Barcelona; Edinburgh; Rome; Istanbul; Jerusalem.  In 2014 these titles will be available: Let's Visit-Dublin; Maui; St. Petersburg; Vancouver.

Elizabeti's School by Stephanie Stuve-Bodeen illustrated by Christy Hale

Elizabeti goes to school for the first time and at the end of the day is not sure if she wants to return.  Taken place in Tanzania, the story reveals that although we live in different cultures, our feelings/fears and questions may be the same.
Strategies: connections

Elizabeti's Doll by Stephanie Stuve-Bodeen illustrated by Christy Hale

Mama has baby -Obedi.  Elizabeti, the sister, wants to care for her own baby so finds a perfect rock for her baby.  She names the rock Eva.  Whatever Mama does with Obedi, Elizabeti does with Eva.
The story takes place in Tanzania.

Chilly Milly Moo by Fiona Ross

Since Milly Moo cannot produce milk (she is too hot she claims), the farmer threatens to get rid of her.  A cold snap arrives and Milly Moo is saved because instead of milk, she gives ice cream!

Very short.

Bubbles Float, Bubbles Pop! by Mark Weakland

Capstone Press A+ books-Science Starts series explore the mysteries of science with a very easy to read, large photograph format.  Great for younger kids who are interested in science but are not ready for the more complicated explanations.
Since the pages are bigger and the photographs fill the page a good pick for read aloud for story time.
Good nonfiction for beginning/advancing readers to read.
Other titles in series: Gears Go, Wheels Roll; Magnets Push, Magnets Pull; Seeds Go, Seeds Grow
Nonfiction text features: photographs, glossary, "read more" section, and index.
RL: 1-2

If I Built a House by Chris Van Dusen **

My boys (ages 3 and 6 at the time of this post) loved this book!!  Jack imagines how he would built his house and what features it would have.
Very imaginative!  The house will appeal to kids and adults alike!
Highly recommend it.
Parents/Teachers could use as a writing prompt for creative writing-"If you could design your own house, what would it look like?  What features would it have?"

Pop! The Invention of Bubble Gum by Meghan McCarthy

An easy to read story of Walter Diemer who created the formula for bubble gum (he was actually the company's accountant!!).  More information is included at the back about Mr. Diemer and gum.

How the Dinosaur Got to the Museum by Jessie Hartland

The framework is based loosely on The House That Jack Built.  Readers learn about all of the steps, hard work and time it takes to display a dinosaur in a museum.

I Can Read! Digger the Dinosaur by Rebecca Kai Dotlich illustrated by Gynux

Digger the dinosaur must clean his room before he can play with his friends Stego.  Digger sometimes does not listen very well so he misunderstands words (which helps readers practice word families!).
I Can Read!-My First (shared reading)-ideal for sharing with emergent readers
Guided Reading Level -F

Monster Money by Grace Maccarone illustrated by Marge Hartelius

Monsters come to a pet shop where each pet is ten cents each.  Different coin combinations for ten cents are presented on each page and drawings of the coins are included on each page.  Math activities by Marilyn Burns are included in the back.
Hello Math Reader Level 1

BOB books Cupcake Surprise! by Lynn Maslen Kertell illustrated by Sue Hendra

Jack and Anna bake Dad very special cupcakes for his birthday.
 Scholastic Reader Level 1-50-250 words.
Guided Reading Level: H
Lexile Level: 60L

Bob Books The New Puppy by Lynn Maslen Kertell illustrated by Sue Hendra

A newer series Bob series published by Scholastic.
Scholastic Reader Level 1 -50-250 words
I like these even better than the original BOB books.  The stories are more complete and not as goofy!
The series also focuses on a brother and a sister and their life adventures to which most kids can relate.
Guided Reading Level: G
Lexile Level: 330L
Check out Jack and Anna's other adventures in: My School Trip and Outdoor Adventures!

Journey by Aaron Becker

This wordless book tells the story of a girl who longs for family members  . . .or anyone to interact with her.  With her red crayon she draws herself an adventure and meets a real person who also has a vivid imagination.
Pair with: Where the Wild Things Are and  Harold's Purple Crayon.
Strategies: connections (text to text), predicting, inferring, asking questions

Planes Fly! by George Ella Lyon illustrated by Mark Wiggins

Younger listeners/readers can learn about the technical aspects to flying, types of planes, jobs of different planes and also experience what it is like to fly in a jet.
This rhyming text is perfect to read before a child flies the first time.

Down to the Sea with Mr. Magee by Chris Van Dusen

An adventure with Mr. Magee and Dee on a beautiful summer day . . . .an exciting encounter with a whale and then  . . . a lot of whales!
Strategy: connections

Learning to Ski with Mr. Magee by Chris Van Dusen

We love these funny, rhyming stories with Van Dusen's bold, colorful illustrations!
Once again Mr. Magee begins his day innocently to later find himself and his Dee in a major predicament!  A fun winter read aloud.
Strategies: connections

Rocks Hard, Soft, Smooth and Rough by Natalie M. Rosinsky illustrated by Matthew John

An excellent book to introduce rocks to primary kids.  The author explains in simple language how rocks are formed and the different types of rocks.  Also a great book to talk about nonfiction text features with younger kids
Nonfiction text features: table of contents, fun facts in smaller print in each section, chart, glossary, index, learn more list"
Artwork looks like cut-out and collage.

On a Beam of Light A Story of Albert Einstein by Jennifer Berne pictures by Vladimir Radunsky

This book explains how Albert Einstein developed as a thinker and focuses a bit on his personal side.  It begins when he was a baby and goes through his entire life.  More about his contributions to science and facts about him are included in the back.
Important ideas are printed in a red, larger font throughout the book.  I like how the author emphasizes how Einstein devoured books, asked a lot of questions and thought a lot about life and the way things worked.

Scientists in the Field series by various authors

Houghton Mifflin has published about thirty-seven (as of August 2013) amazing nonfiction books about a wide variety of scientists.  Some of my family's favorites are : Eruption!  Volcanoes and the Science of Saving Lives by Elizabeth Rusch and Extreme Scientists-Exploring Nature's Mysteries from Perilous Places by Donna M. Jackson (about a man who flies INTO the hurricane!!, an underwater cave explorer and a tree climber-sequoias).
Books are full of photographs with picture captions, diagrams, maps, and a glossary.  Readers will pour over the photographs for hours.
Highly recommend the series.

Edgar Allan Poe's Pie Math Puzzlers in Classic Poems by J. Patrick Lewis illustrated by Michael Slack

Wow!  A lot of learning packed into this little poetry book!!  Each poem is based on a classic poem and contains a math riddle/problem.  At the back are brief biographies of each poet featured in the book.
To fully appreciate this book, the reader should be familiar with the classic poems first.
Some featured poets: Edgar Allan Poe, Edward Lear, Walt Whitman, Emily Dickinson, Robert Frost, William Carlos Williams, and Shel Silverstein.

Math for Smarty Pants by Marilyn Burns illustrate by Martha Weston

This book is full of FUN math problems!  The author explains in the introduction how being smart at math does not necessarily mean being quick with numbers or able to think strategically naturally (although this leads to a natural love for math and really helps when solving math problems!!) ...kids who are not born with the gift of math can learn to love and enjoy it by understanding by believing that math makes sense and can make sense if one really tries.
Full of fun ideas for math lovers and math haters alike!

The Hink Pink Book or What Do You Call a Magician's Bunny? by Marilyn Burns illustrated by Martha Weson

What do you call an unhappy father?  "A sad dad"  Or what do you get if you put a measuring stick in the freezer?  "a cooler ruler"  This book is full of rhyming riddles like this!
Great when talking about word families in reading/phonics.  Fun to take along on a road trip.

Lives of the . . . series by Kathleen Krull illustrated b Kathryn Hewitt

This team has written and illustrated eight collections of mini biographies.  Titles in this series include: Lives of the Musicians, Lives of the Writers, Lives of the Artists, Lives of the Athletes, Lives of the Presidents, Lives of Extraordinary Women, Lives of the Pirates, and Lives of the Scientists.
Ms. Hewitt draws a full page illustration of each person (with the enlarged head style!).  Each person's date of birth and date of birth and one sentence summary of their contribution are listed before the three -five page narration of their life.
Perfect read aloud when introducing/studying biographies or type of person (if you are studying the presidents/American history or focusing on writing etc.).

Starting Now A Blossom Street Novel by Debbie Macomber

Lydia is pursuing a partnership in a law firm when unexpected news changes the course of her life . . .for the better.
Points of caution: a thirteen year is pregnant and gives birth; two main characters are divorced but regret/question their decision

Underground by David Macaulay

A fascinating look at all that is constructed underground at a four way intersection in a city.  This author and illustrator does a superb job explaining complex systems.  Excellent illustrations with labels which support the text.
Nonfiction text features: labels, diagrams, cross sections, glossary
Check out his other books: Pyramid, Castle and Cathedral.

An I Can Read Book-Snakes! by Sarah L. Thomson

Photographs are provided by the Wildlife Conservation Society.
A 32 page book nonfiction book perfect for beginning/developing readers.
No nonfiction text features are included except for photographs.

Volcano! by Ellen J. Pager illustrated by Nancy Woodman

Vulcan the dragon takes the reader inside a volcano.  How and why a volcano erupts is explored in this book plus different types of lava flow and where volcanoes are located around the world.
At the back of the book there are directions to build and erupt your own volcano.
Excellent book published by the National Geographic Society.
Highly recommend it.
Nonfiction text features: maps, diagrams, labels, photographs, following directions

Snippet The Early Riser by Bethanie Deeney Murguia

Snippet, the snail, awakes before his family does each morning.  With his insect friends, Snippet devises a creative plan to wake them.  A few facts about snails are on the end pages.
Read before viewing (or after) the movie Turbo.
Strategies: predictions, connections

Andrew Drew and Drew by Barney Saltzberg

Andrew loves to doodle.  The readers can lift flaps, half pages to view what Andrew drew.  A drawing literally appears before their eyes. Very fun!  Celebrates creativity!

My Mouth is a Volcano by Julia Cook illustrated by Carrie Hartman

Louis struggles with controlling when to talk and interrupts people at school, day care and at home.  When he experiences this rudeness, he realizes that he needs to change his ways.
Great book for teachers to read if they have a class who calls out and interrupts often.
The repetitive sentences  before he interrupts became a bit tedious for me to read over and over again but kids might like the predictability of it.

A Camping Spree with Mr. Magee by Chris Van Dusen

A fun, rhyming story with a fast, humorous plot!
Bold, confident illustrations add to this entertaining story.
More Mr. Magee stories are available.
Strategies: predicting, inferring

Hat by Paul Hoppe

A boy finds a hat on a park bench and imagines all the uses for it.
Can lead to a discussion about thinking of others before self.

The Spider and the Fly illustrated by Tony DiTerlizzi *

Mr. DiTerlizzi recreates Mary Howitt's  cautionary poem/tale into a captivating story with his black, gray, silver and white illustrations.  Simply amazing!  Humor is added via deceased bugs as they try to warn the sweet, naive fly.  A personal note from the Spider finishes the story.
A Caldecott Honor Book
*Highly recommend.

How Rocket Learned to Read by Tad Hills

An adorable bird teaches Rocket, the dog, how to read.
Celebrates learning to read and how a story can captivate even reluctant learners!

Carmine A Little More Red by Melissa Sweet

A very unique alphabet book!  A retelling of Little Red Riding Hood. A recipe is included in the back of Granny's Alphabet Soup.
Reader will learn twenty-six new words as they listen/read this retelling.
A great book to use when talking about words and using context clues to determine meaning.
Strategies: connections, predicting, inferring, vocabulary expansion/context clues

The Seven Chinese Brothers by Margaret Mahy illustrated by Jean and Mou-sien Tseng

This version of the classic includes seven brothers instead of five.  One brother repairs a hole in the Great Wall of China since the workers are suffering as they repair it.  The mighty Emperor fears a man who can repair a wall in so quickly so wants to execute him.  The brothers use their gifts to free each other from the emperor's death sentences.
Longer than the original.  Pair with The Five Chinese Brothers and The Seven Chinese Sisters.
Strategies: connections, predicting, inferring

The Five Chinese Brothers by Claire Huchet Bishop and Kurt Wiese

Five brothers who all look alike rescue each other from execution!
My boys love this story.
A bit violent-beheading, burning, drowning, suffocating but all ends well.
Pair with The Seven Chinese Brothers and The Seven Chinese Sisters.
Strategies: connections, predicting, inferring

Just a Minute by Teddy Slater illustrated by Dana Regan

A "Hello Math Reader" Level 2 for K-Grade 2 refers to how lightly adults say "just a minute".  The main character Fred observes how long a minute is for each adult/older sibling and applies his conclusions.  When the dog goes to the bathroom on the floor because he was going to take her out "in just a minute", the older people in his life take time to explain what exactly a minute is.
Math activities by Marilyn Burns are in the back.

King Midas and the Golden Touch by Charlotte Craft illustrated by K.Y. Craft

This version of the  classic Greek myth depicts King Midas and his kingdom in beautiful oil over watercolor paintings.  The reader feels like he/she could step into the paintings and be part of the story.
Pair with the chapter book The Chocolate Touch.
Highly recommend it.

Superhero ABC by Bob McLeod

Full page colorful illustrations and expressive super hero characters make this a book children will page through and study many times.  Very creative superheros!  All the main words that describe the superhero begin with the corresponding alphabet letter (even the words the bystanders or villains say!).
Fun to read and share.
Lends itself to creativity and making own superhero ABC book.
Update-June 2015
Mr. McLeod (pronounced "MacCloud) presented at our library.  He was fabulous!!  Over twenty children attended and they were very attentive.  He shared the process of making the book and also instructed the children step-by-step how to draw Charlie Brown/Snoopy and Spider man's face.  He also offered some drawing advice.
Some interesting information about the book and about him:
He penciled comics for over 40 years for DC and Marvel.  
It took him 8 months to create the book.
He drew and created it on the computer.  
He would write down words from the dictionary that began with each letter to come up with interesting names for his super heroes.  A lot of super hero names are already patented!  
He had to come up with different words for the "bad guy" to make it interesting.  Fun to go through and find all the different words he used (bullies, crooks, criminal, evildoers, felons etc).  
When he came up with Ms. Incredible, the movie The Incredibles was released!  He was able to keep the name since the female protagonist in the movie is called "Elasti-girl".  
For M, he drew one picture of Mike and then copied and pasted him.  
He owns a Pekipoo.
S took him a long time to create a super hero name-lots of words that begin with "s" so made it challenging.  
Originally Upside-Down Man was called Unusual Man.  Then once he switched to Upside Down Man, his cape dragged on the ground so in the finally copy, they removed his cape.  
He created Volcano who vomits as a joke for his editor.  He thought she would not agree to keep it since it was so revolting.  She, however, loved it and said it would be boys favorite page! (she is correct!) 

Big Red Barn by Margaret Wise Brown illustrated by Felicia Bond

Full page illustrations will capture the readers attention as we experience a day with animals on the farm.  Brown's careful attention to the rhyme and the rhythm make it a pleasant book to read aloud again and again and again.
Bond's illustrations are adorable.  Most pages have the same butterflies flitting across the page which is fun for a toddler to find.

BOB books by Bobby Lynn Maslen illustrated by John R. Maslen

These books have taught many children to read and have provided the confidence beginning readers to realize that "yes!!" they can read an entire book.  I have recommended these books to many parents.
As of August 2013 Ms. Maslen has written eight boxed sets.  Sets one and two are perfect for beginning readers.  They contain one sentence per page and only short vowel sounds and sight words.  Sets three through five include long vowel sounds, more sentences per page, and more complex story lines.  Recently she has published three ancillary books:  My First BOB Books Alphabet, My First BOB Books Pre-Reading Skills, Sight Words Kindergarten, and Sight Words First Grade.
 

Face to Face with Animals series by various authors and photographers

National Geographic has published series that provides readers with incredible photographs of wild animals.
Each book is divided into four sections. In the first section the reader meets National Geographic's photographer where they share amazing stories of photographing the animal subject.
 Features each book includes are: plenty of picture captions, maps, extra side bar reading, a conservation sections ("how you can help"), a two page "facts at a glance", glossary, "find out more", and index.
Animals that are included in this series are: frogs, caterpillars, butterflies, wild horses, grizzlies, sharks, whales, leopards, elephants, polar bears, cheetahs, lions, gorillas, orangutans, wolves, dolphins, manatees, and penguins.
A high comprehending K/1st grader can understand this book as a read aloud but as for reading independently, this series is for high 3rd-6th.

The Boy Who Cried Bigfoot! by Scott Magoon

A funny twist on the classic The Boy Who Cried Wolf.  Told from the point of view of Bigfoot.
Strategies: connections; predicting; character traits/feelings

Frog and Fly Six Slurpy Stories by Jeff Mack

Six cartoon stories tell the story of frog as devours flies.  Each story is full of humor.  Jeff Mack creates lively, expressive characters.  The frog seems victorious in each story . . .until chapter six!
Perfect for beginning readers-not many words but words they can read with lots of picture support.  Humor and a complete story with depth will entice them to read these stories again and again.

Strategies: predicting and inferring

Guyku A Year of Haiku for Boys by Bob Raczka illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds*

This little book captures the fun boys have outside in all seasons.  Humor and fun boyish activities make the reading delightful.  Even though the illustrations are simple, they add humor and enhance the poems.
Highly recommend this collection.

Who Would Win? series by Jerry Pallotta illustrated by Rob Bolster

A series that will appeal to boys.  What boy would not want to see two massive, carnivorous animals pitted against each other?!
Photos, diagrams, many nonfiction features assist the reader in analyzing which creature could dominate the other one.
Perfect book for talking about comparing/contrasting.
Books in the series:  Hammerhead vs. Bull Shark; Killer Whale vs. Great White Shark; Komodo Dragon vs. King Cobra; Lion vs. Tiger; Polar Bear vs. Grizzly Bear; Tarantula vs. Scorpion; Tyrannosaurus Rex vs. Velociraptor; Whale vs. Giant Squid
Strategies: asking questions, comparing/contrasting, predicting, inferring

Oh, No! by Candace Fleming and Eric Rohmann

The story takes place in an Asian jungle where a tiger chases a frog into a hole. Animal after animal tries to rescue the previous ones but end up in the hole too.   The reader sees hints of the tiger on almost every page and can infer that he is anticipating a delicious meal!  Suspenseful story line and a great ending (not for the tiger!)
Repetitive text and fun sound effects.  A perfect read aloud for story time.
Strategies: predicting; inferring

Beautiful Oops! by Barney Saltzberg

An interactive book which focuses on how mistakes can be used for something good.
Very fun and a good message.

The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith

Precious Ramotswe, Mma Ramotswe, opened the only woman-run detective agency in Botswana following to her father's dying wish that she opened her own business with her inheritance.  The reader learns much about the African culture as they witness Mma Ramotswe's clever detective work which solves a fun mixture of cases.  The overriding case throughout the book involves a missing boy and witchcraft of old.
Funny and great character development.
Caution: In the beginning, Mma Ramotswe's fiancee forces himself on her and is physically abusive.  Once married, he is abusive, unfaithful and tries to kill their unborn baby.  She plans to leave him but finds after her hospital stay that he left her (she loses the baby).  Fortunately these events are not told in detail.  Not many pages are dedicated to the events.  As a result Mma Ramotswe's view of men is very negative and that tone is throughout the book.

Who Took the Farmer's Hat? by Joan L. Nodset illustrated by Fritz Siebel

The wind blows the farmer's hat away.  The farmer asks the animals around his farm if they have seen it.  Each one gives an answer but not the one the farmer is seeking.  A sweet ending.
Strategies: predicting, inferring

Easter Bugs A Springtime Pop-up by David A. Carter

Unusual insects/bugs are hiding in unique Easter eggs.  The reader can lift up the egg flap to see the bug pop out at them.  At the end there is an Easter basket fill of the bugs in the eggs.  The basket pops up too.
Very fun!

Fireboat The Heroic Adventures of the John J. Harvey by Maira Kalman

A retired fireboat is called to help put out fires after the 9-11 attacks.  The book begins in 1931 when the John J. Harvey was first launched.  The book describes how New York City changes and the Harvey is no longer needed until that horrific day.

Time To Eat by Steven Jenkins and Robin Page

A wonderful nonfiction team!    All the illustrations are torn and cut paper collage.
Fascinating facts about weird things animals eat and unique ways some animals eat.  Each animal has only two sentences about it but they are full of incredible facts!  More detailed facts are included on the last three pages of the book.  So adults can read this book to preschoolers and school age students can utilize it too.
Other books in this series are: Time for a Bath; Time to Sleep.
All Steven Jenkins' books are a treat to read.

Ol' Mama Squirrel by David Ezra Stein

Very funny!  A very protective mama squirrel.  Any mother can relate and kids will enjoy her antics!

Tyrannosaurus Rex by Helen Frost

Pebble Plus publishes great non fiction books for beginning readers.  Since there are not many words on a page, the reader is not overwhelmed.  Full page illustrations are placed to the right of the page with words.  The Pebble Plus books also include many NF text features-table of content, index, glossary, headings, and "read for further information" section.
Word count: 117
Grade Level: 1
Early-Intervention Level: 14
The above information is provided by the publisher.
Other books in this dinosaur series: Brachiosaurus, Inguanodon, and Velociraptor

Dangerous Journey The Story of Pilgrim's Progress by Oliver Hunkin illustrations Alan Parry

My oldest son has been begging me to read this to him for a couple of years now.  I held off because some of the illustrations are gruesome and the characters that attempt to distract and defeat Christian are very evil.  We read it to him this past week.  He kept asking me to read "one more chapter".
The writing is in vernacular so it will be difficult for young child to understand at times but it will build vocabulary (and opportunities to teach some reading strategies-context clues).  The illustrations are incredible and sometimes fill the page.  Skulls, a large eyeball and disgusting giants and creatures are depicted.
The message will remain in your mind and heart after reading this version of Pilgrim's Progress.  It will be a book we reread many times over the years.
Highly recommend it.

How Do You Hug a Porcupine? by Laurie Isop illustrated by Gwen Millward

The boys' aunt/my sister-in-law gave this copy from her cereal box a few years ago.  The simple, sweet story has a pleasant rhythm and rhyme to it.  The illustrations are whimsical.

Elephant and Piggie books by Mo Willems

Mo Willems is a genius!  He has created a series that uses sight words and  picture support to encourage beginning readers to read and to feel confident about their reading.  They enjoy the story and the story actually makes sense!  Each book is fifty-seven pages long but there are only a few words on a page (in a speech bubble).  Even though the story lines are simple, a teacher can use these books to model predicting, inferring (many facial expressions that allow the reader to infer how the character is feeling), reading with expression, character traits/feelings, connections, asking questions etc.
The reader will laugh at Elephant and Piggie's antics in each book.
I cannot recommend this series enough!

The Moon by Charlotte Guillain (Acorn division for Heinemann/Raintree)

This twenty-four page book is part of a space series for early readers.  With one sentence per page is a perfect book for beginning readers.  Many text features of non fiction are included so even the earliest readers can be introduced to non fiction text lay outs and features.  These features include: table of contents, headings, photographs, labels, diagrams, a picture glossary, and an index.  At the end there is a question for the reader to answer.  The publisher also gives parent and teacher suggestions how to introduce the book and activities to extend learning about the moon.
Other books in this set: astronauts, earth, exploring space, planets, stars, the sun.
Excellent set!

If a Bus Could Talk The Story of Rosa Parks by Faith Riggold

My three year old son pulled this book off of our shelf for me to read.  I had forgotten how detailed this book was for a picture book.  Even though this is a picture book, the story gives many details about the Civil Rights Movement.  Yes, it is a book about Rosa Parks but the reader can learn a lot about the Civil Rights Movement.  Dr. King and his death is also included in the story.

My Preschool by Anne Rockwell

A little boy narrates his day from arrival to departure at preschool.  Besides introducing the typical activities and routines of a preschool, topics of a girl crying because she doesn't want her mom to leave and a boy becoming mad at the narrator and how that is resolved are included.
The artwork is hand-printed monoprint using a Japanese technique.  The Akua-Kolor nontoxic inks make the illustrations look a bit smudgy and give it a kid drawn look.

Kiss Good Night by Amy Hest illustrated by Anita Jeram

A sweet, sweet story!  As Mrs. Bear goes through their bed time routine, she repeatedly asks him, "Ready now, Sam?"  To which Sam replies, "Oh, no!  I'm waiting."  Mrs. Bear pretends to not know what he means which is fun for a toddler/preschooler listener.  Finally, Mrs. Bear gives Sam a kiss-many kisses.  Of course, Sam cries, "Again!"   It is fun while reading to your loved one, to plant some smackers on his/her cheek like Mrs. Bear!
The illustrations fill the page and match the mood of a dark and stormy night.  Very cozy.  A fox chasing a leaf in the wind and a bird flying to find a safe nesting spot are added details to observe and discuss.

I Can Read! Phonics Batman by Lucy Rosen

This box set includes 12 short stories about Batman.  Book 1 introduces him.  Books 2 through 11 each focus on a different vowel sound (short or long).  Book 12 combines all vowel sounds as a review.  Each book has a  list of the focused vowel sounds, a list of sight words that will be used and a list of  fun Batman words to talk about before reading.  The books are eleven pages in length so beginning readers will be able to read entire book in one sitting.  Although not quality literature, these books will appeal to boys who maybe are not interested in reading because of the topic "Batman".

When I Grow Up by Al Yankovic illustrated by Wes Hargis

Billy is excited for show and tell to share what he wants to be when he grow ups.  In humorous, rhyme Billy shares career after career after career until his teacher stops and asks him which one he will choose. He then relates how his great-grandfather is one hundred and three and "is still not quite sure what he wants to be!"
The book ends on a sweet note that will make primary teachers smile.
Expressive illustrations.

It's Time for Preschool! by Esme Raji Codell illustrated by Sue Rama

This book is very thorough in its explanation of what a child will do in preschool.  It follows children through their entire day at preschool and divides the "topics" with a consistent title "Time to  . . ."  Sometimes the sentences rhyme but not consistently.  Ms. Codell even talks about different feelings and worries they might have and offers reassurance.
The illustrations are colorful and fill the entire page.
A bit long but a great book to read to a child who is attending preschool for the first time.

Magic Tree House series by Mary Pope Osborne

This series has transformed many non readers to readers.  In the earlier books, the sentences are shorter and less complex.  As the series progresses, the complexity increases on all levels as the readers ability to read improves.  My six year old son has loved these books since he was four years old!

In book #1, Dinosaurs Before Dark, Jack and Annie, brother and sister, discover a tree house in Frog Creek woods in PA.  The tree house is magical and transports them to different times and various locations around the world.  Jack is cautious and studious.  Annie is adventurous and creative.  Together they complete missions on behalf of Merlin from Camelot.  Readers will learn a lot of facts and without realizing it become a great reader as they devour the books in this series.  With fifty in the series (as of August 2013), there are plenty to keep readers busy.  Ms. Osborne and her sister and her husband have also written nonfiction companions to some of the books called "Fact Tracker" to share more facts about the topics.  As of August 2013 they have written twenty seven non fiction books.

Some cautions/points for discussion:  There is magic.  Morgan Le Fay is one of the characters and she is a witch (but the series does not really call her a "witch").  In the later books Jack and Annie use magic.  In the last few books they have been inhaling a magical mist so they can be good at something to complete their mission.

Count the Monkeys by Mac Barnett illustrated by Kevin Cornell

A very interactive picture book!  From the title page to the end  page, the author is "talking" to the reader and involving them.  A fun and funny counting book.  The illustrations are very colorful and bold and fill up the page.
The reader will encounter many different animals (king cobra, mongoose, crocodiles etc.) but will they ever count the monkeys?

The Apple Orchard Riddle by Margaret McNamara illustrated by G. Brian Karas

Mr. Tiffin's class takes a field trip to an apple orchard.  While they are learning about apples and their products and how an orchard is managed, he gives them a riddle to solve.
The book is full of apple and orchard facts yet the individual children's personalities are well developed for a picture book.  As the story continues and facts are related in story format, the children try to solve the riddle.  Tara, the class day dreamer, slowly solves the riddle.
The last page in the book lists some more facts about apple orchards.
The end pages have drawings of different apples with their names.
Great book to read before an apple orchard field trip.
**Check out this team's other great fall book How Many Seeds in a Pumpkin?.  Mr. Tiffin is the teacher is this book too.

Henry and Mudge-The First Book by Cynthia Rylant illustrated by Sucie Stevenson*

Henry is an only child with no friends in his neighborhood.  His solution-get a perfect dog and his parents agree!  This book relates their first experiences together.
Divided into mini chapters.
Great for beginning readers.
*Highly recommend.
My youngest son loves reading this series!

Owl Babies by Martin Waddell illustrated by Patrick Benson

A perfect book to read to a toddler/preschooler before leaving them for a long period of time---to reassure them that mom will come back!  Three owl babies wake up and wonder where there owl mother is and spend time reasoning why is away.
The illustrations are amazing-lots of black (it is night) and with the only other colors being white, brown, blue tinges and green.  The perspective changes too-from inside their nest, to faraway view of their tree, to an aerial view as the mom swoops home.  

Maisy Goes to Preschool by Lucy Cousins

A familiar, comfortable character introducing a scary new experience.
A wonderful, short introduction to what preschool may be like!
Lucy Cousins is a wonderful author and illustrator for the toddler/preschool crowd.

The Fantastic Secret of Owen Jester by Barbara O'Connor

The cover of this book is superb.  It really summarizes the story well!
The story takes place in Carter, Georgia.  Owen Jester and his two best friends try to avoid Owen's next door neighbor Viola, a "know it all" girl, and his grandfather's housekeeper, Earlene.
The summer has two highlights for the boys-Owen capturing the best bullfrog and another discovery that is Owen's "fantastic secret".
The story is refreshing in the fact the boys are acting like boys and using their creativity to play OUTSIDE and to keep themselves busy!  Although they are very nasty  to Viola, they soon realize that they need her brains to help them with their discovery.
As a character Owen's view on a captured bullfrog and of Viola change as the story progresses.  Readers could analyze each character, their traits, and how they develop as a character in the story.

Some cautions/discussion points- the boys are very disrespectful to two elderly ladies in the story; Owen lies and disobeys often throughout the book; church is something he endures; name calling; two times the author says the one character "cusses", "let a string of cusswords fly"; stealing

Twenty-six Pirates An Alphabet Book by Dave Horowitz

Each letter of the alphabet is represented by a different boy pirate's name. The description of each pirate is a rhyming couplet.   The focused letter is somewhere on the pirate.  The font for the boy's name is different from the rest of the words and a bit fancy for kids to recognize the letter.  Full page illustrations
Not my favorite alphabet book but will appeal to pirate loving kids.

The Case of the Missing Donut by Alison McGhee illustrated by Isabel Roxas

"The Sheriff" (a young boy) along with his deputy (his dog) have an important mission: to bring home a dozen doughnuts.  What is he to do when one of them looks a little uneven?  As he walks through town to home, everyone who sees him,  asks  "how was the doughnut?" much to his puzzlement until his parents have him look in the mirror!
Cute, expressive illustrations.

Tea Time with Sophia Grace and Rosie by Sophia Grace Brownlee and Rosie McClelland illustrated by Shelagh McNicholas

Two cousins plan the perfect tea party and invite a surprise guest-each other!
Very cute and sweet-both the story time and the illustrations.
Girls who like pink, fairies, tea parties and imagining will love this book.
"Written" by two actual girls who live in England and periodically come to the US to appear on the TV show Ellen. 

Please Write in This Book by Mary Amato illustrated by Eric Brace

Mrs. Wurtz hides a journal in the Writer's Corner for kids to find and write in during Center Time.  Her only rules: 1. have fun 2. sign your name.  When the kids find it, they  are eager to write and their personalities really shine through their writing.  Soon, however, mean comments are written and some nasty dialogue ensues to the point the kids are removing the journal from the classroom to hide it from others.  As a class and through the journal writing, they resolve their issues and write in the way the teacher intended while honoring each other's personalities.
The format for this book is ...a journal exactly how the kids would have written it.

Chocolatina by Erik Kraft illustrated by Denise Brunkus

Chocolate and always chocolate!  Tina loves chocolate!  Her health teacher's mantra is "You are what you eat!"  One day in class, Tina stands up, takes a huge bite out of her chocolate candy bar, and states loudly, "I wish that were true!".  When Tina wakes up the next morning, she is solid chocolate.  The story relates her troubles as the day progresses and then a surprising encounter with her health teacher.

Perfect to read when reading The Chocolate Touch and Chocolate Fever.  Another book to read after this one would a version of King Midas and the Golden Touch.

The Arthur series by Marc Brown

Arthur, an aardvark, faces many issues and problems  most kids encounter in early elementary school-having to wear glasses, being behind in losing first tooth, dealing with a bully, putting up with a younger sibling, adjusting to a new baby, going to camp for the first time are just a few examples.  Marc Brown's depictions of Arthur have evolved over time.  The first book, Arthur's Nose, shows a very real looking aardvark but by Arthur's TV Trouble Arthur looks more like an adorable mouse!   A fun activity with kids is to have a copy of each book and line them up from the oldest copyright to the most current and compare the illustrations.
My boys loved these books at an early age (like toddler age!).  With story lines being complete and well developed, coupled with almost full page illustrations this is a great series for kids of many age groups.  There are at least twenty-two picture books in this series.  Marc Brown has written beginning reader books and chapter books for second/third graders too with these same characters.

Some caution- since Arthur is second/third grade in these books-there are some events and words that parents may not appreciate for the younger crowd.  In Arthur's Halloween, the kids talk about a witch that lives in a run-down house, his friends come up with spooky, creepy ways the "witch" is going to torture Arthur and Arthur cracks a joke at the end about the cemetery "people are just dying to get in" .  The game "spin the bottle" is a mentioned blatantly in Arthur's Birthday.  In other books there is sometimes name calling and friends being unkind.

The Greatest Skating Race A World War 2 Story from the Netherlands by Louise Borden illustrated by Niki Daly

Ten year old Piet Janssen admires Pim Mulier who skated to the eleven towns in Friesland (200 kilometers/125 miles)in one day.  Because of his hero, skating is passion and he dreams of skating that same race one day.   His dad also happens to be a skate maker by trade.  He has the opportunity to prove his stamina in skating in the cold and even in danger when he must take two young children to another town, across the border to Belgium. Both countries are occupied by the Germans.
A longer picture book with plenty of illustrations-illustrations have the hues of grey, brown and white of winter.  A great book to read during the study of WW 2.  A informational page about "The Elfstedentocht" and the history of skates/skating are included at the back.
Teachers can talk about inferring and character traits with this book.

One Potato, Two Potato, Three Potato, Four 165 Chants for Children compiled by Mary Lou Colgin

The title pretty much describes it.  A wide variety of chants divided into these categories-creatures, numbers and ABCs, food, nursery rhymes, people plus, holiday and seasons, response chants.  A good resource for librarians, preschool teachers and for story time teachers.

The Sisters Grimm The Fairy-Tale Detectives Book #1 by Michael Buckley

For the past year and a half Sabrina and Daphne Grimm have lived in various foster homes after their parents mysteriously disappear.  All their life their parents told that their grandparents were dead and that they had no relatives.  To their surprise they are sent to their grandmother's house to live.  The Grimms are ancestors of the Brothers Grimms.  Because of these relations, they automatically have specific duties-being fairy tale detectives.  All those fairy tales they thought were just stories are actually real events!
In this book the sisters must rescue their grandmother and her friend Mr. Canis (aka The Big Bad Wolf) from giants who invading the land.
Readers will enjoy meeting the fairy tale characters and creatures in land which they interact and live.  Imaginative and clever story/series!
Violent at times.

Boom! A Big, Big Thunder and One Small Dog by Mary Lyn Ray illustrated by Steven Salerno

Rosie is a small but brave dog.  One thing scares her . . thunder!  In the book she does not overcome her fear but her owner, "the boy", comforts and helps through the storm.
Over sized book makes it great for story time.  The bold illustrations fill the page.  Lots of blue hues are used which is appropriate.
Check out Mary Lyn Ray's book Stars-a favorite in our home.

Tabby McTat The Musical Cat by Julia Donaldson illustrated by Axel Scheffler

Fun, rhyming text tells a story of cat who sings with his male master for money.  One day they are separated and cannot find each other.  In the mean time, Tabby McTat finds himself a wife, a comfortable home and has three kittens with her.  Two kittens find good homes but the third one (who happens to look like his dad) has such a noisy meow no one wants him.  A very happy, satisfying ending for everyone in the story!
The illustrations are colorful and bold.
Read Stick Man by this team at Christmas time.

Miss Nelson books by Harry Allard illustrated by James Marshall

Three books in this mini series- Miss Nelson Is Missing; Miss Nelson Is Back; and  Miss Nelson Has Field Day.
A very smart teacher who disguises her self as "Miss Viola Swamp" who knows how to get results!
Funny and entertaining.
Perfect books for teachers to model and for students to practice-text to text connections,  predicting, asking questions, and making inferences.
Preschoolers through third graders will enjoy these stories.

The Bear Went Over the Mountain by Iza Trapani

The reader follows bear through all the seasons (starting in spring and ending in winter) as he explores his territory.  As he explores his territory he uses his senses.  An excellent book to talk about the seasons and senses.  Adorable, cheerful pictures.  Of course, if the child likes it, reader can sing the book instead of read it!

The Enormous Carrot by Vladimir Vagin

Bold, colorful illustrations make this an excellent book for story time.  Two rabbits, Daisy and Floyd, plant some carrot seeds in their garden.  An enormous carrot grows and then nearby friends help try to pull it out.  The story follows the traditional Russian folk tale The Enormous Turnip closely.  A variety of  word choice  makes the story fun to read.  The author also has some of the animals bring different tools to assist in the pulling which adds a different dimension.   The paintings make the reader want to jump in the book and join the animals-colorful and cheerful.

Song of the Stars A Christmas Story by Sally Lloyd-Jones illustrated by Alison Jay

All of creation anticipates the birth of their Creator on Earth.  A different perspective of the first Christmas which is refreshing.  Alison Jay's painting create a whimsical, folk art feel.

Red Green Blue A First Book of Colors by Alison Jay

On a gray, rainy day a boy experiences various nursery rhymes.  A color is represented in each nursery rhyme.  This is not a book that has the nursery rhymes written out word for word.  A couplet rhyme summarizes the main idea of each nursery rhyme.  The illustrations contain more nursery rhymes occurring in the background of each page.  Often the reader can predict by studying the illustrations which nursery rhyme will be on the next page.  At the end there is a page that reveals what nursery rhymes were included throughout the book.  I saw more rhymes that author/illustrator listed, though!  A very fun book for a variety of ages.

Frindle by Andrew Clements

One of my favorite chapter books to share with kids!
Great to read/share when learning about dictionaries.
Nick is fifth grade boy full of brilliant ideas.  When a tough English teacher proves to be a challenge, Nick launches an idea that stirs up his class, his school and finally the nation!

Brock the Balloonist Tales from Fern Hollow by John Patience

Brock Gruffy, a badger, discovers a box containing a hot air balloon in is cluttered shop.  As he flies it through Fern Hollow he leaves a disaster in his path.  Two mischievous mice decide to take the hot air balloon and stumble upon something that will help Brock pay for the damage.  Well developed story and once again amazing pictures to study.

The Unscary Scarecrow Tales from Fern Hollow by John Patience

Farmer Bramble, a badger, comes up with a clever way to scare away the crows after his scarecrow fails to do the job.  My six-year old son and I enjoy this series a lot.  We especially like the map in the front of the book that depicts the layout of Fern Hollow.  The pictures are adorable.

Louise, The Adventures of a Chicken by Kate DiCamillo illustrated by Harry Bliss

A longer picture book with chapters about Louise the French chicken who longs for adventure.  Each chapter shares one of her new adventures (one chapter leads into another). Her adventures include being captured by pirates, performing on the tight-rope at the circus, and  being captured in an African market.

What Pete Ate from A-Z (Really!) by Maira Kalman

The main character shares what her pet dog, starting with the letter A.  Many items on the page begin with the corresponding letter.  The boys like this book "okay".  An unique alphabet book.

A Long Way Away A Two-Way Story by Frank Viva

Do you want to start your journey in space or the deep, deep ocean?  Either way, the book can be read one way and then the other.  A yellow path travels through the entire book.  Fun to trace with finger.  The book orientation is vertical.  Creative and fun!

Thunderstorm by Arthur Geisert

This author/illustrator is meticulous in his attention to detail.  Adult and child can spend endless time pouring over his illustrations.  He creates his illustrations from copperplate etchings that are first hand printed and then hand colored with watercolor paints.
This particular book follows a thunderstorm from morning to evening in the mid-west.  A tornado touches down on some unfortunate individuals.  The only writing is the time at the bottom of each page.