Secret Files #15-The Hardy Boys Ship of Secrets by Franklin W. Dixon illustrated by Scott Burroughs*

My second grade son read this book to himself.
He said, "The book was exciting.  The brothers took a cruise.  A valuable watch was missing and they found it."
*Highly recommend the series.
Perfect for transitional readers.

Winter Bees and Other Poems of the Cold by Joyce Sidman illustrated by Rick Allen*

What a beautifully illustrated book (print linoleum blocks/hand colored and then digitally scanned and layered)!!!
The poems describe various creatures plus  trees and plants and their survival in the winter. (plus a poem about snowflakes!).  I like how the poems progress from end of autumn until early spring.  A fact box accompanies each poem, explaining the science behind the subject manner.
A glossary is included at the end.
***Highly recommend.
This book I had to purchase!

If You Want to Find Golden by Eileen Spinelli illustrated by Stacey Schuett*

In the city, a boy and his mother walk through their neighborhood, experiencing the various sights of the city.  Their day is explained via color poems.  Each poem contains the same opening and ending lines which beg readers to create their own color poems!
After reading Horrible Harry and the Dead Letters, I "needed" to read this book!
*Highly recommend.

Do Hard Things by Alex and Brett Harris*

"A Teenage Rebellion Against Low Expectations"
Two nineteen year old twins write about how society has low expectations of teen and how teens can rise above this detrimental mindset.  With many examples, the brothers prove their point and offer practical ways teen can make a difference in the world, right now.
A book written for teens but youth workers, parents, school administrators/teachers will gain insights and a renewed perspective.
****Highly recommend.

Snowman's Story by Will Hillenbrand

A wordless book.
When a magic hat lands on the animal's snowman, he comes alive and reads to them.  A rabbit hiding in the magic hat steals the book.  The snowman and his friends chase after him to retrieve the book.
Very cute!
I love Mr. Hillenbrand's books!
Strategies: inferring, predicting

A Weekend With Wendell by Kevin Henkes*

Wendell spends the weekend at Sophie's house-tormenting her each moment.  She cannot wait until he goes home (neither can her parents!!).  Then Sophie sticks up for herself and the weekend takes a turn for the better.
I read this aloud to my preschool children's church when we were discussing loving our "enemies" or people who are unkind to us.  Wendell is the perfect example of a difficult person to love!!
*Highly recommend.
Strategies: personal connections, inferring

Ruby, Violet, Lime by Jane Brocket*

"Jane Brocket's Clever Concepts-Looking for Color"
What beautiful photographs!  Once again, Ms. Brocket organizes the book well, beginning with primary colors, then secondary, then white, black, gray,  metallic colors, and hues of the colors.
I especially love her adjectives-(for example for green: "lime frosting, mint-green striped socks, emerald lettuces, and jade gardens")-because her word choices shares the different names a color can be called.  It is not just always called "green"!
*Highly recommend.
A must for any color unit and any art teacher!

Circles, Stars and Squares by Jane Brocket*

"Jane Brocket's Clever Concepts-Looking for Shapes"
With amazing photographs, Ms. Brocket shows the reader various flat and solid shapes.  Organized well-first she focuses on flat shapes and then moves onto solid shapes.
She describes the characteristics of each shape.
*Highly recommend.
Perfect for preschool  and primary teachers (K-1st).

Unwrapping the Greatest Gift by Ann Voskamp*

"A Family Celebration of Christmas"
Based on her book for adults-The Greatest Gift- Ms. Voskamp has written a book suitable for children.  Like the adult version, the book provides Scripture reading for each day from Dec. 1- Dec. 25th, along with her own explanations/poetic writing about the topic and then a couple of questions and a family activity to apply the concept.
Her writing is very poetic and quite dramatic at times.
Beautiful illustrations/artwork.

An Elephant and Piggie book-Waiting Is Not Easy by Mo Willems*

We gave this book to our five year old for Christmas.  I could not WAIT to read it to him!
Piggie has a surprise for Gerald but Gerald struggles waiting the entire day for the surprise.  He states that her surprise is not worth the waiting.
A spectacular ending!
The end pages in the this book are different than the rest of the Elephant and Piggie books.
*Highly recommend.
Perfect for: beginning readers, transitional readers, stamina, reluctant readers
Strategies: accuracy (cross checking), fluency
**Award-- 2015 Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor book!

Neighborhood Sharks by Katherine Roy*

"Hunting with the Great Whites of California's Farallon Islands"
Very well researched.
Ms. Roy shares how great whites attack their prey; then cleverly weaves in how their body structures have been created to attack.
Topics include:  their prey-elephant seals, the great white's body structure, their ability generate warm blood, their amazing vision, teeth, projectile jaws, tagging of the sharks by scientists, food chain, migration

Blood is drawn so not for the squeamish!!

Text features: headings, cross sections/cut aways, labels, diagrams, close ups, arrows, author's note with more information, online resources, map
**Highly recommend.

The Story Keepers-AD 64 Sink or Swim by Brian Brown and Andrew Melrose*

Very exciting stories which take place during the Roman persecution of the early Christians.  In this book, Ben, his wife Helena and the orphaned children search of Justin's father.  While searching for him on a Roman slave ship, they find themselves trapped on board when the ship departs.
My second grader checked out this book from the library and enjoyed reading it to himself.
*Highly recommend.

The Crippled Lamb by Max Lucado illustrated by Liz Bonham*

Joshua the crippled lamb always feels left out. One night he and his best friend, Abigail (a brown cow with white blotches) are left behind in the stable and experience the best gift ever!
*Highly recommend.
Guided Reading Level: O (third grade)
Grade Equivalency:  2.9

Six Snowy Sheep by Judith Ross Enderle and Stephanie Gordon Tessler illustrated by John O'Brien

Six sheep receive a perfect Christmas gift to play in the snow.
Repetitive text make for an opportunity for listeners to join in the reading or great for beginning readers.
Lots of Alliteration!
Guided Reading Level: I
Grade Level Equivalency: 1.7

Tyrannoclaus by Janet Lawler

A dinosaur "twas the night before Christmas" version.
A must read for all dino lovers at Christmas!
Rhyming text

The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg*

A very well known book!
The narrator longs to believe in Santa and the North Pole.  On Christmas Eve a train stops at his house and transports him to the North Pole.  Here he is chosen to select the first gift of Christmas.  He chooses a bell from Santa's reindeer's harness.  Years later he still hears the ring but many others cannot hear its ring.
Strategy: inferring
*Highly recommend.
Guided Reading Level: N (beginning of third grade)
Grade Level Equivalency: 4.9

Little Owl Lost by Chris Haughton

Little Owl falls out of his tree.  Forest animals try to locate his mother by his description.  In the course of time he meets many different woodland creatures.
Funny ending!
Bold illustrations-pencil and digital media.

The Bravest Woman in America by Marissa Moss illustrated by Andrea U'Ren*

Ida Lewis loved the sea and maintaining the lighthouse with her father. She was his diligent student.  When he became ill, she was more than prepared to assume his duties.  Written in an exciting narrative, this book would be a great one to use when introducing biographies.
Officially she saved 16 lives but in actuality it was more like 25 lives.
*Highly recommend.
Author's note includes more details about her life.

The Incredible Painting of Felix Clousseau by Jon Agee*

Famous painters gather in Paris, France to display their amazing artwork.  At first everyone scoffs at Felix Clousseau's duck painting but then it quacks!  He quickly rises to stardom but just as rapidly falls when his paintings cause havoc.  One painting may just save his life.
A wonderful, surprise ending that will make readers ask questions and think!!
Daily CAFE recommended using this book to model finding word parts to read larger words.  I would use it for the primary grades (K-2nd) to model this skill.
*Highly recommend.
Strategies/skills: decoding, asking questions, predicting, inferring

Jesus by Anselm Grun illustrated by Giuliano Ferri*

This book begins with Mary finding out she will give birth to the son of God and continues to narrate Jesus' life from his birth until his resurrection.  Included stories are the calling of the disciples, miracles, blessing the children and a parable.  Each snippet is contained on one page with a two page spread illustration.
*Highly recommend.

Horrible Harry and the Dead Letters by Suzy Kline illustrated by Amy Wummer*

Harry and his classmates have a real post office set up in their room.  When bookmarks go missing and are found mysteriously in the class mailbox, Harry and Doug know they have a mystery to solve.
Perfect book when students are learning about the postal system (postal terminology is explained).
The class also writes color poems based on Eileen Spinelli's book If You Want to Find Golden.
Lots of ways to utilize this book in the classroom!
*Highly recommend.
Grade Level Equivalency: 2.3

The Fourth Wise Man retold by Susan Summers illustrated by Jackie Morris*

"Based on the story by Henry Van Dyke"
Artaban is eager to join his fellow astronomers following a brilliant star to Jerusalem.  Since he helps a hurt man along the  way, he does not make it to the designated meeting place.  This story then focuses on how Artaban spends his entire life seeking the King and living a life of compassion along the way.
*Highly recommend.

Thunder Bird by Jim Arnosky*

"Nature's Flying Predators"
This book features eagles, hawks, falcons, owls, vultures, herons, egrets, pelicans, loons, cormorants, and gannets.
Fold out pages enable the reader to visualize how big some of these creatures are.
The table of contents indicates where there are fold outs.
Text features: table of contents, headings, labels, picture captions, charts, close ups, actual size/fold outs, author's note
*Highly recommend.

Disaster Strikes -Volcano Blast by Marlane Kennedy*

Siblings Noah and Emma take a vacation with their parents to Alaska where their father, a volcanologist, wanted to study a stratovolcano.  Noah is less than thrilled.  Then he, his sister and new friend Alex find themselves contending with a dangerous volcanic explosion.
My second grader read this book to himself and enjoyed it.
*Highly recommend.
Guided Reading Level: Q (beginning of 4th grade)

Mary Smith by A. U'Ren*

Before there were alarm clocks, there were "knocker-ups"!
A entertaining story about a real Mary Smith whose job was to wake up the town for the day!
*Highly recommend.
Daily CAFE recommends using this book when teaching -looking for word parts.

Golden Boy by Tara Sullivan**

What a captivating book about a very unknown issue-the killing of Albinos in Tanzania for their body parts.  For the past fifteen years, the killing of albinos has been rising as people believe their body parts bring good fortune.
This fictional story of Habo brings to life the very real issue.
Habo feels rejected by his family members and is always the outsider in every situation.  When their family farm fails, they move to Mwanza, along Lake Victoria to live with Habo's aunt.  Unbeknownst to the Habo's mother, the people in this town kill albinos for their body parts.  He flees for his life to Dar  es Salaam where people are more accepting of his condition.  Here is taken in by a blind wood carver.  Here Habo develops a sense of self worth for the first time.
A celebration of human life and worth.
Compelling.  This book could be a catalyst for discussing human worth with teens.
A glossary of Kiswahili  words and phrases included.  A few pages of resources and links to further understand this issue plus ways one can help.
Well -researched.
Lots of similes that utilize the African culture and natural surroundings.
***Highly recommend.

Duck to the Rescue by John Himmelman

Very funny!
Duck sees various people and animals on the farm that need his assistance.  Does he improve the situations?  Readers can infer via the illustrations.  Sweet ending.
Mr. Himmelman has written several other books about the other animals on the farm "helping" (Chickens to the Rescue, Pigs to the Rescue, and Cows to the Rescue)
Strategy: infer

Oh no, George! by Chris Haughton

The illustrations are unusual-don't know how to quite to describe them! Readers witness George, the dog, give into temptation (eating cake, chase a cat,dig in dirt) while his owner is away.  How will his owner react when he comes home and sees a messy house?

Bark, George by Jules Feiffer

George's mother is concerned that when he barks, he does not say "Arf"; he says other animal sounds.  So she takes him to the vet.  Readers will laugh when they discover George's problem!  Funny ending too!
Strategies: prediciing, inferring

Soccer Star by Mina Javaherbin illustrated by Renato Alarcao*

Paulo Marcelo Feliciano dreams how he and his soccer team will be soccer stars like Pele and others.
This book focuses on a boy's love for soccer but I love how it also gives readers a chance to see how others live in the world.  It was good for my boys to see how majority of the world fights daily against poverty.
The book was not preachy-just gently brought the reader into Paulo's world.
The physical size of the book is larger than average so great for story time.
**Highly recommend.

As an Oak Tree Grows*

The reader witnesses the growth of an oak tree and how humans transform the landscape over a 200 time period (1770's-2000) (twenty-five year increments)
A time line runs along the bottom of each page and the current year is in bolder font.
A wonderful way to examine history and how times change!

A pull out poster is included-On one side is a stump with rings.  Coming out of the rings are circles featuring significant historical events/inventions that changed America.  On the other side various activities-life cycle of the tree, facts about oak trees, sequencing activity, search/find for objects in the book, a season matching activity and a coloring page.
*Highly recommend.

Tiny Creatures The World of Microbes by Nicola Davies illustrated by Emily Sutton*

Fascinating subject not usually expounded upon in children's books.
Ms. Davies, as usual, explains the subject in a manner to which children can relate.
Lots of comparing in size illustrations and magnified illustrations.
*Highly recommend.

Bramble and Maggie-Spooky Season by Jessie Haas illustrated by Alison Friend*

I love this series for new readers who love horses.
It is fall and Bramble has to adjust to the new sights--especially costumes.
Three short chapters-perfect for beginning/transitional readers who are building stamina.
*Highly recommend.
Two other books in the series.

Dory Fantasmagory by Abby Hanlon

What an imagination Dory has!  It annoys her sister, her brother, her mother and her father.  Since her older sibling often do not include her, Dory finds herself lost in her imaginary world or desperately trying different antics to win their approval or inclusion.


Points to discuss/warnings: "stupid" is stated a few times-"heck" one time; the siblings are not nice to Dory at all; Dory is quite strong willed and disrespectful (shoves a lollipop stick into the doctor's leg); parents yell at her often

Disaster Strikes-Blizzard Night by Marlane Kennedy*

#3 in series
My second grader read this book to himself.  He liked it because it was exciting.
Once again Jayden is living with a new foster family.  He and the family are taking a trip to the Upper Peninsula in Michigan when a snow storm cause the van to crash.  Jayden, an avid reader, uses his knowledge to help him and his foster siblings survive.
*Highly recommend.
The books in this series are short (100 pages) so they appeal to reluctant readers or transitional readers who are building stamina.
Grade Level Equivalent: 4th grade
Guided Reading Level: Q (beginning of 4th grade)

From Sea to Shining Sea by Callista Gingrich illustrated by Susan Arciero*

"Part of the bestselling Ellis the Elephant series"
Travel with Ellis the Elephant and see how our country expands via Lewis and Clark's expedition.
Great two page map of the the United States in the early 1800's.
*Highly recommend.
Adorable illustrations.
Lots of resources in the back for further reading/exploration.

Bink and Gollie -Two for One by Kate DiCamillo and Alison McGhee illustrated by Tony Fucile

In this sequel, Bink and Gollie spend a day at the State Fair-trying to whack a duck and participate in a talent contest.  The whack duck contest really made me laugh!!
Sweet friendship story.
Warning: The girls visit a fortune teller who gazes into a crystal ball.  Fun to infer how she knew the topics she stated.
 

The Farmer and the Clown by Marla Frazee*

Wordless book.
A farmer awakens to complete his chores.  Imagine his surprise when a clown who is a child topples off a passing train.  His day and his life is forever changed.
Strategies: inferring; sequencing

Thanksgiving Day for Emily Ann by Teresa Johnston illustrated by Vanessa Bramtley-Newton

Emily is not thankful on Thanksgiving Day!  Visiting family and occupied members have her very grumpy.
In a short amount of time, her mood is transformed.
Rhyming text.

Shooting at the Stars by John Hendrix*

"The Christmas Truce of 1914"
Told via  letter written to his mother, a young solider shares the miraculous truce during World War I on Christmas Day.
Incredible illustrations.  My second grader and I had some interesting discussions why Mr. Hendrix choose to include some aspects of the illustrations and why he drew some objects to dominate the page.
Well written-shares the facts in an interesting manner.
*Highly recommend.
Mr. Hendrix shares the history of the war before the story begins.
Text features: author's note with a photo of the truce,  glossary,  index, map/diagram of the battlefield

The Animal's Santa by Jan Brett

On Christmas Eve, Big Snowshoe excitedly shares with his younger brother, Little Snow, about the animals' Santa.  As the Arctic animals share the presents the animals' Santa has given them, Little Snow scoffs at the idea.  None of the animals have seen the Santa so he cannot be real, Little Snow reasons.
Big Snowshoe comes up with a clever plan so everyone can witness the animals' Santa in action.

Beautiful illustrations as always!  As usual the borders share a story within the story.

El Deafo by Cece Bell*

In a graphic novel, Ms. Bell relates the trials and humorous moments growing up being hearing impaired.
Very insightful-can help facilitate discussions on kindness and how to interact with the hearing impaired or anyone who has a disability/impairment.
Ms. Bell also handles the ups and downs of friends and first crushes with humor and sensitivity.
A memoir.

Points to discuss/warnings: Cece overhears her teacher swear-the word is written in the book (pg. 41) and the illustrations depict teachers taking a smoke break. pg. 162 she lipreads someone saying the word for fudge "but for real" (actual word is not written but can infer easily). Cece develops a crush on a boy.  pg. 203-word breast is mentioned-not inappropriately but she sort interprets it that way.
*Highly recommend.

The Fourteenth Goldfish by Jennifer L. Holm*

"Believe in the impossible possible"
What a fun book!!
Sixth grader Ellie has enough adjustments but when her grandfather shows up as a teenager!!, her life takes paths she never imagined!  Her grandfather has two PhD and has discovered a way to reverse aging.  Through lots of discussions about various scientists (Curie, Falk, Oppenheimer, Newton, Pastuer), cooking from her deceased grandmother's recipe box and discovering new friends, Ellie learns a lot about the precious gift of life and using it wisely/for the good.
I love how Ms. Holm takes many different topics -science, becoming of age, the tumultuous adolescence stage, family members quirks-and weaves them into a superb story that causes one to think.  To achieve all of "that", now that is talent!!
*Highly recommend.

Mr. Putter and Tabby Turn the Page by Cynthia Rylant illustrated by Arthur Howard*

Mr. Putter loves to read with his cat Tabby.  When he sees an opportunity to read at the library, Mr. Putter signs up.  Of course, his dear friend and neighbor, Mrs. Teaberry wants to join in the fun.
Written so beginning/transitional readers can read successfully, Ms. Rylant has such a gift of creating lovable, believable characters.
*Highly recommend.
Award---Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor Book for 2015

Audrey Bunny by Angie Smith illustration by Breezy Brookshire*

The bunny, Audrey, has a black smudge on her chest.  It has hindered her chances of being selected at the toy store.  When Caroline picks Audrey for her toy, Audrey is elated!  She, however, is careful to hide the smudge from Caroline, fearing she will return her to the store.
A great book to reinforce how God made each of us uniquely and wonderfully.
I find a lot Christian books sacrifice good story lines for pounding a message.  This one, however, is an excellent story.
Adorable illustrations.
*Highly recommend.

Heroes for Young Readers-Nate Saint by Renee Taft Meloche illustrated by Bryan Pollard*

Nate longed for the Auca Indians in Ecuador to learn about Christ.  Any outsider who dared to  approach the tribe was killed.  Gradually he earned their trust.  Unfortunately, one of the natives lied about the Nate and his friends to cover up a wrong he had done.  As a result, Nate and his friends were killed.  Nate's sister returned to the tribe and led many to Christ.
Points to discuss/warning: death; one tribesman spends a night with an unmarried woman and then lies to cover up his wrong.

The Kingdom of Wrenly #3 Sea Monster! by Jordan Quinn illustrated by Robert McPhillips*

My second grader likes this series.  He read this one to himself and liked the part when the kids find a sea monster.
A sea monster is frightening the kingdom so Prince Lucas and his friend Clara go to find the monster.
Perfect series for transitional readers-lots of illustrations, short chapters.
*Highly recommend.
My son did not want to read book #4 about a witch and curse-said it looked too scary.

Born in the Wild by Lita Judge*

"Baby Mammals and Their Parents"
An adorable nonfiction book.
I like the organization of it-A two page spread announces a new section with large illustrations. Then the next two pages share examples that support the section.
Text features: headings, colored font, "more about the animals sections", glossary, websites
Multi aged book.
*Highly recommend.
Strategy: main idea/details

Amy Carmichael -Rescuing the Children by Renee Taft Meloche illustrated by Bryan Pollard*

Rhyming text shares how Amy Carmichael begins her journey for helping children.
*Highly recommend.
A great biography series.
Read aloud to preschoolers, K-1st.  Older children can read it independently.

365 Days of Wonder by R.J. Palacio*

"Mr. Browne's Book of Precepts"
To fully appreciate this book, one should read Ms. Palacio's book, Wonder.
Ms.Palacio has created a book around her fictional character, Mr. Browne, a teacher in Wonder.  At the beginning of each month, Mr. Browne shares a precept and then requires the students to write an essay containing their thoughts about the precept.
Wonder's theme was kindness so many of the precepts in this book focus on kindness and the good of mankind.  Precepts are from various sources-classical fictional characters, classic books/authors, ancient sayings/proverbs, religious leaders, presidents, pop culture and regular real kids.  Each day of the year has a precept assigned to it.
At the end of each month, the fictional character Mr. Browne shares a short provoking essay which usually includes insights or notes from the characters/students from the novel Wonder. 
The quotes reflect a secular worldview.  No matter your background, however, they will provoke lively discussion and thought.
*Highly recommend.

The Kingdom of Wrenly #2 The Scarlet Dragon by Jordan Quinn illustrated by Robert McPhillips*

Prince Lucas and his new friend Clara continue their adventures in this second book in the series.
The Prince finds a rare dragon egg and takes the baby dragon back to the castle as a pet.  When the dragon becomes sick, he must find special berries to make a healing potion. . . which are only found in the land of trolls.
My son liked this book because the Prince has a pet dragon.
Perfect for transitional readers and for building stamina.
*Highly recommend.

The Kingdom of Wrenly #1 The Lost Stone by Jordan Quinn illustrated by Robert McPhillips*

Another great series for transitional readers!
My second grade son is loving this series (reading it to himself).
Prince Lucas and the seamstress' daughter, Clara, explore the kingdom to find his mother's emerald pendant.
A map of the kingdom is displayed on two pages in the beginning of the book.
Short chapters, lots of illustrations (adorable, by the way) perfect for building stamina in transitional readers.
My son said he likes this one because they go on an adventure.
*Highly recommend.

This Is the Rope by Jacqueline Woodson illustrated by James Ransome

"A Story from the Great Migration"
The author uses her family history of moving from the south to the north (New York City) in the 1960's to create this book.
The reader observes an African -American family leaving the south for the north and watching the family grow, mature, marry and have off-spring.  A rope first used to tie down their luggage is seen and used in various manners through all generations.  The author mentions in her "note" that the rope represents "hope".

Always Daddy's Princess by Karen Kingsbury illustrated by Valeria Docampo*

Sweet rhyming book that follows a daughter and her father's relationship from the time she was born and until she marries and gives birth to her first child.
Shows the impact a faithful father can have.
Bible verses on each page reflect the main theme.
*Highly recommend.

The Princess in Black #1 By Shannon Hale and Dean Hale illustrated by LeUyen Pham*

A new series for beginning/transitional readers.  So excited about this one!!
Princess Magnolia appears to be your typical princess-dresses in pink, wears glass slippers, afraid of snails, and sneezes in the sunlight.  But she has a secret!  Duchess Wigtower comes for a visit and is determined to discover her secret.
*Highly recommend.
I read this book in one sitting to my two boys and they enjoyed it (even though my oldest is repulsed by anything princess!!).
Besides the Duchess and the Princess, other fun characters make this book engaging--monsters!!, an unicorn (or is he really an unicorn?!) and a goat boy (who is totally boy-he is a goat herder).
Colorful illustrations are on almost every page.
Perfect for building stamina.
Strategy: check for understanding (each chapter goes back and forth between different characters' points of view).

A Perfectly Messed Up Story by Patrick McDonnell

The main character tries telling his story by is interrupted by food and drink dribbles plus other smudges.
A great book for Reader's Theater-the main text could be the narrator and the speech bubbles another individual.
Strategies: fluency, accuracy, reading with expression etc.
Reminds me of Jon Scieszka's Battle Bunny!

Iggy Peck, Architect by Andrea Beaty illustrated by David Roberts*

Iggy has wanted to be an architect since he was a toddler and would use unique objects to build constructors. When he enters second grade, his teacher thoroughly discourages his passion and he becomes apathetic.  Then the class goes on a trip and find themselves in a predicament.  Only Iggy and his knowledge of architect can save them.
Rhyming text.
*Highly recommend.
Strategies:  main idea, cause/effect

Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty illustrated by David Roberts*

Rosie loves to create contraptions.  When her uncle laughs at one of her creations, she is deflated and hides them under her bed.  Another relative revives her desires and helps her see that failure is an opportunity to improve.
Fun, rhyming text.
*Highly recommend.

Mystery at the Army-Navy Game-Rivalry by John Feinstein

Football loving boys will probably enjoy this book.  I did not! In fact, I am not finishing it.   I do not have much schema for football so my interest waned quickly.
The two main characters, Stevie and Susan Carol, are fourteen year old sports journalists.  They attend professional games and write articles about them.  They usually stumble upon something suspicious and report it, causing them to "get into trouble".
This book requires a lot of "check for understanding" as the book begins at the day of the game and then flashes back to  about a week before the game.  The chapters also switch from Stevie and Susan's points of view continuously.  Lots of characters are introduced too so the reader has to keep track of all of them.
Points to discuss/warning: A romance is developing between Stevie and Susan Carol; an adult swears on pg. 12 (h).

My Nose is a Hose by Kent Salisbury*

"Pop into Phonics"
An interactive book that allows the reader to see word families.
*Highly recommend.

Unstoppable by Tim Green*

What a captivating story!
Harrison, an eighth grader, has been in and out of foster homes all of his life.  The story begins with him living at a farm where he works hard and is treated with contempt and disrespect.
His anger gets the best of him one day and he finds himself on a path of despair.  One kind social worker sees through his anger and circumstances and provides a second chance. . .with her own daughter and son-in-law.  The son-in-law, "Coach", happens to be a junior high football coach and helps Harrison redirect his anger to the aggression needed to play football well.
Then Harrison finds a new challenge-cancer and an amputated leg.
A story of perseverance and unrelenting love.
The Coach and his wife pray before meals and regularly attend church but God is not mentioned in their daily lives and decisions.  Those added pieces (prayer and church) were refreshing in a secular, fiction book, though!

Points to discuss/warnings: physical/ental/emotional abuse; Harrison contributes to the farmer foster parent's death; some boys in the story are really mean to Harrison; cancer; death

Great Joy by Kate DiCamillo illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline*

Frances notices an organ grinder and his monkey out on the cold street playing music.  She wonders where they go each night.  One night she forces herself to stay awake and sees them huddled against a city building.  On the night of her pageant, she invites the organ grinder and his monkey to her pageant.
Sweet ending with "great joy!".
Strategy: check for understanding, inferring (character traits and feelings)

Room for a Little One by Martin Waddell illustrated by Jason Cockcroft

A kind ox allows various animals to come into the stable for warmth.  His  reply, "There's always room for a little one here." provides comforting repetition for the younger children.  Incompatible animals find rest and comfort there (dog vs. cat, cat vs mouse).  A subtle way to reinforce how Christ came to this earth to bring the perfect kingdom and reign. Ultimately Christ is born in this stable.

He's Got the Whole World in His Hands by Kadir Nelson

Beautiful illustrations by Mr. Nelson.
The text is simply the song!

Little Poems for Tiny Ears by Lin Oliver illustrated by Tomie dePaola*

Poems with subjects relevant to babies (toes, strollers, my first word, car seat, high chair, peekaboo, diapers etc.).
My five year old was not interested in the poems at all!
My favorite poems were My Nose, Sneeze, My High Chair
I would recommend this poetry book to an expecting mother or a new mom.
*Highly recommend.

Saturday is Dadurday by Robin Pulver illustrated by R.W. Alley*

Mimi loves Saturdays because she and her dad make a list of fun things to do.  Then they spend the day having fun together!  Then her dad informs her that he will have work on Saturdays . . . Dadurdays turn into Badurdays, Madurday, Sadurday.
Her transformed attitude is fun to observe!
*Highly recommend.

David and Goliath The Brick Bible for Kids by Brendan Powell Smith*

Basically the illustrations are made from Legos.
Lego fans will love this version of the Bible story!
*Highly recommend.

Henry and Mudge and Annie's Perfect Pet by Cynthia Rylant illustrated by Sucie Stevenson*

Henry and his parents help Annie find the perfect pet.
Love this series!
Four short chapters.  Ideal for transitional readers.
*Highly recommend.
Guided Reading Level: J (beginning 2nd grade)

Ed and Ted and Ted's Dog Fred by Andy Griffiths illustrated by Terry Denton

"My Readers  Classic Stories Classic Characters"
A silly story about Ed, Ted and Fred.
Lots of "ed" words plus words like "dead/read" that are pronounced with like "ed".  Perfect for modeling cross checking and flipping the vowel sound.
Good fit for beginning readers.

The Iridescence of Birds-A Book About Henri Matisse by Patricia MacLachlan illustrated by Hadley Hooper

In simple text, Ms. MacLachlan relates how even though Henri Matisse grew up in a gray, dreary French town,  his mother provided lots of opportunities to experiment with color and painting.  It also reveals the impact one's childhood can have on one's future career.
Warning: One two page spread has the back's of naked people-not much is seen.

Only a Star by Margery Facklam illustrated by Nancy Carpenter*

A child asks her father what decorated Jesus' stable that first Christmas morning.  Her father replies, "Only a star."  But the book goes on to show how the brightness of the star illuminates the creatures creeping and moving around the stable (spider web, dragonfly, scarab, doves, donkey, jerboas, snail and nightingale).
On the last two pages the authors gives more information about each of the animals that lived in the Holy Land that first Christmas morning.
I like when Christmas books add to one's knowledge of what life was like back when Christ lived on earth.
*Highly recommend.

People by Peter Spier*

A wonderful book to reveal how unique everyone is and to celebrate it!
Mr. Spier takes a close look at eye color/shape but also helps readers to realize how many different languages, types of houses, talents, pets, feasts/holidays, foods/drinks, religions exist.
I used this book in children's church when the lesson focus was on how God made each person uniquely and that is to be celebrated!
*Highly recommend.

The Colors of Us by Karen Katz*

Lena and her mother walk around town noticing all the tones and shades of people's beautiful skin.
Great descriptive words!
Fun art project-look at everyone's different skin tones and try to create paint in that exact shade.
*Highly recommend.

Pie by Sarah Weeks*

All her life Alice has spent hours with her Aunt Polly in her pie shop.  Her Aunt Polly is generous-no one has to pay for their pies but when she passes away, she takes her famous pie crust recipe with her.  Everyone-all over the country-wants that recipe!  Alice and her friend Charlie solve several mysteries concerning a break-in at the pie shop, a stolen pie and a catnap.  Most importantly, Alice and her family learn to  be grateful for their gifts/talents they possess.
*Highly recommend.
A fun read!   A new pie recipe is included at the beginning of each chapter.
Guided Reading Level: Q (4th grade)

A Prairie Boy's Summer by William Kurelek

William continues to relate what life was like on the prairie during the summer months-lots of field work!
I liked his winter book better (the topics were more interesting and exciting) but a child who enjoys tractors and field work will love this book.
Strategies: summarizing, check for understanding, main idea/details, expanding vocabulary, inferring

The Misadventure of Sweetie Pie by Chris Van Allsburg*

Sweetie Pie, a hamster, is excited to picked and leave the pet store.  What ensues is a series of owners and some misfortunes.  In the end, Sweetie Pie finds the ideal living space-not what the reader will except!
*Highly recommend.
Strategies: predicting/confirming, check for understanding, inferring

The Spectacular Tale of Peter Rabbit by Emma Thompson illustrated by Eleanor Taylor

Ms. Taylor illustrates in a style similar to Beatrix Potter-full page, adorable illustrations!
Peter and his cousin Benjamin are suppose to be walking to Cousin Lupin's to pick blueberries.  The fun-fair just happens to be along the way and the two cousins decide to check it. As always, Peter finds adventure!
*Highly recommend.
My version came with a CD that has Emma Thompson reading aloud the story.  Great gift idea for Beatrix Potter fans!

Allie Finkle's Rules for Girls -Moving Day by Meg Cabot

Allie Finkle, a fourth grader, keeps an on-going list of rules to help her navigate through tumultuous friendships.  When her parents announce they are moving to an old Victorian home in the middle of the school year, Allie tries everything in her realm of power to prevent the move.  Most of the story takes place at her old house/school-in the last chapter she actually moves.
Lots of friendship drama-not my favorite subject manner!  I like how strong of a character Allie is and sticks up for herself even when bullied.  The book ends with her having a positive attitude about her new house and school.
A good book to read with daughter and discuss what a true friend is.

Points to discuss/warning: Allie's uncle permits her to watch horror movies which results in her imagining zombie hands trying to kill her and her family at the new house; a couple of girls in Allie's class are really mean; friendship drama; parents keep a "swear jar" and money is added to it a couple of times as the story progresses-no swear words are mentioned, though.

A Prairie Boy's Winter Paintings and Story by William Kurelek*

Twenty vignettes describe a boy's winter in Canada, on the prairie, during the 1930's.  Each vignette is paired with a painting about the subject manner.
My boys really enjoyed it!
So many possibilities with this title!!---
Strategies: summarizing, main idea/detail, context clues, expanding vocab., visualizing
Pair with Farmer Boy by Laura Ingalls Wilder, Owls in the Family by Farley Mowat
Great addition when studying history.
When this book was published it said Mr. Kurelek's paintings were displayed in Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa and the London Art Museum in England.
What a great follow up to his books-to go to one of these museums and view his work!
*Highly recommend.

The Boys' Book -How to be the Best at Everything by Dominique Enright and Guy Macdonald illustrated by Nikalas Catlow*

A fun book!
Step by step instructions how to do many activities  . . .a great way to encourage screen-free time!
Some activities included:
1. How to play a blade of grass
2. How to eat in a fancy restaurant
3. How to mummify an ancient Egyptian
4. How to pop a wheelie
5. How to prove you're not bigheaded!!
*Highly recommend.

Uni the Unicorn by Amy Krouse Rosenthal illustrated by Brigette Barrager

"A story about believing"
Uni the unicorn knows little girls exist despite what her friends and parents believe.
An unique perspective!!
Very bright, bold illustrations.

Benjamin Pratt and the Keepers of the School-We the Children #1 by Andrew Clements

Ben was the last one to talk to the school's custodian before he died.  In the hallway before the ambulance takes  him away, the custodian gives Ben a coin with an engraved message from the school's founder.  Ben, with his friend, Jill, begin to investigate and undercover some mysteries and possible corrupt adults.
This book is the first in a series.  When we finished this book, we almost had more questions than answers!  Certainly a way to encourage the reader to continue reading the series!
The last chapter is mostly about Ben racing his boat-lots of nautical terms which may cause comprehension issues if the reader is unfamiliar with the terms.  I was a bit impatient and wished the last chapter was more about the development of the mystery.

Points to discuss/warnings:  Ben's parents are separated and there were several parts that dealt with his emotions to this change.  It was a bit much for me since I was reading it aloud to my boys for the adventure/mystery.  The custodian dies and his replacement is quite mean.  It seems like Ben is developing feelings for Jill.

George Muller-Faith to Feed Ten Thousand by Renee Taft Meloche illustrated by Bryan Pollard*

"Heroes for Young Readers"
In rhyming text, readers can read about Mr. Muller and how he helped feed and house orphans in England.
Full page illustrations and not overwhelming text make this book (and series) a great first biography for younger readers.
Great for building stamina in nonfiction reading.
Many other titles in the series.
*Highly recommend.

Ramona the Brave by Beverly Cleary*

My second grade just finished this book.
He liked the part when Ramona shows she is brave when a mean dog approaches her.
He and I agree Ramona is quite naughty but creative.
He enjoys these books.
*Highly recommend any book by Beverly Cleary.
Grade Level Equivalent: 3.5
Guided Reading Level: O

Rain Reign by Ann M. Martin*

This book will make you cry.
Ms. Martin portrays Rose, a fifth grader with Autism (high functioning, very intelligent) with sensitivity and insight.  Rose loves homophones (she calls them homonyms), rules, and numbers ( prime numbers).  But ultimately she loves her dog, Rain, who her father found in the rain.
During a hurricane, her father leaves Rain outside to do her business and she does not return.  The story relates how Rose searches for her and ultimately must make a tough decision.
*Highly recommend.

Points to discuss/warnings:  Two times the father swears-pg. 93 and pg. 127.  The father drinks too much and almost hits Rose but instead slams his fist into her dog's back.  In the end her father drops her off at her Uncle Weldon's house and does not return (for her own good which the reader can infer the father really does care about her and recognizes how he is not fit to raise her). Death of her mother (Rose does not find out until the end of the story).  Autism (portrayed well and with sensitivity).  Affects of a hurricane.

Claude in the Country by Alex T. Smith*

We love Claude the dog and his best friend, Sir Bobblysock, a sock!
British humor-very fun!
In this adventure Claude and Sir Bobblysock visit the country and help farmer, Mrs. Cowpat (!) prepare for the County Fair which she is hosting.
Highly recommend.
Perfect for transitional readers.

Flora and the Penguin by Molly Idle*

I liked this one better than Ms. Idle's Flora and the Flamingo!
Flora is ice skating and a penguin emerges from the ice.  The new friends need to resolve some difference.  A happy ending!
Fun lift the flap illustrations.
Wordless.
*Highly recommend.
Strategies: sequencing, cause/effect, predicting, inferring

Mr. Miracle by Debbie Macomber

I usually avoid romance but enjoyed Ms. Macomber's Mrs. Miracle Hallmark movies so I was curious about this new book.
It is a sweet book about new starts, tying into the theme of Charles Dickens' Christmas Carol.
The only intimate scenes are kissing plus some verbal banter about intimacy.
I do not fully agree with Ms. Macomber's theory on angels.

When Lunch Fights Back Wickedly Clever Animal Defenses by Rebecca L. Johnson*

The title really says it all!  The book is divided into eight chapters, featuring an animal (or even plant)that has an unique to defend itself against its predator.  Each chapter has a section called "The Science Behind the Story" where the defense is further explained.
Great photographs.
Text features: table of contents, photographs, bold/colored print, arrows, fact boxes, headings, glossary, "more to explore"-books, websites, videos to watch the creatures in action!!, index
**Highly recommend!!

The Salmon Princess An Alaska Cinderella Story by Mindy Dwyer*

When a salmon fisherman remarries, his daughter is stuck gutting all the fish he and his stepsons catch.  When the Silver Salmon festival arrives, she longs to dance and enjoy festivities.  A magical Eagle helps her achieve this dream and her life is forever changed.
A very clever twist on the traditional Cinderella.  Heaps of Alaskan culture!
Lots of similes!
Strategies-inferring (character traits, feelings, similes), connections (T-T)
*Highly recommend.

Draw! by Raul Colon*

A boy who resides in the city imagines what it would be like to go on a safari and draws the animals he sees.
Wordless book.
*Highly recommend.
Strategy: sequencing, cause/effect

Rainstorm by Barbara Lehman*

This is my favorite book by Ms. Lehman.
A wealthy boy is lonely on a rainy day.  Then he finds a key which leads him to a secret passageway and new friends.
*Highly recommend.
Wordless book
Strategies: inferring, sequencing, cause/effect

Quest by Aaron Becker*

A continuation of Journey -the boy and girl help a king win back his kingdom.
I like this one a lot more than the first one.
*Highly recommend.
Strategy: inferring, sequencing

The Truth and Myths About Thanksgiving by L.A.Peacock*

Think you know the whole story about Thanksgiving?  Read this book!
In question/answer format, readers will learn many interesting facts about this holiday.
The truth/myth boxes are fun to quiz each other.
Text features: headings, glossary, fact boxes, maps
*highly recommend.

Some Bugs by Angela DiTerlizzi illustrated by Brendan Wenzel*

Rhyming text takes the reader on a fun ride, looking at various insects and their unique capabilities.
The main verbs in the text are a different color (which makes this book a fun one  to use when discussing verbs).
Great book to read when introducing an insect unit.
Love the last two pages-a huge spread of the backyard with all the scenes in the book on one huge scene.
Also, a two page spread of all the bugs featured with name labels.
The illustrations are adorable with lots of humorous scenes.
*Highly recommend.

A Bed for Bear by Clive McFarland

Bear has no desire to sleep all winter with the fellow bears so he goes out to search for the perfect bed. He encounters various animals and their homes, finding issues with each one. The reader can predict what will be wrong with each home.
No place like home!
Strategies:  predicting, sequencing

We're Going on a Book Hunt by Pat Miller illustrated by Nadine Bernard Westcott

Three bears and their teacher visit the library and try to pick the "just right" book.
Perfect for the beginning of the year when sharing how to pick a "good fit" book, how to act in the library, how to page through the book etc.

The Best Place to Read by Debbie Bertram and Susan Bloom illustrated by Michael Garland

A young boy tries to find a comfortable place to read.  Sweet ending!

The Best Time to Read by Debbie Bertram and Susan Bloom illustrated by Michael Garland

A young boy tries to find someone to listen to him read aloud.  No one, however, has time.

Too Big, Too Small, Just Right by Frances Minters illustrated by Janie Bynum

A pair of rabbits try to find the perfect fit while riding bike, dancing, seesawing etc.
Recommend to read aloud when talking about "good fit books".
Daily 5/CAFE

Number the Stars by Lois Lowry*

Newbery Medal-Award winner
Annemarie and her family reside in Copenhagen, Denmark during the Nazi occupation.  Her best friend is Ellen, a Jew.  When the Germans begin to transport Jews away, Annemarie's family must make decisions that place them in harm's way.
An amazing story to give us a glimpse of the bravery of the Danish people.
*Highly recommend.
Warning: In Ch. 16. pg. 125 word "damn".
Pair with Lauren Tarish's I Survived The Nazi Invasion.
Guided Reading Level: U (5th grade)
Grade Level Equivalent: 5.2

The Imagination Station #10 Challenge on the Hill of Fire by Marianne Hering and Nancy I. Sanders illustrated by David Hohn*

Patrick and his cousin Beth travel back to Ireland and the Druids.
They meet King Logaire and Bishop Patrick.
My second grader brought home this book from his school library and read it to himself.  He thought it was exciting and liked the part when Patrick (the cousin) was able to meet the king.

Tap to Play! by Salina Yoon*

Another fun interactive book!
In this book the reader is tapping, tilting, shaking etc. to help the Blip win the game.
*Highly recommend.

Ernie Follows His Nose by Constance Allen illustrated by Maggie Swanson*

Ernie takes readers around his neighbor and investigates various smells.
Rhyming text.
*Highly recommend.

Where's My Nose? by Susan Ring illustrated by Stephanie Peterson*

An ongoing question is 'where is my nose?"  Babies proceed to look everywhere for his/her nose.  At the end is a mylar mirror for the baby to see his/her nose on her face.
Very cute!
*Highly recommend.

Nancy Drew and the Clue Crew #1 Sleepover Sleuths by Carolyn Keene illustrated by Macy Pamintuan*

Adult fans of Nancy Drew will be delighted to share this series with their children.  This series focuses on Nancy, Bess and George when they are eight years old and in 3rd grade.
Nancy, Bess and George prove their detective skills when they find a missing doll for their classmate.
Two craft ideas in the back.
*Highly recommend.
Guided Reading Level: N (3rd grade)
Grade Level Equivalent: 3.2

Miracles on Maple Hill by Virginia Sorensen*

*Newbery Winner
Marly and her family travel to her mother's family home to allow her father to recover from his service in the war.  The outdoors, maple sugaring and kind neighbors help her father find hope again plus unify the family  in new ways.
I love the description and celebration of nature.  Made me want to buy hundreds of acres of land so my boys could explore for hours!
Strategies/skills: inferring-character traits, character development, figurative language/word choice, summarizing
*highly recommend.
Guided Reading Level: R (fourth grade)
Grade Level Equivalent: 6.1 

Judy Moody and Friends -Rocky Zang in The Amazing Mr. Magic by Megan McDonald illustrated by Erwin Madrid*

Rocky is trying to perfect his magic tricks.  Judy Mood of course wants to help but she adds her own twist to the tricks which Rocky does not appreciate! In chapter three, Rocky redeems himself by pulling a great magic trick on Judy.
*Highly recommend.
Perfect for transitional readers-bold, colorful full page illustrations, just three chapters long

My Weirder School #11-Miss Klute is a Hoot! by Dan Gutman illustrated by Jim Paillot

To help the students' reading scores improve, the Reading Specialist brings in a therapy dog by the name of Miss Klute.  The children love her and love reading to her.  They, however, decide she seems sad and asks to take her out to recess.  With adult permission they play with her outside. . .then a squirrel appears and disaster follows!
Lots of humor-short chapters.  I am seeing repeated jokes/humor in this series.
Warning: unkindness, potty talk, "making out" phrase is used again, poor attitude about school/learning

My Weirder School #7-Miss Kraft is Daft! by Dan Gutman illustrated by Jim Paillot

When Mr. Granite goes home sick with a cold, Miss Kraft, a magician, substitutes.  She makes learning a bit more interesting!
A.J., the main character, acts as a silly, entertaining character.
This series is highly popular and I can see why-humorous, short chapters.  Reluctant readers will devour.
Warning: potty humor, the phrase used my grown ups asking how things are going-"making out" which the kids respond with "Gross! Making out!".  This phrase made me decide I could not recommend the series.
The children are not nice to each other either (name calling, lots of put downs, mean thoughts).
Guided Reading Level: O

Spuds by Karen Hesse illustrated by Wendy Watson*

Three children, tired of observing their mother work so hard but not bring home much income, decide to take leftover potatoes from a neighboring field.  While their mother works the night shift, they load up their younger brother in their red wagon and pick up potatoes in the dark.
A huge surprise awaits them when they dump their sacks on the floor and bigger surprise makes a lasting impact when they approach the farmer the next day.
A great book about honesty and generosity.
Strategies/skills: inferring-figurative language, word choice/expand vocab., sequencing, cause/effect
The "countrified" vocabulary and dialect may make this difficult for less confident readers.
*Highly recommend.

One is a Feast for Mouse-A Thanksgiving Tale by Judy Cox illustrated by Jeffrey Ebbeler*

The humans are sleeping after their satisfying Thanksgiving feast. Mouse spies a pea and creeps out to collect it, for one bitty piece of food is a feast for a mouse.  Then he spies all the other scrumptious food lying on the table and begins a balancing act, carrying "just one more" food item back to his hole.
In a mouse story there needs to be a cat which this one fulfills!!
adorable illustrations!
Strategies/skills: word choice/adjectives/, sequencing, cause/effect, predictions
*Highly recommend.
Grade Level Equivalent: 3.6

The Mouse Who Ate the Moon by Petr Horacek*

Mr. Horacek's books always prove interesting and unique.
A favorite author of mine to share with toddlers and preschoolers.
In this book the mouse wishes she could have a piece of the beautiful moon in her house.  The next morning when she exits her hole, she finds a slice of the moon at her doorstep (a banana).  She proceeds to eat some of it and then worries that the moon won't be round anymore.
"A Peek- Through Story Book"-fun little cutaways-holes to peer into the next page.
*Highly recommend.

Silly Goose's Big Story by Keiko Kasza*

I love books by Ms. Kasza!
Goose is a great storyteller.  He leads his friends in many imaginative games.  In his stories, he is always the hero and soon his friends tire of this pattern.  I love how the illustrations reveal his friends slowly growing weary and then mad about his selfishness.
A wolf appears on the scene testing Goose's thinking skills and his friends' loyalty.
*Highly recommend.
Strategy: predicting, sequencing, cause/effect

Bear Sees Colors by Karma Wilson illustrated by Jane Chapman*

A wonderful addition to the many books about colors.
Mouse and Bear are enjoying a companionable walk when they observe the different sights around them and their colors.
Rhyming text and full page illustrations with the focused color dominating the page.
The previous page also gives enough clues (rhyming word and small illustrations) that the reader can predict the next color.
The ending pages have all the objects seen throughout the book at a picnic with friends.  Adorable!
Strategy: predictions for young ones
*Highly recommend.

My Book Box by Will Hillenbrand

What can the elephant do with his box?  Fill them with books of course!
A perfect book to share when introducing book baskets/bins.
Recommend to use when implementing Daily 5/CAFE.
More appropriate for K-1st .

A Moose That Says MOOOO by Jennifer Hamburg illustrated by Sue Truesdell

A girl imagines how animals would be like if she created her own zoo.
Silly antics (like sharks reading books, pillow fights, tap dancing) will make young readers giggle.
Rhyming text.

Poopendous! by Artie Bennett illustrated by Mike Moran

"The Inside Scoop on Every Type and Use of Poop!"
The illustrations are comic-like and colorful.
Very funny nonfiction!

Trainstop by Barbara Lehman

A girl goes with her parents on a train ride.  While all the adults fall asleep, the train stops and she enters a magical world where her help is needed.  The last page is fun to further the reader's inferring skills.
Strategies: retelling, sequencing, inferring
Wordless book.

Elizabeth, Queen of the Seas by Lynne Cox illustrated by Brian Floca

In New Zealand an elephant seal by the name, "Elizabeth", has made her home in the Avon River in Christchurch.  This story shares how she was basking in the street so the concerned town folk took her to the far ocean to live.  Each time she returned to the Avon River.  The people had to make provisions so she would not be run over by a vehicle!
A story about determination!

Moses the Kitten by James Herriot illustrated by Peter Barrett*

James Herriot discovers a black kitten in the middle of winter huddled in the rushes.  A farmer and his wife help revive the bitty animal.  Months later Mr. Herriot has a surprise of his life when he sees the kitten and its adoptive mother and family!
*Highly recommend.
Challenging words so makes a great title to read for expanding vocabulary.
Beautiful illustrations.
Grade Level Equivalent: 4.9

The Girl Who Heard Colors by Marie Harris illustrated by Vanessa Brantely-Newton*

An excellent introduction to synesthesia (when a sense triggers a perception).
The young girl in this story for every sound she hears, she sees a color.
Other senses are included/explained.
*Highly recommend.

Brownie and Pearl Hit the Hay by Cynthia Rylant illustrated by Brian Biggs*

A sweet series about a girl and her cat, Pearl.
Perfect for beginning readers.

The Book With No Pictures by B.J. Novak*

So funny!
Perfect for reading aloud at story time.
A great book to talk about one aspect of reading-reading the words!
*Highly recommend.

Anna and Solomon by Elaine Snyder illustrated by Harry Bliss*

A sweet true story of immigration.
Solomon comes to the U.S.A to earn money to bring over his bride.  When he goes to pick her up at the dock, he is in for a huge surprise-a couple of times!
A great picture book to include during an immigration unit.
*Highly recommend.
Strategies: inferring- character traits and feelings

Mr. Putter and Tabby Ring the Bell by Cynthia Rylant illustrated by Arthur Howard*

Mr. Putter misses attending school.  He comes up with a scheme so he can enjoy its atmosphere once again.  He and Mrs. Teaberry along with Tabby and Zeke, enter the building and of course, cause craziness!
Funny!
Perfect for beginning reader to build stamina.
*Highly recommend.

The Tree that Time Built selected by Mary Ann Hoberman and Linda Winston

"A Celebration of Nature, Science and Imagination"
This anthology came with a CD.  My two boys enjoyed hearing the poems read aloud by the poets and Ms. Hoberman.
I love nature so I enjoyed the topics of these poems.
Some poems have comments from Ms. Hoberman and Ms. Winston.
Points to discuss/warnings: A lot of references to Darwin and his theories.

Dragon Masters Rise of the Earth Dragon by Tracey West by Graham Howells*

My second grader loved this book!  He read it to himself. He liked being able to read a chapter book about dragons.
Perfect for younger readers who love fantasy.
Guided Reading Level: P (3rd grade)
Grade Equ. Level: 2.2
*Highly recommend.
Four books in the series.

Stories of Famous Americans Albert Einstein Genius of the Twentieth Century by Patricia Lakin illustrated by Alan and Lea Daniel

"Ready to Read" Level 3 (reading proficiently)
In six chapters a reader learns about Mr. Einstein's life from infant to an elderly person.  Comprehensive-includes his struggles, accomplishments and quirkiness.
The author does a great job explaining his accomplishments/theories in a manner children can grasp it (Grades 4th and up).
Text features: time line, glossary
More biographies in "Stories of Famous American" series

The Landry News by Andrew Clements illustrated by Salvatore Murdocca*

Cara Landry has moved to a new school.  Her teacher has seemed to have given up on teaching and life in general.  While he buries his face behind a newspaper, the students are left to their own devices.  In this atmosphere, Cara creates her own newspaper.  Her editorial piece awakes her teacher from his stupor and in the end, helps the class understand the freedom of speech.
*Highly recommend.
Points to discuss: divorce
Guided Reading Level: R (fourth grade)
Grade Level Equivalent: 6.1

Claude at the Circus by Alex T. Smith

Funny-punchy humor  . . .like Claude the dog's best friend a sock called "Sir Bobblysock".
In this book he and Bobblysock save the day for the circus.
My preschooler got a kick out of this book.
The chapters are short so this series would be good for reluctant readers and for building stamina.
Illustrations are on every page-the hues are pinks/salmons and black/grey.
More titles in the series.

One Bowl Baking by Yvonne Ruperti*

"Simple, from Scratch Recipes for Delicious Desserts"
WOW!! I want to buy this recipe book.
I made two recipes and they are out of this world good!! (Fudgy Brownies and Mega Crumb Cake)
Ms. Ruperti gives helpful hints too (room temp. milk vs. fridge cold milk; filling pastry bags etc.)
**Highly, highly recommend.
Warning: She uses lots of butter which does not bother me.

Clipper Ship by Thomas P. Lewis illustrated by Joan Sandin

"An I Can Read Book" Level 3 (Grades 2-4)
My second grader brought this book home from his school library to read to himself.
It tells how the clipper ship, Rainbird, made its way from New York to CA.  It is based on many tales of clipper ships and the wives of the captain who helped sail.
Pair with Dare the Wind by Tracy Fern.
GLE-3.4
Guided Reading Level: N

The Story Keepers Trapped! by Brian Brown and Andrew Melrose*

My second grader brought this book home from his school library.
During the time of Nero, Ben and his wife Helena take in orphan children and tell them stories of Jesus.  In this book they help out a Roman solider who has surrendered his life to Christ.
*Highly recommend.

Winter Is Coming by Tony Johnston illustrated by Jim LaMarche*

I love any book illustrated by Jim LaMarche!
The reader witnesses a young girl retreating into the woods each month to observe wildlife from her special platform in the tree.
The reader can predict about what the girl is doing by clues in the illustrations and the prediction is confirmed by the back end pages.
The refrain, "winter is coming", is repeated.
Strategies: predicting, inferring-figurative language

Goldilocks and Just One Bear by Leigh Hodgkinson*

What happens when baby bear (now grown up) wonders into the city and needs a place to eat and sleep?  I just wonder into whose high-rise apartment he may wander?
A fun extension of a fairy tale/folktale.
*Highly recommend.
Strategies: Readers will need to use their schema to make good predictions.

The Third Gift by Linda Sue Park illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline*

Ever wonder what myrrh was and how it was "produced"?  Ms. Park wondered that too as a child and has written a fictional book about a boy and his father going into the desert to find specific trees that will "weep" out tears.
*Highly recommend.
Beautiful illustrations.
The reader has to infer who the three men are who purchase the biggest tear of myrrh.
Ms. Park has written a few pages about the wise men and myrrh for more interesting reading.

Disaster Strikes Tornado Alley by Marlane Kennedy illustrated by Erwin Madrid*

Wyatt is not too thrilled at the prospect of entertaining his girly-girl cousin Alison from New York City.  When he, Alison and his two best friends Joshua and Jackson find themselves fending for their lives against two tornadoes, attitudes and perspectives shift drastically.
Very exciting!
Facts and more information about tornadoes are included in the back.
Perfect for reluctant boy readers.
This series shares the aftermath of the disaster.
*Highly recommend.
I will be purchasing this series.

Where's Mommy? by Beverly Donofrio illustrated by Barbara McClintock*

My favorite aspect of this book is the illustrations.
Dual stories are being told with the same plot.
A mouse and a girl are friends but keep it a secret in fear of grown up reaction.
One night Maria, the girl and Mouse-Mouse, are getting ready for bed but cannot find their mothers to tell them a story.  A surprise ending!
*Highly recommend.

Ninja Red Riding Hood by Corey Rosen Schwartz illustrated by Dan Santat*

Recommend reading The Three Ninja Pigs by the same team first.
The wolf, defeated by the ninja pigs, is starving.  So to be able to capture his prey, he takes classes.
He is  not prepared for Red Riding Hood and her grandmother!
Fun!
*Highly recommend.
Strategies: connections (t-t), compare/contrast

Snoring Beauty by Bruce Hale illustrated by Howard Fine*

Told from a frog's point of view, he tells the story of a princess who, on her sixteenth birthday will be run over by a pie cart and turn into a sleeping dragon.
A fun twist on the Sleep Beauty fairy tale!
*Highly recommend.
Strategies: connections (t-t), compare/contrast

Sam and Dave Dig a Hole by Mac Barnett illustrated by Jon Klassen*

Simple text where the illustrations tell the meat of the story.  The reader needs to pay attention to the illustrations to fully appreciate all the layers of the book.
The ending will cause a lot of discussions about what the author/illustrator are trying to communicate.
Some adults read this book and "did not get it"-it is not a neat, typical story.  I did not like the ending at first but as I reread it, I appreciate how it makes the reader think and analyze!
*Highly recommend.
Strategies: inferring, check for understanding, asking questions
Real Reading = thinking!

Museum Trip by Barbara Lehman*

A boy goes on a field trip to the museum with his class.  An untied shoe causes him to lose sight of his class.  Instead he enjoys an unforgettable adventure of his own.
My preschooler loved this one the best out of Ms. Lehman's wordless books so far.
For kids who love mazes, this book will thrill them!
Wordless book.
*Highly recommend.
Strategies: inferring, cause/effect, sequencing, retelling

The Red Book by Barbara Lehman*

Award winning-Caldecott Honor Book
On her way to school a girl discovers a red book protruding from a snow bank.
The book gives her an adventure and a break from the winter doldrums.
Great ending!
Wordless book.
*Highly recommend.
Strategies: inferring, sequencing, cause/effect, retelling

The Secret Box by Barbara Lehman*

A box is filled with tidbits of information including a map.  It is placed under the floorboards.  Time passes. It is discovered and brings adventure to some children.
A wordless book.
I love this author/illustrator.
Strategies: retelling, sequencing, inferring, cause/effect

An Elephant and Piggie book I Am Going! by Mo Willems*

Gerald and Piggie are enjoying the day until Piggie informs Gerald that she is going.  Gerald panics and begs her not to leave-what will life be without his best friend?
*Highly recommend all of these books!

Phoebe and the General by Judith Berry Griffin illustrated by Margot Tomes*

The year is 1776.  Colonist and the British are at odds.  Phoebe's father, a freed African American, runs an inn where Patriots gather.  Her father is good at listening and has learned that someone wants to take George Washington's life.  When George Washington and his family move close by the inn, Phoebe's father sends her to be one of the servants so she can find out who is intending to take the General's life.
A short book full of excitement and good character development.
I have seen this book titled, Phoebe the Spy but my library had the older copy with this title.
*Highly recommend.

Agatha Girl of Mystery-The Curse of Pharaoh #1 by Sir Steve Stevenson illustrated by Stefano Turconi*

Dash attends a secret agent school.  The school sends him to Egypt to find a missing tablet that has a message that could lead archaeologists to a pharaoh's tomb.  Dash asks his intelligent cousin, Agatha and her over-sized butler, to help him with the mission.
Exciting!
Points to discuss/warnings: Agatha lies to her parents when they ask where she is; the villain points a gun at the cousins and the butler.
*Highly recommend.

100 Things That Make Me Happy by Amy Schwartz*

The bright, colorful cover and end pages will brighten any reader's mood.  Next come the fun rhyming words and sweet illustrations.
A cheerful addition to any library!
Read to a grumpy child on a gray day.
Mentor text for creative writing-lists/poetry
*Highly recommend.

The Princess and the Packet of Frozen Peas by Tony Wilson illustrated by Sue deGennaro*

After observing his brother's wife, Eva-a true princess, Henrik decides he does not want  a real princess for a wife.  Is his true love right in front of his nose?!
A fun twist on the Princess and the Pea.
*Highly recommend.

Time for Bed, Fred by Yasmeen Ismail*

Fred, the dog, does not want to go to bed.  In this humorous picture book, the reader can witness a dog's method of avoiding bed!
Beginning readers will be able to enjoy reading this book-simple words, not a lot of words per page.
*Highly recommend.
Pair with Harry the Dirty Dog.

Ivan The Remarkable True Story of the Shopping Mall Gorilla by Katherine Applegate illustrated by G. Brian Karas*

Pair this book with Ms. Applegate's chapter book-The One and Only Ivan.
Real photographs of Ivan are in the back along with more factual information about his life.  A copy of one his paintings is included!!
*Highly recommend.

How to Bake a Book by Ella Burfoot

A great book to read when introducing/reviewing the writing process.
Rhyming text.
Sweet illustrations.
I wish we could have read the story the main character had created.

Telephone by Mac Barnett illustrated by Jen Corace

Birds are sitting on a telephone wire.  Mama pigeon asks the bird next to her to tell her son Peter to come home for dinner.  Bird passes message to the next bird and so on.  The message changes with each passing.  Will the owl maintain his reputation of being wise and intelligent?

Funny! 

Illustrations are adorable and include human children playing below and racing home for dinner. 

Strategy: cross checking/accuracy

Buried Beneath Us by Anthony Aveni illustrated by Katherine Roy

"Discovering the Ancient Cities of the Americas"
Budding archaeologist will love this book as the reader can learn about ancient cities under our modern day ones.
History of city building and the strategical thought process.
Points to discuss: Old Earth viewpoint
Text features: table of contents, headings, bold print, italic print, maps, labels, picture captions, diagram, pronunciations, index

The Map Trap by Andrew Clements illustrated by Dan Andreasen*

At an early age Alton fell in love with maps.  Now as an observant sixth grader he makes maps of everything-even people's brains!  In an attempt to impress a "popular" classmate, Quint, he shows him his folder of secret maps.  Then the maps go missing and Alton to fearful that his maps will hurt classmates and even teacher's and principal's feelings.
*Highly recommend.
A great book for older readers who may not be reading at grade level.
Points to discuss: identity, friendships, being confident in one's unique self
Strategies/skills:  inferring, character traits, character development

Thirteen O'Clock by James Stimson

Enter a spooky house which has a clock that strikes the thirteenth hour.
Illustrations are in black, white, eerie green, browns.
I did not care for it but it was well written and contained great word choice and word play.
Warning:  witches, ghosts etc.

Black and White by David Macaulay

Caldecott Medal
Four different stories occurring simultaneously in four different panels.
Readers will have to think/infer how the four stories are tied together.
Strategies: predicting, inferring

My Teacher is a Monster! (No, I Am Not!) by Peter Brown*

Robert thinks his teacher is a monster because of her tone of voice and just maybe he throws a few paper airplanes in class.  To his horror, he encounters on a Saturday at his favorite spot to play!
A fun book to which most kids can relate (and teachers!!).
*Highly recommend.
Watch the illustrations of the teacher/monster carefully!

The Growly Books Begin #1 by Philip and Erin Ulrich*

*Highly recommend.
A rare find-a well written fantasy for older elementary that is wholesome!
Growly embarks on his three month adventure that all Bears in his village experience at his age.  When he is about to fill up his jar from the Honey Well, a bird that has been seen a couple times before, communicates with him that a valued member of the Bear community is in danger.  What is more startling, this member, CJ, had disappeared before Growly was born.  Growly has grown up hearing stories about this adventurous, intelligent bear and has grown to love him like a family member.  Growly must make a quick decision-to ignore the bird and be safe; or follow the bird and possibly never see his family or village again.
Exciting moments and sweet moments of friendship, honor and adventure in one story!!
Three books in the series:
1. Begin
2.  Widewater
3. Morning
http://www.thegrowlybooks.com/
Perfect for reading aloud to a mature preschooler through third grade.  Fourth-Sixth graders can read on their own.  Of course, some advanced third graders could read it to themselves too.
Unfortunately our public library system does not own this series.  The only way to purchase it is through Amazon or a book store.  Barnes and Noble only has the third one available to purchase.

Sector 7 by David Wiesner*

A boy goes to the Empire State Building for a class field trip.  On the observation deck, he encounters a friendly cloud and his day is transformed.
A wordless book.
A wonderful, imaginative book!  My boys loved it.
Strategies: asking questions, inferring
*Use with a cloud/weather unit.
*Highly recommend.

Arthur's Thanksgiving by Marc Brown

Arthur is the director for his class's Thanksgiving play.  Everyone refuses to play the role of the turkey, the vital but unappealing role.
My preschooler loves this series.  Perfect for 1st-3rd graders too for building stamina and fluency/accuracy.

Guided Reading Level: L (2nd grade)

Leo Geo and His Miraculous Journey Through the Center of the Earth by Jon Chad*

In comic-style, readers can learn about the different layers of the earth and other interesting science facts.  Some encounters are fantastical but make the reading more fun!
Points to discuss: Science is the "ultimate answer" to every question.  Old earth view is promoted.
*Highly recommend.

How To Dig a Hole to the Other Side of the World by Faith McNulty illustrated by Marc Simont*

A great book to share when a child is curious what is inside the earth.
Not overly didactic in style but one learns a lot!
*Highly recommend.

Imagination Station #9 Escape to the Hiding Place by Marianne Hering and Marshal Younger illustrated by David Hohn*

Patrick and Beth travel to Holland and witness how the Dutch help the Jews escape the Nazi soldiers.
My second grader brought this home from his school library.  He is enjoying reading this series to himself.  He liked when the cousins helped a baby escape.
This book focuses on Corrie Ten Boom

Ready to Read Level 1 Wonders of American The Statue of Liberty by Marion Dane Bauer illustrated by John Wallace*

Even though the pages have only one sentence per page, the reader will learn a lot the Statue of Liberty and its origins.
Text features: close up, map, cut away/cross section, graph (school buses on top of each other to reveal how tall the statue is), more facts at the end
*Highly recommend.
More in series.

The Hungry Billy Goat by Rita Milios illustrated by Ching

Follow a billy goat who eats everything . . . so many items that the boy telling the story flees to save his own life!
Rhyming text.  Illustrations support the words=perfect for beginning reader.

Dirty Larry by Bobbie Hamsa

"A Rookie Reader"
Larry is always dirty.  Many little boys will be able to relate to this story!  One simple sentence per page.
Perfect for the beginning reader-illustrations support the text.

Listen to My Trumpet! An Elephant and Piggie book by Mo Willems*

Piggie so excited to share her trumpet playing with Gerald.  Gerald is appalled at her ability and finds himself in a tough spot when Piggie asks him about her trumpet and playing.
*Highly recommend.
We love this series!!

Spiders and Webs by Carolyn Lunn

A Rookie Reader
Published in 1989.
Beginning readers can read about things that go together (spiders/webs, clouds/sky, bread/jam etc).  Plenty of picture support for more difficult words.

Too Many Balloons by Catherine Matthias*

A Rookie Reader
Published in 1982 but a fun book for beginning readers who are learning to read number words and color words.
Also great for toddlers and preschoolers who are learning to count and to identify colors.
*Highly recommend

One Whole Doughnut, One Doughnut Hole by Valjean McLenighan

A Rookie Reader
From many years ago but still effective in teaching homophones.
Both homophones are written on the page and both are illustrated.
Small sized books

One Day in the Alpine Tundra by Jean Craighead George*

Johnny is camping in the Alpine Tundra.  A monolith is precarious, about to drop. Various animals scurry about, finding viable plant life.
In short chapters, Ms. George describes this habitat in detail from the animal life to plant life to smaller communities within it.
Very descriptive language and lots of scientific vocabulary.
*Highly recommend.
My mother in law, a fourth grade teacher, used this series to begin her ecosystems unit.

One will learn a lot about various habitats by reading this series "One Day in . . ."
The levels on the back of the book claim the books to be third-fourth grade reading levels.  The Guided Reading levels for all the books are "P"-third grade --which is so incorrect!!
 I agree with the GLE this time!
-Alpine Tundra  (the grade level equivalent is 5.1.)
-Desert (GLE-4.5)
-Tropical Rain Forest (5.5)
-Woods (4.7)
-Prairie (4.9)

Ruby Holler by Sharon Creech*

Twins, Florida and Dalla,  have experienced the cruelty of mankind as they live in a children's home, Boxton Creek Home for Children, directed by Mr. and Mrs. Trepid and have had their share of foster homes.  When elderly couple, Tiller and Sairy Morey, take the children to their home in Ruby Holler, the children slowly begin to hope and trust.
An exciting adventure in the woods and on the river solidify the relationships.
Then there is a mysterious man named "Z".  What is his connection to the Trepids, the Moreys and the children?
A book of hope.
*Highly recommend.
Points to discuss/warnings:  People treat Florida and Dallas cruelly.  Parents abandoning children.
Guided Reading Level:  V (5th grade-5.4)

Flashlight by Lizi Boyd*

A boy shines his flashlight in the dark woods and discovers many nocturnal animals as he explores.  The palette is mostly white, gray and black.
Cute twist towards the end.
Wordless.
My preschooler liked cut out portions of the illustrations.  
*Highly recommend.

Alexander, Who's Trying His Best to Be the Best Boy Ever by Judith Viorst illustrated by Isidre Mones

Alexander wakes up with a stomach ache on a Saturday morning.  It just may be because he ate an entire box of doughnuts the previous night.  Since his mother discovered the hidden empty box, he must suffer the consequences.  By the end of the day, he vows to his family that his going to try to be the best boy ever.
This book shares how he attempts to be the "best boy ever" in a week's span.
Like how Alexander is the only object in the illustrations that is colored.

Points to discuss/warning: He is not very sorry for what he did and at the end, one concludes, he has not learned his lesson!!  Brothers call him a "fool".

Frank Pearl in the Awful Waffle Kerfuffle by Megan McDonald illustrated by Erwin Madrid*

Frank would like to win just one contest.  In three chapters the reader can enjoy watching Frank attempt to win three different contests.
Humorous!
*Highly recommend.
Perfect for 2nd-3rd grade readers.
Warning: "poopy head" is mentioned several times in one chapter.

Sisters by Raina Telgemeier*

This memoir describes the summer Raina and her sister Amara, brother Will and their mother drive from CA to CO.  Interspersed are flashbacks to further explain current situations.
Readers who have a sister will relate to Raina and Amara's rocky relationship.
Very well written and paced.
*Highly recommend.
Point to discuss: parents not getting along/separation.
The library from which I borrowed it has it labeled "young adult".

Arthur's Chicken Pox by Marc Brown*

Arthur has the chicken pox and is afraid he will not be able to attend the circus on Saturday.  Younger sister D.W. is jealous of the attention Arthur is receiving and fakes having the chicken pox.  Surprise, humorous ending!
My boys, especially my preschooler, love this series.
Guided Reading Level: K (2nd grade)
Good series for second graders to build stamina while reading.

Alexander, Who's Not (Do You Hear me? I Mean it!) Going to Move by Judith Viorst illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser

Alexander has very strong opinions about moving and tries to figure out ways to remain at his old house.
Gradually he warms up to the idea.
Great book to read when one's family is about to move.
Pair with Bad Bye, Good Bye by Deborah Underwood.
Guided Reading Level: M (end of 2nd grade)

Alexander, Who Used to Be Rich Last Sunday by Judith Viorst illustrated by Ray Cruz

Alexander receives a dollar from his grandparents.  The reader witnesses him slowly wasting that dollar in one day.
Great book to use in a:  money unit; economic unit; subtracting money
Points to discuss/warnings: His father says, "there are certain words a boy can never say, no matter how ratty and mean his brothers are being".  Brothers are quite mean to each other.
Strategies: inferring; cause/effect
Guided Reading Level: M (end of 2nd)
My preschooler was shocked at his behavior in all three of these books!

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst illustrated by Ray Cruz

This classic book goes through Alexander's awful day-from gum in his hair to trouble with friendship to disasters in his dad's office.

Strategies: sequencing, cause/effect, connections (T-S)
Guided Reading Level: M (end of 2nd)

The Talking Eggs by Robert D. San Souci illustrated by Jerry Pinkney*

This Creole folktale is originally based on European folktales.
Rose and Blanche live with their mother where Rose is the favored one.  One day Blanche goes into the woods and is kind to an older woman.   The older woman repays Blanche for her kindness which causes the mother and Rose brim with envy.  When Rose searches and finds the older woman, her unkindness is duly rewarded.
Point to discuss/warnings: parent favoritism/cruelty; the older woman removes her head to comb her hair; Rose takes the older woman's head and puts it far away from her so she cannot reach it; phrase "bloody murder"
My preschooler wants me to buy this book.
*Highly recommend.
Guided Reading Level: P (3rd grade)
Caldecott Honor Book

Arrow to the Sun by Gerald McDermot

"A Pueblo Indian Tale"

The boy searches for his father, discovering his father is the Sun.  He must go through several trials to prove to the Sun, that he is his son. 

Caldecott Award Book

Sitting Bull by Lucille Recht Penner illustrated by Will Williams

All Aboard Reading Station Stop 2
Shares the story of Sitting Bull and his final destination to the reservation.
Not a warm-fuzzy book-really reveals how the early Am. treated the Native Americans.
Points to discuss/warnings: Several battle scenes (Native Am. tribe vs. Native Am. tribe and vs. settlers); Sitting Bull is murdered at the end.

Detective Dan and the Flying Frog Mystery by Timothy Roland

Detective Dan helps his friend Farley find his missing pet frog.  The tone of the story reminds me of the Nate the Great mysteries.
A Bible verse is the central theme of the mystery/story line.
Perfect for beginning readers-short chapters and sentences; plenty of illustrations

Digby O'Day in the Fast Lane by Shirley Hughes illustrated by Clara Vulliamy*

I read this aloud in one sitting to my preschooler.  Adorable, entertaining and exciting!
Digby O'Day (a dog) and his friend Percy (a dog) enter a road race.  Along the way they encounter some trouble but an earlier act of kindness helps them win the race!
Tons of fun features: a character description list; maps; road games; a FUN comprehension quiz
*Highly recommend.
Great for reluctant readers and for being stamina.
A second one in the series was published this summer-Digby O'Day and the Great Diamond Robbery.  A third one to be published in March 2015 (UK).
Fun fact-the illustrated, Ms. Vulliamy, is Ms. Hughes' daughter!

Super Sniffers Dog Detectives on the Job by Dorothy Hinshaw Patent*

This book is a must read!!  Just by reading the picture captions and a few stories to my second grader and preschooler, we learned a lot and were amazed!
With many photographs and very organized text, the author shares how dogs help humans-from sniffing out bombs to drugs to invasive weeds to cancer, dogs are a vital piece in helping mankind.

Text features: table of contents, headings, bold print, off-set text box (a story about a specific dog which supports the main idea of that specific page), picture captions, close ups, further reading/websites, index
*Highly recommend.

Secret Agent Jack Stalwart The Fight for the Frozen Land #12 by Elizabeth Singer Hunt*

My second grader has been reading this series to himself over the past few months and thoroughly enjoys them.
His favorite part in this book was when Jack met Director Barter.  He said no one had ever met him but he wanted to meet Jack to tell him a job well done.
*Highly recommend.
Points to discuss/warning: global warming; criminals are cruel and Jack often is knocked out in most books

Looking Closely Across the Desert by Frank Serafini*

Another great book from his series "Looking Closely"
Readers will enjoy the riddle format and amazing photographs.
Two paragraphs with information about each desert object shares great facts but does not overwhelm the reader.
Love the two page spread of the desert at the very end.
*Highly recommend series.

Looking Closely Around The Pond by Frank Serafini*

In riddle format, the author/photographer has the reader trying to guess an animal, plant, or nonliving object found at the pond.  One side of the page is the riddle with a close up photograph an obscure part of the featured object on the opposite page.  The proceeding page has the answer and a full page photograph of the answer.  A couple of paragraphs share information about the animal/plant/nonliving object.
A great book to use with habitat studies.
*Highly recommend.
More in series, "Looking Closely"
The Shore
The Desert
Rain Forest
The Forest
The Garden

Disaster Strikes #1 Earthquake Shock by Marlane Kennedy*

A new series!
Ten year old Joey and his friends were spending a typical day in the Los Angeles skate park.  An earthquake comes suddenly, requiring Joey to think quickly and grow up in an instant.
Very exciting.  The author depicts the devastation and the aftermath well.  Not based on a real earthquake.
Pair with the I Survived by Lauren Tarshis.
*Highly recommend.
Guided Reading Level: Q (4th grade)
More in series:
Tornado Alley
Volcano Blast
Blizzard Night

Who is Coming? By Patricia C. McKissack

"A Rookie Reader"
Perfect series for the beginning reader.
One sentence per page and repetitive text.
Little Monkey runs away from various dangerous creatures.
Lots more titles in the Rookie Reader series.

Cupcake Surprise! by Lynn Maslen Kertell illustrated by Sue Hendra

BOB books-Level 1
Guided Reading Level: H
Jack and Anna want to give their dad a surprise for his birthday.  The cupcakes they make have lots of surprises!
New BOB book format--perfect for beginning to advancing beginners.
*Highly recommend.

Once Upon an Alphabet by Oliver Jeffers*

"Short Stories for all the Letters"
Humorous stories!  Great word choice for some words (enigma, incognito, molecules).
Some stories are in rhyme; most are not.
Some of the characters from previous stories show up in new stories; some stories continued into the next letter's story or many letters away.
Creative! Clever! Fun!
*Highly recommend.

Bone by Bone Comparing Animal Skeletons by Sara Levine illustrated by T.S.Spookytooth*

This fun book about vertebrates has the reader trying to guess which animal it is.  Love the riddle format!  Invertebrates are briefly discussed too.
Text features: "more about section", glossary, further reading/websites, cross-sections/cutaway, diagram, labels
*Highly recommend.

I Survived The Destruction of Pompeii, AD 79 by Lauren Tarshis illustrated by Scott Dawson*

When Tata and Marcus' owner dies, his nephew inherits them and immediately separates the father and son.  The two are reunited when the mountain Vesuvius begins to act strangely.  The two have a chance to escape their cruel master but their conscience propels them to warn the town of Pompeii of the impending doom.
Ms. Tarshis shares more facts about the event and historical information in the back.
*Highly recommend.
Points to discuss/warnings: mentions that a character curses-the word is not written; the lanista is very cruel; gladiator games are explained and explicit about their cruelty; Marcus deals with hatred towards Festus his owner and the lanista; science is the authority

Shelter Pet Squad #1 Jelly Bean by Cynthia Lord

Since Suzannah lives in an apartment building she is not allowed to own a pet.  She, however,loves animals and longs for a pet.  She signs up to help at a local pet shelter once a week where she makes new friends, both human and animals.  Her greatest concern is for the guinea pig, Jelly Bean.  She is determined to help find a perfect home for him.
The children make toys/treats for the pets.  Ms. Lord includes instructions in the back how to make the exact toys/treats.  She also shares facts about guinea pigs and other useful information.
A must series for animal lovers!
Guided Reading Level: 0

Monkey Me and the Pet Show by Timothy Roland

Clyde turns into a monkey whenever he comes very excited.  His sister Claudia has quite a time trying to keep him calm, especially on school picture day!  His unusual ability rescues pets from pet nappers and an extra bonus, the bulldog Chopper, his worse enemy, becomes friends with him.
The format/layout is great-when Clyde is a boy the story is told in regular paragraph format, in first person.  When he is Clyde the monkey, the story is told in comic strips.  The chapters alternate between the formats.
Comprehension questions at the end.
Guided Reading Level: 0

Warnings/Point to discuss: lying to adults

Bramble and Maggie-Give and Take #2 by Jessie Haas illustrated by Alison Friend*

Bramble, the horse, is bored when his owner Maggie attends school and her parents are at work.  He entertains himself in a ways that annoy the neighbor Mr. Dingle.  Mr. Dingle helps resolve Bramble's loneliness issue with an unusual companion!
*Highly recommend.
A must-series for horse lovers.
Perfect for transitional readers:  Lots of colored illustrations to support the text; short chapters.
Two other books in series:
#1 Horse Meets Girl
#3 Spooky Season

The Miniature World of Marvin and James by Elise Broach illustrated by Kelly Murphy*

"The Masterpiece Adventures"-Book One
This book is based on the chapter book, Masterpiece by the same creators but written for younger readers.
Marvin is a beetle who lives in James' house.  In this book James leaves for a week long vacation.  Marvin must occupy himself without his best friend.  He and his cousin Elaine find themselves in a electric pencil sharpener and its shavings which is great fun until they become stuck.
Great chapter book for transitional readers.
Cute!
*Highly recommend.

The Light of the World by Katherine Paterson illustrated by Francois Roca

"The Life of Jesus for Children"

Ms. Paterson begins this book by talking about light and how through Christ, light came into the world for all mankind.  From that point, the reader can read about Christ's life on earth through his resurrection and ascent into heaven.  

The book does not proclaim Christ is the only way into heaven. 

The Imagination Station #8 Battle for Cannibal Island by Marianne Hering and Wayne Thomas Batson illustrated by David Hohn*

Cousins, Patrick and Beth, find themselves in Fiji among cannibals!
My second grader checked this book out of his school library and read this book to himself.  He said his favorite part was when the cannibal king accepted Christ.
*Highly recommend series.

A Bean, a Stalk and a boy named Jack by William Joyce illustrated by Kenny Callicutt*

The story ingredients:
an ordinary boy and bean, a magician, a stinky pinky toe, a drought, and smallish giant boy named Don.
Mix together and have an unusual tale!
Some word play . .  . references to folk tales and nursery rhyme.
Ending is fun.
*Highly recommend.

Druthers by Matt Phelan*

It is raining and Penelope is bored.  When her dad asks her "if she had her druthers, what would she do?", a fun day ensues!
Love the dad depicted in this book!
*Highly recommend.

The Princess and the Kiss by Jennie Bishop*

"A Story of God's Gift of Purity"
A king and queen save God's gift of their daughter's first kiss until she was grown.  Suitors come and she must discern who is God's choice for her marry and share her first kiss.
A great book to share with young girls.
*Highly recommend.

Smile by Rain Telgemeier*

This graphic novel shares the author's true story of enduring braces, surgery and finally being secure in who she is-from sixth grade through her senior year.  Deals with the typical  issues of a girl going through puberty and trying to figure out one's identity.
Raina's "friends" are not very nice to her.  It takes her awhile to be confident in herself to find true friends.
Points to discuss: crushes; spin the bottle game; thinking about kissing a boy; unkindness-finding friends who appreciate one for who one is
Award Winner- Will Eisner Winner (for graphic novels)
*Highly recommend.

Little Goblins Ten by Pamela Jane illustrated by Jane Manning

A Halloween version of "Over in the Meadow".
Rhythm and word choice are excellent.
Halloween books are not my favorite  . . . .zombies, ghosts, goblins, mummies, witches, skeletons are in this one.

Zoo-Looking by Mem Fox illustrated by Candace Whitman

The illustrations are collages from painted paper torn into the desired shape.
Flora  and her father visit a zoo.  She enjoys looking at each of the animals.
I would read this book when teaching a child the "ack" word family.
Repeating text also makes this a great book for beginning readers.
Guided Reading Level: G

Give That Back, Jack! A Cautionary Tale by Phil Roxbee Cox illustrated by Jan McCafferty

As baby Jack would steal from other people.  This nasty habit continued until one day something would not give him back!
Not a sweet ending!!

Each Peach Pear Plum by Janet and Allan Ahlberg*

An "I spy" book where the reader finds a nursery rhyme character in the drawings.
Rhyming couplets.
Lovely illustrations.
Guided Reading Level: G
*Highly recommend.
Warning: has the wicked witch in it

Hooray for Hat! by Brian Won*

My five year old asked to read this one again immediately after the first reading.
Elephant wakes up grumpy and finds a present at his doorstep.  The present contains many different hats.  No longer grumpy, Elephant ventures out to share this joy with his friends.
This book is bond to cheer up any grumpy reader!
I like the layout and the illustrations.  Even the end pages make me happy!
*Highly recommend.

Ben Franklin's Big Splash The Mostly True Story of His First Invention by Barb Rosenstock illustrated by S.D. Schindler*

This story focuses on Ben Franklin's desire to swim faster and more efficiently.  On a two page spread the author/illustrator share his other contributions later in life.
I like how it focuses on his childhood perseverance and work ethic.
Lots of alliteration -"s" words.
So fun to read aloud!
The design and layout is clever and fun.
Author's note and timeline offer more information about Ben and American history.
*Highly recommend.

Going Up! Elisha Otis's Trip to the Top by Monica Kulling illustrated by David Parkins*

This book shares the life of Mr. Otis as a child into his adulthood.  It reveals the necessity of hard work, critical and creative thinking, and perseverance to experience success.
Mr. Otis invented a brake for elevators and made it possible for  skyscrapers to be built.
Love the illustrations by Mr. Parkins-expressive.
Part of a series "Great Idea Series".
*Highly recommend.
Pair with:
Electrical Wizard
Mr. Ferris and His Wheel

Kid Sheriff and the Terrible Toads by Bob Shea illustrated by Lane Smith

A humorous story how Kid Sheriff and his obsession with dinosaurs puts away the three worse criminals in the western town of Drywater Gulch.
Funny ending-Mr. Shea does a great job leading up to the ending-making it somewhat predictable but not too much.
The grammar and the dialect of the terrible Toads and other townspeople bothered me a lot while I read this aloud.  It does create an authentic mood but I did not enjoy reading  it!  I can see someone else reading this aloud, really getting into the dialect and improper grammar to make it really funny to hear.
The illustrations are depicted in hues of red, orange and brown.

President Taft is Stuck in the Bath by Mac Barnett illustrated by Chris Van Dusen*

Oh my!  What a humorous story about the twenty-seventh president of the United States.
No one is sure how true this story is but it has been passed down ever since his time in office.  The author explains the research and stories under the "author's note".   A photograph of President Taft's actual bathtub is included in the "author's note".
Wonderful illustrations by Mr. Van Dusen (illustrator of the Mercy Watson books, Tales of Deckawoo Drive, Randy Riley's Really Big Hit, and many other picture books).  He does a great job of covering parts that need to be covered!
*Highly recommend.

"Fire! Fire!" Said Mrs. McGuire by Bill Martin Jr. illustrated by Richard Egielski

A rapidly sequenced story beginning with a newscaster announcing that there was a fire downtown.  Female characters lead the way to the actual fire.
Rhyming couplets-word families-make the reading fun.
A surprise funny ending!
Warning:  I may be being oversensitive, Mrs. Votter is quite seductive (and is meant to be).  Firemen are all too eager to give her a glass of water!!
Strategies: cause/effect; sequencing
Guided Reading Level: F

Going Places by Peter H. and Paul Reynolds illustrated by Peter H.Reynolds*

Each year the company "Going Places" gives children a kit with precise instructions to build a go-cart.  Then the children race each other.  Rafael is anticipating the opportunity all year and is determined to win the race.  When he and his classmates receive their individual packages, he eagerly builds his go-cart.  Then he sees Maya's creation-which is exactly what it is-and it does not look anything like his go-cart!
A story to celebrate individuality, creativity and thinking outside the box!
The author and illustrator are twin brothers.
*Highly recommend.

Roxie and the Hooligans by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor illustrated by Alexandra Boiger

Roxie, with her pink ears that stick out, is picked on by Helvetia and her gang -"the hooligans".  She knows how to deal with various situations by reading Lord Thistlebottom's Book of Pitfalls and How to Survive Them but does not know how to outsmart/beat the hooligans.
Then the hooligans and Roxie end up on a deserted island where some dangerous criminals threaten their existence.  The two opposing sides must come together to survive.
Points to discuss/warnings: one criminal chews tobacco; one criminal threatens to slit the throats of anyone who is on the island

Flight School by Lita Judge*

Penguin wants to learn to fly so he attends flight school.  Readers will sympathize with penguin and his teachers as they attempt the seemingly impossible.
Ending is humorous!
Wonderful, adorable illustrations-expressive.
*Highly recommend.  
Strategies: schema (about penguins can't fly); inferring

Penguin and Pumpkin by Salina Yoon

Penguin and his friends sail on an iceberg to the farm to experience fall.
Adorable illustrations!  Love the last sentence.
Part of a series:
Penguin and Pinecone; Penguin on Vacation; Penguin in Love

Secret Agent Jack Stalwart The Theft of the Samurai Sword #11 by Elizabeth Singer Hunt illustrated by Brian Williamson*

Jack is in Japan to track down a group of ninja thieves who have stolen valuables.  One treasure is a samurai sword.
My second grader read this book to himself in a couple of days.  He liked the ninja fighting scenes (judo).
He loves this series!

Judy Moody and Friends-Amy Namey in Ace Reporter by Megan McDonald illustrated by Erwin Madrid*

Amy wants to find a a great story to publish on the front page of her newspaper.  With the help of Judy Moody, they find an incredible story in the creek.
Newspaper words are used: "big scoop", "on the beat", "above the fold"
*Highly recommend.
Perfect for transitional readers/reluctant readers:  three chapters long; vivid colorful illustrations on almost every page

Greenglass House by Kate Milford illustrated by Jaime Zollars

It is Christmas vacation for twelve year old Milo Pine and he is looking forward to quiet time with his parents.  Unfortunately, unexpected guests arrive to spend the holidays at the Pine's Inn.  Each person is looking for something.   The Greenglass House is the key to their questions and searches.  Milo and his new friend, Meddy, invent a role-playing game and discover secrets in the house and in the guests' lives.
This book addresses the emotions and questions a child who is adopted may experience.
Well written, entertaining and suspenseful.
Points to discuss: word "hell" mentioned a couple of times; a ghost; smugglers/thieves (viewed as the good guys); some violence with a gun; there are snippets of a folklore that involves the Devil
This book was categorized as "Young Adult" in the library.

The Imagination Station #7 Secret of the Prince's Tomb by Marianne Herring and Marshal Younger illustrated by David Hohn*

My second grader checked this out of his school library and read it to himself.
He says, "The kids traveled back in time to Egypt.  The Israelites are just becoming slaves.  The kids are sent to jail.  A man in jail told them the story of a prince.  Then they got out of jail.  They wanted to find the prince's coffin so they could bring hope to the Israelites.   I liked it because there were mummies in it."
*Highly recommend.

Electrical Wizard How Nikola Tesla Lit Up the World by Elizabeth Rusch illustrated by Oliver Dominguez*

Because of Mr. Tesla we enjoy the electricity we have today.  The book begins in his childhood and focuses on his curiosity and tenacity.   These traits plus his hard work ethic and intelligence are what gave them the success he experienced as an adult.
This book also reveals another side of Thomas Edison that is rarely discussed at the elementary level.
Ms. Rusch provides additional information about:
1.  Tesla and his other ideas/inventions
2. the rivalry between him and Edison
3. Scientific Notes (AC vs. DC plus explanation behind each idea Tesla had that is featured in the book)
Text features: diagrams, labels, headings (in the scientific notes only)
*Highly recommend.  A book I am considering buying.

Pair with Mr. Ferris and His Wheel by Kathryn Gibbs Davis. (*In Electrical Wizard Mr. Ferris' wheel is mentioned and pictured.  Mr. Ferris and Mr. Tesla were at the World Fair together, featuring their inventions).

Mirette and Bellini Cross Niagara Falls by Emily Arnold McCully*

As Mirette and Bellini cross the Atlantic Ocean on a steamship, they befriend a Polish boy named Jakob.  When Jakob's uncle fails to meet him at Ellis Island, he joins Bellini and Mirette in their show at Niagara Falls.  Jakob exposes a fraud and is reunited with his uncle.
*Highly recommend.
Great book to use during immigration unit.

Super Silly School Poems by David Greenburg illustrated by Liza Woodruff*

So funny!!
Title says it all!
Point to discuss/warning: one poem mentions Dracula and zombie underwear

Mouse Cookies and More-A Treasury by Laura Numeroff illustrated by Felicia Bond*

This anthology contains four of the If You Give . . .series.  Included are songs, recipes, activities and a CD!
Someone gave this book as a gift before my first son was born and am so glad they did.  It has been well read and enjoyed!
*Highly recommend.
Great mentor text for "circular stories".
Strategies: sequencing, cause/effect

Starring Mirette and Bellini by Emily Arnold McCully*

In this sequel to Mirette on High Wire, Mirette and Bellini travel to many cities to perform on the wire.  In Russia, Mirette's skills are put to test when she has to rescue Bellini from prison.
*Highly recommend.
Even though the main character is a female, my boys love these books.  We own all three.
Check out the third book, Mirette and Bellini Cross Niagara Falls.

Lego Ninjago -Warriors of Stone by Greg Farshtey and Jolyon Yates

My five year old loves Ninjago.  He received this book for his birthday.
Zane, Jay, Kai and Cole must save Garmadon City from the remaining stone.
Perfect for reluctant readers.

Louise Loves Art by Kelly Light *

My preschooler loved this book-asked me to read it two times in one evening.
Louise is preparing for her art show.  Her little brother, ART, wants to participate too but does it in a manner that upsets Louise.
Sweet story portraying siblings in their worse and best of times.
Lots of "art words"/Frenchy-sounding-"masterpiece", "young artiste", "piece de resistance", "Gallery du Fridge", "viola".
Love the color choices: gray, black, yellow, brown and red
My second grader pointed out a major theme that I did not noticed through the first read.
Words are sparse but illustrations add to the depth of the story.  Even the end pages tell the story so look at everything carefully!
The first two lines in the book are quotable.
**Highly recommend!!