Captain Cat by Inga Moore*

Captain Cat is a trader but anything he has of value he trades for a cat!  As a result his ship is full of cats and just a few crew members.  The other traders make fun of his lack of financial smarts.  But then the Captain comes to an island where the members witness first hand the value of cats.
This story was inspired by an old Italian tale.  The beginning, middle and end are simply delightful!
My four and a half year old  had me read it to him three times in one day . . . and it is a longer picture book!!
The illustrations add to its charm.
*Highly recommend.
Strategies/skills: predicting, sequencing, cause/effect, inferring, check for understanding
Great for stamina (longer picture book).

Have You Seen My Dragon by Steve Light*

A boy searches for his dragon in the city.
An unique counting book.  Only the object that is being counted is colored.  I like that it goes up to twenty instead of just ten.  It is fun to find the hiding dragon on each page.
Love the map of the boy's path through the city on the end pages.
*Highly recommend.

Oh, Harry! by Maxine Kumin illustrated by Barry Moser*

Harry, the gentle horse, has the run of the farm since he can calm any wild, new horse.  Then enters Algernon Adams the third, the grandson/son of the horse farm owners . . .who loves to create chaos just for fun.  Will Harry be able to tame this wild "beast"?!
Humorous pictures.  Rhyming text.
Strategies: synthesizing, predicting, inferring, sequencing, cause/effect

Summer Days and Nights by Wong Herbert Yee

A sweet, little book that celebrates a young girl's summer day and night.
Rhymes (fun to guess next rhyming word on next page).

Ramona the Pest by Beverly Cleary*

Humorous events from Ramona in kindergarten.
*Highly recommend!

Anna's Blizzard by Alison Hart

On the Nebraska plains a blizzard threatens many lives and tests people's courage in January 1888.  Anna despises attending school.  She would rather tend her sheep.  But on this day in January her practical intelligence helps save a school of children plus their teacher from the East.
Lots of information about this blizzard and life on the plains in the back of the book.
Well researched.
Strategies: inferring-character traits/feelings, figurative language; asking questions; connections

Zoobots by Helaine Becker illustrated by Alex Ries*

Wow!  Fascinating!  Roboticists are utilizing designs in creation to make robots to perform tasks that humans cannot.
Great layout-name, specifications, super skill, applications, evolved from (which animal design roboticists used to create it)
Text features: labels, chart, headings, contents, glossary, index
*Highly recommend.

Robots by Mark Bergin

from "Fast Forward"
Special Split pages
Shares how different robots help our society
Text features: contents, picture captions, headings, labels, glossary, robot facts, index

Robots by Clive Gifford

A great overview of different kinds of robots.
Text features: contents, headings, picture captions, word definitions on page, headings, index, crafts and other activities in back

Robot Zot! by Jon Scieszka illustrated by David Shannon*

Simple text but very funny!
Robot Zot lands in a backyard and attacks "enemies" in a house (a blender, coffee maker, toaster etc.).
Readers need to pay attention to the illustrations to make inferences.
*Highly recommend.
Strategy: inferring
Funny!

Awesome Dawson by Chris Gall*

In comic style Mr. Gall has created an intriguing character-Dawson.  Dawson takes junk and creates incredible inventions.  Mr. Gall labels all the parts of the invention (ie-space helmet was made out of spoons, chicken bucket) which is half the fun as one reads the book!  When Dawson creates his ultimate invention-the Vacu-Maniac trouble may ensue!
*Highly recommend.

Clink by Kelly DiPucchio illustrated by Matthew Myers*

Clink is an older robot who resides in a robot store.  No one is interested in the fact his specialties are making toast and playing music.  Shoppers would rather purchase robots  who play baseball or bake cookies.  Until a rather old-fashion boy arrives at the shop. . then Clink's destiny changes.
*Highly recommend.

Boy + Bot by Ame Dyckman illustrated by Dan Yaccarino

A boy and a robot meet and enjoy playing outside together.  Then robot turns off and the boy does not know what to do.  The roles reverse when the boy falls asleep and the robot thinks the boy malfunctioned.
Sweet story!

Oh No! by Mac Barnett illustrated by Dan Santat

(Or How My Science Project Destroyed the World)
A young girl creates a robot for her science project and is about to win grand prize when her robot decides to destroy the city!  Quickly this young scientist comes up with a solution that just may lead to more problems!
Comic style illustrations.
Strategy: inferring

Hello, Robots by Bob Staake

Four different robots enjoy very different tasks.  Then one day a lightning storm arrives while they are all outside and the affects are disastrous!  Children will giggle as the robots make mistakes after the storm.

Robots, Robots Everywhere by Sue Fliess illustrated by Bob Staake

In very simple rhyming text the book shares about robots doing various tasks.

My Robot by Eve Bunting illustrated by Dagmar Fehlau

a Green Light Readers book-Level 2 (reading with help)
The main character shares all the ways his robot, Cecil, can help him.  The refrain "is not the best thing my robot can do" is repeated throughout leaving the reader wondering, "What is the best thing this robot can do?" which is shared on the last page.
An activity/craft to make own robot at the end.

Lion vs. Rabbit by Alex Latimer*

Lion is a bully but the other animals are too timid to stand against him.  So they place an ad on the internet.  Several tough animals come to defeat the lion but do not prove able.  Then a sweet rabbit arrives.  A great ending!
*Highly recommend.
Strategies: Use pictures to predict!, sequencing, cause/effect

Tippy-Tippy-Tippy, Splash! by Candace Fleming illustrated by G. Brian Karas*

Mr. McGreely needs a break from bunnies so he heads to the beach.  Of course the bunnies sneak in his car and join in the fun.  When you can't beat them, join them!
Funny!
Read the previous stories about poor Mr. McGreely and these pesky bunnies- Muncha! Muncha! Muncha! and Tippy-Tippy-Tippy, Hide! 
Strategy/skill: predicting, word choice
*Highly recommend.

The Secret life of the Woolly Bear Caterpillar by Laurence Pringle illustrated by Joan Paley

Mr. Pringle names the caterpillar "Bella" in this nonfiction text so it seems more personal.  Lots of facts about woolly bear caterpillars which are a familiar sight in late summer/fall.
A bit long for a read aloud.

The Kite Fighters by Linda Sue Park

Set in Seoul, Korea in 1473, two brothers find their way in the traditional way of life during that time period.
Young-sup must deal with always being second born and Kee-sup must learn how to endure the expectations of the eldest.
Kite flying and the annual kite fight bring the two brothers together.
Excellent historical fiction and development of characters.
Strategies:Inferring-Figurative language-similes and metaphors, synthesizing, asking questions

Very Short Tall Tales to Read Together by Mary Ann Hoberman illustrated by Michael Emberley*

from the You Read to Me, I'll Read to You series
Award- Poetry Foundation -Children's Poet Laureate-2008-2011
Tall tales in poetry/rhyming form divided into two parts.  Lines to be said together are in purple font.
So perfect for reluctant readers and for building stamina.
Pair this book with Steven Kellogg's tall tales.
*Highly recommend.
Strategies: connections (t-t-read traditional format tall tales first), fluency
Would be perfect for Reader's Theater.

Lego Ninjago The Green Ninja and Pirates Vs. Ninja adapted by Tracy West

Two ninja stories in one book!
In the Green Ninja the four ninja prevent Lord Garmadon from taking the Mega Weapon finding themselves transformed into their younger selves.

In the Pirates Vs. Ninja Lord Garmadon takes off with Ninja's ship-Destiny Bounty when he by accident calls back the pirates to life who used to drive the ship.

Lego Ninjago Attack of the Nindroids adopted by Kate Howard

The four ninja are teaching at Sensei Wu's Youth Academy when they are warned about a new evil on the rise.
My seven year old read this book in one sitting.
Short chapters make this great for reluctant readers and to help build stamina.

Ricky Ricotta's Might Robot by Dav Pilkey illustrated by Martin Ontiveros

A definite boy appeal book and perfect for the reluctant reader.
Ricky is lonely and picked on by bullies.  One day the evil scientist, Dr. Stinky, launches  his robot to destroy Squeakyville.  Ricky befriends the robot which solves his problem of loneliness and bullies but makes Dr. Stinky seek revenge.
A step-by-step drawing section of the robot and the monster in the back.
My four year old wanted me to read this to  him two times in a row (and it is a short chapter book!).  Eight more titles in the series.

Meow Ruff A Story in Concrete Poetry by Joyce Sidman illustrated by Michelle Berg

Clever and cute!
A dog and cat start as enemies and become possibly friends at the end.

The Legend of the Jersey Devil by Trinka Hakes Noble illustrated by Gerald Kelley

After reading Lauren Tarshis' I Survived book- Shark Attacks of 1916, this title caught my eye (in the book Shark Attacks, the main character uses this legend to pull a prank on some friends).
This book relates how the legend began and how it has affected people through the generations.  The legend is almost 300 years old!
A bit scary -mentions the devil, of course, demon, and witchcraft.
This book does a superb job of showing how a legend begins and how it continues on to future generations.
Pair with I Survived The Shark Attacks of 1916 by Lauren Tarshis.

The Anatomy of a Dragon by Matt Doeden

This book explores the different features a dragon possesses.
A must read for dragon fans.
Text features-table of contents, dragon fact boxes, bold face words, words defined on page, diagrams, labels, close ups, glossary, read more, index
More books in set-Dragon Behavior, Dragons in Mythology, and Real-World Dragons

Kevin Durant Basketball Superstar by Matt Doeden

a "Superstar Athletes" series   Sports Illustrated Kids
A great, simple overview of Mr. Durant's basketball career
Text features: table of contents,  headings, bold words, word definitions on page, insert text boxes, quotes, timeline, glossary, index, read more

Tim Tebow Football Superstar by Matt Doeden

from "Superstar Athletes" series-Sports Illustrated Kids
In a friendly layout, Tebow's football career is shared.
Text features: table of contents, headings, quotes, bold face words, definitions on page, insert boxes, timeline, glossary, read more, index

The Irish Cinderlad by Shirely Climo illustrated by Loretta Krupinski

Becan's widow father, a peddler, remarries.  Like in Cinderella, the stepmother and the sisters are cruel to him.  They send to watch the cows all day.  It is there that he meets a magical bull which changes the course of his life.
Boys will like it-giants and dragons!
Strategies: predicting, connections (T-T)

Breaking Stalin's Nose by Eugene Yelchin*

Award-winning- Newbery Honor Medal
Sasha's father is a dedicated communist and Sasha anticipates joining the Soviet Young Pioneers.  Then his father is arrested and Sasha is forced to evaluate his beliefs and make a choice.
Mr. Yelchin writes from personal experience.
Every American child should read this book to fully appreciate one's freedom.
Strategies: predicting, inferring, synthesizing, asking questions
*Highly recommend.
DRA: 40
Guided reading: S

There Goes Ted Williams by Matt Tavares*

Mr. Tavares' illustrations are always amazing.  He captures the subject so well one feels that you are interacting with the real person.
In this book images of Ted Williams fill the page.  The layout designates the words off to the side so the reader can take in the illustration.
Mr. Tavares shares Ted Williams' choices from a child until the end of his career.  Through these choices, Mr. Tavares reveals a man of much character and a man to emulate.
In the back is an author's note that shares more information about Ted Williams plus his stats.
*Highly recommend.
Strategies: inferring (character traits), synthesizing, determining importance-main idea/details

See Me Run by Paul Meisel

from "I Like to Read" books
In very simple text, this humorous story describes dogs enjoying a chase.  In the middle of the chase, they feel the need to dig and discover something that makes them run again.  . .this time for their lives!
I like how simple the text, how the illustrations support the text well and how funny it is.
Perfect for beginning readers.

Tales of the Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume*

A classic!  Peter Hatcher is constantly dealing with his younger brother Fudge's antics.
Humorous episodes and wonderful character development.  Even my preschooler was enthralled as I read this aloud to my seven year old.
Points to discuss:
Peter thinks very unkind thoughts about his younger brother and uses the word "hate" to describe his feelings.

*Highly recommend.
Strategies: connections, inferring-character traits/feelings

Dear Levi Letters from the Overland Trail by Elvira Woodruff illustrated by Beth Peck*

As Austin travels from PA to Oregon in 1851 to lay claim to land their father left them, he writes letters to his younger brother Levi, sharing the adventures and mishaps along the way.
The letters reveal the hardship of the journey and different people's perspective on life and the Native Americans.
An excellent example of a boy developing into a mature individual who knows his beliefs and gains confidence his ability to survive.
Great map in front showing the states/territories the trail traversed.
Ms. Woodruff based the book on several actual journal entries.
*Highly recommend.
Strategies: cause/effect, synthesizing, determining importance-sequencing
Warning/point to discuss:  The three boys become blood brothers-probably not a very wise thing to promote nowadays!

The Brixton Brothers #1 The Case of the Case of Mistaken Identity by Mac Barnett illustrated by Adam Rex

Steve Brixton loves reading the Bailey Brothers mysteries and dreams of being a detective.  Then one ordinary day at the library he is mistaken as a dangerous, tricky detective.  A weekend of adventure and the opportunity to employ his detective skills and knowledge push Steve into a new life direction.
Very exciting!
Short chapters will appeal to reluctant readers.
Adults who loved the Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew will enjoy the parody!.
*Highly recommend.
So far there are a total of four in the series. . . hope there are more coming!

A Tournament of Knights by Joe Lasker*

Through the fictional characters Mr. Lasker shares fascinating facts about knights and jousting tournaments.
This book would be great to use to build schema when studying the Middle Ages.
*Highly recommend.
Strategies/skills: context clues, schema, word choice, main idea/details

Stuck by Oliver Jeffers*

Floyd's kite becomes stuck in a tree.  As Floyd uses various objects around him to free the kite, each one becomes stuck.
The story is humorous because the reader will be exasperated by Floyd's oblivion how to utilize the objects in the proper, practical manner to free the kite!
Funny!
Strategy: predicting
*Highly recommend

Nothing Like a Puffin by Sue Soltis illustrated by Bob Kolar*

The author compares the puffin to unexpected objects.
Great book for preschoolers to practice critical thinking skills.  The reader learns about puffins in a humorous way!
*Highly recommend.
Skill: compare/contrast

Click, Clack, Moo Cows That Type by Doreen Cronin illustrated by Betsy Lewin*

The cows are tired of being cold so they demand that the farmer give them electric blankets. The chickens and the ducks join in the demands and strike.
Pair with The Day the Crayons Quit to compare/contrast the books.
Strategies: connections, inferring
Funny!

See Me Dig by Paul Meisel

"I Like to Read" book
Very simple text with picture support.
Funny story with digging dogs who eventually are scared away by ghost pirates.
Great for beginning readers.

An Awesome Book! by Dallas Clayton

A fun book encouraging everyone to dream big.
My boys liked the unique illustrations!
Strategies: synthesizing, author's message

Bad Bye, Good Bye by Deborah Underwood illustrated by Jonathan Bean*

Mr. Bean's illustration enhance the story of a boy moving and feeling very reluctant about leaving his house and best friend.   He and Ms. Underwood must have had a lot of dialogue to ensure he was telling the story how she wanted it told!  This book is a great example of how the illustrations tell the story too.
*Highly recommend.
Strategies: connections, inferring

Tooth and Claw by Jim Arnosky*

"The Wild World of Big Predators"

The cover a grizzly bear snarling, revealing its teeth will grab any reader's attention!  

Mr. Arnosky has written many books about animals. 

With its foldout pages, this book is fun to read.  

Text features: contents, side notes, fold out, comparison sketches/notes, a book list to find out more about carnivores

Secrets of the Garden by Kathleen Weidner Zoehfeld illustrated by Priscilla Lamont

"Food Chains and the Food Web in Our Backyard"
The reader experiences the life cycle of a vegetable garden as he/she witnesses a family plant, maintain and harvest a large vegetable patch.  Other organisms are living in the garden which help the garden thrive.  The author utilizes these organisms to introduce food chains and the food web.
The pet chickens' comments add humor.
The illustrations are adorable.
 I love the end pages which have the map of the garden.  I also like the layout of the worm page.

Eye to Eye by Steve Jenkins

"How Animals See the World"
Mr. Jenkins shares how various animals' allow them to survive and thrive in their habitats.  He also presents the four kinds of eyes in the beginning.
Text features: bold words, labels, glossary
More facts about the animals in the back.

The Storm in the Barn by Matt Phelan

A graphic novel that captures the feelings and frustration of an eleven year old boy growing up in the Dust Bowl.  Mr. Phelan reveals different feelings and aspects that probably plagued children/teens during this time.
A folklore tone.
Even though the story is fictional and mostly pictorial, the reader can learn about the Dust Bowl and what it was like.
A rocky father-son relationship is portrayed.
Warning: two swear words-hell and damn
Strategies: connections, synthesizing, summarizing, inferring
Text set:
Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse
Leah's Pony
The Great American Dust Bowl by Don Brown

Like Carrot Juice on a Cupcake by Julie Sternberg illustrated by Matthew Cordell*

#3 in the Eleanor series
A new girl Ainsley begins 4th grade.  Pearl, Eleanor's best friend, is assigned to be Ainsley's buddy.   As Eleanor fights off jealousy, she does something mean to hurt both Pearl and Ainsley.
*Highly recommend series.
Strategy: connections, inferring-character's feelings

Pompeii . . .Buried Alive! by Edith Kunhart illustrated by Michael Eagle*

Step into Reading  #3
Three chapters describe the activities of Pompeii the day of the eruption plus its discovery.
*Highly recommend.
Strategies: connections-T-T, main idea/details, cause/effect

Text set:
You Would Not Have Wanted to Live in Pompeii!
I Survived #10-The Destruction of Pompeii AD 79 (forthcoming-Aug. 2014)

You Wouldn't Want to Live in Pompeii! by John Malam illustrated by David Antram*

"A Volcanic Eruption You'd Rather Avoid"
Told from a Greek slave's point of view, the reader learns about the years and days before and during the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius.   Two pages focus on Pompeii's discovery in 1748.
Humor sprinkled throughout via "Handy Hint" sections.
Text features:  contents, maps, side pictures/facts, labels, picture captions, headings, dates/times headings, glossary, index
*Highly recommend.
Strategies: connections (T-T), synthesizing, cause/effect, main idea/details
Text set: (pair with---)
1. Pompeii . . Buried Alive!  by Edith Kunhardt
http://www.amazon.com/Pompeii-Buried-Alive-Step-Reading/dp/0394888669
2. Detectives in Togas by Henry Winterfeld
http://www.amazon.com/Detectives-Togas-Henry-Winterfeld/dp/0152162801
3. Lauren Tarsish's new I Survived book-Destruction of Pompeii (coming Aug. 2014)
http://www.amazon.com/Survived-10-Destruction-Pompeii-AD/dp/0545459397

The Quirks Welcome to Normal by Erin Soderberg illustrated by Kelly Light

Molly and her family have moved from state to state, town to town all of her life.  The reason?  Each person in the family has his/her own magical quirk that causes trouble .. . .everyone except Molly.  In the town of Normal, Molly is hoping they can stay forever if everyone can just behave!

Funny!
Figurative language-similes
There is a second book where the Quirks are in a circus that comes to town.

Real-World Dragons by Matt Doeden*

My seven year old read this book immediately!
A nonfiction book that explores the legends of dragons and creatures that are alive today that resemble the descriptions found in dragon lore.
Large photographs and illustrations-not much text per page so perfect for building stamina.
Text features: table of contents, separate bubbles with dragon facts, headings, vocab. definitions on the page the word is presented, labels, photographs, glossary, "read more" section, index
*Highly recommend
More titles in the series/set: The Anatomy of a Dragon, Dragon Behavior, Dragons in Mythology

The Grudge Keeper by Mara Rockliff illustrated by Eliza Wheeler

In the town of Bonnyripple every person gives their complaints/grudges to Cornelius, the grudge keeper.  His house is overflowing with grudges until one day a strong wind whips through the town and his house.
A transformation occurs in the town.
Great book to read about grudges and forgiveness.
Amazing word choice-perfect for expanding vocabulary
Strategies/skills: word choice, synthesizing, connections, context clues

What's Your Favorite Animal? by various illustrators

"Eric Carle and Friends"
Famous picture book artist share their favorite animal and why.
Illustrators include: Nick Bruel, Lucy Cousins, Susan Jeffers, Steven Kellogg, Jon Klassen, Tom Lichtenheld, Peter McCarty, Chris Raschka, Peter Sis, Lane Smith, Erin Stead, Rosemary Wells, and Mo Willems.
In the back there is a photograph of each artist and a short bio.
All royalties are donated to the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art.

Heroes in Training Zeus and the Thunderbolt of Doom by Joan Holub and Suzanne Williams illustrated by Craig Williams*

Zeus is captured by three half-giants who intend to take him to their leader Cronus.  Cronus, a Titan giant, who is trying to capture all the Olympian gods.  Where does he keep them?  In his stomach!
Zeus is able to remove a thunderbolt from the cone-stone (which no one has been able to do) and with that weapon, he is able to save some of the Olympians.
Very exciting!  Funny too.  The book ended with Zeus, Hera and Poseidon heading to the sea to find the trident.
My seven year old and preschooler loved listening to this story and had fun predicting how Zeus was going to escape his many misfortunes/adventures.
So far there are six titles in the series.  Number seven is coming out 8/15/14-Ares and the Spear of Fear
and Number eight is coming out 12/2/14-Cronus and the Threads of Dread.
Here is a link to the author's website:
http://www.joanholub.com/
*Highly recommend.

Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse*

John Newbery Medal
In verse form, Ms. Hesse relates the horrific events and affects of the dust storms in the 1930s.  The character Billie Jo must not only endure the relentless dust storms in OK but must adjust to life with deformed hands from a fire that transformed her life in an instant-losing a mother, a newborn sibling and her ability to play piano.
Great word choice/figurative language
*Highly recommend.
Strategies: inferring, cause/effect, visualizing, synthesizing, connections (T-S, T-T)
*Highly recommend reading The Great American Dust Bowl by Don Brown before reading this book to build schema.

Extraordinary Jane by Hannah E. Harrison

Amazing illustrations!
Jane feels so ordinary compared to her canine family and circus animal performers.  But sometimes being ordinary is what needed-especially if one is kind and loyal.
Strategies: synthesizing

Pearl and Wagner One Funny Day by Kate McMullan illustrated by R.W Alley*

Wagner is not enjoying April Fool's Day!  Will he have the last laugh?
Fun!
*Highly recommend.
Series for transitional readers.

Upstairs Mouse, Downstairs Mole by Wong Herbert Yee*

Mole and Mouse learn to accommodate each other's preferences as they form a friendship.
Perfect series for transitional readers.
*Highly recommend.
Skills: word choice

The Storm Book by Charlotte Zolotow illustrated by Margaret Bloy Graham*

A boy watches a storm fill the sky over their farm.  The author shares descriptions of different locations which are experiencing the storm (city, mountains, the sea).
Very descriptive words-great word choice.
My preschooler was not very focused while reading this book-the text was on two pages and then the illustrations were the next two pages and so on.
*Highly recommend.
Strategies: inferring-figurative language, visualizing, T-T connections (see suggestion)
Pair with Patricia Polacco's Thundercake.
A Caldecott Honor Book

The Imagination Station #5 Showdown with the Shepherd by Marianne Hering and Brock Eastman illustrated by David Hohn*

Cousins, Patrick and Beth, follow evil Hugh to the time of King Saul and David.  The two cousins must stop Hugh from changing history.
Very exciting and short chapters to keep readers devouring the story.
*Highly recommend.

Mama Built a Little Nest by Jennifer Ward illustrated by Steve Jenkins

A rhyming information book that reveals the amazing ways birds build their nests-all very unique!
Great for building schema.
A multi-age book-the rhyming sections are suitable for preschoolers.  The smaller font shares more specific details about the featured bird and nest building skills for more mature preschoolers and school age.
*Highly recommend.
A must for bird units.

Pearl and Wagner Five Days Till Summer by Kate McMullan illustrated by R.W. Alley*

Pearl is nervous about her teacher the following year.  After spreading her fears to her classmates, her entire class is afraid of having "Mean Ms. Bean".
A wonderful series that will build stamina in beginning/transitional readers.
Guided Reading Level: K
Penguin Young Readers Level 3
*Highly recommend.
Could talk to children about the damage of rumors and spreading untruths.

The Great American Dust Bowl by Don Brown*

In graphic novel/comic style, Mr. Brown relays the horrific life people endured during the 1930's in the Dust Bowl.
Full of interesting facts and told in an interesting manner.  Even gives a brief science lesson with plate tectonics and a quick glance of the different people groups on the plains.
*Highly recommend.
Pair with Esperanza Rising, Out of the Dust, and Leah's Pony.
Strategies: connections, synthesizing, cause/effect, asking questions

Esperanza Rising by Pam Munoz Ryan*

Award-Pura Belpre Award
Esperanza lived a luxurious life in Mexico on her family's ranch.  When her father's life is taken and her corrupt uncles threaten to separate her from her mother, Esperanza finds herself in a different country and different social class.  As she struggles to accept her new life, she finds in herself strength and determination, transforming herself.
Written in such a way that the words propel the reader forward.  Beautiful language and well developed characters.
*Highly recommend.
Pair with Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse, The Great American Dust Bowl by Don Brown, and Leah's Pony.
Strategies: inferring-character traits/development, synthesizing, connections, determining importance-cause/effect
Guided Reading Level: V
DRA: 50

Mouse and Mole Secret Valentine by Wong Herbert Yee*

Love this series!  Likable, humorous characters.
Mouse is trying to figure out who her secret admirer is.
How to make a valentine in the back of the book.
*Highly recommend.
Strategies: check for understanding, predicting, sequencing
My preschooler loves listening to me read this series.

Penny and Her Marble by Kevin Henkes*

Mr. Henkes is a gifted writer and illustrator.
*Highly recommend all his books.
Penny finds a blue marble in the grass in her neighbor's yard and takes it home.  Guilt consumes her until she listens to her conscience.  A wonderful ending!
Third book in series.
Strategies: inferring

I Spy Fly Guy! by Tedd Arnold*

Love this series!
Fly Guy plays hide and seek with Buzz in his typical hiding spot--a trash can.  The only problem is-today is trash day!
Beginning readers will feel proud that they read a chapter book.
*Highly recommend.
2010 Theodore Seuss Geisel Honor Award

Pearl and Wagner Two Good Friends by Kate McMullan illustrated by R. W. Alley*

Pearl, a rabbit, and Wagner, a mouse, work together to make a robot and learn about honesty and forgiveness.
Adorable illustrations.
Perfect for the beginning reader who is building stamina.
*Highly recommend.
Series.
Level 2 Dial Easy to Read
Guided Reading: M
DRA: 20-24

Little Mouse Gets Ready by Jeff Smith

A Toon Book
Mouse puts much effort into getting dressed for a trip to the barn.
Funny!
Very simple-good for beginning readers-good picture support.
Guided Reading Level: F
Theodore Seuss Geisel Honor Award

No Monkeys, No Chocolate by Melissa Stewart and Allen Young illustrated by Nicole Wong*

Another great book by Ms. Stewart!
This book shares how creation depends on one another to be productive.  Interdependent relationships.
Fascinating!
Two worms on the bottom of each page have a dialogue, making funny, sarcastic comments.
Pair with The Chocolate Touch, Chocolatina, Chocolate Fever.
Serve some chocolate baked goodies and/or chocolate bars before this book!
In the back is information about growing cocoa trees and rain forests plus an interesting author's note.
*Highly recommend.

Benny and Penny in the Big No-No! by Geoffrey Hayes

A Toon book
Great suspense and humor in comic style.  The mice and mole are adorably drawn.
A good choice for reluctant readers.
Benny and Penny wonder who their new neighbor is  and are shocked to see that he/she took Benny's pail.  As they try to retrieve it, they meet the new neighbor in an unconventional manner.
I did not like how Benny said, "dumb girls" and how they call each other "cry baby" a few times.
*Theodore Seuss Geisel Award-2010
Guided Reading Level: H
Part of a series