Locomotive by Brian Floca*

Experience the first ride on the transcontinental railroad in 1869.  Lots of details about how a locomotive works, what the scenery looked like at certain points.
A diagram of a steam engine is on the back endpages.
Creative layout; illustrations are incredible.  Book is oversized.
A MUST for train fanatics!  This review does not do the book justice!!
**Highly recommend.

Ralph Tells A Story by Abby Hanlon

All of Ralph's classmates can create stories "just like that" whereas he struggles to come up with even an idea. A great book to share when talking with students about the writing process.
Funny too!

Candy Counting by Lisa McCourt illustrated by Brad Tuckman*

Each two page spread has story problem that centers on candy.  The mathematician must decide if he/she should add or subtract.  Sometimes the problem is a two step problem where the solver must add and then subtract.  The story problems are humorous and kid appealing.
The photographs of the candy provide help to the mathematician if needed.
In the back are photographs and equations how each problem should have solved the correct answers.
Very creative!
*Highly recommend.

Roller Coaster by Marla Frazee*

This book is a must read for any child who is about to ride a roller coaster, who just experienced and one who has and loves them.  The main character is very subtle but through the illustrations the reader can spy her.
The illustrations really capture the excitement of a roller coaster.  The character's expressions are fun to study!!  Wonderful!
The illustrations lend themselves to predicting and inferring.
Strategy: connections, inferring, predicting
*Highly recommend.

Marshmallow by Clare Turlay Newberry

Oliver the cat was content with his housekeeper Miss Tilly.  Then she brings home a new creature, Marshmallow, a rabbit.  Will the two creatures become friends?
Over-sized book illustrated in grays, pinks and whites.

The Ant and the Elephant by Bill Peet*

One day the ant needs to be carried across the river.  Turtle will not help him.  Then turtle needs help but the hornbill will not help.  Soon the hornbill needs help but the giraffe will not help her.  So the pattern continues until the elephant comes along and breaks the selfish trend.
Great book about kindness.
Great for character traits and connections.
Read The Lion and the Mouse by Jerry Pinkney after reading this book.
**Highly recommend.

Kermit the Hermit by Bill Peet

Kermit was a mean old crab until one day a boy saves his life.  He finds a way to repay this kind boy at great expense.
A great story about character change and how kindness can transform someone.
Rhyming text.

Hooray for Fly Guy! by Tedd Arnold

Buzz's football team need an additional player.  When he suggests Fly Guy, his coach has a good laugh.  Can Fly Guy save the day for the team?
Funny!

The Little Scarecrow Boy by Margaret Wise Brown illustrated by David Diaz

A scarecrow boy longs to scare away the crows with his father but is told he is not fierce enough and must wait to grow.  Each night his dad teaches him to make fierce faces.  One morning the scarecrow boy sneaks out, determined to scare the crows with his six fierce faces he has practiced for so long.

The Lonely Scarecrow by Tim Preston illustrated by Maggie Kneen

The scarecrow depicted in this book is rather creepy looking which serves the story line well!  The scarecrow watches the animals play throughout the season and longs for their friendship.  A big snowstorm transforms the scarecrow into a jolly snowman and brings about a new friendship!
Lovely illustrations.

Little Bear Makes a Scarecrow by Else Holmelund Minarik illustrated by David T. Wenzel

Little Bear tries to make a scarecrow so the crows do not eat all of Mama Bear's corn.  Little Bear discovers that  the crows are nice and becomes friends with the!
Sweet illustrations.
A beginning reader could read this book.

Scarecrow by Cynthia Rylant illustrated by Lauren Stringer

A descriptive book about what scarecrow's may be thinking and feeling throughout the seasons.  No story line really.  . . .descriptive.

Jeb Scarecrow's Pumpkin Patch by Jana Dillon

Jeb and his parents work hard each day to scare away the crows.  This year, however, they hear that the crows plan to host their big harvest celebration in Jeb's pumpkin patch.  Jeb comes up with a clever plan to scare away the crows and to bring his family some extra money.

Strega Nona Does It Again by Tomie dePaola

Strega Nona's niece, Angelina, comes for an extended visit because her father wants his daughter to forget about conceited Hugo. Angelina creates havoc for Strega Nona's household as she demands that Big Anthony and Bambolona be constantly at her service.  Strega Nona, as usual, comes up with a satisfying solution!
Great illustrations!  Some pages do not have any words, just illustrations to tell the story/scene.

Toads on Toast by Linda Bailey illustrated by Colin Jack

Fox is tired of the same old toad for meals so he visits a bookstore to search in recipe books for more ideas.  Inspired, he goes to capture tender, young toads.  Mamma Toad steps and saves her toadlets from demise and solves Fox's problem at the same time!
Recipe for Mamma Toad's Secret Toad-in-a-Hole in the back.
Strategies: predicting; inferring

The Discovery of T. Rex by Dougal Dixon

In graphic novel format, Mr. Dixon shares the exciting discoveries of T.Rex overtime.  I also learned how competitive museums were with each other!!  It was fascinating how Mr. Dixon showed the knowledge of what T. Rex looked like evolved as fossil hunters found more remains.
Text Structures:  a descriptive list of characters, table of contents, fast facts inserts, labels, maps, headings, diagrams, timeline, "did you know", glossary and index.

How to Babysit a Grandpa by Jean Reagan illustrated by Lee Wildish

A humorous story about a boy "babysitting" his grandfather.  Most children can relate to the activities the two do together.  Cute little "how-to" lists throughout the story.

Huge Harold by Bill Peet

Harold, the rabbit, grows as tall as a giant.  Unfortunately a band of farmers and men want to shoot him since he ate one of their own's garden patch.  A kind man rescues him and gives him a fulfilling life.
I am amazed that the entire text is in rhyme and is a longer story.
What a talented man!

Cyrus The Unsinkable Sea Serpent by Bill Peet

Cyrus ventures out to find some excitement and watches as ship voyages into the sea for a long journey to a new land.  This kind sea serpent rescues this group from the doldrums, a storm and pirates.
An exciting read.
Great for figuring out words by context clues
Strategies: inferring, predicting, context clues

Minnie and Moo The Night of the Living Bed by Denys Cazet

An I Can Read Book
Minnie and Moo find themselves in a fun adventure with their barnyard friends-trick or treating.
Lots of humor!

The Dog That Dug for Dinosaurs A True Story by Shirley Raye Redmond illustrated by Simon Sullivan

Ready to Read-Level 3
This 32 page book shares the life of Mary Ann Anning who discovered quite  a few dinosaur skeleton.  Although it is short, this book gives a great overview of her life.  Reading made me curious to learn more about her.
Strategies: inferring

A Trip to Dinosaur Time by Michael Foreman

Tom's mother's tells him not to play with a new kitchen timer.  When he disobeys, he finds himself in dinosaur time.
Two page illustrations make it a good read aloud book.  The text is off to the side in a separate column.  I thought the story line was not overly creative.  On the other hand, my four year old son really liked it.

Stone Girl, Bone Girl The Story of Mary Anning by Laurence Anholt illustrated by Sheila Moxley

As a twelve year old Mary Anning uncovered an ichthyosaur and continued to make many discoveries in Lyme Regis, Dorset, England.
This book shares the great relationship she had with her father.
Fascinating!
Strategies: predicting, inferring

The Whingdingdilly by Bill Peet

Scamp, a farm dog, is tired of being a dog.  When his owner, Orvis, makes a hurtful comment about him, he runs away into the woods.  There he encounters a witch who can read his thoughts and transforms him into a Whingdingdilly!
A great book about being content with how one is made.
Some fun nonsense words to read.
Mr. Peet writes in a captivating manner that  appeals to a wide age span.
Strategies: predicting, inferring, asking questions

Little Red Riding Hood A Newfangled Prairie Tale by Lisa Campbell Ernst

Little Red wants to deliver muffins and lemonade to her grandmother on this "scorcher" of a day on the prairie.  The wolf smells the muffins and wants them and the recipe more than anything.  Little Red's grandmother is not the feeble granny he was expecting!
A muffin recipe is included.  It is yummy too!
Great word choice-a good vocab. study
Strategies/skills:  venn diagram, connections, vocabulary study

Sounds on the Farm with real Animal Sounds by Gail Donovan illustrated by Laura Ovresat

A fun, interactive book!  A riddle, a button to push for an an animal sound  and then a lift the flap for the answer!  Picture labels, a "Did you Know?" section for each animal plus a brief paragraph  about the animal make this a great first nonfiction book for younger children!

Hair for Mama by Kelly A. Tinkham illustrated by Amy June Bates*

Marcus' mom has cancer and is losing her hair from chemotherapy.  When October arrives, the month of their annual family photo, his mom has no desire to be remembered with no hair. Marcus thinks of a solution that brings different but better results!
*Highly recommend.

Let Them Play by Margot Theis Raven illustrated by Chris Ellison

In 1955 an all-black YMCA baseball team experiences segregation as no white team with play them.  The South Carolina team travels to Williamsport, PA for the Little League  Baseball World series as guests.  The team, however, is permitted to practice on the field and the crowd soon chants, "Let them play!".
The illustrations capture the feelings of the players.  The Epilogue shares how these much older men visit Williamsport, PA to be on the field once more.

The Vowel Family A Tale of Lost Letters by Sally M. Walker illustrations by Kevin Luthardt

Pm Smth and Sm Vwl married but talking was difficult.  So this couple has twins (Alan and Ellen, then Ellen, Iris and Otto) which makes talking a lot easier.  Sometimes their aunt Cyndy joins in the family fun.  The actual words in this story are missing the vowels until the representing vowel character appears permanently on the scene.

Librarian on the Roof! A True Story by M.G.King illustrated by Stephen Gilpin

RoseAleta  Laurell  realized the importance of having a children's section in the Texas Lockhart library.  She willingly sat on the roof of the library for a week until they raised over $39,000.00!  An inspiring story!

That Summer by Tony Johnston illustrated by Barry Moser

That summer begins normal with two brothers running wild and free.  Then it comes to a screeching halt as one brother becomes sick with cancer and passes away.  This book captures the feelings of one about to lose a loved one and how this to savor any moment with loved one and to preserve the memories.
You will cry.

I Scream I Cream! A Book of Wordles by Amy Krouse Rosenthal illustrated by Serge Bloch*

What is a wordle?  As the title page explains, "Groups of words that sound exactly the same but mean different things."  Like " I scream" sounds like "ice cream" but the meaning is totally different or "heroes" vs. "He rows."  
This book is fun and challenging!
*Highly recommend.

Henry and Mudge and the Wild Goose Chase by Cynthia Rylant illustrated by Carolyn Bracken*

Henry's mom has a hankering for "farm-fresh eggs" so the family and Mudge, of course, drive to a farm where they see "everything is bigger in the country", including a goose!
*Highly recommend.

Ready, Set, 100th Day! by Nancy Elizabeth Wallace

Another fun yet informative book by Ms. Wallace.  Minna has to create a project that portrays the number 100 for her 100th Day celebration at school.  After a lot of thought, she comes up with creative idea.  Mathematical concepts like counting by 5's, 10's , 20's, 25's, and 50's are shown.  Readers can find 10 groups of ten in Minna's  poster.

Alex and the Cat by Helen V. Griffith illustrated by Sonja Lamut

Alex the dog shares his thoughts  and has lots of conversations with the cat (who is just called "kitty").  The subtle humor may be lost on preschoolers but they will still enjoy this short chapter book.  There are seven total chapters all about 5-16 pages long.  A good book for readers who are building stamina.

What Floats in a Moat? by Lynne Berry illustrated by Matthew Cordell

A goat and a skinny hen try to figure out how to cross a moat by using items from their wheelbarrow.  After a few attempts/experiments, the goat manages to float across.  The author's note explains the science begin the book  (volume; displacement).

Mitchell's License by Hallie Durand illustrations by Tony Fucile*

I love Mitchell's dad!  When Mitchell constantly gives his dad a difficult time going to bed, his dad comes up with a creative solution.
I love how the dad is portrayed as a vital part in the parenting and as a caring, involved father.
Funny!
*Highly recommend.
There are more "Mitchell" books written recently.  This one is from 2011.

The Gingerbread Man illustrated by Karen Schmidt

It is fun to read many versions of traditional tales.  This versions has a little boy watching the oven for the gingerbread to be finished and warns him not to open it too soon.  Different characters in this story are a bear and a wolf.
Very vibrant illustrations.
Strategies/skills: connections, venn diagrams

Digger, Dozer, Dumper by Hope Vestergaard illustrated by David Slonim*

So many construction books have been published for young children yet amazing authors and illustrators still manage to create unique books on this topic!  Here is another great one that will appeal to truck loving kids!  The book begins an introduction and ends with a cute summary.  In between, each two page spread is dedicated to working vehicle from street sweeper to garbage truck  to various construction vehicles and don't forget the fire engine!
The only people shown in the book are children operating the vehicles and also as bystanders.  Each vehicle has subtle eyes drawn on them-not just male either.  Some of them are female!
Superb rhymes make the reading a delight.  Great way to introduce poetry to young children.
The pages felt extra thick as I was turning them . . . which is an excellent idea since this book will be well loved by little ones!
*Highly recommend.

Miss Maple's Seeds by Eliza Wheeler

Teeny Miss Maple, who lives in a maple tree, spends her summers gathering orphan seeds.  Over the fall and winter months she takes care of them in her tree house and then disperses them in the spring.  During their stay with her she educates them on their "job" so they are prepared once they leave her.  The story line is a bit odd (in my opinion) but kids can learn about seed dispersal via a fantastical story/character.
I loved the illustrations-especially of Miss Maple's tree house and the full page of various seeds.  Ms. Wheeler is a talented illustrator.

Larry Boy Versus Spud Dud A Lesson in Being Responsible by Doug Peterson illustrated by Tom Bancroft and Rob Corley

A Veggie Tale with a great lesson on being responsible and not being lazy.
Superheroes (vegetables, of course!) are the main characters in this story.
My boys liked it!

Too Many Pumpkins by Linda White illustrated by Megan Lloyd*

This book is one of my favorite autumn picture books.  The character, Rebecca Estelle, is brimming with personality.  Ms. Lloyd's illustrations are vibrant and picturesque.  She makes me want to step into the story and live there!
Rebecca Estelle hates pumpkins because when she was growing up, money and food was scarce so the family ate pumpkins for every meal!  Now that she is elderly she still despises pumpkin.  Then a pumpkin falls off a truck and splatters right into her yard.  You can guess what happens!
Strategies: character traits/change/development, predicting, inferring
*Highly recommend

Mighty Machines by Sarah Creese

Published by  Make Believe Ideas Ltd, this series has holographic covers that will attract readers.
Level 1
Each two page spread is dedicated to one big machine complete with photographs.  The simple rhyming text make it pleasant for beginning readers/reluctant readers.

Text structures-photos, labels, headings, close-ups, quiz, dictionary

I Can Read Level 2 Man of Steel-Friends and Foes by Lucy Rosen

Based on the newest Superman movie, this book shares his parents' history and how he came to earth.  Although this book is a level two, there are several words that beginning readers may find challenging but they provide great practice in utilizing different word attack strategies.
Guided Reading Level : K

Frog Son by Brenda Z. Guiberson illustrated by Gennady Spiin

Learn about different frogs around the world.  Two page spreads offer a full color illustration of each frog and a brief paragraph about their uniqueness.  The book is a bit larger than the typical picture book so it is great for sharing.
The onomatopoeia words are in different font which could lead itself to an English tie-in.
In the book each featured frog has more facts listed under its picture-its range, length, and one quick fact.
A great book for frog enthusiast!  

Big Bear's Big Boat by Eve Bunting illustrated by Nancy Carpentar

Big Bear was once a little bear with a little boat.  Now that he is older and bigger he sets out to build a bigger boat.  His friends give some advice how the boat should look.  After trying out their ideas, he realizes that his original simple idea was best.
A sequel to Little Bear's Little Boat.

Tails Chasing Tails by Matthew Porter

Different animals chasing each other's tails will entertain young children.  A great guessing/predicting book since the reader first sees the animal's tail and the text offers a brief description of it.  The book begins with an elephant chasing a tail and ends with a mouse chasing the elephant tail.  Back to the beginning!

Those Shoes by Maribeth Boelts illustrated by Noah Z. Jones*

Jeremy wants a specific pair of shoes but his grandmother cannot afford them.  When they find a pair of them in a thrift shop, Jeremy does not care if they are too small.  He buys them anyway with his own money.  When Jeremy notices that a classmate's shoes are falling apart and his feet are smaller than his (the only one who does not own a pair of "those shoes" besides Jeremy), Jeremy must make a very difficult decision.
I love this book about kindness and how being unselfish and kind is very hard sometimes.
*Highly recommend.
Strategies: predicting, inferring, character traits,  Daily 5-"finding books that fit -shoe analogy".

Scaly, Spotted, Feathered, Frilled How Do We Know What the Dinosaurs Really Looked Like? by Catherine Thimmesh

This book explores how paleoartists determine how to depict dinosaurs.  Contrasting illustrations of dinosaurs were viewed to current illustrations based on new discoveries/findings.  All the illustrations in the book are by various paleoartists. Very fascinating!

Text structures: time line, picture captions, quotes from paleoartists, subject headings, photographs, labels, diagrams, a section about the artists, glossary, index

Henry and Mudge Under the Yellow Moon by Cynthia Rylant illustrated by Sucie Stevenson

This book takes place in the fall and shares how Henry and Mudge celebrate Halloween and Thanksgiving.  In the Halloween story the mom dresses as a witch and tells ghost stories.  My boys were okay but could be scary for some children.

Volcano Rising By Elizabeth Rusch illustrated by Susan Swan*

There are many volcano books available to kids.  Despite that fact, Ms. Rusch and Ms. Swan have created an unique informational book for different ages.  The main text is quite simple and the full page collage pictures will appeal to preschoolers and Kindergartners.  On most pages there is a paragraph off to the side in smaller font with more information that make this book excellent for middle to upper age elementary children.

Text structures- diagrams, cross sections, labels, pronunciations, volcano vocabulary glossary, bibliography, and a "learn more" section.
Highly recommend.

The Day-Glo Brothers by Chris Barton illustrated by Tony Persiani

"The True Story of Bob and Joe Switzer's Bright Ideas and Brand-New Colors"
A story of two brothers utilizing their unique gifts and personality to create and invent.  The illustrations are sooo cool . . .in the beginning they are just black, white and gray.  Then gradually "as the brothers discover the new colors", the colors are added to the illustrations.  By the end of the book the illustrations are quite bright!!
The author includes a page on how fluorescence work and daylight fluorescence work and also how he came across the story.

The Troll Music by Anita Lobel

A group of musicians is well accepted and appreciated in every town.  One night while they slept in the woods, a troll wanted to hear their music.  When they would not wake up and play for him, he cast a horrible spell on them.  The musicians then must figure out a way to make the troll remove the spell.
An older story but entertaining and fun to read!

Doctor De Soto by William Steig*

Mr. Steig writes longer picture books for an older audience.  This story is a family favorite.  Dr. De Soto is one of the best dentists.  He and his wife (his assistant) however, will not service cats and "other dangerous animals".  When a pitiful fox shows up at their doorstep, they make an exception to their rule.  Will this decision end their practice and their lives?!
Received the Newbery Honor
Highly recommend.
Strategies: predicting, inferring

One Boy by Laura Vaccaro Seeger

A very clever counting book that reveals how small words make up larger words or how words are within words.  Counts up to ten.
Older children will appreciate the words within words and trying to guess what the next word is.

Pete the Cat and His Magic Sunglasses by Kimberly and James Dean

Pete the Cat is grumpy for the first time in his life!  A pair of sunglasses give him new perspective and he shares this positive perspective with his friends.  What will he do when the glasses shattered?
As always, the Deans' deliver a positive message with Pete's cool dude attitude!

One More Acorn by Don Freeman and Roy Freeman

The late Don Freeman wrote this story in 1963 only to abandon it.  Years later his son Roy pieced together his father's sketches and notes.  A fun story of a father squirrel gathering acorns for his hungry family.  The pictures really capture the funny antics of squirrels.  Takes place in Washington D.C. and includes various monuments.

Acorns Everywhere! by Kevin Sherry

Few words but full page bold colored illustrations create a funny story of a hungry squirrel hiding nuts.  When he needs them, will he remember where he hid them?!
Funny!

Sophie's Lovely Locks by Erica Pelton Villnave

Sophie loves her long hair but after a while it becomes annoying.  She donates her hair to "Locks for Kids".
Adorable illustrations!

Fly Guy Presents Sharks by Tedd Arnold

Buzz and Fly Guy visit an aquarium.  Travel with these two characters to learn amazing facts about sharks.  Longer, more difficult words have pronunciation in parentheses.
Text structures:  close ups, photographs, picture captions/labels

Fortunately the Milk by Neil Gaiman illustrated by Skottie Young

Who knew that a bottle of milk would save the universe as we know it?!  A father leaves his home to purchase milk for his children's breakfast.  The children wait and wait and wait for his return . . when he finally arrives with the milk, he has an amazing story to share to explain his delay!
Very humorous!  Sketches on almost every page so perfect for reluctant readers.  113 pages but the book is not divided into chapters.
Warning:  a brief scene with vampires
Pair with Dr. Seuss' And to Think I Saw It On Mulberry Street.

At This Very Moment by Jim Arnosky

Starting in the morning, Mr. Arnosky states what the reader may be doing at that time of day and then shows different animals doing different activities at those times.  Wonderful illustrations.  Some pages are divided in half or thirds to show different the activities of two or three animals.  In the back Mr. Arnosky tells the reader where he has seen each of the animals and why they are special to him.

Apples Here! by Will Hubbell

Very simple, repetitive text shows the reader the development of an apple starting in winter through the fall.  A more in-depth explanation of the apple development is included on the last two pages.  I liked the diverse ethnicities represented in the book.

The Hello, Goodbye Window by Norton Juster illustrated by Chris Raschka

The special window in her grandparents' house is more than a window where she sees them to say "hi" and "good bye".  This sweet story shares the fun a grandchild has while staying at the grandparents' house.  An oversized book makes it great for read aloud.

Peeny Butter Fudge by Toni Morrison and Slade Morrison illustrated by Joe Cepeda

Famous writer Toni Morrison and son Slade team to write a humorous story of a grandmother baby sitting the grandchildren.  She does not follow mom's precise list . . . but they have fun and the sweet treat makes the mom overlook the mess! Rhyming text make this story extra fun!
Recipe for the fudge is included in the back.

The Imaginary Garden by Andrew Larsen illustrated by Irene Luxbacher

Poppa moves to an apartment where he cannot have a flower garden.  His granddaughter Theo helps him create an imaginary garden using paper and paints.

The Ultimate Guide to Grandmas and Grandpas by Sally Lloyd-Jones illustrated b Michael Emberley

Various types of animals represent grandparents.  This guidebook tells grandchildren how to best take care of their grandparents.  Funny and cute!

Here Comes Grandma! by Janet Lord illustrated by Julie Paschkis

The author-illustrator team are sisters!
Using various modes of transportation, Grandma will make sure she will get to her grandchildren!  I like the second to last page-two page span-that displays all the modes of transportation shared in the book.  Very simple text.

The Grandma Book by Todd Parr

The same pattern as the "Grandpa" book.  In each book there is a spot to glue in a picture of your grandma or grandpa.

The Grandpa Book by Todd Parr

Bold, vivid illustrations make this book appeal to little ones.  Even though the text is very simple, the message is rich.  Mr. Parr shares how SOME grandpas put extra money in the piggy bank and SOME put extra marshmallows in hot chocolate but ALL grandpas like to tell their grandchildren stories.  The "some" and "all" pattern continues to the end  where Mr. Parr has a little summary of grandpas.  Sweet!

Jinx by Sage Blackwood

A complex story line with endearing characters for fantasy lovers.  Readers will enjoy reading through the layers of mystery in various characters' lives and see how their lives converge to save Urwald from the evil Bonemaster.
References to fairy tales/folk tales like-Little Red Riding Hood and witches making gingerbread cottages
Warning:  violent parts; Bonemaster, the villian, is very evil and uses dead people's life for power

Listen Buddy by Helen Lester illustrated by Lynn Munsinger

Buddy has beautiful ears but they do not assist him in listening.  An encounter with the Scruffy Varmint transforms this poor listener.

Exclamation Mark! by Amy Krouse Rosenthal illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld

Ms. Rosenthal is such a clever, creative, humorous writer.  I love her books!  This book is a great one to use when teaching punctuation.

I'm a Frog! An Elephant and Piggie book by Mo Willems*

The latest Elephant and Piggie book does not disappoint!!
Piggie thinks he is a frog.  Gerald, of course, is worried he will turn into a frog.  As usual, the book ends with humor and a  bit of a surprise.
Highly recommend the series.

Boys' Life Series Real-Life Robots! by James Buckley, Jr.

A look at the history of robots and then robots at work, in space, in the medical field and at toy robots.
DK Readers  Level 3-Reading Alone
Text structures- contents, headings, photos, picture captions, inserts, "find out more section", glossary, and index.

Blueberries for Sal By Robert McCloskey*

A classic picture book about Little Sal going with her mother to pick blueberries to can for the winter.  Along comes mother bear with little bear to eat blueberries so they can become fat for the winter.  The two "children" wander off and follow each other's mothers!
Highly recommend.
Caldecott Honor Book

The Berenstain Bears' New Pup by Stan and Jan Berenstain

An I Can Read Book -Level 1 Beginning to Read
Mama Bear take Brother and Sister Bear to Farmer Ben's to buy eggs.  They come home with eggs and a puppy!
Beginning readers may not know what "Mama's heart melted" or a "calling card" mean.
Warning:  Brother Bear asks Farmer Ben how he knew the pup was a girl.  Farmer Ben replied, "Oh, there are ways."  Some curious readers may ask about the ways!

Boys' Life Series Really Big Things by Michael Teitelbaum

A great series for boys!
DK Readers  Level 3  -Reading Alone
This book discusses things that are really big in five categories: animals, buildings, vehicles, food and miscellaneous.  The author compares lots of things to school buses.
Text structures: contents, "find out more", glossary, index, photos and picture captions.
Pair with How Big Is it? by Ben Hillman.

The Courage of Sarah Noble by Alice Dalgliesh illustrated by Leonard Weisgard

Sarah goes with her father to cook for him as he builds a home for the rest of the family.  While he builds hte house, Sarah befriends the local Native Americans.  When the house is finished, he goes to bring the rest of the family but leaves Sarah in the care of the Native Americans.  Throughout the story she tells herself to have "courage".  A wonderful story that depicts what true courage is.  This story is based on true events.
Guided Reading Level:  O

Song and Dance Man by Karen Ackerman illustrated by Stephen Gammell

A winner of a Caldecott Medal, this book shares how a grandfather puts on a vaudeville show for his grandchildren and reminisces a time without TV for entertainment.

Mike Fink A Tall Tale retold and illustrated by Steven Kellogg

Mr. Kellogg's pictures seem to explode off the page and come to life.  Great word choice that magnifies Mike Fink's abilities.

Henry and Mudge and the Long Weekend by Cynthia Rylant illustrated by Sucie Stevenson*

A wet, yucky weekend in February promises to be an extremely boring weekend until  Henry's mom comes up with a creative idea.  We love this series!
Highly recommend.

The Amazing Air Balloon by Jean Van Leeuwen illustrated by Marco Ventura

Beautiful, bright, bold full page illustrations dominate every other page in this book.  My boys and I especially loved the last page when Edward was in the air balloon, looking down on the town and the bay.  This illustration spans two full pages!
Told from the point of view of thirteen year old Edward Warren, an apprentice for a blacksmith, this story reveals the true events about Peter Carnes and his determination to fly an air balloon.
Edward Warren was an actual person but the only thing known about him is his name and age and that he was the first to go up in an air balloon in America.
The text mentions the first balloon ride in France which carried a rooster, sheep and duck.  We own a book about this first ride so my boys and I could make a T-T connection.
Read Hot Air by Marjorie Priceman for a fun read about the first air balloon ride!

That Book Woman by Heather Henson illustrated by David Small

This story depicts how the "Pack Horse Librarians" would travel through any weather to deliver books in the Appalachia mountains in Kentucky.
Cal tells the story in the Appalachia dialect how he almost resents this woman coming every two weeks with books.  A cold, snowy winter cooped up in the house transforms his attitude as he learns to read and appreciate the gift of "that book woman" and her books.
Inspiring story!
Mr. David Small is a favorite illustrator of mine.
strategies: inference, character development, character traits/feelings

Rabbit and Robot The Sleepover by Cece Bell

Rabbit creates a list so he and Robot know exactly what they need to do when at the sleep over.  Of course, the evening/night does not go as planned!  With Robot's calmer disposition, Rabbit learns to deal with the change.
Four chapters about 11-18 pages each.  Cartoonish illustrations.

20 Questions Why Do Feet Smell? by Gilda and Melvin Berger

20 questions about the human body are posed in this book.  Great layout- a full photo page with the simple question and then on the next page is the answer, again with a large photo of the subject manner.  The photos are expressive and some are funny.  Different ethnicity of children are represented too.  After the 20 questions, the authors include 20 additional questions about each subject manner.
It was a great book to share read with my six and half year old-he read aloud the question and then I read the answer.
Text structures- cross sections, arrows, bold font,  glossary, index

Bink and Gollie by Kate DiCamillo and Alison McGhee illustrated by Tony Fucile

Bink and Gollie are best friends.  One is very tall and lanky; the other very short and stout.  Three short chapters share their humorous adventures.  Although the three chapters are separate stories, a brightly colored sock from the first story shows up in the rest of the stories.  The illustrations dominate the page with sparse text inserted on each page.  I would love to live where Gollie takes up residence!  Fun to read.  Great for readers building stamina.

Harriet at Work by Betsy and Giulio Maestro

I would not have selected this board book at the library but my four year old son randomly pulled it off the shelf.  Harriet the elephant completes various chores all day.  Key words for each page are in bold (like work, shovel, dig, rakes etc).

How Big Is It? A Big Book All About Bigness by Ben Hillman

Another wonderful, fascinating book created by Mr. Hillman.  Great comparison photos.  He manages to insert humor into each writing.

Yummy! Eight Favorite Fairy Tale by Lucy Cousins *

Lucy Cousins knows how to create stories for a young audience.  She shortens these fairy tales so toddlers and preschoolers will sit and listen to them yet includes all the important story elements/themes of each story.  Both my boys, ages six and four, enjoyed them.
Stories included: Little Red Riding Hood, The Three Billy Goats Gruff, The Enormous Turnip, Henny Penny, Goldilocks and the Three Bears, The Little Red Hen, The Three Little Pigs and The Musicians of Bremen.
The table of contents has a small drawing of the main character so a child can know/"read" which stories they would like to read.
Warning:  In Little Red Riding Hood, the hunter chops off the wolf's head and the reader sees the head flying across the page!

The Tortoise and the Hare by Jerry Pinkney

This almost wordless books retells an old favorite.  The hare in  this story is not a sore loser!  Takes place in the SW desert.
Mr. Pinkney is very talented and creates incredible books.  I think I liked his version of The Lion and the Mouse better than this new book.

Press Here by Herve Tullet*

My four year old son loved this book!!  We read it at least three times in a row!  He giggled and smiled through the entire book!
Very interactive and fun.
Some math concepts (patterns) and primary color mixing included-very subtle .

From Seed to Pumpkin by Wendy Pfeffer illustrated by James Graham Hale*

Read and Find Out Science Level 1  (**excellent series)

This book explains the complex growth of a seed to a fruit and photosynthesis that children can understand.
Text structures- arrows, simple diagrams, cross section
In the back are more facts about pumpkins, how to roast seeds, and a science experiment  how plants drink water.

From Seed to Pumpkin by Jan Kotte

From Welcome Books series
Perfect for reading groups and for reading nonfiction with younger children/early elementary.
The left side of the book has the print and the right side has a full page photo.  Glossary words are in bold throughout the book.  This book starts with the seed and follows the seed to a pumpkin.
Text structure-bold words which are defined in the "new words" section in the back (aka glossary), section with recommended books and websites, index
Early Intervention Level 12
Other topics in series-acorn to oak tree, caterpillar to moth, egg to robin, seed to dandelion

Tales for Very Picky Eaters by Josh Schneider

A father uses reverse psychology and wacky stories to convince his son to eat unappealing food.
Very funny!  Divided into four chapters-about eight pages each.

The Year of Billy Miller by Kevin Henkes

Mr. Henkes is a gifted story teller!  He portrays a seven year old, second grader's feelings and thoughts very well.  The book shares Billy Miller's second grade school year.  The book is divided into four parts: teacher, father, sister, and mother.  The reader becomes very well acquainted with Billy yet the pace of the moves along rapidly and effortlessly.  Such great character development without long descriptive paragraphs.  I liked how close knit the family is.

A point for discussion:  The second graders are to write a poem about a favorite family member.  The teacher, Ms. Silver, points out that all families are different.  When defending  his very simple poem-My Only Mom, Billy points out that a classmate of his has two moms.

The Lotus Seed by Sherry Garland illustrated by Tatsur Kiuchi

The narrator  tells how her grandmother took a lotus seed from the emperor's garden and then carries the seed the U.S when escaping war-torn Vietnam.  The grandmother is heart broken when her grandson takes the seed, plants it and forgets where he planted it!  The story ends happily with a message of hope.

Julia Learns How to Vote Wisely by Carla D'Addesi illustrated by Wendy Potzgo

Finally a book with a Christian worldview on voting!  Using Scripture, Mrs. D'Addesi explains how Christians decide which candidate should be elected to office.  The author includes websites for further exploration and discussion questions.  My favorite "concept" was how one needs to trust in God, not the candidate.
Adorable illustrations!  The family is based on Mrs. D'Addesi's family.
The only draw back is the illustrations are very cutesy and no boys are depicted.  These two aspects could discourage boys from wanting to pick up the book and read it.

Sea Otter by Suzi Eszterhas *

Adorable close up photographs will make you say, "Awe!".  I did not know much about this creature but after reading was amazed at God's creativity once more!
So glad Ms. Eszterhas has written and photographed a book that is full of information but laid out in a manner that appeals to a younger crowd.  A much needed addition to the nonfiction world!
Highly recommend.

Brown Bear by Suzi Eszterhas*

Watch as two brown bear cubs learn the way of the brown bear from their dedicated mother.  Amazing photographs fill the page and utilize most of the page.  Great for read aloud.
My two boys, ages six and a half and four, wanted me to keep reading all the titles we borrowed from this series "Eye on the Wild".
Highly recommend.

Janice' VanCleave's Play and Find Out About Math *

Easy step-by-step instructions of hands on activities to make discoveries about math and mathematical concepts.  Categories include: Counting, Numbers (adding/subtracting, fractions), Time (clock and months), Shapes (forms and symmetry), Patterns, Measurement (length, circumference, weight) and Quantities (area, volume).
Included in the back are section summaries (explaining more about the concepts), glossary and index.
Highly recommend all her books in the series "Play and Find Out" (science, nature, human body and bugs).  She also has written science experiments for school age children.

How Many Seeds in a Pumpkin? By Margaret McNamara illustrated by G. Brian Karas

Mr. Tiffin's first grade class estimates which pumpkin has the most seeds.  A book that incorporates math-estimating, counting by twos, fives and tens.  Charlie, the main character, struggles with accepting his short stature learns an important lesson!
Pumpkin facts are listed in the back.  Even though it is a picture book and fictional story, the reader will learn a lot about pumpkins.

Big Snow by Jonathan Bean

As a young boy anticipates snow, he creates his own snow storms (and messes) inside as his mom TRIES clean up and be productive.  A story many children (and adults) can connect to!  The illustrations are my favorite part of this book.  All of Mr. Bean's books are filled with illustrations that add lots to the story line.

The Magic School Bus Inside a Hurricane by Joanna Cole illustrated by Bruce Degen

Great picture book series!  Lots of information packed into a picture book.

Answers magazine April -June 2013

Wonderful magazine that explains science and history from a Biblical worldview.  This issue focused on the Ice Age which I had never heard from a Biblical perspective.

How Strong Is It? A Mighty Book All About Strength by Ben Hillman*

Fantastic, humorous photographs that reinforce the author's point.  Humorous but very informative text.
Highly recommend books in this series for reluctant older boy readers.*

Ten Things I Love About You by Daniel Kirk

Rabbit decides to write a list of ten things that he loves about his friend Pig.  Rabbit visits Pig frequently for help/ideas.  Pig is slightly irritated at the interruptions as he is very busy doing something.  Hmmm. . .I wonder what he is doing?!
Sweet book.   A teacher/parent could use a writing prompt/mentor writing text.
I liked the map on the end pages.

Who's Looking at You? by Stephane Frattini

Each page has a huge eyeball staring at you.  The reader guesses what animal has that eyeball.  Under the flap are facts about the animal plus a full body photograph.  Sixteen full pages of eyeballs!  Eight more flaps are at the end of the book which just have the name and full body photograph of the animal.

Boys' Life Series Dinosaur Battles by Michele R. Wells*

DK Readers has created a dinosaur book boys will love!  Each page shares defense and attacks skills of different dinosaurs.  At the bottom there is a battle score for each dinosaur.  The higher number the dinosaur, the better chances it would have to win a battle!
Each dinosaur has a chart that displays its length, attack, defense and period.
Other text structures-name pronunciation, glossary and index.
Highly recommend for reluctant boy readers.
Level 2-Beginning to Read Alone

The Boy on Cinnamon Street by Phoebe Stone

Seventh grader Louise who calls herself "Thum" since she has not grown past four feet seven inches since her mother died, feels stuck in South Pottsborro living with her grandparents.  A secret admirer might just break through her frozen state and help her burst forth to her vibrant self.  Louise's grandparents made me laugh and smile throughout the book.
Very poetic writing; descriptive.  Ms. Stone captures a seventh grader's thoughts/moods very well.
Late elementary and junior high readers will enjoy reading this story but suicide is part of the story.  In my opinion the suicide is excused and almost an acceptable way to deal with life problems.
Point for discussion:  suicide

Poppleton in the Fall by Cynthia Rylant illustrated by Mark Teague

Three stories about Poppleton and Cherry Sue enjoying autumn together (geese flying south, a new coat and a pancake breakfast).
Love this series!

Bunny Days by Tao Nyeu

Three humorous stories about rabbits who find themselves in very unusual situations.
I found the stories really funny but one almost has to have an odd sense of humor!
Strategy-predicting
Illustrations remind me of the classic "Pat the Bunny" (the color choices and how the illustrator draws/forms his subjects).

Orangutan by Suzi Eszterhas

Ms. Eszterhas has created a new "Eye on the Wild" series.  She photographs animals from their birth through adulthood.
This series is perfect to share with a younger audience since most of the page is dedicated to photographs.
The photos of the orangutan are amazing.  The reader feels like you could reach out and touch it!
A list of additional facts are included on the last page.

101 Animal Records by Melvin and Gilda Berger

What amazing creatures God has created! This book will certainly deepen one's appreciation for His creation.  Great photos of each animal.
The book organizes the animals in alphabetical order.
Text structures:  labels, index, photo

Circus Caps for Sale by Esphyr Slobodkina

The peddler, Pezzo, takes his wares to the county fair.  A circus parade arrives.  An elephant takes the pedddler's caps and changes the course of Pezzo's day!
A companion to Caps for Sale.  Good idea to read them right after each other.
I did not like this one as much as Caps for Sale.

Caps for Sale A Tale of a Peddler, Some Monkeys and their Monkey Business by Esphyr Slobodkina

A peddler tries to sell his caps with no success.  He takes a nap to discover monkeys have taken his caps.  A fun book for many ages!
Strategy: predicting

P is for Pumpkin God's Harvest Alphabet by Kathy-Jo Wargin illustrated by Yawen Ariel Pang

This alphabet book shares the wonderful sights, smells, tastes, and sounds of autumn. Told in rhyme and focuses the celebration of this season on God.

The Cat in the Hat by Dr. Seuss

My four year old son had a serious face while I read this book to him.  When I asked him what he was thinking, he said, "I think that cat is a stinker!"
A book everyone knows and loves!
*Borrowed from the library.
Guided Reading Level: J (1st/2nd grade)
Grade Level Equivalent: 1.2

Two Crazy Pigs by Karen Berman Nagel illustrated by Brian Schatell

Two crazy pigs keep life lively at the Fenster farm.  The Fensters kick them out so the pigs move down the road to a farmer and his wife who appreciate their silliness.

Fix-It by David McPhail

Emma wakes up one morning to discover that the family's television set is "broken".  All havoc ensues as they try to fix it.  A great ending!
A book that reinforces that the illustrations help tell the story.

Aggie and Ben Three Stories by Lori Ries illustrated by Frank W. Dormer

Three progressive chapters share how Ben came to own Aggie, the dog and their adventures.
Great for beginning readers-not too much text on a page.

The Little Red Hen by Paul Galdone

I like Mr. Galdone's additions to this story.  His illustrations remind me of simple times.

Tap the Magic Tree by Christie Matheson*

 My four year old son said, "Let's read this book again.  It is so fun!"  And it is!
The "story" follows an apple tree through its seasons.  The author asks the reader to "tap", "shake", "jiggle" the tree/the book etc for its features to change as the seasons progress.
An unique book to add to one's many apple books and tree/seasons books.
Highly recommend!

Beyond the Dinosaurs Monsters of the Air and Sea by Charlotte Lewis Brown illustrated by Phil Wilson

An I Can Read! Level 2 (reading with help)
Eleven dinosaurs are featured in this book (although the author does not call them dinosaurs . . .just creatures).  Two pages are dedicated to each creature.
Perfect format for beginning readers.  My six and a half year old son enjoyed reading this book to me.

Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library by Chris Grabenstein*

Kyle Keeley loves games.  In his home town a famous game inventor, Mr. Lemoncello,  is hosting a game in the new library.    Twelve twelve year olds are selected to spend the night at the library before it opens.  They have a task, though . . .to figure out how to escape from the library by playing lots of clever games and solving riddles.
Kyle is a likable character who shows kindness even though he is competitive.  At the beginning of the book he is not a reader, just a gamer.  By the end of the story he is ready to read and catch up on all the great books he has missed!  Another aspect I liked was that Kyle came from a solid family-parents who loved each other and their children and three brothers who had healthy relationships.
Reminded me a bit of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (especially Mr Lemoncello-similar to Willy Wonka).
Lots of children's book puns . . .if you love children's literature, you will recognize many titles being used as clues and in other ways.
Highly recommend.

Ling and Ting Share a Birthday by Grace Lin*

Twins Ling and Ting of course share a birthday.  Their distinct personalities shine throughout the book.
Sweet stories.
In this book there are six chapters each about four to eight pages long.  Perfect amount of text for beginning readers.

Ling and Ting-Not Exactly the Same by Grace Lin*

A perfect book for beginning readers!  Ling and Ting are Chinese-American twins who look alike but are certainly different!
There are eight chapters, each around eight pages long.  Although each chapter seems separate, Ms. Lin ties them together nicely at the end.
Highly recommend.

Emma's Pet by David McPhail

Emma (who is a bear) wants a cuddly pet.  She searches and searches for the perfect until she finds one right in her own home!
I read this book because I read in Phonics From A to Z by Wiley Blevins that it was a good book to reinforce short e sound.  The words Emma and pet are repeated often.  The only other short e words I found was "wet",  "else", and even".