Duckville by David Drury illustrated by Daniel Swartz

Adam the duck is flying south for the winter.  A terrible storm forced him to land in Duckville.  Adam quickly discovers that the ducks in Duckville do not fly and have some interesting ideas about many other things!  Adam sheds some light on their misconceptions and helps transform Duckville.
This book is actually a parable based on Mr. Drury's seven truths of spiritual transformation.
He wrote the adult book SoulShift.

Snowflakes Fall by Patricia MacLachlan illustrated by Steven Kellogg

Two talented individuals create an amazing book to  remember the children who died at the Sandy Hook tragedy.  This book celebrates the uniqueness of each child, life itself and renewing hope.

I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Pie by Alison Jackson illustrated by Judith Byron Schachner

The familiar rhyme/story.  Great ending!!

Thanks for Thanksgiving by Julie Markes illustrated by Doris Barrette

A sweet rhyming book that shows how many day to day things to be thankful for exist.  Bold, colorful illustrations were my favorite aspect to this book.   A place in the back for child to write a thankful list.

Giving Thanks The 1621 Harvest Feast by Kate Waters photos by Russ Kendall

Another great photographic story of the Pilgrim and Native American time period.

Mr. Putter and Tabby Run the Race by Cynthia Rylant illustrated by Arthur Howard

Very funny!
Lends itself to predicting.
Mr. Putter is an older gentleman who lives with his cat Tabby.  This story takes place in April with the earth and everyone is alive.  Mr. Putter is feeling so alive he agrees to run a Senior Marathon with his friend Mrs. Teaberry.

My First Biography Benjamin Franklin by Marion Dane Bauer illustrated by Anthony Lewis

This is a perfect series to read to younger children about famous people.  There is only one sentence per page and the illustrations are bold and colorful (fill the page).

Dolphin Talk Whistles, Clicks and Clapping Jaws by Wendy Pfeffer illustrated by Helen K. Davie

I love the "Let's Read and Find Out Science" series
This book shares how dolphin communicate. In some cases the author compares the dolphins' communication methods to humans or ways kids can understand.

Text structures: diagrams, comparing/contrasting diagram, labels, cut-aways,

Spaceheadz by Jon Scieszka illustrated by Shane Prigmore

Mr. Scieszka knows how to appeal to the reluctant reader!
Michael K. must save his spaceheadz friends from another planet from an evil chief.  The evil chief wants to destroy the alien planet plus earth with his red-hot ray by powering if with brainwaves.
Lots of fun graphics and short chapters.

How Chipmunk Got His Stripes by Joseph Bruchac and James Bruchac illustrated by Jose Aruego and Ariane Dewey

"A Tale of Bragging and Teasing"
A Native American Tale
A great book to talk about speaking before thinking and teasing.

Jet Plane How it Works by David Macaulay*

My Readers series
A great book to read to a child before flying!
*Highly recommend.
Text structures: diagrams, cut aways/cross sections, labels, "words to know", learn more, and index

Eye How It Works by David Macaulay*

Another great addition to the My Readers series by Mr. Macaulay.
The main character is a girl during a soccer game.  As the soccer game progresses and she uses her vision, how the eye works is explained.
Humor and wonderful diagrams make this book appealing.
*Highly recommend.
Text structures:  diagrams, labels, cut-aways/cross sections, "words to know", learn more, and index.

Train by Elisha Cooper*

The structure of this book  is well-thought -out-long like a train shape with thick paper.  Great for sharing with a group or a few children.  The reader begins the journey with the train at a station in the city.  As this train speeds along, it meets another type of train.  The reader follows this train until that trains meets another and so on.  The reader encounters several passenger trains, a freight train, an overnight train.  The reader experiences a journey from east coast to west coast.
Amazing!
*Highly recommend
Text structure: glossary and notes
Check out Mr. Cooper's other books-Farm; Beach

The Boy on the Porch by Sharon Creech

I read this in one sitting.  Ms. Creech is an amazing writer.. .she can create a powerful story that is short yet well developed.
John and Marta wake up to find a boy on their porch who cannot speak.  There is a note in his pocket that asks the couple to keep the boy until the person returns.
A lesson on loving and giving generously even though you know there may be pain and heartache.

Samuel Eaton's Day A Day in the Life of a Pilgrim Boy by Kate Waters Photographs by Russ Kendall

Another wonderful book created by this team.  This book, obviously, is told from a boy's point of view.
Text Structures:  step-by-step photos; song from time period; notes about the book; a section on rye harvest; glossary
Strategy/skill: context clues

The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley*

Eleven year old Flavia adores chemistry and terrorizing her older sisters.
Then a man is found dead in their cucumber patch and life is suddenly very interesting.
Mr. Bradley has created a story with lots of depth and interesting characters.
*Highly recommend.

Don't Laugh at Me by Steve Seskin and Allen Shamblin illustrations by Glin Dibley

A very simple but powerful book.  Words are put to music.
CD is included.

Busy Beavers by M. Barbara Brownell

National Geographic-Books for Young Explorers
Even though this book's copyright is 1988, the layout is appealing.  Perfect for transitional readers . . .lots of photographs and just the right amount of words on each page.
Text structures:  cutaways; a more about section; additional reading

The Periodic Table Elements with Style! by Adrian Dingle*

Wow!  What a fun book to introduce the periodic table!  The elements featured in this book introduce themselves and their capabilities.  Funny yet didactic!
A poster is included.
*Highly recommend.

Doctor De Soto Goes To Africa by William Steig

Doctor De Soto and his wife are called to Africa to fix an elephant's tooth.  A rhesus monkey, seeking revenge on the elephant, kidnaps Dr. De Soto so the elephant's pain will be prolonged.

Strategies/skills: context clues

Wilma Unlimited by Kathleen Krull illustrated by David Diaz*

How Wilma Rudolph Became the World's Fastest Woman
Ms. Krull shares how Wilma's childhood was saturated with illness.  Then she is stricken with polio.  Doctors claim she will never walk again.  With the help from her mother,lots of determination and faith, she overcomes her handicap to become a three gold medal Olympic winner by running!
-We own this book.
*Highly recommend.
Strategies: character traits, inferring, asking questions, connections
Guided Reading Level: Q (beginning of 4th grade)
Grade Level Equivalent: 4.8

Mr.Tanen's Ties by Maryann Cocca-Leffler*

Mr. Tanen is a cheerful principal who has a tie for every occasion.  Then one day Mr. Apple, the school's superintendent, reprimands him for not being serious enough and forbids him to wear anymore fun ties.
A satisfying ending.
*Highly recommend.
-We own this book (the woman who hired me for my first teaching job gave this book to me when she retired.).
Strategies/skills: character traits/feelings; character change; predicting

Kindergarten Kids Riddles, Rebuses, Wiggles, Giggles, and More! by Stephanie Calmenson illustrated by Melissa Sweet

Rhymes, riddles for the whole year.  A few of them are specific for kindergarten but most of them could be used for any primary day.
A rhyme for show and tell; loose teeth; letters; Thanksgiving; Valentine's Day; 100th day of school.

Tell the Truth, B.B. Wolf by Judy Sierra illustrated by Jotto Seibold

The B.B. Wolf is living in a retirement home when the librarian asks him to come tell a story.  Unfortunately the three little pigs are there!  As B.B. Wolf shares his version of the story, no one believes him.  To show that he is sorry, he builds the three pigs a huge house.
Other characters from classic or fairy tales are included.  Their comments are clever-alluding to famous lines or word play from their stories.

Cinders A Chicken Cinderella by Jan Brett

Jan Brett's latest creation!  This story follows the original Cinderella closely expect the main character's are chickens.  Not my favorite Jan Brett book but still amazing.
Strategies/skills: venn diagram; connections

Iktomi Loses His Eyes by Paul Goble

Iktomi spies a man commanding his eyes to go different places and then return to their sockets.  The catch one can only do the trick four times a day; after that a terrible thing will happen. Of course, Iktomi, does not heed the warning and must pay the consequences.
Iktomi is quite arrogant and not a likable main character !
There are six other Iktomi "misadventures" which take place on the Plains.

The First Strawberries A Cherokee Story by Joseph Bruchac illustrated by Anna Vojtech

The story of the first man and woman who have their first argument and settle their differences.

Turtle's Race with Beaver by Joseph Bruchac and James Bruchac illustrated by Jose Aruego and Ariane Dewey

After winter turtle wakes up and swims up to the top of her pond to find it transform.  A beaver has built a dam and lodge in "her" pond and an argument ensues to determine who owns the pond.  To settle argument,  they decide to race each other.
A satisfying ending!
A traditional Seneca story

Nate the Great by Marjorie Weinman Sharmat illustrated by Marc Simont*

Nate's neighbor Annie calls him to help her find a missing picture she drew of her dog.
Lots of subtle humor.
Great for transitional readers.
*Highly recommend the series.

Thanksgiving at the Tappletons by Eileen Spinelli illustrated by Megan Lloyd

Thanksgiving Day does not begin typically as the turkey slides out the door and sinks to the bottom of the pond.  Mrs. Tappleton is not honest and deceives her husband.  The day continues with mishaps and then a lie to cover up the mistake.  As the entire family gathers to eat, lie upon lie are uncovered and individuals must confess.
Illustrations by Megan Lloyd are lovely, of course!
My four year old son loved this book.  We read it two times in a row and will probably read it again and again!
Strategy: predicting
Points to discuss: lying and confessing

Give Thanks to the Lord by Karma Wilson illustrated by Amy June Bates

A sweet rhyming book based on Psalm 92.
A family gathers for Thanksgiving Day and continually thanks the LORD.

A Plump and Perky Turkey by Teresa Bateman illustrated by Jeff Shelly

The people in Squawk Valley have a huge problem this Thanksgiving-no turkeys are in sight.  So they advertise for a "plump and perky" turkey to be a model for their local arts and crafts fair.  A turkey volunteers but will he outsmart them and make them eat shredded wheat on Thanksgiving Day?

When I taught third grade, our team read this book aloud and then each student had to create a plump and perky turkey to display.  They could use any material just as long as it was in the shape of a turkey!  We had our own turkey arts and craft contest.

'Twas the Night Before Thanksgiving by Dav Pilkey

Told in the format of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, this fun rhyme shares how a happy class field trip turns into horror as the children realize the turkeys on the farm will  be butchered!  These resourceful children save the turkeys' day literally!
Funny!

On the Mayflower Voyage of the Ship's Apprentice and a Passenger Girl by Kate Waters photographs by Russ Kendall

Another wonderful contribution by this team! Follow William Small and Ellen Moore as they travel the Atlantic to the New World.
The books by this team offer readers a little look in the past and how life for children was very different!!
Strategies: context clues
Text Structures: additional facts in back; diagram; glossary

Two Bad Pilgrims by Katherine Lasky illustrated by John Manders

All pilgrims were holy and focused on God, correct?  Well, this book revealed misconceptions I had!
This book is graphic style narrated by a "professor" and the two Billington Pilgrim boys.  These boys and their parents did exist and contributed to the beginning of the new world (maybe not all wonderful things!).

Points to discuss:  Although I learned a lot about a different aspect of history, I did not appreciate the boys' behavior-disrespectful; foul language-mentions "cursing" but no bad words are written; poor attitudes; rudeness; lying; stealing etc.
The title "Two Bad Pilgrims" is very accurate!!

Sarah Morton's Day A Day in the Life of a Pilgrim Girl by Kate Waters Photographs by Russ Kendall

Wonderful photographs; authentic language!  This book reveals what life truly was like for the Pilgrims.  It does not mention Thanksgiving.
A couple of recipes included.
Strategy:  context clues
Text structures:  A blurb about Plymouth Plantation and about the real Sarah Morton; glossary; step by step "chart"

Mitchell Goes Bowling by Hallie Durand illustrated by Tony Fucile*

I love these father-son books by Ms. Durand!
Once again, this clever father takes his son's high energy and channels it into something productive.  Smashing things in the house and being destructive-the solution?  Bowling!
The illustrations are hilarious and portray the wonderful personalities and the thoughts of the characters.
A great book to read before your child goes bowling for the first time.  You could talk about all the aspects of what happens in the bowling as you read this book (Mitchell picks out shoes and a ball; the ball return; the slippery lane!!!; the air that one can dry hands on; the scoreboard; the gutter etc.)
*Highly recommend.

Rotten Pumpkin A Rotten Tale in 15 Voices by David M. Schwartz photos by Dwight Kuhn*

This is a gross but incredible book decomposition and the life cycle!
The photos show the mold/fungus and gross up close and personal!!
*Highly recommend.
http://www.amazon.com/Rotten-Pumpkin-Tale-15-Voices/dp/1939547032

Sir Cumference and All the King's Tens

It is King Arthur's birthday.  Lady Di of Ameter and Sir Cumference invite guests to a surprise party for him.  They use grouping to count how many guests are there so they can prepare enough food.  This book introduces place value.  The last page explains place value in more detail.

Toilet How It Works by David Macaulay *

This amazing author and illustrator is now creating books for younger readers to enjoy!  
*Highly recommend.
Watch out for more in series "How It Works" : Castle,  Jet Plane, and Eye.
Level 4  -My Readers
Text structures: diagrams, labels, cross sections, close ups, "words to know"-glossary, "learn more" section, and index.

Henry and the Clubhouse by Beverly Cleary illustrated by Louis Darling*

A classic series!  Henry has a great idea to build a clubhouse and his friends, Robert and Murph, readily pitch in to make it happen.  Henry has to balance being responsible in managing his paper route with the building project.  And then Ramona seems to be everywhere and at the most inopportune times!!
Great examples of work ethic and kindness.
*Highly recommend.
Third grade reading level.

On Solid Ground Strategies for Teaching Reading K-3 by Sharon Taberski*

This book was published in 2000 but still has a great outline of what comprises excellent teaching of reading.  I did not read cover to cover (it is a library copy) but the sections I read are very well written and thoroughly explained.
Would be useful for home schooling parents and "a must" resource for reading teachers or teachers who teach reading in the primary grades.
*Highly recommend.

Poppleton in Winter by Cynthia Rylant* illustrated by Mark Teague

Book 8
Three fun, sweet stories about Poppleton enjoying winter-icicles, creativity indoors, and a sleigh ride.
*Highly recommend this series.

Counting by 7's by Holly Goldberg Sloan*

Willow Chance is adopted and is a genius.  When Willow's world is turn upside down, unexpected people step up and help her through her hardship.
I cannot review this book well enough.  The characterization and character development is superb.  Willow's story will remain in the reader's memory and one readers will want to savor and revisit.
*Highly recommend.
Points to discuss: death, cancer, two main guy characters watching "hot" girls on TV, brief paragraph about reproduction-in stand offish way.

A Bug's Life Disney

I am not a big fan of Disney movies made into books but my six year old son brought it home from the library this week.  We read it so I am recording it here since that is the main purpose for this blog!

Ben Rides On by Matt Davies

Ben Lukin loves his new bike.  Unfortunately the school bully, Adrian, likes his bike too and takes it.  When Ben finds Adrian in position where he needs help,  will Ben show him kindness?
The power of kindness is celebrated in this story!

The Snatchabook by Helen Docherty illustrated by Thomas Docherty

My boys and I agree that the illustrations on the end pages reminded us of Winnie the Pooh.  Picturesque illustrations are idyllic.
In Burrow Down all the animals enjoy reading their books before bed.  One night the Snatchabook sneaks in and begins to steal all the books.
Rhyming text.

Mrs. Biddlebox by Linda Smith illustrated by Marla Frazee

Woke up on the wrong side of the bed?  Having a bad day?  Mrs. Biddlebox knows how to deal with a depressing day!
I really like Ms. Frazee's illustration style.  Check out her books Stars and Rollercoaster.

Bugs in My Hair! by David Shannon

This book will make you itch!!  Mr. Shannon has written a book about something that is a reality in all schools in a humorous yet informative manner.

The Three Horrid Little Pigs by Liz Pichon

There are so many fractured fairy tales out there that is challenging, I am sure, to write one that is unique.
I really liked this one!  Enough resemblance to the original yet some fun twists!

Henry and Mudge and the Happy Cat by Cynthia Rylant illustrated by Sucie Stevenson*

A shabby cat appears on Henry's and Mudge's doorstep one evening.  A story about kindness and then dealing with loss.
*Highly recommend series.

This Is the Feast by Diane Z. Shore illustrated by Megan Lloyd

A story that shares the hardships and blessings when the Pilgrims arrive to American and endure that first year.  Told in rhyme.
I love Ms. Lloyd's bright, bold illustrations.

A Turkey for Thanksgiving by Even Bunting illustrated by Diane de Groat*

Wonderful illustrations depict creation this time of year.
A family favorite!  Mrs. Moose would like a turkey for Thanksgiving so sweet Mr. Moose goes on a search for one.  The turkey and the reader have a surprise waiting for them!
*Highly recommend.

Captain Blue Sky by Richard Egielski

Jack is thrilled when he receives the toy Captain Blue Sky for Christmas.  One autumn day the wind swishes Captain Blue Sky away and the adventure of "returning to Jack" begins.
A fun, exciting story!  Bright illustrations.  Bigger in size so great for sharing.
Lots of pilot words used.  In the front of the book is a glossary.
Great book to use when teaching context clues.
Strategies/skills: context clues, predicting

Anything is Possible by Giulia Belloni illustrated by Marco Trevisan

Sheep watches the birds and longs to fly and see the world from their point of view.  So sheep and her friend wolf set out to build a flying machine.  After many attempts, they succeed.
The book sort of just ends.  In my opinion there is not much of a story but a lesson on perseverance.

The Odious Ogre by Norton Jester illustrated by Jules Feiffer*

The people in the land fear the ogre and tell stories about his horrible deeds.  His demise is when he encounters a kind, unbiased young lady.  Ever hear the phrase, "Kill them with kindness"?
Lots of rich vocabulary!!  Perfect for reading for context clues.
Large book so great for sharing.
Strategies/skills: character traits, context clues, inferring, predicting, word choice
*Highly recommend.

Cinderella's Rat by Susan Meddaugh*

Cinderella's story told from the perspective of the rat!
Fun way to model writing from different perspectives.
Strategies/skills: point of view, inferring

The Three Little Tamales by Eric A. Kimmel illustrated by Valeria Docampo

Three tamales do not want to be eaten so they escape and build three houses in the Texas countryside.  Spanish words are sprinkled throughout the story.  A glossary in the front of the book is very helpful!  Fun, catchy rhymes when the wolf comes to blow down their houses.

Henry and Mudge and the Sneaky Crackers by Cynthia Rylant illustrated by Sucie Stevenson

Henry and Mudge love watching a spy show.  When Henry purchases his own spy kit, he discovers codes that need cracking which may lead to a nice surprise!
"Ready to Read Level 2"

Tacky in Trouble by Helen Lester illustrated by Lynn Munsinger

Tacky is not your typical penguin and annoys the other penguins with his unique antics.  His unusual behavior leads him on an adventure.  The other penguins realize how dull life can be without Tacky!

Thanksgiving A Harvest Celebration by Julie Stiegemeyer illustrated by Renne Benoit

The story of the pilgrim's journey to America, their first year, how the Native Americans help and the first thanksgiving are told from Ellen Chilton's point of view.  A great overview of this time period and its hardships.
Illustrations are muted.

A Frog Thing by Eric Drachman illustrated by James Muscarello

Frank wants to fly but the problem is  . . .he is a frog.  His parents, like most parents, believe he can do anything he puts his mind to as long as it is a frog thing.  Some events lead to an unbelievable feat by Frank the frog!

A Bad Case of Stripes by David Shannon

Camilla Cream loves lima beans but is afraid of what of other may think of her . . . in fact, her obsession is what others think of her.  She learns the hard way to not to worry about what others think and be true to herself.

Goldie and the Three Bears by Diane Stanley

Goldie is having a difficult finding the perfect friend. She may find her in an unlikely situation.  A cute twist to the traditional three bears.

The Rhyme Bible Storybook by L.J. Sattgast illustrated by Toni Goffe*

All the stories are told in rhyme.  Fun for kids to guess next rhyming word.  We love this storybook!
*Highly recommend.

Arthur's Funny Money by Lillian Hoban

An I Can Read Boo  Level 2 Grades 1-3
Arthur and his sister decide to wash other kids' bikes to earn some money.
A perfect book for beginning/intermediate readers.

Randolph Caldecott The Man Who Could Not Stop Drawing by Leonard S. Marcus

A very interesting biography about Caldecott.
I enjoyed it thoroughly but do not know if many kids will pick up to read.  Librarians and children's literature fans will love it!

Baloney (Henry P.) by Jon Scieszka illustrated by Lane Smith*

Henry P. Baloney is late for school and will face permanent lifelong detention unless he has a good excuse.  The excuse is amazing and full of foreign words.
A great book for learning about and applying context clues.
*Highly recommend.

Touch Blue by Cynthia Lord*

A beautiful story about family, belonging and accepting change.
Ms. Lord's depiction of island life made me want to leave immediately and visit this island!

Tess Brooks lives on a small Maine island with several other families.  The school-age population is declining so the state of Maine threatens to shut down the one room school.  To remedy this problem, a few families agree to have a foster children live with them.  Aaron comes to live with Tess' family who finds island life different from the other places he has lived.  The big question is will he ever feel like he belongs?
*Highly recommend.
If you like this book, read Rules by Cynthia Lord.

Points to discuss: drug and alcohol abuse (Aaron's mother-why he cannot live with her); lying

100 Animals on Parade by Masayukie Sebe

First come 100 bears, then 100 pigs, then 100 carpenter beetles and so.  All these animals are headed to the same location . .be prepared for a very full page of creatures!!
An occasional number above an animal helps the reader as he/she is counting.  Little questions and sentences encourage the reader to find items within the drawing.
At the back Mr. Sebe shares how a snail, ladybug and ant are hidden on each page.  They are not too difficult for children to find.  He also gives some more objects to find in the festival scene.
An I Spy book with a bit of a story line and some math!

Thanksgiving Day Thanks by Laura Malone Elliott illustrated by Lynn Munsinger

Sam's class is buzzing with excitement about Thanksgiving.  Each class member shares their family's traditions and implements them into the classroom celebration.  Sam is having trouble coming up with an idea.
This book celebrates family and friends.

Planets A New View of the Solar System by David A. Aguilar*

National Geographic is, of course, going to publish a beautiful book.
A great layout-a couple short paragraphs about each planet and other object of interest; a couple of photographs/drawings; the Greek or Roman god/goddess the planet named after and a small diagram of where the planet/object is located in space.
New information about recent discoveries made this book very fun to read.
Other text structures: contents, headings, picture captions, diagrams, glossary, VERY fun activity to do in the back that demonstrates the solar system's vastness and planet size, charts, further exploration, index
*Highly recommend.

Animalia by Graeme Base*

Beautifully illustrated . . .intriguing . . .will keep readers focused for a long time.  Each letter of the alphabet is represented with a phrase that begins with the corresponding letter.  Objects in the illustrations begin with the letter of course.
*Highly recommend
Skills: decoding, word choice, alliteration

The Long, Long Line by Tomoko Ohmura*

A very unique counting book!  Not many counting books out there that go pass twenty.  Fifty animals are waiting in line for something very exciting. Each animal is labeled with a number.  Very humorous dialogue occurs as the animals try to pass time in the long, long line.  A two page fold out make an exciting conclusion.
*Highly recommend.

A Tale Dark and Grim by Adam Gidwitz

Mr. Gidwitz has cleverly woven different Brothers Grimm tales into one story.  He interjects with warnings to clear out young children before a gruesome part.  His other interjections bring humor and some wisdom.
A third grader could read this but I would not recommend for early elementary because of the gruesome details.

To discuss/warnings: very gruesome at parts; adults killing/being really violent towards children; Spoiler alert-the children must kill their own father, the king, who, at times, becomes the dragon destroying the kingdom (they bring him back to life then); dragon becomes drunk.

Follow That Map! A First Book of Mapping Skills by Scot Ritchie

If you want a book that covers all the basics of mapping for younger children, this book is a THE ONE.  Bright colorful illustrations with children  will appeal to kids as they learn.
My son's first grade teacher used this book as part of their maps unit and loved it.
A section where it tells you how to create your own map.
Text structures:  contents, headings, different types of maps!, labels, legends, scales, compass rose and index.

Clark the Shark by Bruce Hale illustrated by Guy Francis

Clark the Shark is exuberant.  Over time he learns about self-control and when/where it is okay to to let his exuberance loose!

Cinderelephant by Emma Dodd

A typical fractured fairy tale although some word play made it funny!

The Animal Book by Steve Jenkins*

This author/illustrator is incredible!  We enjoy his books here A LOT.  This book is a mini encyclopedia of the "fastest, fiercest, toughest, cleverest, shyest and most surprising animals on earth".  There are seven categories.  Each category has a brief paragraph to introduce it and a small circular picture for an mini- table of contents.
A potential point to discuss: One category is the story of life.  Mr. Jenkins is an evolutionist and explains it in detail.  It is good for Creationists to understand what other people believe.
*Highly recommend.

Text structures-table of contents, picture captions, pie charts, charts, bar graphs, time lines, more animal facts in back, glossary, bibliography, and even a section on how he goes through the process of making a book!!

The Light of the World The Life of Jesus for Children by Katherine Paterson illustrated by Francois Roca

Beautiful illustrations.   Ms. Paterson begins the story with Jesus' birth through the time He returned to Heaven.  Very explicit how the darkness of death could not conquer Him.  Salvation through Christ is not spelled out in this book.

The Once Upon a Time Map Book by B. G. Hennessy illustrated by Peter Joyce

"Take a Tour of Six Enchanted Lands"
Readers utilize map skills as they tour Neverland, Land of Oz, Wonderland, Giant's Kingdom, Aladdin's Kingdom and Enchanted Forest.
On each map is something hidden to find.
Very fun!  Thick pages which is wise since this book will be handled often!

There's a Map on My Lap! All About Maps by Tish Rabe illustrated by Aristides Ruiz

From the Cat in the Hat's Learning Library
Rhyming text and bright illustrations in Dr. Seuss style make learning fun!  Lots of information about maps for younger learners.
Text structure- maps!!, fact boxes, glossary, further reading, index

Me on the Map by Joan Sweeney illustrated by Annette Cable

A great book to introduce map and where one is in relation to the world.
The main character starts in her room and progresses to house to street to town to state to country to world and back again to her room.
My son's teacher really liked this book and used it with her map unit.  She shared that there is a booklet that goes along with the book online.

This author also wrote an excellent body book.

Moonshot The Flight of Apollo 11 by Brian Floca

This author/illustrator is amazing!  Over-sized, this book displays incredible illustrations on man's first landing on the moon.  The front end pages have a detailed diagram of the Apollo 11 and its launch.
So many books on this topic are too challenging for younger children but this book can be enjoyed even by a preschooler.

Lady Lollipop by Dick King-Smith illustrated by Jill Barton*

Spoiled Princess Penelope wants a pig for her birthday.  Of course, the King and Queen indulge her and ask everyone in the kingdom who has a pig to bring it to the castle so the princess can have her choice.  She picks unlikely pig, Lollipop.  Lollipop and her owner, Johnny Skinner, find themselves living at the castle with some daunting tasks-to train the princess to be nicer and to convince the Queen that Lollipop should be able to live in the castle.
Johnny Skinner is an admirable character who is very clever!
A delightful read!
*Highly recommend.
Strategies/skills: character development, character traits

Call the Midwife A Memoir of Birth, Joy and Hard Times by Jennifer Worth*

A fascinating memoir in the 1950's, London. . .Ms. Worth brings this time period to life in a gentle yet honest manner.  So cleverly organized . . .you learn about the area which she serves, the time period,  meet various patients and get to know the nuns and their faith well.  Even though there are some very sad stories, Ms. Worth includes humor to offset the awful reality of this time period.  I had no idea how destitute the people of London were after World War II.
Ms. Worth is a gifted writer and story teller.  This review does not do the book justice!
Warning:  One chapter has some very graphic descriptions concerning a stripper in a brothel.  It appalled me and then made me sooo sad because it was a true account and these poor women had endured this awful life of slavery.

Blueberries for the Queen by John and Katherine Paterson illustrated by Susan Jeffers

War World II is raging and out of his family only William is not contributing to "war work".  When he finds out the queen from the Netherlands is staying in a nearby estate, he courageously delivers blueberries to bring her happiness. . . peace work.
Sweet story based on true events.  The illustrations depict what really happens and what is occurring in William's imagination.

Hello, My Name is Ruby by Philip C. Stead

Sweet illustrations.
A little yellow bird searches for friends and bravely introduces herself to various creatures.  MOST of them are friendly which is a reality when looking for friendship.

Fall Mixed Up by Bob Raczka illustrated by Chad Cameron

This book is about Septober and Octember when apples turn orange and pumpkins turn red and when bear gather nuts and squirrels fly south . . .a funny book with bold humorous illustrations to accompany the mixed up words!

Mary Anning and the Sea Dragon by Jeannine Atkins illustrated by Michael Dooling

The illustrations reveal the climate in England in muted colors, lots of gray, black and blue.  The boys and I have read three picture books about Mary Anning and have learned something new about her life and discoveries.  A great lesson how one can learn from different books about one topic!
This book focuses on Ms. Anning's discovery of the ichthyosuar.

Turkey Bowl by Phil Bildner illustrated by C. F. Payne

Each year at Thanksgiving Ethan watches his family members play football.  This year he is old enough to play!  Imagine his disappointment when he wakes up Thanksgiving morning to see a snow covered ground and no relatives because of treacherous roads.  He comes up with a solution that will make his first turkey bowl one he will never forget.
C. F. Payne's illustrations with over large faces are memorable!
Word choice is superb.
Skill: word choice

Sophie's Squash by Pat Zietlow Miller illustrated by Anne Wilsdorf

Sophie and her parents purchase a squash at the farmer's market . . .with different goals in mind.  Sophie's goal prevails!  She draws a face on the squash and names it Bernice.  Bernice goes everywhere with her until decomposition begins.
A great book about the decomposition and plant life cycles.

Pick a Circle, Gather Squares A Fall Harvest of Shapes by Felicia Sanzari Chernesky illustrated by Susan Swan

A father and his two children (a boy and a girl) go on a hayride to the pumpkin patch.  Along the way they look for shapes.  The shapes they search for are: circle, square, rectangle, diamond, hexagon, triangle, heart, stars.  On the page with the featured shape are plenty of examples of that shape in the vibrant illustrations.
Follow up with your own shape search.

Buffalo Bill and the Pony Express by Eleanor Coerr illustrated by Don Bolognese

An I Can Read Book
This sixty-four page book is divided into four chapters with plenty of illustrations.  Every other page has a full length page of words coupled with a full page illustration.  Perfect beginning readers  building stamina.
Before the beginning reader reads the book, sharing background knowledge of Buffalo Bill and what the Pony Express was will help with comprehension.  Content vocabulary should be introduced before each chapter.
A great book to introduce/reinforce compound words.

As the Crow Flies A First Book of Maps by Gail Hartman illustrated by Harvey Stevenson

Soar with an eagle off a mountain top.  Hop with a rabbit to a garden.  Many other animals are featured and with each one is a full page of the map of their little world.  At the end is a two page spread of a map that shows all the animals maps combined.
It really is a great introduction to maps!

Chester the Worldly Pig by Bill Peet

Chester is tired of being a tired and determines to learn a trick so he can join the circus.  His ambitions take him off the farm but in a totally different direction.
Fun!

Teeth, Tails, and Tentacles An Animal Counting Book by Christopher Wormell*

Wow!  What incredible, colorful lino-cut illustrations!!  The simple, bold illustrations fill the page.  Mr. Wormell has the reader counting different body parts on animals-frog eyes, bear claws, leopard rosettes, barnacle shells etc.  I like this counting book because it goes up to 20.  Most stop at 10.
The book is over-sized so it is perfect sharing with a whole group/read aloud.  In the back there are more facts about each animal.
*Highly recommend.

Dog Loves Counting by Louise Yates

Dog loves to read but one night after reading he cannot "drift off".  Counting sheep is not doing the trick!  So he pulls out a book and begins counting the unique creatures inside it.  Under the animal's body part being counting are the numerals so readers are exposed to what the number looks like.  Sweet ending!

An unusual counting book.  Counts only up to ten.

The Gummy Candy Counting Book by Amy and Richard Hutchings photographs by Richard Hutchings

A rhyming, counting book that features gummy candies.  The highest number is twelve.  With the number twelve the authors show how one can divide twelve candies into equal groups.  The authors call the "sets".

Scarecrow Pete by Mark Kimball Moulton illustrated by Karen Hillard Good

Folk art illustrations
The main character hears a voice in his garden and discovers that the scarecrow talks and . . . has a suitcase full of books!  Pete, the scarecrow, shares the joy of reading and introduces the boy to the classics.
Rhyming text   The text is a bit long for a younger crowd.

The Scarecrow's Hat by Ken Brown*

Chicken likes Scarecrow's hat.  When he comments how he would swap his hat for a walking stick, Chicken knows someone who has one and goes to Badger.  Badger would gladly swap his walking stick for a piece of ribbon.  Chicken knows someone who has ribbon . . . and so the story continues in that manner until each creature is satisfied!  Lovely, full page illustrations.
*Highly recommend.

Pumpkin Patch Scarecrows by Frank Fiorello

Bold, adorable illustrations!  A fun rhyming text shares what scarecrows do all day and night.  The illustrations dominate the pages over the text.  Great one to share at read alouds.