The Nature of Small Birds by Susie Finkbeiner*

 I read a review about this book in World magazine.

Three different family members, Bruce (father), Linda (mother), and Sonny (daughter), share their perspective about the adoption of Minh (aka Mindy) after the Vietnam War. Each person relates a specific year (Bruce-2013 & 2014, Linda-1975, & Sonny-1985). Ms. Finkbeiner beautifully tells a cohesive story about the Matthews family across generations. Although the reader can ascertain that the family believes in God, He is not central to the story. Hints of Him and His provision are inserted throughout the story.

The story caused me to re-evaluate how I interact with children who are adopted and who are a different nationality. I liked Bruce probably the best . . . he causually quotes poetry or ideas he has read in books. He is deeper and more reflective. Although he was my favorite character, all of the characters were well-developed and had distinct voices. I enjoyed reading Sonny's account because it brought back memories of the 1980's music and fashion and her vehicle--El Camino (my dad had one when I was growing up. My brother eventually took it to college.)! I found it curious that Mrs. Finkbeiner didn't choose Mindy's character to share a point of view, even though the novel centered on her joining their family. 

*Highly recommend.

-Borrowed from the library.

Nine Months by Miranda Paul illustrated by Jason Chin*

The reader experiences the development and growth of a baby girl from Day 17 until her birth.  Mr. Chin, the illustrator, reveals the baby's development as she grows in utero with detailed, accurate illustrations. 
This book extols the miracle of life!
Lots of great additional information at the end of the book.
*Highly recommend.
-Borrowed from the library.

Wolfie the Bunny by Ame Dyckman illustrated by Zachariah OHora

When the Bunny family finds a baby wolf wrapped in a bundle on their doorstep, they immediately are smitten.  No one listens to the voice of reason-Dot, the daughter-who proclaims, "He's going to eat us all up!".  She perseveres with her warnings throughout the story until she and Wolfie are alone at the Carrot Patch (ie grocery store) and encounter a bear.
Some surprises which make the story fun to read/share as a read aloud!
Mr. OHora wrote and illustrated Stop Snoring, Bernard!  It is great to view his illustrations again.
*Highly recommend.
Strategies: predicting, character traits, word choice/expanding vocab.

Completely Clementine #7 by Sara Pennypacker illustrated by Marla Frazee*

In this seventh book in the Clementine series, Clementine must face saying good-bye to her third grade teacher, persevere in giving her father the silent treatment, and anticipate a new baby in the house.
Humorous and heart warming!
*Highly recommend.

Maple by Lori Nichols

When Maple was just "a whisper", her parents planted a maple tree to honor her life.  Maple grew up loving to play around and under the tree.  When her a new addition enters the family, Maple introduces her sister to the maple tree.  Through the pictures, the reader can infer that the parents have planted a tree in honor of the baby sister-a willow.  The baby sister's name?  Willow!
Sweet, sweet illustrations.
**I would read The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein after or before reading this title and make T-T connections.

The Life of Ty Penguin Problems by Lauren Myracle Illustrated by Jed Henry

Seven year old Ty is tired of Teensy  Baby Maggie (his new sister) receiving all the attention so he pursues methods to gain attention from his mother.
Funny parts but my seven year old and I agreed we did not like Ty's behavior and how he handled his jealousy.  Made for a good discussion throughout the book.

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

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