Books to Inspire, Thrill and Engage Children
The Monster at the end of this Book, starring Lovable, Furry Old Grover is one of my favorite books to read aloud. My sister gave it to my children when they were preschoolers, and we have enjoyed it for many years. In it, Grover sees the title of the book and is scared. He talks... Continue Reading →
Laura Numeroff created a delightful book with If You Give a Mouse a Cookie. It all starts when the little boy in the book gives a mouse a cookie. A nice gesture - which leads to some interesting consequences which include mirrors, scissors, drawing a picture... and some how it all leads back to where... Continue Reading →
My Father's Dragon is a delightful story about a boy, Elmer Elevator, and his adventures on Wild Island. Elmer (the 'my father' in the story) befriends an alley cat, who tells him of a dragon caught on an island, used by the animals on that island. Elmer decides to go on an adventure and find... Continue Reading →
I have read several of Eleanor Estes' books to my children, and they have loved every single one. So, instead of reviewing each of her books, I'm recommending all her books! Estes (1906-1988) was a children's librarian for many years before starting to write children's books. She grew up in West Haven, Connecticut, which she... Continue Reading →
When we first meet George in Stoneheart, he is not a very likable guy. He's rather wimpy, trying to avoid conflict, mad at his mom, feeling guilty about his dad's death, in trouble with his teacher. Then, he breaks off the head of a stone dragon outside a London museum. And his world changes. The... Continue Reading →
My nephew is obsessed with the "Percy Jackson & the Olympians" series. He has read them all, and has sparked my son's interest in reading these books. I like to know what my kids are reading, so when The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan came in at the library, I grabbed it to read it... Continue Reading →
For the past two years, Anna has been longing, longing, longing to be a part of the Mother-Daughter book club at our library. It is for girls in 4th through 6th grade. She's been waiting and waiting and now, tonight, will be her first opportunity to participate. She is beyond excited. And I, her mother,... Continue Reading →
My oldest son brought me Stormbreaker by Anthony Horowitz after a recent library trip. "Mom," he said. "Would you please read this book and let me know if it's OK for me to read?" I greatly appreciated his asking. And honestly, I enjoyed the book. Basically, Stormbreaker is James Bond for preteen and teenage boys...... Continue Reading →
Cultivating Readers 