Books

**Description from Amazon:  After taking her children to visit Shakespeare’s house, E. Nesbit – one of the greatest of children’s novelists – was faced with a conundrum:   “I can’t understand a word of it,” said Iris.    “And you said it was so beautiful,” Rosamund added, reproachfully. “Wha...

FROM SARAH:

If you're going to Maine anytime soon, pair reading this book with a trip to the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, where you can see Nancy Schön's sculpture of Sal's Bear. This charming story of a girl and a bear cub both collecting blueberries is a timeless classic. Every home library needs it.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Sal goes blueberry picking with mama, but it turns out a mama bear and baby bear had the same idea. Wait - will the right babies go home with the right mamas?

FROM SARAH:

Jan Brett’s signature side-panel illustrations and lush landscapes bring this energetic tale to life! With its rhythmic storytelling and rich visual details, this book invites readers to linger on every page and cheer as justice—sticky, golden, and delicious—is finally served.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

The African plains provide a stunning environment for Jan Brett's latest animal adventure. For as long as anyone can remember, the honeyguide bird and the African honey badger have been partners when it comes to honey: Honeyguide finds the honeycomb, Badger breaks it open, and they share the sweetness inside.

But this day, Badger keeps all the honey for himself. Foolish Badger! In no time, Honeyguide leads Badger on a fast chase. Badger thinks it's for honey, but Honeyguide has a surprise waiting for her greedy friend.

FROM SARAH:

Irresistibly interactive. Littles LOVE this one.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Hervé Tullet's delightful sensory books have sold millions of copies around the world. Here is his beloved Press Here in a beautiful hardcover edition just right for toddlers, preschoolers, and early readers.

FROM SARAH:

I love this series by Laura Purdie Salas and Violeta Dubija. Do you know how many things water can be? So many!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Water can be a ...
• Thirst quencher
• Kid drencher
• Cloud fluffer
• Fire snuffer

Find out about the many roles water plays in this poetic exploration of water throughout the year.

FROM SARAH:

Perfect for Nature Study any time of year, this sweet picture book invites us to use our imagination and dream about all the things a leaf can be. Check out the other books in this series and treat your readers to beautiful illustrations and brand-new ways to think about the simplest elements of nature.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A leaf can be a...shade spiller, mouth filler, tree topper, rain stopper. Find out about the many roles leaves play in this poetic exploration of leaves throughout the year. Purdie Salas's lyrical, rhyming text and Violeta Dabija's glowing illustrations make simple yet profound observations about seemingly ordinary objects and encourage readers to suggest "what else it can be!" Using metaphors for a leaf (tree topper / rain stopper), a rock (hopscotch marker / fire sparker), and water (thirst quencher / kid drencher), these insightful picture books creatively highlight a variety of roles and relationships in nature.

FROM SARAH:

If you loved "A Leaf Can Be", this companion picture book is perfect for your youngest nature explorers. Check out the whole series to find out what a leaf, a rock and water can be! What will they become in YOUR imagination?

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Rocks may seem like boring, static objects—until you discover that a rock can spark a fire, glow in the dark, and provide shelters of all shapes and sizes. Laura Purdie Salas's lyrical, rhyming text and Violeta Dabija's glowing illustrations make simple yet profound observations about seemingly ordinary objects and encourage readers to suggest "what else it can be!" Using metaphors for a leaf (tree topper / rain stopper), a rock (hopscotch marker / fire sparker), and water (thirst quencher / kid drencher), these insightful picture books creatively highlight a variety of roles and relationships in nature.

FROM SARAH:

One of my tippy-top recommendations . . . if your kids haven't met the Penderwicks yet, it's time! A summer of misadventure ensues when four sisters meet a very interesting boy (and a couple of rabbits, too!) at a summer cottage in New England. Boys and girls alike enjoy this whole series. Hear Jeanne Birdsall talk about writing this series on her episode of Read-Aloud Revival. Also wonderful on audio (Audible | LibroFM).

*Note: There are a couple of instances of the Lord's name being used in vain by one of the characters.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

This summer the Penderwick sisters have a wonderful surprise: a holiday on the grounds of a beautiful estate called Arundel. Soon they are busy discovering the summertime magic of Arundel's sprawling gardens, treasure-filled attic, tame rabbits, and the cook who makes the best gingerbread in Massachusetts.

FROM SARAH:

The third in the series starting with Little Women and followed by Little Men. The boys in Jo's school have grown up in this bittersweet finale.

FROM THE PUBLISHER: 

Set 10 years after Little Men, Jo's Boys revisits Plumfield, the New England school still presided over by Jo and her husband, Professor Bhaer. Jo's Boys — including sailor Emil, promising musician Nat, and rebellious Dan — are grown. Jo remains at the center of this tale, holding her boys fast through shipwreck and storm, disappointment...and even murder.

FROM SARAH:

The lovely stories of country vet James Herriot. Children will love hearing how Mr. Herriot cares for animals and the people who love them. (Note: There are some animals who do not survive, so heads up if you have sensitive readers!) Wonderful on audio (Audible | LibroFM).

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Children have always found a delightful friend in James Herriot. His award-winning stories for young readers bring the farmyard world of Herriot's Yorkshire to vibrant life. Featuring a host of adorable animals and colorful townsfolk, each of the stories is narrated by the country vet himself, with all of the warmth, caring, and good humor that have made James Herriot beloved the world over.

FROM SARAH:

A compilation of classic fairy tales including some of the most beloved "Fairy Stories" by Andrew Lang, this collection is chocked-full of favorites. Head's up that this edition doesn't contain many illustrations, so it might be better read aloud than handed over.

FROM PUBLISHER:

This collection of historical children's fairy tales, compiled, though not written by Andrew Lang, includes the Blue, Brown, Crimson, Grey, Olive, and Violet fairy books.

FROM SARAH:

Originally published in newspapers in 1958, this collection of mysteries features a retired criminologist who invites the reader to solve a variety of crimes using quick, logic-based puzzles. I'd recommend this one for readers 12 and up (as some of the crimes involve murder), but for younger sleuths, check out Donald's "Encyclopedia Brown" series!

FROM PUBLISHER:

Whether testing their own sleuthing abilities by working against the clock or enjoying the intrigue of unraveling the case, readers get lots of spine-tingling mystery in these thrilling puzzlers.

FROM SARAH:

A young girl delights in her grandmother’s stories of days gone by, sparked by keepsakes and simple questions, Grandma shares marvelous stories of mischief , discovery, and laughter, such as the time she accidentally lost the family buggy.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A young girl delights in her grandmother’s stories of days gone by as, sparked by keepsakes and simple questions, Grandma shares marvelous stories of mischief, discovery, and laughter, such as the time she accidentally lost the family buggy.

FROM SARAH:

The second in the series: Grandma’s attic is full of keepsakes and stories. Lesson and morals are woven into these simple tales.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A young girl delights in her grandmother’s stories of days gone by, sparked by keepsakes and simple questions, Grandma shares marvelous stories of mischief , discovery, and laughter, such as a beautiful heart-shaped locket and a curl that cost Grandma more than a lock of hair.

FROM SARAH:

The third in the series: Grandma’s attic is full of keepsakes and stories. Lesson and morals are woven into these simple tales.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

These tales recount humorous and poignant memories from Grandma Mabel’s childhood. Combining the warmth and spirit of Little House on the Prairie with a Christian focus, these books transport readers back to a simpler time to learn lessons surprisingly relevant in today’s world.

FROM SARAH:

Nicki’s grandmother knits him a mitten that soon gets lost in the snow, but becomes a warm, expanding home for many animals. The preview drawings will enchant kids and help them guess what’s coming next!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In this bestselling modern classic, a young boy’s lost mitten leads to a charming snowy adventure. Jan Brett’s beautiful retelling is a family favorite.

FROM SARAH:

Such a fun book! A little girl travels the globe looking for the perfect ingredients to make an apple pie. Cute for geography or a unit study!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

An apple pie is easy to make...if the market is open. But if the market is closed, the world becomes your grocery store. This picture book takes readers around the globe to gather ingredients for a delicious apple pie. First hop a steamboat to Italy for the finest semolina wheat. Then hitch a ride to England and hijack a cow for the freshest possible milk. And, oh yes! Don't forget to go apple picking in Vermont!

FROM SARAH:

As each new child arrives in the family, the family food requests get more and more complicated, and Mrs. Peters finds herself accommodating more and more tricky appetites. But when her birthday comes, so does a surprise.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Peter wants only milk, Lucy won’t settle for anything but homemade lemonade, and Jack is stuck on applesauce. Each new addition to the household brings a new demand for a special meal. What’s a mother to do?

FROM SARAH:

Paul Galdone brings some of my favorite stories to life with his stunning and lively illustrations. This collection is made up of four individual books, making it perfect for a quick read-aloud at bedtime (or any time!).

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

No child should be without the best versions of the best stories, all told and illustrated by the masterful Paul Galdone: The Three Little Pigs, Three Billy Goats Gruff, Little Red Riding Hood, and The Gingerbread Boy. Pair this boxed set with the Folktale Classics Keepsake Collection!

FROM SARAH:

A tribute to our messy and marvelous homeschools, this picture book makes us feel seen and celebrated as we move throughout our days. Just watch out for that "crabby cafeteria lady"!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A must-have for all homeschooling families, this charming and funny picture book explores the special rhythms and routines of home education, inspired by award-winning author-illustrator Jonathan Bean’s own childhood.

For young Jonathan and his sisters, home and school are one of the same. Mom is their teacher, and Dad is the best substitute a kid could ask for. From math, science, and field trips, to recess, show-and-tell, and art, an average school day with this lively, loving family is both completely familiar and totally unique. This Is My Home, This Is My School draws inspiration from Jonathan Bean’s own homeschooling experiences and includes a note from the author as well as a selection of real-life family photographs.

FROM SARAH:

My all-time favorite picture book. This one is perfection in every way! Even though the audio version is only twelve minutes, it's worth the purchase! Read by Claire Danes and set to beautiful sound design. Wonderful on audio (Audible | LibroFM).

The story of little Alice, whose grandfather invites her to travel the globe, come home to the salty sea, and do something to make the world more beautiful. Listen to my special edition podcast episode about the author.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:
Barbara Cooney's story of Alice Rumphius, who longed to travel the world, live in a house by the sea, and do something to make the world more beautiful, has a timeless quality that resonates with each new generation.

FROM SARAH:

Everything Jane Yolen writes has a touch of magic to it, including this simple story about a girl and her father going “owling.” A beautiful tale to warm your winter.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Distinguished author Jane Yolen has created a gentle, poetic story that lovingly depicts the special companionship of a young child and her father as well as humankind's close relationship to the natural world.

FROM SARAH:

A book for the ages. I talked all about the making of this book on this special edition of the RAR podcast! Truly, this book is perfect in every way. Make sure you own a copy.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Another classic from Robert McCloskey! Mr. and Mrs. Mallard are searching for the perfect place to raise their family. Will they find a place to call home?

FROM SARAH:

Want to get your kids to play outside? Just read this book—don't say anything else! 😉 (Also: the illustrations by the incomparable Barbara Cooney are perfect.)

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Illustrated by Barbara Cooney (Miss Rumphius), Roxaboxen is a special place where games like playing house magically come to life.

FROM SARAH:

Filled with rhythm, rhyme and repetition, this story is perfect for early listeners and budding readers who are beginning to play with sounds. Check out RAR Podcast episode 35 for more tips on how to engage little learners in your read-alouds.

FROM PUBLISHER:

This tale of a peddler and a band of mischievous monkeys is filled with warmth, humor, and simplicity and also teaches children about problem and resolution.This classic picture book will be appreciated as a birthday, baby shower, or graduation gift! It never fails to get preschoolers chanting along and giggling.

FROM SARAH:

A 1963 Caldecott Medal-winner, The Snowy Day is simple and beautiful. Explore the city as it is blanketed in snow. Perfect for winter, of course.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

The magic and wonder of winter’s first snowfall is perfectly captured in Ezra Jack Keats’s Caldecott Medal-winning picture book. This celebrated classic has been shared by generations of readers and listeners, a must-have for every child’s bookshelf and a perfect gift for the holiday season.

FROM SARAH:

‘What will you wear in the morning?’ asks Jesse’s mama. Enjoy the sweet verse while teaching little ones about daily rhythms!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

What does a little bear wear while he romps through a bright and sunny day? In the morning, his pants that dance, a rose between his toes, and the sun on his legs that run. At lunchtime, an apple to bite and a moustache of white, and juice from a pear and rice in his hair. And at night, his pjs with feet and face on the seat, and sleep in his eyes and stars in the skies, as he dreams of the fun he’ll have tomorrow.

FROM SARAH:

‘Boil, boil, pasta pot -- boil me some pasta nice and hot!’ Strega Nona, Big Anthony and Bambalona work hard, but occasionally need just a little magic. (Lots of fun sequels too!)

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

When Strega Nona leaves him alone with her magic pasta pot, Big Anthony is determined to show the townspeople how it works in this classic Caldecott Honor book from Tomie dePaola.

FROM SARAH:

Silly sound effects and and sheep hijinks make this series a favorite among preschoolers!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Out for a drive in the country, Nancy Shaw and Margot Apple's well-known and beloved sheep run into some mishaps with their sturdy red jeep.

FROM SARAH:

The classic that never gets old. My kids all loved this deceptively simple and delightful book!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

All the barnyard animals want to join Mr. Gumpy on his boat ride. He only has one request: that they all get along . . . Splash!

FROM SARAH:

This collection of biographical sketches features some of the most famous mathematical geniuses in history, and would make a perfect addition to your math lessons. It's written in short, narrative snippets that read like historical fiction, making it fun and digestible for readers 8 and up.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Introduce kids to the lives of famous mathematicians like Pythagoras and Galileo. This book takes a look at the history of mathematical discoveries and the lives of great mathematicians.

FROM SARAH:

Gorgeous illustrations bring the classic myths to life. Full of rich detail and wonderful language!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Here are the greats of ancient Greece—gods and goddesses, heroes and monsters—as freshly described in words and pictures as if they were alive today.

No other volume of Greek mythology has inspired as many young readers as this timeless classic. Both adults and children alike will find this book a treasure for years to come.

Wonderful on audio (Audible | LibroFM).

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In pursuit of his lost shadow, a young boy named Peter Pan dashes into the bedroom of three children named Wendy, Michael, and John. After much blundering about, Wendy manages to reattach Peter's frenetic shadow, and in return, Peter propositions the three siblings to accompany him back to his home in a place he calls Neverland.

FROM SARAH:

All of the Ramona Quimby books are worth reading again and again. We love the audiobooks narrated by Stockard Channing. (My daughter, Clara, has memorized large passages by listening to these over and over.)

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Oh Ramona! There’s so much to learn, and it seems that often, she has to learn it the hard way. These tales about her family are funny and sweet. Ramona Quimby, Age 8 is a Newberry Honor Book. (We recommend the entire series!)

FROM SARAH:

One of our all-time favorite audiobooks and one of my most frequent recommendations. Just the right amount of thrill and suspense to keep you turning pages. Your kids will never look at an owl the same again! (Heads-up, if you've got a particularly sensitive kiddo, wait until about age 7 or 8 for this one.) Also wonderful on audio (Audible | LibroFM).

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

The second in author Avi’s Tales of Dimwood Forest Series, this tale features a large cast of animal characters, including Poppy, a shy mouse and Mr. Ocax, a great-horned owl and the authority of the forest. As Poppy begins to question the unjust authority of their woodland world, she embarks on an adventurous tale and finds inner bravery.

In this comprehensive collection, coauthors Julie Andrews and daughter Emma Walton Hamilton share a diverse assortment of their most cherished poems, songs, lullabies, hymns, and more.Featuring a wide range of beloved classics from William Shakespeare, Emily Dickenson, and Robert Frost to playful po...

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A classic celebration of childhood, A. A. Milne’s When We Were Very Young is a collection of poems that have touched the hearts of readers for more than 90 years. His verses sing with a playful innocence, weaving together the worlds of reality and enchanting make-believe. Published two years before Winnie-the-Pooh, careful readers will also discover the very first appearance of the Best Bear in All the World. These treasured poems are perfectly matched by Ernest Shepard's whimsical illustrations, which have delighted countless readers.

There's a poem to celebrate every moment in life-whether it's hitting a home run, watching a sunset, or laughing with your best friend. A poem is a gift of the heart that can inspire, reassure, or challenge us. Memorize it-share it-it's yours forever.In this diverse collection, a companion to her Ne...

**Description from Amazon: A collection of original, school-themed poetry for children accompanied by striking photos. The book demonstrates a variety of common poetic forms and defines poetic devices.

**Description from Amazon: A collection of original, United States-themed poetry for children accompanied by striking photos. The book demonstrates a variety of common poetic forms and defines poetic devices.

**Description from Amazon: A collection of wacky, whimsical poems about books and all the treasures they contain--honored with the Minnesota Book Award; NCTE Notable; Bank Street Best Books; Librarians' Choice; Honor Book - Gelett Burgess Center for Creative Expression; White Ravens book; and Nerdy Book Award. Laura Purdie S...

**Description from Amazon: Is a mealworm a worm or an insect? How long does the pupa stage last? Crawl through the pages of this book, and learn about the life cycle of a beetle.

**Description from Amazon: Who builds lodges? Who creates amazing towers? Who digs burrows? You’re invited to visit the different homes that animals build.

**Description from Amazon: A collection of original, weather-themed poetry for children accompanied by striking photos. The book demonstrates a variety of common poetic forms and defines poetic devices.

FROM SARAH:

This book is laugh-out-loud funny and oh-so-much fun to read aloud. One of my highest springtime recommendations!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Mr. McGreeley had decided to plant a garden. But when bunnies start making nightly visits and eating up his harvest, he plots to keep those twitch-whiskers from stealing any more of his vegetables.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

This inspiring story, with strikingly original art, is based on the author's mother's childhood and will show young readers that they, too, can make a difference.

*Description from Amazon: Following a wild and raging storm, the Swiss family Robinson are stranded at sea. But the thundering waves have swept them off to a tropical island, where a new life awaits them. Their ship is laden with supplies and the island is packed with treasures, so they soon adapt and discover new dangers an...

FROM SARAH:

The three tales of Elmer Elevator and a flying baby dragon together in one collection!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:
Rediscover the classic fantasy trilogy beginning with Newbery Honor winner My Father's Dragon in this 50th anniversary edition that includes three timeless tales in one, with original illustrations!

FROM SARAH:

A swashbuckling tale full of heroes and action, The Black Star of Kingston takes place a century before RAR favorite, The Green Ember.

FROM PUBLISHER:

A century before Heather and Picket’s adventures in The Green Ember, a displaced community fights for hope on the ragged edge of survival.

FROM SARAH:

May becomes abandoned 15 miles from home on the Kansas Prairie. Fans of Little House will enjoy this fast-paced story and the strong heroine. (A novel in verse.)

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

May is helping out on a neighbor's Kansas prairie homestead—just until Christmas, says Pa. She wants to contribute, but it's hard to be separated from her family by 15 long, unfamiliar miles. Then the unthinkable happens: May is abandoned. Trapped in a tiny snow-covered sod house, isolated from family and neighbors, May must prepare for the oncoming winter. While fighting to survive, May's memories of her struggles with reading at school come back to haunt her. But she's determined to find her way home again. Caroline Starr Rose's fast-paced novel, written in beautiful and riveting verse, gives readers a strong new heroine to love.

FROM SARAH:

Combine the masterful storytelling of Caroline Starr Rose and the emotional punch of a novel in verse, and you have this stunning historical fiction that’s perfect for readers who are fascinated by early colonial life. I’d recommend it for readers 9 and up, but it also makes a fantastic read-aloud for younger listeners. We are thrilled to welcome Caroline to the Waxwing family as she releases her picture book with us in 2026, Books Up the Mountain.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Alis and her parents make the long journey from England to settle the New World. But it doesn't go as planned and Alis, her parents, and the others of their small community soon find themselves at odds with the Roanoke tribe. As tensions rise between the settlers and the Native peoples, twelve-year-old Alis forms an impossible friendship with a Roanoke named Kimi. Despite language barriers, the two become as close as sisters, risking their lives for one another until Alis makes a decision that will change her life forever.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:
A truly comprehensive collection that is the ideal way of introducing children to the joys of reading poetry.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:
This upbeat collection of poems (compiled by the wonderful Jack Prelutsky) will last a family for years and years!

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Designed to introduce poetry to young people, this collection offers a wide variety of poems compiled by Laura Berquist of Mother of Divine Grace School.

A terrific way to introduce kids to specific poets, their lives and their work. We especially recommend these in the series: Emily Dickinson, Robert Frost, Robert Louis Stevenson, Walt Whitman, Carl Sandburg.

Endorsed by Jim Trelease (The Read-Aloud Handbook), this collection is wonderful for littles.

FROM SARAH: 

Kids have long adored Shel Silverstein’s poems and drawings. This collection of 130 of them has also gotten the stamp of approval from Jim Trelease (The Read-Aloud Handbook.)

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Shel Silverstein, the New York Times bestselling author of The Giving Tree, A Light in the Attic, Falling Up, and Every Thing On It, has created a poetry collection that is outrageously funny and deeply profound. Come in . . . for where the sidewalk ends, Shel Silverstein's world begins.

You'll meet a boy who turns into a TV set, and a girl who eats a whale. The Unicorn and the Bloath live there, and so does Sarah Cynthia Sylvia Stout who will not take the garbage out. It is a place where you wash your shadow and plant diamond gardens, a place where shoes fly, sisters are auctioned off, and crocodiles go to the dentist.

*Description from Amazon: No novel better epitomizes the love between a child and a pet than The Yearling. Young Jody adopts an orphaned fawn he calls Flag and makes it a part of his family and his best friend. But life in the Florida backwoods is harsh, and so, as his family fights off wolves, bears, and even alligators, an...

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

The unforgettable novel of a childhood in a sleepy Southern town and the crisis of conscience that rocked it, To Kill A Mockingbird became both an instant bestseller and a critical success when it was first published in 1960. It went on to win the Pulitzer Prize in 1961 and was later made into an A...

*Description from Amazon: Can Danny and his father outsmart the villainous Mr. Hazell?Danny has a life any boy would love—his home is a gypsy caravan, he's the youngest master car mechanic around, and his best friend is his dad, who never runs out of wonderful stories to tell. But one night Danny discovers a shocking secre...