Books

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...

*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 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.

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:

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:

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:

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.

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:

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:

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:

Ease the transition time from evening activities to bedtime with this warm and cozy get-ready-for-bed book. Aided by Mom and Dad, a sister and brother enjoy a little snack, relaxing baths, time for brushing teeth, stories, lullabies, back rubs, and hugs.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Sometimes it’s fun to share, and sometimes it’s hard. This book offers toddlers simple choices (take turns, use the toy together, wait for another time) to make sharing easier, and shows them where to turn for help when sharing is difficult. Little ones learn that sharing can mean double the fun—and sharing a while can make someone smile!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

An award-winning author/illustrator team offers a fresh look at the times and transitions all toddlers face daily, giving young children the tools to handle routines with confidence and cooperation.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Toddlers and pets belong together—as long as toddlers don’t chase, grab, squeeze, yank, and tease. In simple words and delightful illustrations, this book teaches the basics of kindness to animals: careful handling, awareness, safety, and respect. It also includes helpful tips for parents and caregivers.

**Description from Amazon: Kids need help learning how to manage their anger. Blending solid information and sound advice with humor and lively illustrations, these anger-management tips guide kids to understand that anger is normal and to learn they can express it in healthy ways. The book teaches them how to recognize anger...

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Even young children can learn that their words affect other people in powerful ways. In child-friendly language and full-color illustrations, this book gently guides them to choose words that are helpful instead of hurtful, and to say “I’m sorry” when hurtful words com out before they can stop them.

**Description from Amazon: Who has the most power to stop and prevent bullying? Teachers? Parents? The Principal of the Universe? No, no, and no way! When it comes to changing bullying behavior, nobody has more power than upstanders—all the people who see bullying or know it’s happening . . . and decide to do something ab...

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

It’s boys vs. girls when the noisiest, most talkative, and most competitive fifth graders in history challenge one another to see who can go longer without talking. Teachers and school administrators are in an uproar, until an innovative teacher sees how the kids’ experiment can provide a terrific and unique lesson in communication.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Nora's managed to make it to the fifth grade without anyone figuring out that she's not just an ordinary kid, and she wants to keep it that way. But then Nora gets fed up with the importance everyone attaches to test scores and grades, and she purposely brings home a terrible report card just to prove a point. Suddenly the attention she's successfully avoided all her life is focused on her, and her secret is out. And that's when things start to get really complicated....

FROM SARAH:

Another book by Andrew Clements your kids will enjoy. My oldest son especially loved this one.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Greg Kenton has two obsessions -- making money and his long-standing competition with his annoying neighbor, Maura Shaw. So when Greg discovers that Maura is cutting into his booming Chunky Comics business with her own original illustrated minibooks, he's ready to declare war.

** Description from Amazon: Winner of American Library Association Schneider Family Book Award! Bobby Phillips is an average fifteen-year-old-boy.  Until the morning he wakes up and can't see himself in the mirror.  Not blind, not dreaming-Bobby is just plain invisible.  There doesn't seem to be any rhyme or reason to Bobb...

FROM SARAH:

Andrew Clements was a master of the school story, and this book is especially hilarious for twins! All of my kids loved it.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Identical twins Ray and Jay Grayson are moving to a new town. Again. But at least they’ll have each other’s company at their new school. Except, on the first day of sixth grade, Ray stays home sick, and Jay quickly discovers a major mistake: No one knows about his brother.

** Description from Amazon: NEW STUDENT GETS OLD TEACHER The bad news is that Cara Landry is the new kid at Denton Elementary School. The worse news is that her teacher, Mr. Larson, would rather read the paper and drink coffee than teach his students anything. So Cara decides to give Mr. Larson something else to read -- her o...

FROM THE PUBLISHER: 
The fifth-grade Week in the Woods is a beloved tradition of Hardy Elementary, where Mark Chelmsley (the Fourth) is pretty much killing time before his parents send him off to an exclusive prep school. But then Mark realizes the Week might be a chance to prove to Mr. Maxwell that he's not just another of the slacker rich kids the teacher can't stand.
But it may be too late for Mark to change Mr. Maxwell's opinion of him

**Description from Amazon: The toddler years are full of growth and smiles and sweetness—but also tantrums. With toddlers, yelling, screaming, wailing, and flailing are a normal part of life. Very young children don’t yet have the words to express strong feelings, and they’re still learning social skills. This board boo...

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Every parent, caregiver—and toddler—knows the misery that comes with meltdowns and temper tantrums. Through rhythmic text and warm illustrations, this gentle, reassuring book offers toddlers simple tools to release strong feelings, express them, and calm themselves down.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

When it’s time for young children to listen closely, this book sets the tone. They discover that it’s important to open their eyes and ears but to close their mouths so good listening can begin. Tips for parents and caregivers included.

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 SARAH:

Oh goodness, I do love a picture book written by Candace Fleming and illustrated by G. Brian Karas (Muncha! Muncha! Muncha! is another one not to miss!) This one is fun to read aloud again and again. The longer-than-usual text makes it best for slightly older kids.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

What would you do if you were invited to the princess’s tenth birthday party but didn’t have money for a gift? Well, clever Jack decides to bake the princess a cake.

Now he just has to get it to the castle in one piece. What could possibly go wrong?

**Description from Amazon: What's an opera singer to do when the appeal of performing in concert halls wears thin? Why, go West, of course! And sure as shootin', that's what Carlotta Carusa does. Out on the prairie, she finds all the adventure she's been craving: snarling wolves, disastrous droughts, and that no-good villain ...

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

To heal the hurt pride of Thomas Jefferson as Congress makes changes to his Declaration of Independence, Benjamin Franklin tells his friend the story of a hatmaker and his sign.

FROM THE PUBLISHER: 

From the acclaimed author of The Great and Only Barnum—as well as The Lincolns, Our Eleanor, and Ben Franklin's Almanac—comes the thrilling story of America's most celebrated flyer, Amelia Earhart.

**Description from Amazon: These contemporary “fables” are instructive, hilarious, and now in paperback!The fourth graders at Aesop Elementary are, well, unusual. There’s Calvin Tallywong, who wants to go back to kindergarten. But when he actually gets the chance, he’s forced to do the squirrel dance and wear a yello...