| Name | Heidi Keairns |
| Title | Mom school |
| Author | Rebecca Van Slyke |
| ISBN | 9780385388924 |
| Publisher | Doubleday Books |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | The child narrator thinks about the things that her mom might have learned at Mom School. She imagines her learning things like grocery shopping, tucking you into bed, going on scary rides at the fair, baiting a fishing hook, doing more than one thing at a time, and building forts from cushions. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. While the mom in the story learns some stereotypical things like baking cupcakes, she also learns things like pumping up a bicycle tire and pitching a ball. The mom's shown are not all the same. The narrator writes that her mom goes to a job everyday but her most important job is being her mom. I think this book will be fun to read around Mother's Day. |
| Name | Rebecca Schlafer |
| Title | Human Body Theater |
| Author | Maris Wicks |
| ISBN | 978-1-59643-929-0 |
| Publisher | First Second |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1 to 5 with 5 being the highest) | 5 |
| Summary | A comic book describing the different body systems narrated by a skeleton. The book covers eleven different body systems including the skeletal system, the digestive system. the immune system and the nervous system. The book contains color drawings and because of the amount of information that is covered in the book there are lots of words in each panel. The book contains a glossary, bibliography and other recommended texts. |
| Would you recommend this title and why or why not? | Yes. The language in this book is clear and straightforward. There is not any medical jargon or anything to confuse a middle school reader. The drawings are clear. accurate and colorful which will appeal to a middle school reader. Another reason I would recommend this book is because systems of the body are part of the next generation science standards used by JCPS. I will say that this book covers the reproductive system in vert clear and honest language, but it does not cover reproductive act. If you are uncomfortable with medical drawings of sex organs or terms involving reproduction I would not put this book in your library. |
| Name | Jessica Thomas |
| Title | Lassie Come Home |
| Author | Susan Hill |
| ISBN | 9781627792943 |
| Publisher | Henry Holt and Company |
| Classification | Fiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5 with 5 being the highest) | 4 |
| Summary | Lassie, a dog, and her owner Joe love each other very much. Joe's dad loses his job and he has to sell Lassie to someone else because they can't afford to take care of Lassie anymore. Joe and Lassie are both heartbroken. Lassie keeps coming back to Joe and they have to keep returning her to her new owner. Later in the story, Lassie's new owner moves to another city far away. Lassie finds a way to come back to Joe. She travels over many months to get to Joe. When the new owner discovers Lassie came back, he decides to give Joe's dad a job taking care of Lassie, and Lassie gets to stay with Joe. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or Why not? | Yes. This was a very heartfelt book and I think that kids will relate to loving a pet so intensely. I think some kids will also relate to having to give up something they really love because their parents can't afford it. It is a great book for discussion because it has lots of unique vocabulary words that students won't be familiar with, so this would be a great book to work on vocabulary with. |
| Name | Jessica Thomas |
| Title | I Yam A Donkey! |
| Author | Cece Bell |
| ISBN | 9780544087200 |
| Publisher | Clarion Books |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5 with 5 being the highest) | 5 |
| Summary | This book is about a donkey who thinks a yam is a donkey. The yam is very frustrated because the donkey keeps using incorrect grammar and he keeps thinking he is a donkey. At the end of the book, the yam tells him that he is a vegetable and so are all of his friends. The donkey ends up eating all of them. The kids learned that it is not always nice to keep correcting people and that sometimes it comes back to haunt you. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. The kids laughed non-stop while I was reading this book. They loved it! I even had a student correct another student's grammar after we got done because he used the same incorrect grammar as the donkey did in the story. I think it is a great story to teach students about being kind to others and realizing that some people speak and act differently than you. I also think it is a great book to review grammar usage. I think this will be a popular book in the library. |
| Name | Jessica Thomas |
| Title | The Skunk |
| Author | Mac Barnett |
| ISBN | 9781596439665 |
| Publisher | Roaring Book Press |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5 with 5 being the highest) | 5 |
| Summary | This book was about a skunk who shows up on a man's doorstep one morning. The skunk follows him everywhere he goes, and it begins to make the man very nervous and upset. He finally manages to lose the skunk, and he decides to buy a new home and new things and settle down in a new location so the skunk can't find him. Then he begins to wonder and worry about the skunk. He goes out looking for him. He finds the skunk and decides that he will keep an eye on the skunk to make sure he doesn't start following him again. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. My kids enjoyed this book. I like that the book leaves you wondering why the skunk followed the man in the first place. It gave the kids an opportunity to have some discussion about the reasons they think the skunk followed him and create their own endings and hypothesis. It is unique to have a skunk as a main character of a book as well, because that does not happen very often. |
| Name | Jessica Thomas |
| Title | Giraffes Ruin Everything |
| Author | Heidi Schulz |
| ISBN | 978681190822 |
| Publisher | Bloomsbury Publishing |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5 with 5 being the highest) | 5 |
| Summary | A little boy talks about how Giraffes ruin everything- flying kites, going to the movies, secret club houses, and many other things. Finally, one of the boy's friends tells him that he ruins everything and that everyone makes mistakes. The little boy then realizes that the giraffe is not trying to ruin anything and that he has good intentions. He hugs the giraffe and they make up. At the end of the book, the little boy warns you about elephants ruining everything, which lead us to believe there could be a sequel to this book. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. My kids thought this book was really funny, and it teaches and excellent lesson- compassion. Students need to know that even if someone does something that frustrates you, they may not understand what they are doing wrong. I was very happy to see that most of my students felt sad for the giraffe and understood that animals can't communicate or act like humans. |
| Name | Jessica Thomas | ||||||||||||
| Title | Stay! A Top Dog Story | ||||||||||||
| Author | Alex Latimer | ||||||||||||
| ISBN | 9781561458844 | ||||||||||||
| Publisher | Peachtree Publishers | ||||||||||||
| Classification | Elementary | ||||||||||||
| Recommended Level | Everybody | ||||||||||||
| Rating (1-5 with 5 being the highest) | 5 | ||||||||||||
| Summary | My kids loved this story! This is a story about a little boy who has a dog named Buster. Buster is a little bit mischievous and he is not allowed to go on the family vacation with Ben and his parents. Ben is worried his grandpa won't be able to take care of Buster while he is gone, so he leaves him lots of notes. Surprisingly, when Ben gets back, grandpa has trained Buster and he is able to go on the next family vacation. | ||||||||||||
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? |
|
| Name | Tammi Dawson |
| Title | Walking in a Winter Wonderland |
| Author | Richard Smith |
| ISBN | 9781627793049 |
| Publisher | Henry Holt and Company |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5 with 5 being the highest) | 4 |
| Summary | Beautiful illustrations bring this holiday song Walking in a Winter Wonderland to life. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Walking in a Winter Wonderland would be a good addition to a school library. It has beautiful illustrations to add to this classic holiday song. Some of the lyrics were a little different than most kids are used to. |
| Name | Tammi Dawson | |||
| Title | Crybaby | |||
| Author | Karen Beaumont | |||
| ISBN | 9780805089745 | |||
| Publisher | Henry Holt and Company | |||
| Classification | Everybody | |||
| Recommended Level | Elementary | |||
| Rating (1-5 with 5 being the highest) | 4 | |||
| Summary | Baby wakes up everyone when she cries in the middle of the night. Each person tries to get baby to stop crying, but only Roy the family dog knows what baby really wants - her toy. | |||
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. This book would be a good addition to an elementary school library. It would enjoyed most by young readers or during storytime. Kids will love the repetition and rhyme in this story.
|
| Name | Tammi Dawson |
| Title | A Place to Read |
| Author | Leigh Hodgkinson |
| ISBN | 9781681193236 |
| Publisher | Bloomsbury |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5 with 5 being the highest) | 4 |
| Summary | The reader in this story is looking for a good place to read - not too itchy-fuzzy, somewhere quiet, not buzz-buzzy. He soon learns that a book is best anywhere when you share. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. This would be a good selection for a school library especially for a good read-aloud book. Students will love the colorful illustrations and playful rhymes. |
| Name | Tammi Dawson |
| Title | Egg |
| Author | Kevin Henkes |
| ISBN | 9780062408730 |
| Publisher | Greenwillow Books |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5 with 5 being the highest) | 4 |
| Summary | Four different color eggs are waiting to hatch. Baby birds hatch from the first three eggs and fly away. They come back to check on the last egg pecking, waiting, and listening. They are surprised to see a crocodile hatch from the last egg and fly away. They come back and befriend the lonely crocodile. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Young readers will love this simple, repetitive story about friendship. It is easy to read with appealing pictures. Egg teaches us all to be kind to everyone no matter what they look like. |
| Name | Tammi Dawson |
| Title | The Loch Ness Monster |
| Author | Helen Lester |
| ISBN | 9780544099906 |
| Publisher | Houghton Mifflin Harcourt |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5 with 5 being the highest) | 4 |
| Summary | There are not one, but three loch ness monsters - Nessie, Fergus, and their wee laddie, Angus. The wee loch ness monster was so messy that his parents sent him to his room. His pile kept growing until he reached the top of the lake and got the scare of his life. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. The Loch Mess Monster is a good selection for a school library because it teaches a valuable lesson - to keep our rooms neat and tidy. It also has a Scottish glossary at the front of the book to help kids and adults learn new Scottish words. |
| Name | Tammi Dawson |
| Title | Field guide to the Grumpasaurus |
| Author | Edward Hemingway |
| ISBN | 9780544546653 |
| Publisher | Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Punlishing Company |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5 with 5 being the highest) | 3 |
| Summary | This book is a field guide to the Badmoodicus Grumpasauricus, also known as the North American Grumpasaurus. It teaches us to handle a grumpasaurus with care. They can be very loud and fearsome, but they can be won over with a little love. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. This would be a good book for a school library because all kids get grumpy and this books shows them that this emotion is okay. It describes the child's temper tantrum in a way that children can understand and relate to. |
| Name | Jessica Thomas |
| Title | What makes a monster? : discovering the world's scariest creatures |
| Author | Jess Keating |
| ISBN | 9780553512304 |
| Publisher | Penguin Random House, LLC |
| Classification | Non Fiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5 with 5 being the highest) | 5 |
| Summary | I LOVE this book, "The World of Weird Animals: What Makes a Monster?" and so do the kids. I love that it gives the kids a view of many different types of animals, some of which they had no idea existed, and they love the interesting facts that are provided about each animal. The pictures are excellent and gives the students a small amount of information about each animal, such as their name, size, diet, habitat, predators and threats, and interesting facts. This book leads to many students checking out books about each individual animal and learning more about them. This makes for an excellent read aloud, and provides lots of great discussion! |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. All students love animal books. The more the better. What makes this book unique and special is the coloring, interesting and bizarre facts, and the excellent pictures that keep my students focused and attentive. Definitely a must have! |
| Name | Rebecca Schlafer |
| Title | Curse of the Boggin The Library Book 1 |
| Author | D.J. MacHale |
| ISBN | 978-1-101-93253-7 |
| Publisher | Random House |
| Classification | Fiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | Marcus is having trouble in school with a teacher who is picking on him. He is also struggling to get along with his adoptive mother, who he is convinced doesn't like him. All of this comes to a head when Marcus takes a stand against a rude teacher and earns time in detention. In detention, Marcus sees a ghost who tells him to surrender the key. At first, Marcus thinks he is losing his mind, but then he decides to find out the mystery of the key. Marcus enlists his two best friends Lu and Theo to help him. The three of them discover that the key leads to a library filled with unfinished stories of the dead. Marcus has to complete the story of one of the dead people in the story. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | No. I am in a middle school and the book seems a little young for the older kids. I think that 6th graders would be fine with that, but otherwise it would be a turn-off for many of my students. In addition, this series has little that sets it apart from the other scary mystery series on the market. This doesn't mean that students wouldn't enjoy it, I just don't think I would put it in the library |
| Name | Jason Highley |
| Title | Little Author in the Big Woods |
| Author | Yona Zeldis McDonough |
| ISBN | 9780805095425 |
| Publisher | Henry Holt |
| Classification | Biography |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | A biography of Wilder set up to be read more like a chapter book, resembling the classic Little House books |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Great choice for an author study or for fans of the Little House books. |
| Name | Jason Highley |
| Title | A whale in the bathtub |
| Author | Kylie Westaway |
| ISBN | 9780544535350 |
| Publisher | Clarion Books |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | A little boy can't take his bath because there is a whale in the tub, but no one believes him. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. This would be a fun readaloud |
| Name | Jason Highley |
| Title | There is a tribe of kids |
| Author | Lane Smith |
| ISBN | 9781626720565 |
| Publisher | Roaring Press Books |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Beautiful picture book which whimsically illustrates the proper names of groups of things (unkindness of ravens, parade of elephants, etc) |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Great to tie in to a language arts lesson |
| Name | Jason Highley |
| Title | How To Share With A Bear |
| Author | Eric Pinder |
| ISBN | 9780374300197 |
| Publisher | Farrar Straus Giroux |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Cute story with a surprise ending! This would be an excellent choice for classrooms that have trouble learning to share, or for kids who are becoming siblings. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Great illustrations. Fun to read aloud. |
| Name | Jason Highley |
| Title | Crankee Doodle |
| Author | Tom Angelberger |
| ISBN | 9780547818542 |
| Publisher | Clarion Books |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | This book is a fun way to introduce kids to a song that really doesn't make a whole lot of sense by today's logic. The argument between Yankee Doodle and his horse is silly and fun and sure to appeal to older kids who may still be in the picture book stage. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Lots of fun for struggling readers. |
| Name | Jason Highley |
| Title | Sing |
| Author | Joe Raposo |
| ISBN | 9780805090710 |
| Publisher | Henry Holt |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | One of my favorite songs ever, so simple and profound. The illustrations accompany the song beautifully. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. This is a great song about acceptance, and could be used by primary teachers as well as art and music teachers. |
| Name | Jason Highley |
| Title | Vivaldi and the Invisible Orchestra |
| Author | Stephen Costanza |
| ISBN | 9780805078015 |
| Publisher | Henry Holt |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Great example of Historical Fiction for younger readers. Covers Vivaldi as a composer and also has a great lesson for students who may feel neglected or forgotten in class. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Offers a great opportunity for coteaching with a music teacher |
| Name | Jason Highley |
| Title | Count off, squeak scouts |
| Author | Laura Driscoll |
| ISBN | 9781575655253 |
| Publisher | The Kane Press |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | The story and illustrations are a lot of fun, and this book has the added benefit of covering a very basic math concept (number sequence). The book could easily be shelved in math under Dewey, but it makes such a fun readaloud that I felt it best suited to my Easy Fiction section. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Great readaloud, connected to important math concept for early readers |
| Name | Carol Hawkins |
| Title | My favorite pets |
| Author | Jeanne Birdsall |
| ISBN | 9780385755719 |
| Publisher | Random House |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | A little boy has to write a report about his pet. He writes about his sheep and all the things you can do and not do with sheep. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. It can be used to teach reports. |
| Name | Carol Hawkins |
| Title | Snowy Bear |
| Author | Tony Mitton |
| ISBN | 9781619639058 |
| Publisher | Bloomsbury |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | A bear is looking for a place to get warm. The bear is turned away from several places and finds a little girl who welcomes it with open arms. They become friends |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. It teaches about friendship. |
| Name | Carol Hawkins |
| Title | All kinds of kisses |
| Author | Heather Swain |
| ISBN | 9781250066503 |
| Publisher | Feiwel and Friends |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | The book describes the different ways animals eat. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. It teaches kids about animals. |
| Name | Carol Hawkins |
| Title | The magic balloons |
| Author | Paul Margulies |
| ISBN | 9781101935231 |
| Publisher | Random House |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | Three girls are given magic balloons. They are told to tie the balloons to their bed and something magical will happen. They float out of the rooms and land among the stars. The sun begins to rise and they pop the balloons and head back down to Earth. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. It would be a great way to teach students about kindness to animals and about imagination |
| Name | Carol Hawkins |
| Title | Beachy and Me |
| Author | Bob Staake |
| ISBN | 9780385373142 |
| Publisher | Random House |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | A small child by the name of Pixie Picklespeare lives in a lighthouse on an island in the middle of the ocean. She complained about having nothing to do when a whale washes ashore and needs help. Pixie tries to help the whale and finally helps set it free. Together they explore the ocean and Pixie finds many new treasures for her island. Pixie learns about the importance of friendship. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. This book would be great to help students deal with friends that move away. |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | Tony |
| Author | Ed Galing |
| ISBN | 9781626723085 |
| Publisher | Roaring Brook Press |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
|
Rating (1-5)
|
3 |
| Summary | The narrator reminiscences about how, when he was a boy, he would go out early each morning and greet Tony, the horse who pulled the milk truck. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | No. Although the story allows the reader to understand the importance of the relationship between the horse and the child, it is a story that most children will not identify with. Could easily be used to teach change over time, but I do not believe the artwork, although beautiful will attract children to pick up this book. |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | Muddle and Mo |
| Author | Niki Slade Robinson |
| ISBN | 9780544716124 |
| Publisher | Clarion Books |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
|
Summary
|
Muddle, an enthusiastic little duckling who asks a lot of questions, and Mo, a not very adventurous white goat who has a lot of patience, are best friends, but Muddle is confused about what type of animals they both are. |
| Do you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. An absolutely sweet story that shares the importance of accepting and celebrating the differences and similarities of ones friendship. |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | Before Morning |
| Author | Joyce Sidman |
| ISBN | 9780547979175 |
| Publisher | Houghton Mifflin Harcourt |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Story highlights her desires to have all schedules her mother's busy schedule to be swept aside by the peace of the snow so they can spend more time together participating in snowy day activities. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Both the artwork and story paint a picture of a child's desire to spend special time with a parent. You feel the love of the family through both. |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | Before I leave |
| Author | Jessixa Bagley |
| ISBN | 9781626720404 |
| Publisher | Roaring Brook Press |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Leaving her best friend is difficult for a young hedgehog whose family is moving, but everyone assures her that things will be alright |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Moves are always stressful, but even more when you are having to leave your best friend. This story helps the reader travel through the emotions of hedgehog as it prepares to move and supports this feelings by celebrating all of the fun times these friends have together and offering encouragement that all will be fine |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | Saturday |
| Author | Ian Lender |
| ISBN | 9781596439658 |
| Publisher | Roaring Brook Press |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
|
Rating (1-5)
|
4 |
| Summary | A boy celebrates all the amazing things that happen on Saturday, and maybe Sunday too! |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Absolutely adorable story that celebrates family and all of the activities that children love to participate in with their families! |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | Who wants a tortoise? |
| Author | Dave Keane |
| ISBN | 9780385754187 |
| Publisher | Alfred A. Knopf |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Although a young girl is expecting a dog for her birthday and becomes upset when she gets a tortoise instead, she soon learns that even a tortoise can be a good pet. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. This book allows children to see that although we don't always get what we want, we often learn to appreciate what we did receive and it becomes a most valued possession. |
| Name | |
| Title | XO, OX : a love story |
| Author | Adam Rex |
| ISBN | 9781626722880 |
| Publisher | Roaring Brook Press |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 2 |
| Summary | An amusing tale of an ox who is in love with a gazelle, told through the letters they write back and forth with each other. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | No. Unfortunately although the letters back and forth are amusing, the story lacks an ending that makes the reader feel fulfilled. |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | Chicken Lily |
| Author | Lori Mortensen |
| ISBN | 9781627791205 |
| Publisher | Henry Holt and Company |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Using puns and poetry Chicken Lily overcomes her fears and reads a poem onstage at her school poetry jam. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. This is a great title to share with students who might be experiencing something new for the first time. It allows Chicken Lily to share her fears and her friends help provide the encouragement to enable her to spread her wings and overcome her fears |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | My thumb |
| Author | Karen Hesse |
| ISBN | 9780312671204 |
| Publisher | Feiwel and Friends |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 2 |
| Summary | Follows the antics of a happy little girl who explains how sucking her thumb is comforting and that her parents do not need to worry about it. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | No. Although this book does highlight the child's appreciation for her thumb that many children will understand, the vocabulary is too advanced for children who would identify with it even when the book is being read by an adult. |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | How do you say = come se dice? |
| Author | Angela Dominguez |
| ISBN | 9781627794961 |
| Publisher | Henry Holt and Company |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | Book is very brief, but is a good introduction into bilingual language. Left page provides the English word while page on the right shows the Spanish word. Words provided are words that might be used in early language use of students learning a second language in their own daily life? |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. I have multiple students who are ESL and are learning English. This book offers introductory words that would be helpful for a jumping off point. |
| Name | Rebecca Schlafer | ||||
| Title | Moone boy: the blunder years | ||||
| Author | Chris O'Dowd and Nick V. Murphy | ||||
| ISBN | 9781250057075 | ||||
| Publisher | Feiwel and Friends | ||||
| Classification | Fiction | ||||
| Recommended Level | Elementary | ||||
| Rating (1-5) | 3 | ||||
| Summary |
|
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| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. I would recommend this book for any kid who like the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series. I can't see anyone past 7th grade picking it up, but I do think it is a good read that mixes realistic fiction, fantasy and comic book format. |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | Bus drivers |
| Author | Mari Schuh |
| ISBN | 9781626177420 |
| Publisher | Bellwether Media |
| Classification | Non Fiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | Book describes the daily duties of a bus driver and the responsibilities that go along with the job. It is written for k-2 readers and gives a good overview for students at this level. It is one book in a series of Blastoff! Readers that covers Community Helpers. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. It is written at a level that is low enough for students to read who are covering the topic of Community Helpers. |
| Name | Rebecca Schlafer |
| Title | King Flashypants and the Evil Emperor |
| Author | Andy Riley |
| ISBN | 9781627798099 |
| Publisher | Holt and Company |
| Classification | Fiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1 to 5) | 3 |
| Summary | Edwin is a nine year old king with a money problem. His neighbor is the evil emperor Nurbison who tries to take over Edwin's kingdom because Edwin is so bad with money. Edwin has to work with his jester and his minister Jill to save his kingdom from the emperor. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | No. This book is too young for a middle school library. |
| Name | Rebecca Schlafer | ||||||
| Title | Raising Rufus | ||||||
| Author | David Fulk | ||||||
| ISBN | 978-0-385-74464-5 | ||||||
| Publisher | Delacorte | ||||||
| Classification | Fiction | ||||||
| Recommended Level | Elementary | ||||||
| Rating (1 to 5) | 4 | ||||||
| Summary |
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| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. I would recommend this book to a 6th grader who loved dinosaurs in an attempt to get them into more fiction. I have some students who only read non-fiction and I think this book would be a good way to get them into ficiton. |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | Hand in hand |
| Author | Rosemary Wells |
| ISBN | 9781627794343 |
| Publisher | Henry Holt and Company |
| Classification | Easy |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1 to 5) | 3 |
| Summary | This sweet and heartfelt picture book celebrates all that parents do with and for their children from the very beginning. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Nice story written by a beloved author written for students just starting school. Helps students appreciate all parents do for them |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | Frankie the blankie |
| Author | Jennifer Sattler |
| ISBN | 9781619636750 |
| Publisher | Bloomsbury |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1 to 5) | 3 |
| Summary | Doris the Gorilla and her blankie, Frankie, do everything together happily until a fellow jungle mate suggests blankies are for babies. Doris tries to give Frankie up, but life is just not the same so she disguises it for the other jungle animals. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | No. Story is very similar to Owen by Kevin Henkes. Doris disguises her blankie many different ways to attempt to fit in and still be able to have it as security. |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | Not this bear: a first day of school story |
| Author | Alyssa Satin Capucilli |
| ISBN | 9780805098969 |
| Publisher | Henry Holt and Company |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1 to 5) | 5 |
| Summary | It's Bear's first day of school, and he's a bit reluctant to go. Mama says all bears love school; Bear isn't so sure. But school turns out to be full of fun--painting pictures, listening to stories, and making new friends. Maybe this bear will like school after all. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Bear shares his feelings and insecurities about being away from mom. These are feelings that many students experience when they are going to school for the first time too! This story will help them see that they are not alone. |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | Oskar and the eight blessings |
| Author | Richard Simon and Tanya Simon |
| ISBN | 9781596439498 |
| Publisher | Roaring Brook Press |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1 to 5) | 5 |
| Summary | A young Jewish refugee from Nazi Germany arrives in New York City on the seventh night of Hanukkah and receives small acts of kindness while exploring the city. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. An uplifting tale seen through the eyes of a young man escaping the Nazi invasion in his home country. Oskar's father encouraged him to see the good in people as he set sail for a new home. From the moment he arrived in New York until he finds the safety of his Aunts home Oskar finds people that help him. |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | I'll never let you go |
| Author | Smriti Prasadam-Halls |
| ISBN | 9781619639225 |
| Publisher | Bloomsbury Children's Books |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1 to 5 ) | 5 |
| Summary | In a celebration of unconditional love, animal families demonstrate how they stand by each other throughout the best and worst of times in life. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Although the story show the unconditional of animal families, it is an easy crossover to one's own family. This book can help children understand the unconditional love of a parent. |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | Ready, set...baby! |
| Author | Elizabeth Rusch |
| ISBN | 9780544472723 |
| Publisher | Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company |
| Classification | Non Fiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1 to 5) | 5 |
| Summary | An absolutely welcoming story in which children in a family learn about the new baby that is coming into the house. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. The story is told from the point of view of the children. They offer many examples of the changes that will happen in a home in which a new baby is being welcomed. Absolutely adorable. |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | Bunny dreams |
| Author | Peter McCarty |
| ISBN | 9780805096873 |
| Publisher | Henry Holt and Company |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Rating (1 to 5) | 2 |
| Summary | Buunys know what they can do, but in bunny dreams, anything can happen. A bunny might know the ABCs, or count by 1-2-3s. A bunny might find the perfect carrot. A bunny might hop, hop, hop. or even fly! But every bunny needs a cozy place to rest. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | No. Although the illustrations are adorable the story has little to offer. |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | Piggy |
| Author | Trevor Lai |
| ISBN | 9781681190655 |
| Publisher | Bloomsbury Children's |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1 to 5) | 4 |
| Summary | Piggy loved books so much he never had time for friends, but when he sees a girl cat reading alone, he wonders if they could be best friends. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Piggy learns that friendships are created when you celebrate like interests and build the relationship from there. |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | You're here for a reason |
| Author | Nancy Tillman |
| ISBN | 9781250056269 |
| Publisher | Feiwel and Friends |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating 1 to 5 | 3 |
| Summary | Shows how each of us fits into life's big picture, and how the world would be incomplete without each person in it. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Book inspires reader to think about the part that each of their actions places in the world around them. This is a concept that is difficult for young children to understand and with more discussion on the topic maybe it will help. |
| Name | Heidi Kearins |
| Title | Stanley's Diner |
| Author | William Bee |
| ISBN | 9781561458028 |
| Publisher | Peachtree |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | Stanley the hamster has a busy day at the diner. He cooks, shops, throws a birthday party, cleans up, and then goes home for the night. This is part of series that includes Stanley the Builder, Stanley the Farmer, and Stanley's Garage. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? |
No. This is a simple book that beginning readers may enjoy reading. It is a cute story in my opinion but over simplifies the tasks Stanley does for the day. It might be a good book for preschoolers. |
| Name | Jamie Poynter |
| Title | Little Fox in the forest |
| Author | Stephanie Graegin |
| ISBN | 9780553537895 |
| Publisher | Schwartz & Wade Books |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating | 5 |
| Summary | This is a wordless picture book that tells a wonderful story with its illustrations. The little girl in the story has a toy fox that she adores and daydreams about playing with after getting back home from school. But her toy gets picked up by a real fox who also adores the toy. She follows the fox into the forest asking every animal she comes across if they have seen her toy. She finally finds the fox with her toy and he trades her one of his toys for it. They both end happy with a new toy to show off. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. The pictures tell the story wonderfully and even young readers can decipher what is occuring without having words to read. |
| Name | Jamie Poynter |
| Title | A Beginner's Guide to Bear Spotting |
| Author | Michelle Robinson |
| ISBN | 9781681190266 |
| Publisher | Bloomsbury Publishing |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | This is a young boy's version of a guide to searching for bears. He explains the different types of bears you might encounter on such a search and what you should do if you do come across them. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. This story will grab the interest of student's who have a love of animals and a love for stories that can grab your attention with humor. The story is funny and interesting with silly pictures that keep it entertaining throughout. |
| Name | Jamie Poynter |
| Title | Buddy's Bedtime Battery |
| Author | Christina Geist |
| ISBN | 9780375974687 |
| Publisher | Random House Children's Books |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | This is the story of a little boy who pretends to be a robot because he is wearing robot pajamas. It follows him through his bedtime routine and how he has to power down each part of his body in order to go to sleep. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? |
Yes. This is a fun, lighthearted story that could be used to teach young students about bedtime routines and how important they are. |
| Name | Jamie Poynter |
| Title | Gretchen over the beach |
| Author | R.W. Alley |
| ISBN | |
| Publisher | Clarion Books |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Gretchen goes to the beach with her family but none of her family members will let her play with them. Nobody will listen to her and she starts to feel lonely. Her hat gets swept away by the breeze and as she grabs it to keep from losing it, she gets swept up into the clouds. She goes on an adventure in the clouds with her roly-polys and a sea gull. After the fun, they bring her back down to her family. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. This is a fun, adventurous story that younger students would really enjoy. |
| Name | Jamie Poynter |
| Title | Mommies are amazing |
| Author | Meredith Costain |
| ISBN | 9781627796514 |
| Publisher | Henry Holt and Company |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | This story highlights what makes mommies special. It highlights all the ways mommies take care of their babies and all the things they do to keep them safe. To grab reader's interests the author uses cats as the mommies and children instead of humans. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. This story can help readers understand everything a mom does to care for her children. |
| Name | Jamie Poynter |
| Title | My new mom & me |
| Author | Remata Galindo |
| ISBN | 9780553521344 |
| Publisher | Schwartz & Wade Books |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | This is a sweet story about adoption. The story starts with a dog getting adopted by a cat. The dog is not so sure about it at first and doesn't know how to feel about him and his new mother being so different. As time goes by, they learn how to work together at things and become more like a family. Each day as the story goes on, they become closer and happier together. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. This book would really help students who are adopted, hoping to be adopted, or going through the process currently. It also teaches readers how to welcome and accept others who are different from them. |
| Name | Stephen Beck |
| Title | Nicknames |
| Author | Cecil Kim |
| ISBN | 9781599536644 |
| Publisher | Norwood House Press |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | A fox and a raccoon tease a little rabbit about his big feet, protruding teeth, and long ears. The little rabbit's grandmother explains why he has those features and helps him to be confident about his appearance. After witnessing the fox and raccoon quarreling, the rabbit decides to use complimentary words about the other animals. The three animals become friends and begin assigning positive nicknames to all of their other animal friends. They are now able to see the benefit of using kind, positive words. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. The story allows readers to witness the power of both negative and positive words. The book provides a great lesson about kindness and and the role that words can play in how others feel. Young readers will enjoy the story and the appealing illustrations. Teachers can utilize this book when featuring kindness and empathy in their classrooms. |
| Name | Stephen Beck |
| Title | Before morning |
| Author | Joyce Sidman |
| ISBN | 9780547979175 |
| Publisher | Houghton Mifflin Harcourt |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | A young girl is sad to realize that her mother, who is a pilot, has to leave her to fly a plane. The girl wishes that snow will fall so her mother does not have to leave and can spend time with her. Over the course of the night, her wish comes true as a snow storm grounds the planes and forces everyone to take a break from their daily tasks. The girl's family spend time together playing in the snow. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. This book introduces the reader to an invocation--"a poem that invites something to happen, often asking for help or support." This book would allow students to explore this type of poetry and reflect upon their own wishes. Educators could use the book as a way to feature invocation and provide students with an exemplar of this type of poetry. Additionally, the story is a tale that is relatable to elementary students. |
| Name | Kristina Morgan Weber |
| Title | Arsenal FC |
| Author | Mark Stewart |
| ISBN | 9781599538563 |
| Publisher | Norwood House Press |
| Classification | Non Fiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | An introduction to the Arsenal F.C. European soccer club. This book includes information about the team's history, stadium, star players, uniforms and more. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? |
Yes. The text is simple and serves as a great introduction to nonfiction texts for younger students, especially those interested in sports/soccer. |
| Name | Kristina Morgan Weber |
| Title | Fearless flyer : Ruth Law and her flying machine |
| Author | Heather Lang |
| ISBN | 9781620916506 |
| Publisher | Calkins Creek |
| Classification | Biography |
| Recommended | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Before Amelia Earhart, Ruth Law was determined to fly from Chicago to New York City. In 1916, she set a record, flying from Chicago to New York state, a distance of 590 miles. She finished the trip to New York City the following day. In 1917, Law campaigned unsuccessfully for women to fly military aircraft. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. This book would be a great biography to add to your collection, especially for March (Women's History Month). |
| Name | Kristina Morgan-Weber |
| Title | Orani : My father's village |
| Author | Claire A. Nivola |
| ISBN | 9780374356576 |
| Publisher | D&M Publishers Inc. |
| Classification | Non-Fiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Brief Summary | Orani: My Father's Village is a memoir of Clair A. Novola's childhood, in which she travels many times to her father's hometown of Orani. She paints a picture of a tiny village nestled among the mountains of Central Sardinia. The book introduces American children to a culture quite different than their own. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. The book provides perspective of a unique culture. the book is written as a memoir and can be used to teach form. The language in the text is beautiful! this book would be a great touchstone piece to teach the craft of writing. |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | A hop is up |
| Author | Kristy Dempsey |
| ISBN | 9781619633902 |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Publisher | Bloomsbury |
| Rating (1-5) | 2 |
| Summary | A young boy and his energetic puppy take a walk in their neighborhood, where they encounter and interact with lots of friends along the way! Although this book has a catchy sequence of movements and directions, it will not be book that I think children will be drawn toward. Could be used to teach concepts. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | No. I do not believe there is enough substance to keep a child's attention.
|
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | Boris and the worrisome wakies |
| Author | Helen Lester |
| ISBN | 9780544640948 |
| Publisher | Houghton Mifflin Harcourt |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Boris is having trouble sleeping each day. He then goes to school tired every day. After sleeping through most of the events at school Boris learns about everything he has been missing. Now he works to make sure he takes care of all of the things that have been keeping him awake so he will not miss out on any of the fun at school. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. This title is perfect for those children that just can't seem to get the rest they need at home. |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | Peep and Egg: I'm Not Trick-or-Treating |
| Author | Laura Gehl |
| ISBN | 9780374301224 |
| Publisher | Farrar Straus Giroux |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | As one of the main characters in the story prepares to go trick-or-treating, his friend is scared. Peek continues to try to persuade Egg to join in all different kinds of ways. Eventually they make it out of the house. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Although this story is light in content, it offers support for students who also are a little hesitant to join the trick-or-treating fun. |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | Fall |
| Author | Rebecca Pettiford |
| ISBN | 9781626177604 |
| Publisher | Bellwether Media |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Book provides basic information about the breed. Pages contain no more than one or two sentences per page. Colorful photographs add to the books attractive appearance. Also includes a glossary and additional links for more information. Would work well for early researchers. |
| Classification | Non-Fiction |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Provides information that K-1 teachers need to support lessons about this season. Good support and also could be used for projects for early researchers. |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | Pigs |
| Author | Christine Leighton |
| ISBN | 9781626177253 |
| Publisher | Bellwether Media |
| Classification | Non-Fiction |
| Recommended level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Book provides basic information about the breed. Pages contain no more than one or two sentences per page. Colorful photographs add to the books attactive appearance. Also includes a glossary and additional links for more information. Would work well for early researchers. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. My library is always in need of lower level research materials for beginning researchers and lower level readers. |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | Frankie |
| Author | Mary Sullivan |
| ISBN | 9780544611139 |
| Publisher | Houghton Mifflin Harcourt |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | As story introduces Frankie, a new dog, to a home it highlights the adjustment the others in this home must make. Sharing becomes a big issue until someone solves this problem. Story is easily told with minimal words and great pictures. May be helpful with students having trouble with sharing. |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Many libraries need additional titles that show sharing. This title allows that lesson to be taught without being overwhelming. |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | Dalmatians |
| Author | Mari Schuh |
| ISBN | 9781626176133 |
| Publisher | Bellwether Media |
| Classification | Non-Fiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Book provides basic information about the breed. Pages contain no more than one or two sentences per page. Colorful photographs add to the books attactive appearance. Also includes a glossary and additional links for more information. Would work well for early researchers. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Always in need on lower level nonfiction materials for early researchers. |
| Name | Erin Wallace |
| Title | The man from the land of Fandango |
| Author | Mary Mahy |
| ISBN | 9780547819884 |
| Publisher | Houghton Mifflin |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | The Man from the Land of Fandango is illustrated with fantastical depictions of a fictional character who visits once every 500 years and does silly things. The rhyming words make the text flow nicely as a read aloud. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | No. The story is not complex at all and I would not recommend for elementary age. I would recommend for preschool. |
| Name | Lindsey Roberts |
| Title | I'm allergic to strawberries |
| Author | Maria Nelson |
| ISBN | 9781482409840 |
| Publisher | Gareth Stevens Publishing |
| Classification | Non-Fiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Informative book that discusses being allergic to strawberries. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Great illustrations! |
| Name | Lindsey Roberts |
| Title | I'm allergic to wheat |
| Author | Maria nelson |
| ISBN | 9780482409895 |
| Publisher | Gareth Stevens Publishing |
| Classification | Non-Fiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Informative book that discusses being allergic to wheat. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Great illustrations! |
| Name | Lindsey Roberts |
| Title | Sea Otters |
| Author | Nathan Sommer |
| ISBN | 9781626177666 |
| Publisher | Bellwether Media |
| Classification | Non-Fiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Summary | Informative book that discusses sea otters. |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Great illustrations! |
| Name | Lindsey Roberts |
| Title | Uruguay |
| Author | Emily Rose Oachs |
| ISBN | 9781626174061 |
| Publisher | Bellwether Media |
| Classification | Non-Fiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Informative book that discusses the country of Uruguay |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. The charts are informative and the illustrations are just great! |
| Name | Lindsey Roberts |
| Title | The money tree |
| Author | Sarah Stewart |
| ISBN | 9780374452957 |
| Publisher | Farrar Straus Giroux |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | A book describes a money tree growing in a yard. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | No. Not a very interesting story. |
| Name | Lindsey Roberts |
| Title | Goose's story |
| Author | Cari Best |
| ISBN | 9780374327507 |
| Publisher | Melanie Kroupa Books |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Perfect story for animal lovers! It is based off a true story of an injured goose and his friendship with a girl. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. It is a great story! |
| Name | Jessica Thomas |
| Title | Puddle |
| Author | Hyewon Yum |
| ISBN | 9780374316952 |
| Publisher | Farrar Straus Giroux Books for Young Readers |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | This book is about a little boy who is stuck in the house with his mom, dog, and cat on a rainy day and he is bored. She suggest they draw and he does not want to at first. She starts drawing and then he gets in to it. They draw a picture of them outside playing in the rain and he jumps in a puddle. At the end of the story he suggest they go out, and they do. He reenacts what happens in the picture they drew. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. It is a good book to teach students that you do not need technology or planned activities to have fun. Sometimes it is nice to be creative and come up with plans last minute. That is usually when the best memories are made. |
| Name | Jessica Thomas |
| Title | Room for bear |
| Author | Ciara Gavin |
| ISBN | 9780385754736 |
| Publisher | Random House Children's Books |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | This book is about a bear who comes to visit a duck family and he discovered that he really like being with them, so he decides to stay and live with them permanently. The only problem is that the house was not suited to fit Bear well. They decided to look for another home that was good for the ducks and Bear. Eventually he decides he is a nussiance and decides to leave. The ducks miss him and he misses the ducks. He finds a cave to live in and finally comes up with a solution- he builds the ducks a house within the cave that had everything they needed and he stayed in the cave. It worked out perfectly, and they are all together again. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. It shows students that not everyone has to be alike and that you can still be part of a family or still be friends with someone that might look different or grow up differently than you. |
| Name | Lindsey Roberts |
| Title | Tractor Mac builds a barn |
| ISBN | 9780374301057 |
| Publisher | Farrar Straus Giroux |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | This book is about a tractor that helps to build a barn with the help of others. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. The illustrations are good and the characters are likeable. |
| Name | Lindsey Roberts |
| Title | The Chocopocalypse |
| Author | Chris Callaghan |
| ISBN | 9781524719159 |
| Publisher | Delacorte Press |
| Classification | Fiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | A girl sets up a science experiment based on the end of chocolate. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Good story with an eventful plot. |
| Name | Lindsey Roberts |
| Title | Gerald McBoing Boing |
| Author | Dr. Seuss |
| ISBN | 9781524716356 |
| Publisher | Random House |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Funny tale about a boy who speaks in boings. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. A funny book with great illustrations that children would enjoy. |
| Name | Amy Fallahay |
| Title | Georgina the giraffe |
| Author | An Vrombaut |
| ISBN | 9781444912982 |
| Publisher | Hodder Children's Book Company |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | This book tells the story of a giraffe that is boastful about her singing. This gets her in trouble. Luckily she has many good friends to help her out. In the end, she learns a valuable lesson. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. It is colorful and teaches good lesson. |
| Name | Amy Fallahay |
| Title | What I touch |
| Author | Alex Appleby |
| ISBN | 9781482408263 |
| Publisher | Gareth Stevens |
| Classification | Non-Fiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | This book teaches about the sense of touch and includes many descriptive words about how objects may feel. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. It has simple language and great adjectives to describe objects. |
| Name | Amy Fallahay |
| Title | Planet Puzzle |
| Author | Bill Condon |
| ISBN | 9781480717077 |
| Publisher | Teacher Created Materials |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | This book is about some kids from another planet traveling with their family. While they travel, their mother asks them questions about earth (to which they don't know the answers) and she teaches them some facts. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. It taught some facts about Earth in a fun way. |
| Name | Amy Fallahay |
| Title | I'm allergic to milk |
| Author | Maria Nelson |
| ISBN | 9781482409680 |
| Publisher | Gareth Stevens |
| Classifiction | Non-Fiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | This book tells about mil allergies. It includes different reactions, items not to eat/drink, and how to avoid or treat reactions. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Very informative. |
| Name | Kay-o Wicks |
| Title | Ebola |
| Author | Ann O. Squire |
| ISBN | 9780531214695 |
| Publisher | Children's Press |
| Classification | Non-Fiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Provides information about Ebola, how it spreads, a timeline and basic facts. The author refers to the 2014 outbreak in both the present tense and past tense. The book was published after the outbreak (2016), this should be corrected. I would recommend this book for upper elementary and middle school even with the tense issue. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. |
| Name | Emily Jennings |
| Title | Finding perfect |
| Author | Elly Swartz |
| ISBN | 9780374303136 |
| Publisher | Farrar Straus Giroux |
| Classification | Fiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Well-researched and highly engaging, this novel places readers in the mind of a young girl suffering from obsessive compulsive disorder, although she has no idea what is happening to her. When she is finally diagnosed, there is no quick fix, but a lot of therapy and hard work ahead of her. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. This is a great read-alike for students who have enjoyed "Rain Reign" and "Wonder". |
| Name | Amy Fallahay |
| Title | Just like me |
| Author | Barbara J. Neasi |
| ISBN | 9780531263716 |
| Publisher | Scholastic |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Rating (1-5) | r |
| Summary | This book tells about how twins can be similar and different. This is done in a very simple way. It includes an activity book at the end. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. It is a cute simple introduction to twins and also tells how people can be both the same and different. |
| Name | Emily Jennings |
| Title | Izzy Gizmo |
| Author | Pip Jones |
| ISBN | 9781682630211 |
| Publisher | Peachtree |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Izzy Gizmo loves to tinker and invent. When an injured bird appears in her path, she is determined to invent something to help the bird fly again. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Izzy Gizmo portrays a young girl of color who is interested in tinkering and creating inventions. It is a great addition for any elementary library. |
| Name | Emily Jennings |
| Title | A friend for mole |
| Author | Nancy Armo |
| ISBN | 9781561458653 |
| Publisher | Peachtree |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Wolf is afraid of the dark and mole is afraid of the light. These two accidentally find one another and help each to not feel so afraid. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. This book offers the message that having someone to share our fear with makes everything a little less scary. Also, we can be friends with people who are very different from us. |
| Name | Emily Jennings |
| Title | Mr. Hare's big secret |
| Author | Hannah Dale |
| ISBN | 9780553538564 |
| Publisher | Random House |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Mr. Hare is very hungry and very clever. He convinces all of the forest animals to dance with him under the cherry tree to reveal his big "secret." All of the dancing and jumping causes the cherries to fall out of the tree, revealing the "secret," and the friends have a great feast. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. This story is great for early primary. It is very repetitive and lends itself to discussion- "What is Mr. Hare's secret?," "Was Mr. Hare tricking the other animals or just getting them to help in a fun way?," "Mr. Hare chose to share the cherries with the other animals. What does this tell us about Mr. Hare?" |
| Name | Emily Jennings |
| Title | Blue Ethel |
| Author | Jennifer Black Reinhardt |
| ISBN | 9780374303822 |
| Publisher | Farrar Straus Giroux |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Ethel is an old, fat, white cat who is very set in her ways. One day, she accidentally rolls in some blue sidewalk chalk and becomes blue. She doesn't like the way others stare at her and she doesn't enjoy being blue. A small cat named Fluffy notices and causes himself to become pink in an effort to help Ethel feel more comfortable. The two become friends and decide that sometimes it's okay to look different. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. This is a great book for character education. When Fluffy notices that Ethel is struggling, he shows empathy and does everything he can to help her get through it. |
| Name | Ann Trompter |
| Title | Time traveling with a hamster |
| Author | Ross Welford |
| ISBN | 0399551492 |
| Publisher | Schwartz & Wade |
| Classification | Fiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating ( 1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Needing to travel back in time to prevent a motorcycle accident which killed his father, Al sets out on a mission leading to many adventures in his quest. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. The idea of a time travel is appealing to student. They could easily relate to Al and his hamster. |
| Name | Ann Trompter |
| Title | The masterwork of a painting elephant |
| Author | Michelle Cuevas |
| ISBN | 9780374348540 |
| Publisher | Farrar, Straus and Giroux |
| Classification | Fiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Pigeon Jones is abandoned as a baby only to be adopted by a white painting elephant named Birch. They experience numerous adventures until the day comes when Birch must let Pigeon stand on his own two feet. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. It is a heartwarming story that includes the type of adventures that would appeal to students. |
| Name | Ann Trompeter |
| Title | Go, Billy, Go! : Being yourself |
| Author | Wiley Blevins |
| ISBN |
9781634400039 |
| Publisher | Farrar, Straus and Giroux |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Billy is a typical boy who enjoys many traditional activities. When he chooses to participate in cheerleading, his friends and family are not so understanding. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | The book is good for students who like non-traditional activities in helping them deal with the misunderstanding of others who are less tolerant. |
| Name | Ann Trompeter |
| Title | Mom's new friend |
| Author | Mattia Cerato |
| ISBN | 9781936163960 |
| Publisher | Red Chair Press |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | Dan is viewed as a threat as a new friend to a boy's mom. Once they go camping, Dan becomes a more welcomed friend. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Many students experience blended families which students can relate to. |
| Name | Ann Trompeter |
| Title | Oddfellow's orphange |
| Author | Emily Martin |
| Publisher | Yearling |
| ISBN | 0375870946 |
| Classification | Fiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Delia is mute and placed in Oddfellow's orhanage. The classes and field trips are unusual. The Annual Haircutting Day and Field Trip for Monsters create a delightful experience for Delia. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. The creative adventures taht Delia experiences at Oddfellow's are encouraging for most elementary students. |
| Name | Ann Trompeter |
| Title | The bad birthday idea |
| Author | Madeline Valentine |
| ISBN | 9780449813324 |
| Publisher | Alfred A. Knopf |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | It is Alice's birthday, and she receives a robot that her brother desperately waned. When Ben accidently breaks the robot, He has to come up with another plan. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Students will enjoy the book as they can relate to the feelings Ben initially has for his sister's birthday present. |
| Name | Kathleen Ketchem |
| Title | My dog is the best |
| Author | Laurie Ann Thompson |
| ISBN | 9780374300517 |
| Publisher | Farrar, Straus and Giroux |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | A boy describes all the reasons why his dog is the best. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not | Yes. This book is perfect for kindergarten and first grade beginning readers! |
| Name | Kathleen Ketchem |
| Title | Bob and Flo play hide-and-seek |
| Author | Rebecca Ashdown |
| ISBN | 9780544596313 |
| Publisher | Houghton Mifflin Harcourt |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Penguins Bob and Flo enjoy learning how to play a game of hide and seek at preschool. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. this book is great for beginning readers in pre-k, kindergarten or first grade. |
| Name | Kathleen Ketchem |
| Title | Hurry up, Alfie! |
| Author | Anna Walker |
| ISBN | 9780544586543 |
| Publisher | Houghton Mifflin and Harcourt |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Alfie the alligator is supposed to be getting ready to go to the park. Instead, several different distraction get in his way. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. This book is perfect for beginning readers. There are several short sentences and sight words that are prefect for 1st grade readers. |
| Name | Kathleen Ketchem |
| Title | Bear can dance |
| Author | Suzanne Bloom |
| ISBN | 9781629794426 |
| Publisher | Boyds Mills Press |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Suggested level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | Bear wants to learn to fly, but instead, with help from Duck and Fox, he learns that he can dance. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. This story was very short, but I would recommend it because it is great for beginning readers. There are a lot of great picture clues for helping with the story. |
| Name | Heidi Keairns |
| Title | Crayola color in culture |
| Author | Mari Schuh |
| ISBN | 9781512466898 |
| Publisher | Lerner |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | This book tells how color is part of culture and what culture is. It gives examples such as the color we wear, the colors we celebrate with, the colors that different countries use and the meaning of colors. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. this book has bright vibrant colored photographs from many different cultures including a colorful shawl from Peru, Holi, Chinese New Year, Greece, cloth plates from Ethiopia, and hats from Morocco. It could be a great book to read and start discussing different cultures, or to learn about colors. |
| Name | Heidi Keairns |
| Title | Let's draw vehicles with Crayola |
| Author | Ana Bermejo |
| ISBN | 9781512432978 |
| Publisher | Lerner |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | This book gives step-by-step examples of how to draw different vehicles using basic shapes. Some of the vehicles included are space vehicles, rescue vehicles, monster trucks, race cars, and trains. At the end of the book it goes over some of the Crayola crayon colors used in the book. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Drawing books are often very popular. This drawing book breaks the vehicles down into basic shapes so they are very easy to draw. it is colorful and attractive with websites to learn more at the end of the book. |
| Name | Heidi Keairns |
| Title | Gems |
| Author | Claudia Martin |
| ISBN | 9781682973257 |
| Publisher | Quarto Library |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | This book tells all about gemstones. Ti tells about their formation, color, uses, patterns, where they are found, and how they are used. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. This book has vibrant and bright photos of gems. it has lots of information taht a student researching could use but also could be read for fun. ti even has a gemstone guide at the end. |
| Name | Lindsey Roberts |
| Title | We all have value: a story of respect |
| Author | Mari Schuh |
| ISBN | 9781512486506 |
| Publisher | Cloverleaf Books |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Story showing way to have good character. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | yes. This is a social skills book that is for lower elementary. It also includes multicultural characters. |
| Name | Lindsey Roberts |
| Title | Let's explore sound |
| Author | Walt K. Moon |
| ISBN | 9781512482713 |
| Publisher | Bumba Books |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | A nonfiction story that explains how sound works. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. A lower level elementary book that explains sound. |
| Name | Stephen Beck |
| Title | The Emperor's Ostrich |
| Author | Julie Berry |
| ISBN | 9781596439580 |
| Publisher | Roaring Book Press |
| Classification | Fiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | |
| Summary | Begonia, a young milkmaid, has been tasked with locating her runaway cow named Alfalfa. Her adventure is monitored and occasionally influenced by the actions of a couple of magical elders. Begonia meets a variety of interesting individuals as she traverses the countryside attempting to track down her cherished bovine. Begonia encounter a young romantic named Key who assists her on her journey as well as a young maiden with a baby, a woodsman, and a runaway emperor riding an ostrich. This motley cre work together to stop a planned coup to replace the emperor and find they happily ever afters. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. this book was a very fun read. it would be a great selection for upper elementary and middle school students who enjy adventure and fantasy novels. the text provides a great mixture of humor, action, and adventure. This is a great book to nurture a love of reading! |
| Name | Leah McMahan |
| Title | Hurricanes: wild weather |
| Author | Julie Murray |
| ISBN | 9781532120886 |
| Publisher | ABDO Publishing |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | This title is a leveled reader that discusses hurricanes and their causes and their often devastating impact on an area. This book also offers additional facts such as how to prepare for a hurricane and some historical background on Hurricane Katrina. |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. this is a good information title that will be great for lower elementary and emergent readers. Most of my K-2 students love learning about weather and its effects on people and the environment. |
| Name | Jennifer Stewart |
| Title | Hedy Lamarr: reimagining radio |
| Author | Megan Borgert-Spaniol |
| ISBN | 9781532112829 |
| Publisher | ABDO Publishing |
| Classification | Biography |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Students will likely not know Hedy Lamarr at all. I knew her as an actress, but knew very little about her life as a scientist and inventor. This accessible biography provides a solid introduction to Lamarr and her important contributions. The book's timeline and photographs were helpful and interesting I would have loved to have seen any of her drawings or writings about her inventions as an added bonus. Unfamiliar vocabulary words were highlighted throughout and included in the glossary at the end. i would have preferred to see the definition on the page where the word first appeared also, but that my just be a personal preference. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. I thin it's a good selection because it highlights the life and work of a female scientist, and it also shows someone who had both brains and beauty who preferred to be known for her brain. |
| Name | Kay-o Wicks |
| Title | The salmon's journey |
| Author | Jon Fishman |
| ISBN | 9781512498127 |
| Publisher | Lerner |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Salmon swim in large schools to return to the streams and rivers where they were first born. From egg to fish and out to the open ocean, then back again, follow the journey of migrating salmon. |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | Yes. A good basic book about salmon, habitat and threats. The table of contents in not in a list, so it could be confusing for young children. |
| Name | Kay-o Wicks |
| Title | Who invented radio? |
| Author | Susan E. Hamen |
| ISBN | 9781512483277 |
| Publisher | Lerner |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Nice comparison of Marconi and tesla. Good for 4th and 5th grade because of the vocabulary. |
| Name | Nan Ison |
| Title | A bad day at pirate school |
| Author | Johanna Gohmann |
| ISBN | 9781532130984 |
| Publisher | ABDO Publishing |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Piper has a bad day at pirate school until she finds her teacher's golden compass. |
| Would you suggest this title? | Yes |
| Why or why not? | Kids can relate to the characters and will like the story. |
| Name | Nan Ison |
| Title | Big cat, little cat |
| Author | Elisha Cooper |
| ISBN | 9781626723719 |
| Publisher | Roaring Brook Press |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Suggested level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Big cat lives alone until little cat comes to stay. Big cat and little cat grow old together. Big cat leaves one day and never comes back. A new little cat comes and how little cat has a new friend. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. It could help students deal with the loss of someone leaving their family, someone they love, or the loss of a pet. |
| Name | Nan Ison |
| Title | World's best and worst spooky jokes |
| Author | Emma Carlson Berne |
| ISBN | 9781512483529 |
| Publisher | Lerner Publications |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | Knock, knock jokes and other easy jokes for kids to tell to their friends. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Kids love joke books especially easy to remember jokes. |
| Name | Jason Highley |
| Title | Subjects and verbs |
| Author | Kristen Rajczak |
| ISBN | 9781433990816 |
| Publisher | Gareth Stevens |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | This book covered subject sna verbs in an easy to follow format with vibrant illustrations. Very easy to understand for elementary aged children. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Great selection for 400 section of the library. |
| Name | Jason Highley |
| Title | How a solar-powered home works |
| Author | Robyn Hardyman |
| ISBN | 9781433995484 |
| Publisher | Gareth Stevens |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Lots of great illustrations help young readers comprehend the concept of solar power and how it can be used in their everyday lives. |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Very important topic. Great addition to an elementary school library. |
| Name | Jason Highley |
| Title | Grover Cleveland again! : a treasury of American presidents |
| Author | Ken Burns |
| ISBN | 9780385392099 |
| Publisher | Alfred A. Knopf |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Summary | Great illustrations and some not-so-well known information makes this a great book about teh U.S. Presidents. the fact that Ken Burns worked on it is also a plus. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Great addition to a biography collection. |
| Name | Nan Ison |
| Title | Ice cream cones |
| Author | Penelope S. Nelson |
| ISBN | 9781532161902 |
| Publisher | ABDO Publishing |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Four short chapters on ice cream, cones, waffle and cake cones, and how to make ice cream. Easy to read with nice illustrations and includes QR codes for students to get even more information. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Students lvoe books about food and cooking and this would appeal to them. |
| Name | Nan Ison |
| Title | How many hugs? |
| Author | Heather Swain |
| ISBN | 9781250066510 |
| Publisher | Feiwel and Friends |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | This book counts how many hugs can be given by different animals based on the number of arms they have. It is a very cute book with nice bright illustrations. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Students like books with bright eye-catching covers and it has a cute story to go along with the illustrations. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | Engineer it! bridge projects |
| Author | Carolyn Bernhardt |
| ISBN | 9781532111228 |
| Publisher | ABDO Publishing |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Great book for students who want to try their hand at simple engineering bridge projects. Five different types of bridges are defined and step-by-step project instruction are given for each type of bridge to be recreated in student friendly projects. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. this book would be great to have in a make space area. Students would also like this title for project use for classroom assignments. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | Engineering you can eat |
| Author | Megan Borgert-Spaniol |
| ISBN | 9781532170102 |
| Publisher | ABDO Publishing |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Engineering is defined and looked at from a kid friendly point of view. Five different edible engineering tasks are shown with colorful picture and step-by-step instruction for the reader to complete. Each engineering task has a list of needed ingredients and tools listed. the book ends with a conclusion and a three question quiz. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. This book is a great book to introduce engineering to young students and they will love that they can eat their project at the conclusion. Great for makerspaces and whole class use. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | Super gross slime and snot projects |
| Author | Jessie Alkire |
| ISBN | 9781532117336 |
| Publisher | ABDO Publishing |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | This book describes how to create both slime and snot projects. A list of all the needed materials is included at the beginning of the book for all the projects listed. Eight different projects have step-by-step instructions, colorful photographs and materials listed to created projects such as fart putty, eyeball slime and diaper slime. Trivia is also included throughout the book along with a glossary. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. What kids doesn't LOVE to read, talk and actually make slime or snot?!? This book will always be circulating and NEVER stay on your shelves! |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | Ninja Claus! |
| Author | Arree Chung |
| ISBN | 9781627795524 |
| Publisher | Henry Holt and Company |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | A cute story about a little boy who uses his ninja knowledge and some engineering skills to try and catch Santa delivering presents on Christmas Eve. |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Students will enjoy the illustrations and letter writing between characters in this story with a twist to an age old quest of trying to catch Santa in the act. |
| Name | Jennifer Stewart |
| Title | The amazing idea of you |
| Author | Charlotte Sullivan Wild |
| ISBN | 9781681191836 |
| Publisher | Bloomsbury Children's Books |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Soft illustrations and lovely language combine to tell teh story of how ideas, seeds, eggs and people are similar. All spring something new to life. Though the metaphor sometimes gets a little lost, the message is sweet and inspiring. |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | Yes. I like the sweetness of the story/message. Could be a nice text to use for metaphor, figurative language (interesting verbs) , or for exploring the work of planting and working in apple orchards. |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Name | Jennifer Stewart |
| Title | Iguanodon |
| Author | Grace Hansen |
| ISBN | 9781532100383 |
| Publisher | ABDO Kids |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Offers a succinct introduction to iguanodons for early readers. Includes table of contents, glossary, index and QR code for more resources online. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Dinosaur books are always tricky for early readers, because of the vocabulary/names, but this title does a nice job of very briefly and clearly explaining basic facts about the dinosaur. Large pictures, large font and plenty of white space make them very accessible. I don't think kids will ever stop asking for dinosaur books, so this is a great title to offer them! |
| Name | Jennifer Stewart |
| Title | Fairness |
| Author | Julie Murray |
| ISBN | 9781532100086 |
| Publisher | ABDO Kids |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Simple text and large color photographs give example of what it means to be fair. Includes table of contents, glossary and a QR code for more information onlne. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? |
| Name | Jennifer Stewart |
| Title | Sharks: nature's perfect hunter (science comics) |
| Author | Joe Flood |
| ISBN | 9781626727885 |
| Publisher | First Second |
| Classification | Nonfiction graphic novel |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | This book present a plethora of information about sharks in a comic book format. It discusses sharks in popular culture, conceptions/misconceptions of sharks, sharks in history and the different orders of sharks. Includes a glossary and a shark family tree. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | No. I was very excited about the prospect of shark information in a comic book. I was not overly thrilled with the book, however. I think the information was too much for the intended audience. The organization by shark order was a bit confusing to follow. It will be appealing to both graphic novel fans and shark fans, but I am not sure that many of them will learn much more from it. |
| Name | Jennifer Stewart |
| Title | A place to start a family : poems about creatures that build |
| Author | David L. Harrison |
| ISBN | 9781580897488 |
| Publisher | Charlesbridge |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Different animals that build, some familiar and other less so, are celebrated in poems and cut-paper relief illustrations. |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | Yes. these poems provide an accessible introduction to further research on these animal builders, a resource for figurative language, or simply a lovely and interesting collection of animal poems. The illustrations are vibrant and help the poems , and their respective creatures, come to life. |
| Name | Stephen Beck |
| Title | A dragon's guide to making your human smarter |
| Author | Laurence Yep & Joanne Ryder |
| ISBN | 9780385392327 |
| Publisher | Crown Books for Young Readers |
| Classification | Fiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | This book is a second book in the A Dragon's Guide series. Winnie and her dragon, Miss Drake, both consider each other a beloved pet. Winnie, with the assistance of Miss Drake, makes it through her first year at magical Spriggs Academy while also attempting to escape detection by her menacing grandfather. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. This book does an excellent job of combining fantasy, adventure and a bit of mystery. The book will be a real treat for students for love fantasy. Additionally, this book allows students to encounter historical figures, figures from Creek mythology, and the Loch Ness Monster that they may be interested in exploring further. The story is a fun and entertaining adventure. Overall, it's a fun read that would be a great addition to a library collection. I would recommend this title to students in grades 3-5. |
| Name | Lou Anne Coomer |
| Title | My adopted family |
| Author | Claudia Harrington |
| ISBN | 9781532130168 |
| Publisher | ABDO Publishing |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | One of a series of 13 "My Family" books, in this story Lenny follows his friend Adam for a school project to find out what it's like to be a member of an adopted family. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. This book is really more about the love of a family rather than adoption in general. The illustrations are fun and diverse and the story is simple and easy to follow. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | Counting on Katherine : how Katherine Johnson saved Apollo 13 |
| Author | Helaine Becker |
| ISBN | 9781250137524 |
| Publisher | Henry Holt and Company |
| Classification | Biography |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | This is the life story of Katherine Johnson, the famous mathematician who helped with the Apollo 13 mission. The book discusses how she lobed to count when she was little and then goes into her passion and love for math as an adult and her job with NASA. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. It is a quick and easy read for the elementary student. The illustrations are interesting and biographical information is at the end. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | How is root beer made? |
| Author | Grace Hansen |
| ISBN | 9781532181962 |
| Publisher | ABDO Publishing |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | This book goes through the process of how root beer was originally made and how root beer is made today. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. The book includes a step by step process for making root beer. The illustrations are colorful photographs. Additional facts a included at the end of the book, along with a glossary of terms and of course, what kids doesn't like root beer? |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | Stan Lee: comic book writer and creator of Spider-Man |
| Author | Grace Hansen |
| ISBN | 9781532104305 |
| Publisher | ABDO Publishing |
| Classification | Biography |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | A quick read about the life of comic book great Stan Lee. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Easy read for early grades and struggling readers. Great photographs of some of his comic books. Kids love Stan Lee's comics and characters. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | U.S. Congress |
| Author | Julie Murray |
| ISBN | 9781532104015 |
| Publisher | ABDO Publishing |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Readers are given a brief summary about United States Congress and the work that goes on. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. An introduction read for young students getting their first look into the working of the U.S. government. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | Basketball superstar Stephen Curry |
| Author | Jon M. Fishman |
| ISBN | 9781541538481 |
| Publisher | Lerner Publications |
| Classification | Biography |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | A quick read on basketball star, Stephen Curry, his life and his career. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | High interest/low vocabulary. Great for younger or struggling readers who want to read a basketball book. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | Let's celebrate Halloween |
| Author | J. Patrick Lewis |
| ISBN | 9780531226803 |
| Publisher | Children's Press |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | A quick read written in rhyme for younger students with an additional fun fact about the holiday on each illustrated pate. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Great holiday series for early readers. Halloween is...section and glossary in the back. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | The Washington Monument |
| Author | Kristen Chang |
| ISBN | 9781626179189 |
| Publisher | Bellwether Media |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Great introduction book to American symbols. Primary students get a quick and easy read about why the Washington Monument was built. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Any "Blastoff! Readers" book is good for an elementary library collection. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | Words and your heart |
| Author | Kate Neal |
| ISBN | 9781250168726 |
| Publisher | Macmillan Publishing Group |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | A about how we should chose our words wisely as words can cause happiness or hurt. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. A great read for kids and adults about how we interact with others. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | Spectacular Spring |
| Author | Bruce Goldstone |
| ISBN | 9781250120144 |
| Publisher | Henry Holt and Company |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | A near way to find out many different aspect of Spring such as smells, shapes, sounds and activities. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. A great book for kids or adults to use when learning , teaching or studying about Spring. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | The secrets of Ninja School |
| Author | Deb Pilutti |
| ISBN | 9781627796491 |
| Publisher | Henry Holt and Company |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | A young lady goes off to ninha school to learn new skills, but she is worried that she won't be any good at being a ninja. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | No. They story didn't really hold the attention of the kids. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | There is nothing to do! |
| Author | Dev Petty |
| ISBN | 9780399558030 |
| Publisher | Doubleday Books for Young Readers |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | A frog cannot find anything to do so he visits his friends looking for suggestions. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. If you liked the first on in the series, you will want to add this to your collection. All kids go through a stage of "there's nothing to do!" |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | The littlest dragon |
| Author | Susan Quinn |
| ISBN | 9781682971864 |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | The little dragon may not be big, but he finds out he is important when he has to help his family with something important. |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Students love dragon books and friendship is always a topic for younger grades. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | Am I yours? |
| Author | Alex Latimer |
| ISBN | 9781682630440 |
| Publisher | Peachtree Publishers |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | A different twist about being lost using a dinosaur as the main character. |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Children love books with dinosaurs. A great message about belonging and being found. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | Don't tell! |
| Author | Tom Booth |
| ISBN | 9781250117373 |
| Publisher | Feiwel and Friends |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | A fun book about keeping a secret or maybe not being able to keep a seccret. |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Great illustrations and playful story line. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | Wordy Birdy |
| Author | Tammi Sauer |
| ISBN | 9781524719302 |
| PUblisher | Doubleday Books |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | A bird does more talking then listening and ends up in a little bit of trouble. Find out why it's important to listen to others. |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Eye catching illustrations. Helps explain to young students why it is important to listen and not always do the talking. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | Melvin the mouth |
| Author | Katherine Blanc |
| ISBN | 9781580897143 |
| Publisher | Charlesbridge |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | A quick look at the childhood of Melvin Blanc, the man behind such famous character voices such as Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck adn Porky Pig to name a few. |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | Yes. A good book for those students who have lots of energy and like to make sound effects. |
| Name | Ann Trompeter |
| Title | Liftoff! Space Exploration |
| Author | Eleanor Cardell |
| ISBN | 9781629206042 |
| Publisher | Full Tilt Press |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Readers are able to learn more about space exploration through history. |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | Yes. this is an excellent book for student sinterested in teh history of space exploration. |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | Stegothesaurus |
| Author | Bridget Heos |
| ISBN | 9781250134882 |
| Publisher | Henry Holt and Company |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | Book would be a cute introductory lesson into using a thesaurus, but I am not sure will be an everyday reading hit. |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | No. I do not believe it will circulate often. |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | Floaty |
| Author | John Himmelman |
| ISBN | 9781250128058 |
| Publisher | Henry Holt and Compnay |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Mr. Raisin is only interested in sewing , but then something unusual comes into his life that changes his life. |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | Yes. A lovely book showing the impact that pets have on one's life. |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | Flo |
| Author | Kyo Maclear |
| ISBN | 9780374305260 |
| Publisher | Farrar Straus Giroux |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 2 |
| Summary | This picture book, starring an adorable panda, celebrates relaxing and being yourself! Flo is the littlest panda. She likes to explore, relax, and enjoy everything around her. She is never in a hurry. |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | No. Story in tis book does not flow easily. |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | I'm not using the potty |
| Author | Laura Gehl |
| ISBN | 978-0-374-30328-0 |
| Publisher | Farrar Straus Giroux |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | Peep says it's time for Egg to start using the potty. But Egg does not want to use the potty and Peep tries to change that! When things start to get a little uncomfortable, Egg realizes that when nature calls, sometimes you can't say no. |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | No. Although a cute title, it is not really one that is needed in a K-5 school. |
| Name | Jessica Sowder |
| Title | Ten magic butterfiles |
| Author | Danica McKellar |
| ISBN | 9781101933831 |
| Publisher | Crown Books for Young Readers |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Join ten flower friends for a night of excitement that mixes a little math with a lot of maig. |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | Yes. This book encourages children to sue their imagination while also working on math concepts. |
| Name | Amy Fallahay |
| Title | Car, car, truck, jeep |
| Author | Katrina Charman |
| ISBN | 9781681198958 |
| Pubisher | Bloomsbury Children's Books |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | It is a rhyming book that lists different types of transportation. |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | No. Being that it is meant for younger children, many of the words are quite difficult. |
| Name | Jill Hutto |
| Title | Neil Armstrong |
| Author | Patricia Crete |
| ISBN | 9781250166197 |
| Publisher | Roaring Brook Press |
| Classification | Biography |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | Biography of Neil Armstrong |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | No. Illustrations are not that great. Photographs would be much better. |
| Name | Jill Hutto |
| Title | Martin Luther King Jr. |
| Author | Hugh Roome |
| ISBN | 9780531232279 |
| Publisher | Scholastic |
| Classification | Biography |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Biography of Martin Luther King Jr. |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Time line, photographs, text features, table of contents, glossary and index make it a thorough and solid biography. |
| Name | Jill Hutto |
| TItle | New shoes |
| Author | Sara Varon |
| ISBN | 9781596439207 |
| Publisher | First Second |
| Classification | Graphic Novel |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Francis, a shoemaker, must leave his village to go into the jungle in South America to find grass and along the way meets and learns about animals that live in this jungle. |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | Yes. The students love this author and enjoy reading her work. |
| Name | Jill Hutto |
| Title | Magic tricks with cards |
| Author | Elsie Olson |
| ISBN | 9781541538948 |
| Publisher | Lerner |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | How to perform card tricks |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | Yes. I hope this will be good. I intend to set it up at a table with a deck of cards and let students try it out. The directions for teh tricks didn't make a lot of sense to me however. |
| Name | Amy Fallahay |
| Title | Puffins |
| Author | Leo Statts |
| ISBN | 9781532120619 |
| Publisher | ABDO Publishing |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating(1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | This book gives information about puffins, what they eat, their habitat and how they live. |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | Yes. It is very informative especially considering its short length. It also has great photographs. |
| Name | Amy Fallahay |
| Title | Collages & sculptures |
| Author | Carol Hove |
| Publisher | ABDO |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | This book explains how to make many different types of collages and sculptures. |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | Yes. It has a good variety of projects with step by step directions. The only downside is that some of the materials may be difficult for some children to access. |
| ISBN | 9781532110672 |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | All About Colds |
| Author | Francesa Potts |
| ISBN | 9781532111174 |
| Publisher | ABDO Publishing |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | A kid friendly book about why our body can sometimes get hurt or sick. |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Easy nonfiction read about how you get a cold and how to take care of yourself. |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | 25 Fun Things to Do Outside |
| Author | Paul Mason |
| ISBN | 9781541501317 |
| Publisher | Lerner Publishing |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | 25 fun and creative ideas to do to reconnect with the outside world |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Colorful illustrations and easy to participate ideas for anyone. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | Bridges |
| Author | Chris Bowman |
| ISBN | 9781626178212 |
| Publisher | Bellwether Media |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | An early reader to use to introduce engineering by looking at bridges. Colorful illustrations are used to illustrated and define terms for the reader. |
| Would you suggest this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Great book to use with STEM. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | The Unofficial Guide to Minecraft Survival |
| Author | Linda Zajac |
| ISBN | 9781541538870 |
| Publisher | Lerner Publications |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | A gamers look at Minecraft survival. What resources and tools are needed and strategy to use to survive. |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | Yes. Minecraft is being used in the school setting and this books give a quick and basic look for users of all levels. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | August |
| Author | Julie Murray |
| ISBN | 9781532100222 |
| Publisher | ABDO Publishing |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Suggested Level | Elementary |
| Rating | 5 |
| Summary | A quick look at the month of August and the activities one might do during that month. |
| Would you suggest this book? Why or why not? | Yes. An easy read nonfiction book for younger readers. A quick read for the teachers teaching the primary grades and need a resource. |
| Name | Linda Wrins Ryan |
| Title | Respiratory System |
| Author | Grace Hanson |
| ISBN | 9781532183355 |
| Publisher | ABDO Kids |
| Classification | Non-Fiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Brief Summary | This title tells the respiratory process of how oxygen moves from teh air, to the lungs, into the blood and to cells through the body. Although vocabulary may be difficult for students, there is a glossary in the back explaining terminology. It is a good introduction although some of the diagrams could have been more explicit. Also, though there is a picture of an inhaler, there is no text explaining what it is--therefore no relevance. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes-- This title will spark interest and may answer some questions of curious young learners. Recommended for K-2. |
| Name | Linda Wrins Ryan |
| Title | Frightful ghost ships |
| Author | James Roland |
| ISBN | 9781512434026 |
| Publisher | Lerner Publications |
| Classification | Non-Fiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Learn about famous ghost ship sightings around the world and throughout history. Find out what historians and scientists have to say about them. Interesting details gives you young readers just enough information to keep them on the edge of their seat to read more. Good introduction to young chiller seekers. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes-- this title fills the need for students seeking to find out about mysterious ships and the ghosts that are connected with them. |
| Name | Linda Wrins Ryan |
| Title | I can make marvelous movers |
| Author | Kristina Holzweiss |
| ISBN | 9780531238820 |
| Publisher | Scholastic |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | This book is an introduction to what are makers and how you too can be a maker. It includes the science behind how spinning tops, mountain climbing and balloon cars work and step-by-step directions to make these items are included. it is easy enough for even the youngest students to make these items with the help of a parent while a 4th grade student will still be intrigued to make them on their own. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes-- for a little book, it holds a wealth of information. Great introduction to help students get a glimpse at the maker movement and make them feel they can be part of it. |
| Name | Linda Wrins Ryan |
| Title | If you were a kid on the Mayflower |
| Author | John Son |
| ISBN | 9780531232163 |
| Publisher | Scholastic |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Follow two fictional character as they set sail for American on the Mayflower. This title is a blend of both fiction and nonfiction. It tells the story of Hope and Theodore and adds a factual detail of the passengers experiences on the journey. This title makes reference to many primary sources including the book of Plymouth Plantation and pictures of artifacts like cannons and instruments used on the boat. The books in this series are very similar to Ann McGovern's If you Lived series. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Good belnd of fiction and nonfiction to engage young readers although it may not be suited to read to the youngest elementary students in just one sitting. |
| Name | Linda Wrins Ryan |
| Title | Expansion of our nation: slavery and the Missouri Compromise |
| Author | Elisabeth herschbach |
| ISBN | 9781635178869 |
| Publisher | Focused Readers |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | This title breaks down the difficult concept of views of the slave and non slave states and the Missouri Compromise with accessible text and visuals to build understanding for young readers. Suitable for as low as third grade reading level. A map brings a logistical understanding of the debate and the timeline brings it together. There is an educator link to a lesson plans and activities related to the title. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. This title offers a clear and simple understanding of the Missouri Compromise. |
| Name | Linda Wrins Ryan |
| Title | Augmented Reality |
| Author | Brett Martin |
| ISBN | 9781599538860 |
| Publisher | Norwood House Press |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | This title explores the history of augmented reality, the obstacles it has faced and how it has become part of today's culture. Many interesting facts and how it is used in gaming, the military, hospitals, manufacturing and many other fields is given in detail. A solid introductory title. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. A good introduction to the technology of augmented reality will give young readers a solid intrduction to this topic. |
| Name | Linda Wrins Ryan |
| Title | Vincent can't sleep |
| Author | Barb Rosenstock |
| ISBN | 9781101937112 |
| Publisher | Alfred A. Knopf |
| Classification | Biography |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Told in storybook format, this title is about the life of VanGogh and how he was inspired to paint differently than other artists of his time. Even though misunderstood by spectators he continues to follow his passion. End notes further detail this artist's life. A good addition to a collection and especially to teacher seeking a sort storybook biography to add to an art curriculum. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. A good biography in story format to help young learners understand Vincent Van Gogh's vision for his paintings. |
| Name | Linda Wrins Ryan |
| Title | School people |
| Author | Lee Bennett Hopkins |
| ISBN | 9781629797038 |
| Publisher | Wordsong |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Fifteen poems about different workers in school who bring wonder into the lies of students. Each poem is a tribute to a different worker. Although the drawings of students and some adults are multicultural in nature, it will make for a good addition to a petry section if you do not have many on the topic of schools. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Young student will connect well to this title with poems about familiar people in the school. The language is simple enough for young students in teh primary grades, of whom often study school and community workers as part of their school curriculum. |
| Name | Linda Wrins Ryan |
| Title | Super simple President's Day activities |
| Author | Megan Borgert-Spaniol |
| ISBN | 9781532112461 |
| Publisher | ABDO Publishing |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | This title briedly describes President's Day. It then gives simple steps for seven art projects and two food projects to decorate and celebrate the holiday. Each step is accompanied by photos detailing each step making it easy for non readers to visually follow along as they create the craft. Shortcoming: the title does not give a pattern for either Washington's hat or Jefferson's wig but does have photo detailing how each is to be drawn. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Most of the activities are simple enough for students to do without adult supervision. A good addition if you are in need of holiday craft books. |
| Name | Ashleigh Kraus |
| Title | The science of sea monsters : prehistoric reptiles of the sea |
| Author | Alex Woolf |
| ISBN | 9780531258323 |
| Publisher | Franklin Watts |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Woolf's text provides an overview of prehistoric, predatory sea creatures--squid, dinosaurs, lizard fish, gargantuan crocodiles, and more. His engaging text provides information about each of these creatures and their deadly characteristics. He mixes facts with cartoons and illustrations to make a sizable amount of information more palatable for younger readers. A glossary at the end provides readers with the tools they need to develop their own vocabulary. |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. This text does provide a lot of information about these creatures, but it does so in an approachable way through the use of illustrations and cartoons. The book highlights creatures that have captured pop culture's attention in recent years, which will pique student interest. Text features are abundant in the book as well offering teachers and engaging subject matter with which to teach the concepts of heading, call out box, illustration,caption, map diagram, table of contents etc. |
| Name | Heidi Keairns |
| Title | The little fire truck |
| Author | Margery Cuyler |
| ISBN | 9781627798051 |
| Publisher | Christy Ottaviano Books |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | Part of a series of books on vehicles, this book goes over what a little fire truck and it's crew do. it has diverse fire fighters, vehicles with eyes and mouths, and labels on equipment found at the fire station. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | No. The rhyming text might be good for preschool, but I think it's a little too simple for elementary aged students. |
| Name | Lindsey Roberts |
| Title | After the fall |
| Author | Dan Santat |
| ISBN | 9781626726826 |
| Publisher | Roaring Brook Press |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | The story of Humpty Dumpty's life after he fell off the wall. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Perfect book to relate to fairy tales and STEM (egg drop activity!) |
| Name | Lindsey Roberts |
| Title | Origami fun pets |
| Author | Robyn Hardyman |
| ISBN | 9781626177147 |
| Publisher | Bellwether Media |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | A how to origami book about pets. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Great book for younger kids to use to learn the art of origami. |
| Name | Lindsey Roberts |
| Title | Super simple mineral projects |
| Author | Jessie Alkire |
| ISBN | 9781532112386 |
| Publisher | ABDO |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Science activities related to minerals. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Great illustrations and easy to follow steps. |
| Name | Lindsey Roberts |
| Title | Passenger trains |
| Author | Christina Leighton |
| ISBN | 9781626176737 |
| Publisher | Bellwether Media |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | A book that describes passenger trains. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Easy to read text for lower level readers to follow. |
| Name | Lindsey Roberts |
| Title | Cool cats : balinese |
| Author | Betsy Rathburn |
| ISBN | 9781626176263 |
| Publisher | Bellwether Media |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | A book that describes the Balinese breed of cats. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Great illustrations. |
| Name | Lindsey Roberts |
| Title | Let's explore saving money |
| Author | Laura Hamilton Waxman |
| ISBN | 9781541538542 |
| Publisher | Bumba Books |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | This book explains ways and reason to save money. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Easy to read text for lower level readers to follow. |
| Name | Heidi Keairns |
| Title | Tesla models |
| Author | Emily Rose Oachs |
| ISBN | 9781626177802 |
| Publisher | Bellwether Media |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | This book gives and overview of the history and features of different models of Teslas. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. this nonfiction book has nice photos and nonfiction text features. Many of my students are interested in reading about cars and they have enjoyed this series of books including this one on Tesla. |
| Name | Heidi Keairns |
| Title | Crafty llama |
| Author | Mike Kerr |
| ISBN | 9781681191218 |
| Publisher | Bloomsbury Children's Books |
| Classifiction | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Llama likes to knit when she is figuring things out and thinking. Lots of animal friends join Llama and make things. Beaver does not like to make things unless it is useful. While Beaver and Llama try to figure out what Llama could be making she makes things for all of her friends. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. My students love llamas lately and this book celebrates crafting as well as friendship. |
| Name | Heidi Keairns |
| Title | From seed to sunflower |
| Author | Camilla de la Bedoyere |
| ISBN | 9781786036216 |
| Publisher | Quarto Library |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | A life cycle book that goes through the entire cycle of the sunflower. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. This book has nice big photographs and diagrams of parts of a plant. It has nice nonfiction text features and notes at the end for parents and teachers. |
| Name | Heidi Keairns |
| Title | Food truck fest! |
| Author | Alexandra Penfold |
| ISBN | 9780374303181 |
| Publisher | Farrar Straus Giroux |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Trucks and a family get ready to go to the Food Truck Fest, attend, and then go home for the night. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Food trucks are popular right now and my students are familiar with them. This book goes through the day for a Food Truck Fest with repetition and rhyming text that I think my students will enjoy. |
| Name | Ann Trompeter |
| Title | Toad weather |
| Author | Sandra Markle |
| ISBN | 9781561458189 |
| Publisher | Peachtree |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | It's a rainy Spring day as Grandma, Mama adn Ally set out upon an adventure. Looking at all the wonderful tings that happens in the city during a rainstorm. Ally's mother assures her that she is in for a surprise. Ally is impatient but pleasantly surprised when they come to a Toad Crossing. A great class read aloud. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why now? | Yes. |
| Name | Ann Trompeter |
| Title | Chupacabra at the candelabra |
| Author | Marc Nobleman |
| ISBN | 9780399174438 |
| Publisher | Penguin Random House |
| Classification | Fiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | In this fanciful book the famous Chupacabra was coming to dinner. Unfortunately, it was heard that his favorite thing to eat was goats. The goats are in a panic and devise a scheme to save their lives. They find a candelabra on the way to the Chupacabra's. Chupacabra surprises them as he eats the candelabra saying it's his third favorite food. The story is a twist on the outsmarting the predator theme. This is a wonderful read aloud for 2-5. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. |
| Name | Ann Trompeter |
| Title | Another way to climb a tree |
| Author | Liz Scanlon |
| ISBN | 9781626723528 |
| Publisher | Neal Porter |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Lulu loves to climb trees. In fact, she's a bit of a daredevil as she climbs trees that no one else will. She rejoices in the experience of being in a tree. When Lulu is sick and confined to the house, she misses being out in nature. her problem is solved when she sees a huge shadow of a tree on her wall. From her bedroom she is back to climbing the trees in her imagination. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. |
| Name | Amanda Hall |
| Title | Superstars of the NBA finals |
| Author | Brendan Flynn |
| ISBN | 9781532160318 |
| Publisher | ABDO |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | This is a great high interest/low level non-fiction that covers Stph Curry, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Kawhi Leonard. |
| Would you recommended this title? Why or why not? | Yes. This book is engaging and has lots of great text features, including a section on making connections with the text. There are QR codes throughout that link to activities and videos. |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Name | Amanda Hall |
| Title | The Scottsboro Boys |
| Author | Duchess Harris, JD, PhD |
| ISBN | 9781532117756 |
| Publisher | ABDO |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | This book is about the experience of nine African American teenagers who were falsely accused and tried for assault and rape in the 1930's |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. This is an important, but not often discussed, event in history. Duchess Harris books are always a great addition to non-fiction collections. This book includes links to resources as well as featuring primary sources throughout. |
| Name | Amanda Hall |
| Title | Drones |
| Author | Tammy Gagne |
| ISBN | 9781532160394 |
| Publisher | ABDO |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | This is a high interest/low level books that covers the whats and whys of drones. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. I recommend this series and other like it from the ABDO Pop! division. They include many QR codes, with a fun mascot, Cody Koala, that link to book extensions, as well as many useful and attractive text features. |
| Name | Amanda Hall |
| Title | Rocket raccoon |
| Author | Skottie Young |
| ISBN | 9781532140860 |
| Publisher | ABDO |
| Classification | Graphic Novel |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | This is the third installment in A Chasing Tale about Rocket Racoon of Guardians of the Galaxy fame. Rocket is accused of murder and he must prove himself innocent with the help of his friend Groot. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. this would be a good addition to a graphic novel collection because of its engaging pop culture characters and attractive artwork. |
| Name | Amanda Hall |
| Title | Kentucky |
| Author | Jennifer Zeiger |
| ISBN | 9780531231654 |
| Publisher | Scholastic |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | This book covers all the important facts about the state of Kentucky from its history to current events. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. This book has great text features as well as interesting, current color photo. Infographics, maps, and a recipe make this book a step up from a traditional non-fiction reader. The Scholastic True Book Series are reliable and engaging. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | Weather Watch : Clouds |
| Author | Mary Meinking |
| ISBN | 9781532160523 |
| Publisher | ABDO |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Easy reader series on weather with this book focusing on various types of clouds. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Easy-to-read, four chapters, in large print, includes QR codes, vocabulary words well defined, photographs used for illustrations. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | Patterns at school |
| Author | Bela Davis |
| ISBN | 9781532107931 |
| Publisher | ABDO |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Quick read on patterns that students would see at school. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Examples of patterns shown through photograph illustration, easy to understand vocabulary, great introduction to nonfiction for young readers. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | U.S. Symbols : Mount Rushmore |
| Author | Susan Rose Simms |
| ISBN | 9781532160462 |
| Publisher | ABDO |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Great book for teachers to use when teaching U.S. symbols. Interesting photo illustrations for students. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Examples for text-to-self, text-to-text and text-to-world, QR codes, easy to read text, great introduction nonfiction book. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | Kate and Nate are running late |
| Author | Kate Egan |
| ISBN | 9781250000804 |
| Publisher | Feiwel and Friends |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Rhyming story about a mom and son who are running late for work and school with a surprise ending. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Quick, fun, fast paced rhyming story about the start of a school and work day. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | Becoming a beetle |
| Author | Grace Hansen |
| ISBN | 9781532108143 |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Introduction to a beetle and its life stages |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Great nonfiction book for early readers, photo illustrations. |
| Publisher | ABDO |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | How are you? Como estas? |
| Author | Angela Dominguez |
| ISBN | 9781250126863 |
| Publisher | Henry Holt and Company |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Animals ask each other how they are feeling. Discussion goes back in forth in English an Spanish. |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Quick easy read that allows a beginner to the English language start to learn Spanish and vice versa. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | Snail & Worm again : three stories about two friends |
| Author | Tina Kugler |
| ISBN | 9780544792494 |
| Publisher | Houghton Mifflin Hartcourt |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Worm and Snail carry on a conversation about different features they have and how it makes each feel. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. This book teaches the reader conversation skills. It is a humorous look at how one might view their self. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | Earth Science: Water |
| Author | Mary Lindeen |
| ISBN | 9781599538754 |
| Publisher | Norwood House |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Early reader on the scientific concept of water. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not/ | Yes. Great introduction book to water. Includes text for background knowledge. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | Habitats: Lakes & Rivers |
| Author | Andrea Rivera |
| ISBN | 9781532120671 |
| Publisher | ABDO |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Easy reader introduction to lakes and rivers. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Easy to follow text for nonfiction beginning readers. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | Ven a la escuela : Come to school, dear dragon |
| Author | Margaret Hillert |
| ISBN | 9781599538273 |
| Publisher | Norwood House Press |
| Classifiction | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Beginning to read book in Spanish and English about a dragon who goes to school. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Good choice for students who understand and/or speak Spanish and are trying to learn the English language. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | The shape of my heart |
| Author | Mark Sperring |
| ISBN | 9781599909622 |
| Publisher | Bloomsbury |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Quick, catchy rhyming story about that different shapes that one sees. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Easy to read rhyming text, introduces shapes, colorful illustrations taht catch a reader's eye. |
| Name | Carrie Mateja |
| Title | Up! Up! Up! Skyscraper |
| Author | Anastasia Suen |
| ISBN | 9781580897105 |
| Publisher | Charlesbridge |
| Classification | Nonfiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | Introduction to what you see at a construction stie using rhyming text and discusses the engineering process. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Easy to follow rhyming text for the reader, introduction to construction site vocabulary, colorful illustrations. |
| Name | Ann Trompeter |
| Title | Doggone feet |
| Author | Leslie Helakoski |
| ISBN | 9781590789339 |
| Publisher | Boyd Mills Press |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | A humorous story told from the perspective of a dog who sees people from the perspective of their fee. the family grows as does the number of feet in the house. It becomes quite crowded but there is always room for a few more. |
| Would you recommended this title? Why or why not? | Yes. The subject matter would appeal to young students. |
| Name | Ann Trompeter |
| Title | Cows to the rescue |
| Author | John Himmelman |
| ISBN | 9780805092493 |
| Publisher | Henry Holt and Company |
| Classification | Fiction |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | The county fair has begun for a farm family. Throughout the day various problems arise at the fair. Surprisingly, the family cows come to the rescue. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. This book is delightfully funny with appealing illustrations. |
| Name | Connie Poche |
| Title | I just like you |
| Author | Suzanne Bloom |
| ISBN | 9781629798783 |
| Publisher | Boyd Mills Press |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | A variety of animals discuss what makes them different, and how that is perfectly okay. And while they may not be alike, they LIKE each other and enjoy their differences. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. It's a cute book for the beginning of the year to use with lower primary readers. Excellent for discussing similarities and differences. |
| Name | Connie Poche |
| Title | My pet book |
| Author | Bob Staake |
| ISBN | 9780385373128 |
| Publisher | Random House Children's Books |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 5 |
| Summary | When choosing a new pet, a boy bypasses the usual and chooses a bright red book for his pet. It doesn't shed, or poop, doesn't get fleas, and they have great adventures together. One day, upon returning from school, he discovers the maid has donated the book to a charity store. They race to rescue his pet before it is too late. |
| Would you recommend this title? Why or why not? | Yes. Oh my goodness, this is a WONDERFUL book for the beginning of the school year as you introduce students to the joys of reading. The text is rhyming and the illustrations are bright and splashy. Most appropriate for grades 2-3. |
| Name | Connie Poche |
| Title | Kate, who tamed the wind |
| Author | Liz Garton Scanlon |
| ISBN | 9781101934791 |
| Publisher | Schwartz and Wade |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 3 |
| Summary | A man living on teh tippy top of a hill battles the wind constantly. Clothes are snatched, boards creak, the tea and bread are smashed. When he calls out in frustration, a little girl names Kate comes up with the answer to his problem. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes, with reservations. It would be good for Arbor Day or Earth Day. ti works toward having a rhyming repeating phrase, but the words are clunky and the phrasing can be awkward, causing the reader to stumble upon a first reading. |
| Name | Connie Poche |
| Title | Wee Sister Strange |
| Author | Holly Grant |
| ISBN | 9780553508796 |
| Publisher | Schwartz and Wade |
| Classification | Everybody |
| Recommended Level | Elementary |
| Rating (1-5) | 4 |
| Summary | Wee Sister Strange is a lonely child who wanders the woods at night seeking a treasure. After searching through bogs, brambles and even the clouds in the sky, she sees a glimmer of hope. A home with a light glowing through the window. Inside a mother and child share a story, as Wee Sister Strange listens. She finds peace in the story and sleeps outside te window. |
| Would you recommend this book? Why or why not? | Yes. While Sister Strange outside the window is a wee bit creepy, the story is about searching for the treasure of reading. The illustrations are beautiful and make the story worth reading in themselves. |