Media Matters

 Easy chapter book or long picture book, by Eleanor Estes. A sad tale of a girl who is bullied by her classmates, and the regret one of the girls feels that she didn’t speak out or stop the bullying.

 Picture book biography by Vicki Conrad This was a fantastic biography, well written and interesting, and particularly relatable for kids who struggle to learn to read or don’t like school. It would obviously be more interesting to kids familiar with Cleary’s books.

 Novel by Avi. A swashbuckling adventure tale that will keep you on the edge of your seat!

 This is one of the rare cases when (IMO) the movie is better than the book.

 Novel by E.B. White. There’s a reason the story of Charlotte and Wilbur has endured the test of time. This can be enjoyed by all ages! Activity idea: Visit your local county or state fair. 

 Novel by Charlotte Bronte. There is also a musical theater production that I highly recommend.

 Novel by Gertrude Chandler Warner. This is an easy to read novel, great for newer readers looking for their first big chapter book. It’s a wonderful story with a bit of mystery and lots of heart. Note: after this first book, there are many many subsequent books in this huge series, but they are much more run of the mill, lower quality mysteries when compared to this first top notch installment.

A book series by Lloyd Alexander. There are five books in this series: 1. The Book of Three 2.  The Black Cauldron 3. The Castle of Llyr  4. Taran Wanderer 5. The High King This is fantasy at its best!

Picture book by Heather Henson. Based on the fascinating true story of the Pack Horse Librarians. A gem!

 Picture book by Jane Yolen This is a beautifully worded and illustrated story of a little girl and her father going owling late one winter night.

 Novel by Chaim Potok. This is the story of a boy who is both a Hasidic Jew and an emerging artist, and how those two worlds collide and battle for his soul. It is deep and thought provoking, the kind of book you want to talk about.

 Novel by Charles Dickens. The classic tale of a life lived for self vs. a life lived for others. There are multiple movie versions, several different theatrical versions, and of course the book itself to consider.

 A play by Thornton Wilder. Of course, you could read the book version, but plays are meant to be performed, so I recommend seeing this on the stage. It has a beautiful message about appreciating life in all its beautiful imperfection. (Similar to the themes in the movies “Soul” and “It’s a Wonderful Life”.)

 Picture book by Eric Carle. Sparsely worded tale about a caterpillar becoming a butterfly. Perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. Activity idea: Visit a butterfly aviary.

 Picture book by Max Lucado. This is an allegory about seeing our worth through God’s eyes instead of the world’s praise or rejection.

 Picture book by Russell Hoban A classic that’s fun to read. Activity idea: Make and eat some homemade bread and jam.

 Multiple series of books by Orson Scott Card The original in this sprawling series is Ender’s Game. Be warned that there is some foul and crude language in this book that I didn’t feel was necessary to the story. That said, the book is interesting and thought-provoking. Even more interesting, in my opinion, was the parallel book Ender’s Shadow. This tells the same story from the point of view of Bean instead of Ender. It’s honestly so good! Then at this point the series splits into two series.  Ender goes off into space in Speaker for the Dead and other ensuing titles in the Ender saga. These are slower and more philosophical in their scope, and will appeal to a more mature audience than the original. Bean returns to Earth in Shadow of the Hegemon and the other ensuing titles in the shadow series. This series feels more like a political thriller, with some sci-fi lab experimentation thrown in. Definitely more exciting, but still lots of ethical questions to discuss.

 A large picture book by Ingri and Edgar D’Aulaire. Everyone needs a basic knowledge of Greek myths to be culturally literate. Although not a favorite of mine, ALL of my children have loved this book and still re-read it often. It definitely captured their imagination.

 Novel by Catherine Marshall. This is based on the true experiences of the author’s mother, who moved to the poverty stricken mountains of Tennessee and became a school teacher. Heartache, triumph, faith, and romance ensue! I loved this book as a teenager!

 Novel by Wendelin Van Draanen. This was a great book and one I would highly recommend to junior high age kids.  The romance is sweet and appropriate, but more important are the themes: not judging by appearance, the importance of honest communication in a relationship, how the same event can be seen from different perspectives, standing up for what is right rather than remaining quiet...

 Novel by Scott O’Dell. I loved this adventure/survival story when I was a kid!

 Books by Louisa May Alcott. The first book is Little Women, a fine story of four sisters that has been turned into several movies and a musical. (All worth a look) The second book is Little Men, which was one of my favorites growing up. (I enjoyed the adventures of the boys more than the boring girls, I guess.) The third book is Jo’s Boys which I haven’t yet read...

 Picture book by Dr. Seuss. Horton is kind and faithful and never gives up! I love the lessons in this fun story.

 Novel by Eileen Spinelli. A sweet book about a 12 year old girl learning to move on after her dad dies.  Written in free verse.

 Novel by Shannon Hale. Don’t be fooled by the title. This isn’t your typical fantasy with traditional princesses. Miri is a heroine with courage, intelligence, and kindness! You will love this book!

 Picture book by Robert Munsch. There are good lessons here about being judged by what you do and who you are on the inside, rather than being measured by appearance or status. There’s also a lesson in acting with gratitude and humility vs. acting entitled and finding things to complain about. Everyone should be warned not to marry a “Ronald”!

 Novel by Leif Enger. Complex tale of choices and consequences, faith and family, tragedy and miracles. Lots of ideas to discuss here.

 Picture book by Ruth Krauss. A very sparsely worded tale of a little boy who plants a carrot seed and has faith that it will grow. Activity idea: Plant a garden together.

 Novels by L.M. Montgomery. These books are classics because Anne is such a likable character. There are also several enjoyable movies that have been made from these books.

 Picture book by Janet and Allan Ahlberg. This is an interactive, I Spy type of book, with fairy tale and nursery rhyme characters hidden throughout.

 Nonfiction picture book by Blair Thornburgh. This was one of those rare informational books that is genuinely interesting and fun to read! If you have a child who is scared of skulls, or doesn’t want to wear a bike helmet, read this book!

 Picture book by Mo Willems. This is a more serious book for Mo, but also lovely. I loved the chain reaction of one person’s choices leading to the next and that ripple effect of consequences. I loved the emphasis on hard work and effort leading to success. I loved how it showed the impact many people in many different lines of work have in the overall success of an event.

 Novel by Leon Uris. This a fantastic romance and adventure novel! It has as its historical basis the creation of the state of Israel in 1948, although it’s important to note the point of view portrayed is decidedly one-sided.

 Picture book by Greg Foley Cute book about a boy with ten wishes, who finally discovers the most wonderful wish of all: a true friend.

 Dystopian novels by Suzanne Collins Lots of fodder for thoughtful discussion here about society. Too disturbing for younger readers.

 Series of books by Beverly Cleary. Funny, slice of life types of family stories that are relatable and fun.

 Book series by Dean Hughes. LDS faith based historical fiction set during WWII. There are five books in the series and I thought they were fascinating!

 Novel by Jessica Day George Great fantasy fun!

 Picture book by Mo Willems This is a huge departure from Mo’s other books that have a light, silly, humorous tone. This one is quiet and thoughtful, a little bit sad, and simply lovely. Near the end, frog doesn’t return to his rock, and the reader is left wondering what happened. Did he die? Migrate or move away? Is he hibernating? Regardless of the cause, dog feels the loss of his friend, but also honors his friend by similarly welcoming a new friend. It is a hopeful ending, showing that life and joy can still be found after a loss.

 Novel by Mike Lupica. A great read for soccer fans. Might be hard to follow for someone unfamiliar with the game. Wonderful example of sportsmanship, teamwork, and friendship. Ages 8+. Activity idea: Attend a pro, college, or high school soccer game together.

 Picture book by Karen Hesse. I love true stories! Great little gem of a book about a girl outsmarting the Gestapo so she can smuggle food to her Jewish friends.

 A biography of Gordon B. Hinckley, written by Sheri Dew. A very interesting read.

 Picture book by Jeff Brumbeau A quilt changes a greedy king’s heart. Activity idea: Learn to quilt or attend a quilt show together.

 Picture book by Arlene Mosel. This is a fun story to read and practice saying the very long name together.

 Beginning chapter book by Lois Lowry. This will inspire future writers and storytellers who are wondering how to tell a good story. This book both tells and shows you. Activity idea: Attend a storytelling festival together.

 Picture book by Herve Tullet. Ingenious idea for an interactive reading experience, perfect for ages 3-5.

 Picture book by Jon Agee. I thought this was going to be just mediocre.... Then the ending surprised me and made me laugh! Pure silliness.

 A fantasy book series by Jennifer Nielsen. The first in the series is The False Prince. I have read the first three in the series, but there are more books to come, so I will update this review later. Thus far, it’s great fun.

 Novel by Julianne Donaldson. If you want a deep, meaningful book full of symbolism, this is not it.  This is a Regency era romance with a fairly predictable plot.  Having said that, sometimes you just want a book that makes you happy.  I loved the main characters and the aspect of friendship being a vital part of the romance.  And being able to share it with my daughters, as it is utterly "clean" is an added bonus.

 Fantasy series of books by Marissa Meyer. A science-fiction retelling of several intertwined fairy tales that is utterly original and lots of fun!

 Beginning reader book by Shannon Hale. This is the first in a series of early reader chapter books (very short chapters with lots of cartoon style illustrations) geared toward ages 6-8. Primary grade readers would find it delightful.

 Picture book by William Steig. On its surface, a fun story or perhaps a cautionary tale to be more wise in the future. But you could also see this as a bit of a religious allegory that despite our foolish mistakes, the difficult trials and seasons of our lives, and the hopelessness of our fallen condition, we can still have hope in a glorious spring “resurrection” and reunion with our families. Activity idea: Start a rock collection or look at rocks in a museum.

 Picture book by Jacqueline Woodson. Lovely book about telling your story, finding common ground, and embracing your differences.

 Picture book by Doreen Cronin A very clever story. Activity idea: Visit a farm together.

 Novel by Cornelia Funke This fantasy was utterly engaging in the audiobook version we listened to on a family car trip.

 Memoir by Marina Chapman True story of a child raised by monkeys, sold to a brothel, living on the streets, wanted dead by the mafia, and finally finding a family to love her.  Both fascinating and gut-wrenching.  Most interesting to me were her innate desire to have a family of her own and choosing the good person inside her rather than the bad one.

 Picture book by Mem Fox This book is perfect as a board book: not a lot of substance or story, not too wordy, just some enjoyable rhyming and an excuse to cuddle before bed.

 Memoir by Malala Yousafzai. Fascinating look at life in Pakistan and the transition from modernity to Taliban rule.  Wow! Malala’s story of courage and seeking education is not to be missed.

 A short beginning reader novel by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor. Charming little novella perfect for transitioning to chapter books.  Would also be a fun read-aloud. Roxie is such a fun character!

 Picture book by Gene Zion. Classic story of a dog who gets so dirty, his family doesn’t recognize him!

 Picture book by Audrey Wood. Young listeners will enjoy the cadence of the words, the predictable repetition, the silliness of the premise, and the interesting illustrations. There is also a companion book entitled “Full Moon at the Napping House”. It follows the same cumulative pattern as the Napping House, but this time everyone starts out awake and restless and ends up asleep.

 Novel by Kwame Alexander. Written in free verse with a hint of rap, this is a book that will appeal to more than just basketball fans. It will also tug at your heartstrings. Ages 12+.

 Religious nonfiction book by Emily Belle Freeman. This is a lovely book in which the author tells stories and shares scriptures from the Old Testament, then extracts truths and lessons learned and applies them to modern life.

 Picture book by Don and Audrey Wood Cute and quick for the younger crowd, and a great sequel to the original, the mouse at first wants to prevent the bear from stealing his presents. But when he realizes the bear doesn’t have any gifts to open, mouse brings Christmas to the bear.

 Novel by Ruta Sepetys. This was a solid, well written historical fiction about Eastern European refugees fleeing for their lives as Russian troops advanced near the end of WW2. I can't believe I never learned about this part of the war in school. ***SPOILER ALERT*** The last half of the book reminded me a bit of the story of the Titanic. It realistically but sensitively depicts the atrocities of war, so this is highly recommended for ages 14+.

 Picture book by Ame Dyckman At its core, this is about a big sister defending her adoring little brother. Very cute.

 A picture book by Mac Barnett. This is a picture book where the words only tell half the story and the pictures tell the rest. Very fun!

 Novel by Nancy Turner This was a stay up til 2am to finish it kind of book. So compelling. I fell in love with Sarah's feisty independence, honesty, and thirst for knowledge. And the relationship between she and Jack was so tender and moving. Be forewarned, you may cry. There are some truly heart-wrenching moments. Recommended for ages 16+ due to a not too graphic rape scene and (married) sexual innuendo.

 Novel by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley This book absolutely sucked me in! It wasn't perfect, but it was compelling. It made me think about how quick we are to make assumptions about people, as well as assuming people are understanding what we are saying and doing the way we intended them to be understood. The abuse Ada endures at the hands of her mother is unfathomable and might be disturbing to younger readers. There is also some war violence, bombs, etc. Nothing too graphic, but definitely suspenseful. Recommended for ages 11+.

 Novel by Andrew Clements. One day, 15 yr old Bobby wakes up to discover he’s invisible. This is a fantastic story about the ramifications of such a scenario! Note: This is aimed at a slightly older audience than Clement’s other novels.

 Picture book by Peggy Rathmann The pictures tell half the story of this charming tale.

 Fantasy book series by Victoria Forester. 1. The Girl Who Could Fly Great little gem of a book with surprising depth. Loved it!  It’s also the favorite read-aloud of my daughter’s sixth grade class. 2. The Boy Who Knew Everything  This book is the second in the series and was even better than the first! I found myself entirely engrossed, not wanting to put it down. 3.  The Girl Who Fell Out of the Sky (I haven’t read this one yet. Review pending.)

 Picture book by Stephen Wunderli A wonderful true story of soldiers turning No Man’s Land into common ground. This book will be more appreciated by older children and adults who have some sense of what war is like, and can therefore appreciate how miraculous this Christmas truce was.

 Picture book by Eoin Colfer. Cute book about an imaginary friend who doesn’t want to get replaced by a real friend, but discovers a person can have more than one friend at a time!

 Picture book biography by John Seven. A charming biography of Frank Sinatra.

 Novel by a Nevil Shute.

 Picture book by Sam Beeson What starts out as twelve days of hateful gifts to an enemy, is turned into a beautiful nativity by the gift of forgiveness.

 A trilogy of Fantasy Novels by Brandon Sanderson 1. The Final Empire A bit slow at the beginning, but thoroughly engrossing by the end.   Note: I would not recommend this to younger readers.  It contains a fair amount of violence, including murder and torture, as well as referencing brothels, eunuchs, and breeding programs. Age 15+ seems about right. 2. The Well of Ascension  3.  The Hero of Ages This book was slower, as there was lot of time spent philosophizing about the role of faith and religion in the world.  However, that's not a complaint.  I liked that the author tackled some deeper subject matter.  As I finished the book, I found myself wanting to discuss it with someone.

 Picture book by Peter Reynolds Very cute story of a boy who collects words, strings them together in poetry, and shares them with the world.

 Picture book by Cori Doerrfeld. When a little girl’s block tower gets knocked over, the animals have lots of ideas they think will help: talking, getting angry, remembering, laughing, hiding, throwing it all away, and destroying someone else’s. But what she really needs is someone to just be there, quiet and steady, as she comes to terms with it and eventually is ready to build again. A sweet metaphor of how to help a friend when their whole world has crashed down around them. Just be there and listen.

 3 picture books, aimed at a more mature audience, by Kobi Yamada. What Do You Do with an Idea? Sweet book about a boy who encounters an idea. At first he tries to hide it, because it’s kind of weird and people might laugh at it. But then he decides to feed it, play with it, nurture it, and allow it to grow. It ends up changing the world! What do you do with a Problem? A little boy has a problem. He tries ignoring it, but it doesn’t go away. He constantly worries about it, and that makes the problem grow bigger and scarier. But when he finally decides to tackle it, he discovers there’s something beautiful inside it: an opportunity to learn and to grow. What do you do with a Chance? When a chance comes along, a little boy is too scared to grab it, so it flies away. The next time a chance comes along, he gathers his courage and attempts to take the chance, only to end up falling on his face and getting laughed at. So he vows never to take a chance again. But the more chances he ignor...

 Picture book by Terry Fan. As the night gardener works his magic, creating a new topiary each evening, the town begins to change. What starts out in dismal gray black and white drawings showing houses in disrepair, is transformed by neighbors working together to hammer and paint and be inspired by the beauty the gardener is bringing to their town. The last illustration shows a beautiful town and happy people in full color.

 A picture book for more mature readers, by Jacqueline Woodson. This is the story of the author’s family history, passed down to her through words and needlework. Beautiful.

 Picture book by Andrea Beaty. Young Ada is curious, asking lots of questions and constantly experimenting (which sometimes gets her into trouble). But her parents recognize her motives are good and they nurture her curiosity and scientific enthusiasm. Cute rhyming text and wonderful illustrations.

 Picture book by Caralyn Buehner. This is one of those picture books that might be enjoyed by kids, but is really aimed at an older audience. It’s a fractured Cinderella story in which the fairy godmother comes years too late, but in the meantime, Cinderella has created a wonderful life for herself, choosing to create her own destiny and be content with those choices.

 Picture book biography by Amy Guglielmo. Fascinating true story of Mary Blair, the groundbreaking artist who created the ride “It’s a Small World”.

 This is a fantasy series of books by Shannon Hale. They include: 1. The Goose Girl 2. Emma Burning 3. River Secrets 4. Forest Born They are wonderfully written with lots of meaty ideas to chew on. Really enjoyable characters too!

 Three collections of poetry by Shel Silverstein. These poems range from ridiculous to revealing, and are sometimes simultaneously riotous and relevant. As with any collection, I don’t necessarily recommend every poem, but there is good stuff to be found here.

 Picture book by Mo Willems. This book shows the way to make friends rather than being scared of new people: 1. discover what you have in common 2. embrace differences too 3. spend time together

 Novel by Kristen Randle. Well-written and insightful realistic fiction for ages 13+. (It has nothing to do with aliens.)

 Picture book by Harry Allard. This was a funny, cautionary tale about not taking someone for granted and treating people well.

Book series by John D. Fitzgerald  These books are the somewhat true memoirs of the author’s childhood growing up in historic Utah with an evil genius older brother. They are wildly funny!

 Novel by Dusti Bowling. Darling book about a middle school girl who was born without arms, who moves to another state and becomes friends with a boy with Tourette's. Add in a mystery and a cheesy run down western theme park, and you might think this is the oddest book ever, but it all somehow works. I absolutely loved the characters! Clean other than a couple of references to "boobs".

 Picture book by Robert McCloskey. Classic story about a young duck family needing to relocate to a new home via land instead of air. Activity idea: Feed the ducks at a local pond.

LDS Religious nonfiction by Brad Wilcox. This small book explains concepts such as "birthright", "chosen", "noble" or "royal" birth, gathering "Israel", earthly missions, the symbolism of oxen, and much more, all in Brad's easy to understand, storytelling style. Another gem I would highly recommend!

 Novel by Catherine Gilbert Murdock. This was a fast, utterly absorbing read. Part historical fiction, set in France and Rome in the year 1350, it discusses pilgrims, relics, superstitions, and the plague. But this was also part supernatural/religious fantasy, presenting an interesting take on Heaven, hell, and angels. My religious beliefs are clearly different from the author’s, but I did love Boy and his determination to be good and do good in the world.

 Novel by Adam Gidwitz. This was a book unlike anything I’ve read before. It brought the Middle Ages to life, particularly the interactions between the different classes and those of different religious beliefs. It was also hilarious! I love that the book is not illustrated, but instead illuminated as medieval texts were. The message of being friends with people who have differing beliefs and life experiences than your own is a surprisingly current and much needed theme in today’s world. That said, I do want to give a cautionary note: there are numerous instances of taking the Lord’s name in vain, there is one scene that’s quite gory but also laughable in its absurdity, there is a bit of potty humor, and a running gag involving using the word “ass” to mean both donkey and bottom (which could be problematic in a read-aloud setting, for example). That said, I think it is a book worth reading and discussing with ages 11+.

 A picture book by Crockett Johnson. There are seven in this series of books starring Harold, a small boy who can solve any problem with a bit of imagination and his trusty purple crayon. A classic! Enjoy them all.

 A picture book by Mo Willems. Wonderful book about a beloved toy and deciding to let it bring joy to another child by giving it away. Note: This is the last book in the Knuffle Bunny series of 3 books.

 This is a huge collection of nonfiction science picture books by Simon Basher (and several other authors). Scientific concepts are explained in utterly interesting and understandable ways. I had several kids who read and reread these often! 

 Novel by Jean Lee Latham. Gem of a book, and a true story too!  I love that he chose to rise above his circumstances rather than giving up and becoming bitter.

 Novel by Robert Paul Weston. This book was utterly delightful! Imagine a plot with Roald Dahl-like sensibilities written entirely in Dr. Seuss style rhymes. This would be a fun read-aloud, especially if you came up with different voices for the various characters. There's also a wonderful theme of using ingenuity and inventiveness rather than letting your brain go into unthinking, boring mode.

 Novel by Sherri Smith. This was a quick read, well-written and fascinating. Historical fiction about the WASP (Women Auxiliary Service Pilots) during WW2, it also delves into racial issues, specifically the idea of a negro "passing" for white and the implications that carries for her future identity. My only complaint is that I was so enamored with the main character, I really wanted to know what happened to her after the war, so I was dissatisfied with the ambiguous ending. Highly recommended for ages 12+ (clean but with mature themes). Activity idea: Sign up to take a flying lesson in a small plane.

 Picture book by Jon Agee. The pictures are an important part of this funny story! Clever book about preconceived notions and how dangerous they can be.

 Picture book by Bill Martin Jr. This is a favorite of toddlers, so I recommend it in board book form. There is something so appealing about revealing the new animal on each page: “I see a ...(as you turn the page) ...yellow duck looking at me!” My only complaint is at the end when it’s a “teacher”, not because I have anything against teachers, but because the target toddler audience may not have had a teacher yet. 

 Graphic novel by John Hendrix. Fascinating true story of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. I loved the emphasis on his religious beliefs that informed his choices. My only complaint was in the formatting of the graphic novel itself, with tiny print in various colors and colored backgrounds that made it difficult for me to read without getting a headache.

 Book by Jeannette Walls. This is a memoir (albeit somewhat fictionalized) of the author's grandmother, and a sort of prequel to The Glass Castle.  Although not quite as compelling as The Glass Castle, it was still a very quick, entertaining read, broken up into small vignettes written in wonderful prose.  Ages 12+ would thoroughly enjoy it, and some of the vignettes could be read aloud as stand alone short stories to kids (or adults) of any age.

 Novel by Linda Sue Park This was a lovely story, not just about ancient Korean pottery, but also about honesty, loyalty, friendship, and family. It’s a slower moving plot, so this may not appeal to some children, but it’s well worth the read. Activity idea: Try throwing a pot on a pottery wheel.

 This is a musical theater production that can be seen from the stage or from a filmed version of the stage production. It is important to note that the show and soundtrack are not appropriate for all ages. There are swear words and sexual innuendos and an extramarital affair depicted. I’d recommend it to high schoolers, but not younger. The characters are flawed and make some really bad decisions, but there is also honor, loyalty, courage, forgiveness, and reconciliation to be seen and discussed. You will laugh and you will cry. And you will discover that the “Hamilton” named in the title may not be Alexander but Eliza, who is left to tell their story.

 This is a novel by Emmuska Orczy. It was turned into a movie in the 1980s. Then it was turned into a musical theater production. The interesting thing to note is that although the book, movie, and musical all share the exact same name, the plot lines for each of them are wildly different. It’s like three different stories that all feature the same main character. Yet they are all very entertaining and I can happily recommend them all! 

 Picture book by Bill Martin Jr. This was a favorite book at our house. The rhythm makes this fun to read for toddlers and preschoolers, and because it’s fun, they’ll want to hear it over and over again. That repetition is a natural way to become familiar with the letters of the alphabet.  Note: the board book only includes the first half of the full picture book. Therefore, I recommend getting the paperback of this one.

 Picture book by Philip Stead. Darling book about an elderly zookeeper who helps his animal friends, and the animals help him in return when he is sick one day. Great discussion starter about friendship and what makes a good friend. Activity idea: Visit the zoo.

 Novel by Julie Chibbaro. This was a fast and intriguing read, giving insight into real life characters in the Typhoid Mary drama, told from the point of view of a girl who was drawn to science despite it being considered a man's realm at the time.  There were ethical/moral dilemmas which would be great fodder for discussion.

 Series of beginning readers designed for two voices, by Mary Ann Hoberman. I had a lot of fun reading these with my 5 year old (she's a pretty advanced reader for her age).  These are Aesop's fables written for two voices in short rhymes.  My daughter loved picking which character to be (Tortoise or Hare, Fox or Stork...) The lines are color-coded (ie. you read the orange words, I read the green words, we read the pink words together). If your child is supposed to read aloud to you for homework, this is a really fun way to do it!

 A nonfiction book by Laura Hillenbrand. Fascinating true story that brought to life the plight of Pacific POWs during WWII. Truly eye-opening and highly recommended for ages 15 and older. (Note: not for the young or overly squeamish.)

 Picture book by Keith Faulkner. My kids loved this as a read aloud because they can shout the repetitive line on each page.  There is also a bit of basic subtraction and discussion of different forms of transportation.  I especially appreciate how graciously the gift is received at the end of the story.

 Picture book by Jon Stone. My kids loved this funny story with the unexpected ending!

 Picture book by Richard Schneider  My kids and I love this story of a little pine tree who uses its branches to bless the creatures around it. Unapologetically brings the tradition of Christmas trees back to Jesus.