Media Matters

 Board books by Roger Priddy. ABC  123 Animal Opposites I like that this series of board books can be interacted with in multiple ways by different ages. The large sturdy pages with textured fingerprint illustrations are great for a baby to explore. A preschooler can begin to grasp the concepts being taught. And an older child could enjoy trying to recreate their own thumbprint creatures in this style.

 Board book by Sierra Wilson. This is perfect as a board book. On the left is one sentence about something Jesus did, with an accompanying picture. On the right is the repeated phrase, “So can I” with a corresponding picture. The repeated phrase can be said or read by the child, making it more interactive. The pictures are lovely. It’s likening the scriptures in a toddler accessible way.

 Picture book by Dr. Seuss A fun interactive book to read with a toddler. Lots of interesting noises to make!

 Picture Book by Deborah Diesen When I first read this, I was underwhelmed. However, after listening to my son in law read it as a rap, I’m convinced that is how it was intended to be read. It works SO well! It’s also a good lesson in fixed mindset vs. growth mindset.

 Board book by Tad Hills.. I’m not a fan of most of the Duck and Goose books, but this one is funny, and my granddaughter loves to shake her head NO at all the wrong places they look for a pumpkin.

 Board book by Nicola Smee. A fun board book to read while bouncing a toddler on your lap to the “clip clop clippety clop” rhythm.

 Book by Brandon Sanderson. This was a thoroughly original premise, executed with Sanderson’s trademark humor, moral quandaries,  and character growth. Despite its thickness, it was a quick read. The illustrations were delightful. Note: there was some mild swearing and some violence. Aimed at teens and adults, not children.

 Board book by Rosie Greening Good rhymes combine with interesting textures to touch, making this a baby favorite.

 Board book by Karen Katz. I love this sturdy book with large flaps that are easy for baby to lift. A fun interactive introduction to basic anatomy.

 Book by Sylvia Engdahl. This was a thoroughly original and thought provoking sci fi novel. I don’t think the author intended for any religious overtones at all, but I couldn’t help but see some parallels and themes that resonated with me concerning faith, power, love, sacrifice, hope, progression, faith and reason being complementary rather than contradictory, and being endowed with power through ritually making and keeping an oath (covenant) to uphold a cause greater than self. There is no objectionable content, but the themes are probably too mature for the elementary crowd. Similar to The Giver in terms of recommended age. Quotes: “fear isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It’s a natural result of aiming high.” “pain’s not categorically bad any more than fear is. Where the aim is to build a person up rather than to break him down, it can serve a constructive purpose.” “Who are you to say that human suffering is unnecessary?” Hotly I asked, “Are you telling me that it is necessary? Wh...

 Book by Natalie Lloyd. This audiobook was utterly charming, with not so scary ghosts, hidden treasure, and “destiny dreams”, told by a young narrator with a southern drawl who bursts into an occasional song. The message about leaving a legacy of loving well resonated with me.

 Book by Kelly Yang.  I loved this story of a Chinese immigrant girl helping her parents run a motel. The writing was fantastic, and I gained real insight into the struggles of immigrants and those living in poverty. I also loved the portrayal of the power of words. A surprising amount of the story is based on the author’s true experiences! Quotes: “Sometimes a mistake is actually an opportunity, but just can’t see it right then and there.” “America may not be perfect, but she’s free. And that makes all the difference.”

Book by McCall Hoyle. I’m not an animal person, but this story told from the point of view of a service dog was a winner! Note: It would be a great discussion starter for anyone dealing with grief and/or PTSD.