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A Reader’s Gift Guide: Children’s Books

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my book christmas treeeee for 2012 l A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

Ok, this post is a bit long but it’s worth it . . . today I’m giving you my picks for the best children’s books of 2012: board books, picture books, and chapter books.

Also, I’ve generally used the publisher’s book descriptions due to time constraints. However, I’ve read all of these book and highly recommend them. (Some anecdotal comments are sprinkled throughout.)

Board Books for Toddlers

LITTLE PIM FEELINGS ENGLISH SPANISH FRENCH
 A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

The Little Pim book series adapts the most successful and effective elements from the award-winning Little Pim DVDs to promote fun with languages for young children. Each book incorporates an exciting blend of illustrations and photographs, as well as flaps and pull tabs to keep readers engaged. The stories are told in English, with words featured in Spanish and French (the most popular languages in the DVD series). Pronunciation guides for parents are included.

Colors showcases colors and objects, and Feelings focuses on emotions and expressions. Each book weaves its vocabulary into a hide-and-seek story featuring Little Pim as the narrator and concludes with a helpful review of the words learned.

$8.05

Buy Little Pim

WHO’S LOOKING AT YOU?
Whos Looking at You A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

Ok, my 7 year old love this book, too — it’s really gorgeous and interesting! Whose eyes flash like mirrors in the dark? What animal can see behind itself? The fun, eye-catching wildlife photography in Who’s Looking at You? will keep kids guessing. Each page features a new close-up photo. Lift the flap to see the animal’s identity and learn a bit more about it!

$8.95

Buy Who’s Looking at You?

TONS OF TRUCKS
Tons of Trucks A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

I LOVE this book!
Big trucks, small trucks, dump trucks, tow trucks, and all kinds of other trucks can be found in this playful touch-and-move book. A backhoe scoops and digs, a cement truck spins, a tar truck oozes sticky tar, and tabs pull up and out to reveal surprises.
The trucks eventually slow down for a rest, where little hands can lift the flaps to see animals snuggling up for sleepy-time—under a rising moon. Filled with vibrant art and adorable characters, this book gives a child everything he’s looking for when he presses his face against the fence at a construction site!

$11.96

Buy Tons of Trucks

NOODLE LOVES TO DRIVE
Noodle Loves to Drive A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

So cute and tactile, this is perfect for your little ones. Join Noodle as he plays with his toys that go vroom! Here is another title in this bright, robust series of high-quality touch-and feel board books for babies and young toddlers. Each features stylish art, a simple rhyming text, a tactile element on every spread, and a mirror on the final page of each book.

$8.09

Buy Noodle Loves to Drive

WHERE’S EDDIE?
Wheres Eddie  A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

Find the elephant, Eddie, in this silly board book.

$7.19

Buy Where’s Eddie

Picture Books for All Ages

CHLOE AND THE LION
Chloe A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

A Taylor FAVORITE!!
Meet Chloe: Every week, she collects loose change so she can buy tickets to ride the merry-go-round. But one fateful day, she gets lost in the woods on her way home, and a large dragon leaps out from—”Wait! It’s supposed to be a lion,” says Mac Barnett, the author of this book. But Adam Rex, the illustrator, thinks a dragon would be so much cooler (don’t you agree?).

$12.86

Buy Chloe and the Lion

I’M BORED
Im Bored A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

There is NOTHING boring about being a kid, but one little girl is going to have to prove it in this anything-but-boring picture book from comedian Michael Ian Black.

Just when a little girl thinks she couldn’t possibly be more bored, she stumbles upon a potato who turns the tables on her by declaring that children are boring. But this girl isn’t going to let a vegetable tell her what’s what, so she sets out to show the unimpressed potato all the amazing things kids can do. Too bad the potato is anything but interested….

$13.98

Buy I’m Bored

GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE DINOSAURS
Goldilocks 3 Dinosaurs A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

A bedtime favorite – totally hilarious!

Once upon a time, there were three hungry Dinosaurs: Papa Dinosaur, Mama Dinosaur . . . and a Dinosaur who happened to be visiting from Norway.

One day—for no particular reason—they decided to tidy up their house, make the beds, and prepare pudding of varying temperatures. And then—for no particular reason—they decided to go . . . someplace else. They were definitely not setting a trap for some succulent, unsupervised little girl.

Definitely not!

This new take on a fairy-tale classic is so funny and so original—it could only come from the brilliant mind of Mo Willems.

$11.24

Buy Goldilocks and the Three Dinosaurs

ANDREW DREW AND DREW
 A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

Andrew never knows what the lines would make — a kite, a rocket, a rabbit in a hat. Making a drawing, after all, is like making magic. Black and white images contrast with a colorful Andrew in this interactive lift-the-flap story reminiscent of Harold and the Purple Crayon. Delightful and inspiring!

$11.90

Buy Andrew Drew and Drew

GOLDILOCKS AND JUST ONE BEAR
 A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

In this award-winning author illustrator’s witty sequel to the traditional Goldilocks story, Little Bear is all grown up and Goldilocks is a distant memory. One day, Little Bear wanders out of the woods and finds himself lost in the Big City. Will he find the city too noisy? Too quiet? Or just right? And what are the chances of him bumping in to someone who remembers exactly how he likes his porridge?

$12.29

Buy Goldilocks and Just One Bear

BECAUSE AMELIA SMILED
because amelia smiled 1 A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

You do make a difference in the world!
Because Amelia smiles as she skips down the street, her neighbor Mrs. Higgins smiles too, and decides to send a care package of cookies to her grandson Lionel in Mexico. The cookies give Lionel an idea, and his idea inspires a student, who in turn inspires a ballet troupe in England! And so the good feelings that started with Amelia’s smile make their way around the world, from a goodwill recital in Israel, to an impromptu rumba concert in Paris, to a long-awaited marriage proposal in Italy, to a knitted scarf for a beloved niece back in New York. Putting a unique spin on “what goes around comes around,” David Ezra Stein’s charmingly illustrated story reminds us that adding even a small dose of kindness into the world is sure to spur more and more kindness, which could eventually make its way back to you!

$10.61

Buy Because Amelia Smiled

ABC WHAT CAN I BE? PERSONALIZED BOOK
 A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

We love JJ’s personalized ABC What I Can Be storybook. From A to Z we read about her in different careers he or she can be, from an Astronaut to a Zookeeper.

$24.95

Buy ABC What Can I Be?

THIS IS NOT MY HAT
this is not my hat 1 A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books  

When a tiny fish shoots into view wearing a round blue topper (which happens to fit him perfectly), trouble could be following close behind. So it’s a good thing that enormous fish won’t wake up. And even if he does, it’s not like he’ll ever know what happened. . . . Visual humor swims to the fore as the best-selling Jon Klassen follows his breakout debut with another deadpan-funny tale.

$9.31

Buy This Is Not My Hat

CINDERELLA A THREE DIMENSIONAL FAIRY TALE THEATER
Cinderella A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

Charming three-dimensional scenes transform the story of Cinderella into a fairy-tale gift to treasure.

Jane Ray’s layered cut-paper artwork elegantly retells the time-honored tale of a scullery maid turned royalty. Six meticulously detailed tableaux include a shabby kitchen, a gorgeous nightscape in a magical garden, and a sparkling ballroom filled with nobles, as well as Cinderella’s iconic gilded pumpkin coach. Side panels unfold to reveal the story’s text and evoke an evening at the theater. Little girls who dream of fairy godmothers will adore this unique portrayal of the world’s most famous princess — no glass slippers required.

$15.14

Buy Cinderella

GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE BEARS AND THE 33 BEARS AND THE BLIIM AND THE FURNITURE AND LOTS MORE VARIATIONS
Goldilocks variations A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

A classic fairy tale is wittily retold by the celebrated Allan Ahlberg, with charming illustrations by his daughter, Jessica Ahlberg.

Everyone knows what happened when Goldilocks met the three bears. But when she encounters a whopping thirty-three bears, the strange-talking Bliim, or even three little pigs, the stories end a bit differently. Lift the flaps and pull the tabs to join Goldilocks in a hilarious series of adventures, as award-winning storyteller Allan Ahlberg and his daughter, Jessica, put their own stamp on the timeless tale.

$11.24

Buy Goldilocks & the 3 Bears. . . 

CREATRILOGY BY RETER H. REYNOLDS (SKY COLOR, THE DOT, ISH)
Creatrilogy 2 A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

Express yourself! The three best-selling, award-winning picture books in the Creatrilogy by Peter H. Reynolds celebrate the power of original thinking.

Presented in a beautiful boxed set, this trio of hardcover titles includes:
The Dot An enchanting invitation to self-expression! Don’t worry, just make a mark — and see where it takes you.
Ish A creative spirit learns that thinking “ishly” leads to a far more wonderful outcome than “getting it right.”
Sky Color The sky’s no limit in this gentle, playful tale — a reminder that if we open our eyes and look beyond the expected, inspiration will come.

$24.18

Buy Creatrilogy

Chapter Books Plus for Elementary-Aged Kids

IN A GLASS GRIMMLY
In a Glass A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE! If you buy one book this year, buy this one. It’s fabulous — we’re on our second reading already. We love the message, the fairy tale mash-up, the humor, . . . everything!

More Grimm tales await in the harrowing, hilarious companion to a beloved new classic.

Take caution ahead—
Oversize plant life, eerie amphibious royalty, and fear-inducing creatures abound.

Lest you enter with dread.
Follow Jack and Jill as they enter startling new landscapes that may (or may not) be scary, bloody, terrifying, and altogether true.

Step lively, dear reader . . .
Happily ever after isn’t cutting it anymore.

$11.98

Buy In a Glass Grimmly

ZEKE MEEKS VS. THE GRUESOME GIRLS
Zeke Meeks Gruesome A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

Girls are ruining Zeke Meeks’ life. Not only is he surrounded by girls at home, he now has a new girl neighbor. She might be good at sports and video games, but when it comes down to it, she is still an awful girl.

$5.35

Buy Zeke Meeks

MONSTER DINOSAUR
Monster Dinosaur A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

I couldn’t put this graphic novel down! Very entertaining.
A competition of dinosaurs is organized in town, pitting dino versus dino to see who the most ferocious beast is. Peter and Jean draw a monster dinosaur to enter in the competition, and bring it to life using their magic paper. Meanwhile, their dad does the very same thing! When both monsters are entered into the competition, whose creation will reign supreme?

$9.99

Buy Monster Dinosaur

GERONIMO STILTON SAVES THE OLYMPICS
Geronimo Stilton Olympics A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

$9.99

Buy Geronimo Stilton Saves the Olympics

A TRIP TO THE BOTTOM OF THE WORLD WITH MOUSE
Trip A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books  

One of the best early readers ever!

There’s so much to see at the bottom of the world! Join a young explorer and his best friend, Mouse, on a sea journey to Antarctica, where they make new friends with penguins and a whale — and have all kinds of fun. Young readers won’t stop grinning as they’re swept away by the strange and magical world created by Frank Viva, the bestselling author of Along a Long Road, and they’ll want to start the book again as soon as they reach the end!  (Are we there yet?)

$9.71

Buy A Trip to the Bottom of the World

LULU AND THE BRONTOSAURUS
Lulu and  A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

HILARIOUS! It’s Lulu’s birthday and she’s decided she’d like a pet brontosaurus as a present. When Lulu’s parents tell her that’s not possible, Lulu gets very upset. She does not like it when things don’t go her way. So she takes matters into her own hands and storms off into the forest to find herself a new pet, all the way singing:

I’m gonna, I’m gonna, I’m gonna, gonna, get

a bronto-bronto-bronto-bronto-saurus for a pet!

In the forest Lulu encounters a number of animals; a snake, a tiger, a bear, all of whom don’t particularly impress her. And then she finds him…a beautiful, long-necked, gentle, graceful brontosaurus. And he completely agrees with Lulu that having a pet would be a wonderful thing, indeed! Lulu thinks she’s gotten her birthday wish at last. Until she realizes that Mr. Brontosaurus thinks that she would make an ideal pet for him!

$6.99

Buy Lulu

ALIENS V MAD SCIENTISTS MEGA MASH-UP
Alien v Mad Scientists Under the Ocean A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

These books take great subjects for boys and combine them into short, bonkers, and funny stories that are incredibly easy to read. The illustrations are bold and crazy, and there’s plenty of space left on each page — together with suggestions for how to fill it — so kids can add their own drawings. The books read as hilarious, zippy stories that look a lot like novels but are terrific doodle books as well.

The earth is in peril! Aliens are trying to stop it from spinning so that everyone will fall off and they can take over. Mwa-ha-ha-ha! But fear not! The Mad Scientists are building a genius underwater machine to save the day. If only the Aliens would stop zapping them with their Frazzelizers. . . .

$6.29

Buy Aliens v Mad Scientists

KYLIE JEAN
kylie A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

One of our favorite new series . . . Second grader Kylie Jean is a busy little lady. Readers have followed her singing, dancing, rodeo and acting experiences. Kylie approaches everything in her life as a possible step toward becoming a real life beauty queen.

$4.95

Buy Kylie Jean 

THE SEVEN TALES OF TRINKET
Seven Tales A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

A Wonderful Story!!

Guided by a tattered map, accompanied by Thomas the Pig Boy, and inspired by the storyteller’s blood that thrums through her veins, eleven-year-old Trinket searches for the seven stories she needs to become a bard like her father, who disappeared years before. She befriends a fortune-telling gypsy girl; returns a child stolen by the selkies to his true mother; confronts a banshee and receives a message from a ghost; helps a village girl outwit—and out-dance—the Faerie Queen; travels beyond the grave to battle a dastardly undead Highwayman; and meets a hound so loyal he fights a wolf to the death to protect the baby prince left in his charge. All fine material for six tales, but it is the seventh tale, in which Trinket learns her father’s true fate, that changes her life forever.

12.30

Buy Seven Tales of Trinket

A MUTINY IN TIME (INFINITY RING #1)
Mutiny in Time A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

History is broken, and three kids must travel back in time to set it right!

When best friends Dak Smyth and Sera Froste stumble upon the secret of time travel — a hand-held device known as the Infinity Ring — they’re swept up in a centuries-long secret war for the fate of mankind. Recruited by the Hystorians, a secret society that dates back to Aristotle, the kids learn that history has gone disastrously off course.

Now it’s up to Dak, Sera, and teenage Hystorian-in-training Riq to travel back in time to fix the Great Breaks . . . and to save Dak’s missing parents while they’re at it. First stop: Spain, 1492, where a sailor named Christopher Columbus is about to be thrown overboard in a deadly mutiny!

$10.98

Buy A Mutiny In Time

MONSTER HIGH: GHOULFRIENDS FOREVER
Monster High G A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

Ghoulfriends Forever is a brand-new Monster High series, introducing three new monster characters. As new students, the trio must navigate the bewildering array of cute monster boys, established cliques, and monster-rific subjects like Mad Science, G-ogre-phy, and Physical Deaducation. As if that weren’t hard enough, something strange and sinister seems to be happening at the school. Popular girls like Frankie Stein and Cleo de Nile are acting weird-and all signs point to everyone’s new favorite teacher, Miss Sylphia Flapper. Can the new GFFs expose the fave as a fraud, or will they succumb to peer pressure?

$9.98

Buy Monster High

STARRY RIVER OF THE SKY
Starry river A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

A stunning book that will leave you richer for reading it!
The moon is missing from the remote Village of Clear Sky, but only a young boy named Rendi seems to notice! Rendi has run away from home and is now working as a chore boy at the village inn. He can’t help but notice the village’s peculiar inhabitants and their problems-where has the innkeeper’s son gone? Why are Master Chao and Widow Yan always arguing? What is the crying sound Rendi keeps hearing? And how can crazy, old Mr. Shan not know if his pet is a toad or a rabbit?

But one day, a mysterious lady arrives at the Inn with the gift of storytelling, and slowly transforms the villagers and Rendi himself. As she tells more stories and the days pass in the Village of Clear Sky, Rendi begins to realize that perhaps it is his own story that holds the answers to all those questions.

Newbery Honor author Grace Lin brings readers another enthralling fantasy featuring her marvelous full-color illustrations. Starry River of the Sky is filled with Chinese folklore, fascinating characters, and exciting new adventures.

$10.98

Buy Starry River of the Sky

THE LAST DOGS: THE VANISHING
the last dogs A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

When all the humans in his world disappear, Max, a yellow Labrador Retriever, begins the search for his family. He knows that if he can just find Madame Curie, a wise, old black Lab, she’ll be able to help. Madame had a premonition of astonishing events to come — she might know where Max’s family is.

But Max can’t make the journey alone. Joined by friends Rocky and Gizmo, Max sets off to find Madame. Along the way, the trio must face a pack of angry wolves, forage for food in a land where kibble is akin to gold, befriend a house full of cats, and outsmart a gang of subway rats. Ultimately, they’ll have to escape from the biggest threat of all: the Corporation, a “perfect” society for dogs and by dogs, where nothing is quite as it seems.

The Last Dogs: The Vanishing is a thrilling adventure and a tale of three unlikely friends on an epic quest to find their people — and bring them home.

$12.19

Buy The Last Dogs

WHATEVER AFTER
Whatever A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

A fresh, modern spin on a classic fairy tale–from bestselling author Sarah Mlynowski!

Mirror, mirror, on the basement wall . . .

Once upon a time my brother and I were normal kids. The next minute? The mirror in our basement slurped us up and magically transported us inside Snow White’s fairy tale.

I know it sounds crazy, but it’s true.

But hey — we’re heroes! We stopped Snow White from eating the poisoned apple. Hooray! Or not. If Snow White doesn’t die, she won’t get to meet her prince. And then she won’t get her happy ending. Oops.

Now it’s up to us to:
- Avoid getting poisoned
- Sneak into a castle
- Fix Snow White’s story

And then, fingers crossed, find our way home.

$11.18

Buy Whatever After

THE ONE AND ONLY IVAN
Ivan A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

Totally compelling — one of the best books EVER!!
Ivan is an easygoing gorilla. Living at the Exit 8 Big Top Mall and Video Arcade, he has grown accustomed to humans watching him through the glass walls of his domain. He rarely misses his life in the jungle. In fact, he hardly ever thinks about it at all.

Instead, Ivan thinks about TV shows he’s seen and about his friends Stella, an elderly elephant, and Bob, a stray dog. But mostly Ivan thinks about art and how to capture the taste of a mango or the sound of leaves with color and a well-placed line.

Then he meets Ruby, a baby elephant taken from her family, and she makes Ivan see their home—and his own art—through new eyes. When Ruby arrives, change comes with her, and it’s up to Ivan to make it a change for the better.

$10.98

Buy The One and Only Ivan

KEEPER OF THE LOST CITIES
Keeper A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

I stayed up all night to finish this book -it was fantastic!

In this riveting debut, a telepathic girl must figure out why she is the key to her brand-new world—before the wrong person finds the answer first.

Twelve-year-old Sophie has never quite fit into her life. She’s skipped multiple grades and doesn’t really connect with the older kids at school, but she’s not comfortable with her family, either. And Sophie has a secret—she’s a Telepath, someone who can read minds. But the day Sophie meets Fitz, a mysterious (and adorable) boy, she learns she’s not alone. He’s a Telepath too, and it turns out the reason she has never felt at home is that, well…she isn’t. Fitz opens Sophie’s eyes to a shocking truth, and almost instantly she is forced to leave behind her family for a new life in a place that is vastly different from what she has ever known.

But Sophie still has secrets, and they’re buried deep in her memory for good reason: The answers are dangerous and in high-demand. What is her true identity, and why was she hidden

$12.69

Buy Keeper of the Lost Cities

JAKE AND LILLY
jake and lily A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

This is a story about me, Lily.
And me, Jake.
We’re twins and we’re exactly alike.
Not exactly!
Whatever. This is a book we wrote about the summer we turned eleven and Jake ditched me.
Please. I just started hanging out with some guys in the neighborhood.
Right. So anyway, this is a book about
goobers and supergoobers
bullies
clubhouses
true friends
things getting built and wrecked and rebuilt
and about figuring out who we are.
We wrote this together
(sort of)
so you’ll get to see both sides of our story.
But you’ll probably agree with my side.
You always have to have the last word, don’t you?
Yes!

$10.98

Buy Jake and Lily

THE HOBBIT AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY THE WORLD OF HOBBITS
World of Hobbits A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

Enter the amazing World of Hobbits. Packed with photos from the new film, this book will tell you all you need to know about these amazing creatures – their appearance, appetites, homes, friends, deadly foes and much more.

$9.45

Buy The World of Hobbits

THE HOBBIT AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY VISUAL COMPANION
Visual Companion Hobbit A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

Join the hobbit, Bilbo Baggins, Gandalf the wizard and the Company of Dwarves on their Quest to recover treasure stolen by the Dragon, Smaug the Magnificent. Leaving the comfort of Bilbo’s home they must face many perils before they can claim their long-lost gold—Trolls, Elves, Goblins, Wargs, and worse…
Richly illustrated with more than 100 color photos from the film, and featuring a brand new fold-out map charting the journey from Bag End to Wilderland, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey Visual Companion begins the Quest for the Lonely Mountain in spectacular style.

$13.84

Buy Hobbit Visual Companion

THE HOBBIT AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY OFFICIAL MOVIE GUIDE
Official Movie Guide Hobbit A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

Enter Bilbo Baggins’ world through exclusive interviews with director Peter Jackson, Martin Freeman, Ian McKellen and all the principal cast and filmmakers, who share film-making secrets and tales of what it was actually like making movie magic in Middle-earth.
Lavishly illustrated with hundreds of behind-the-scenes photos of the actors, locations, sets, creatures and costumes, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey Official Movie Guide has been produced in collaboration with the filmmakers who have brought J.R.R. Tolkien’s classic novel into breathtaking three-dimensional life.

$11.18

Buy Hobbit Official Movie Guide

YA Books

DAYS OF BLOOD AND STARLIGHT
Days of Blood A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books  

Laini Taylor’s writing is beyond exquisite – this book, like the previous one in the series, captivated me from the first word to the last. Amazing.

Once upon a time, an angel and a devil fell in love and dared to imagine a world free of bloodshed and war.

This is not that world.

Ar student and monster’s apprentice Karou finally has the answers she has always sought. She knows who she is—and what she is. But with this knowledge comes another truth she would give anything to undo: She loved the enemy and he betrayed her, and a world suffered for it.

In this stunning sequel to the highly acclaimed Daughter of Smoke & Bone, Karou must decide how far she’ll go to avenge her people. Filled with heartbreak and beauty, secrets and impossible choices, Days of Blood & Starlight finds Karou and Akiva on opposing sides as an age-old war stirs back to life.

$19.42

Buy Days of Blood and Starlight

The Fault in Our Stars
 A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

Despite the tumor-shrinking medical miracle that has bought her a few years, Hazel has never been anything but terminal, her final chapter inscribed upon diagnosis. But when a gorgeous plot twist named Augustus Waters suddenly appears at Cancer Kid Support Group, Hazel’s story is about to be completely rewritten.
Insightful, bold, irreverent, and raw, The Fault in Our Stars is award-winning author John Green’s most ambitious and heartbreaking work yet, brilliantly exploring the funny, thrilling, and tragic business of being alive and in love.

————————————————

Parent Guide to Encouraging Reading

Book Love: Help Your Child Grow from Reluctant to Enthusiastic Reader
Book Love 3D 250x350 A Readers Gift Guide: Childrens Books

In Book Love: Help Your Child Grow from Reluctant to Enthusiastic Reader, award-winning educator and parent Melissa Taylor gives busy parents of kids (ages three to ten) engaging, playful, out-of-the box ideas for growing a reader, assisting kids who are learning to read, and gently encouraging reluctant readers. Just a few of the many helpful insights and strategies she shares include:

· The most common reasons why kids find it hard to learn to read or may hate to read (too boring, too tricky, too blurry, too “sitty”)—and what to do about them

· Activities and product recommendations to facilitate letter recognition, rhyming, sight word skills, phonics, and fluency

· Approaches for improving word attack and reading comprehension

· Book lists organized by kids’ interests

· Printable sight word flashcards and word strategy bookmarks

Packed with practical, bite-sized ideas that get children reading and loving books, Book Love can be your go-to guide for reading help for kids.

More Educational Gift Guides

Math & Science Gifts for Kids
Writing Gifts for Kids
Artistic Gifts for Kids

Complete Educational Gift Guide

Photo credit: Nina Matthews Photography / Foter / CC BY

Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the gift guide are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission.Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. For books, I like to use Barnes and Noble because if you’re a member, you get the extra discount.


Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers

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Imagine you’re a book wanting a child to love you — you got to go for the cheap laughs. Most of us like to laugh, especially kids. So when you have a child who doesn’t want to read, for whatever reason (7 BIG reasons kids don’t like to read here), try to get them engaged in a silly story.

wacky book 339x225 Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers Help your child get started on a book by reading it aloud for a few chapters. If it’s funny, chances are good that he will continue on his own when you get too “busy” to read to him. (One of my favorite tricks!)

We’ve been reading the Wayside School stories at bedtime — and sometimes I get to laughing so much that I can’t keep reading.

Potty Humor

The Adventures of Captain Underpants
The Encyclopedia of Immaturity Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers
Sir Fartsalot
Snot Stew
Sweet Farts Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers
Who Cut the Cheese? Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers

Laugh-out-loud Real Life Humor

Bad Kitty Boxed Set Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers
Big Nate 1-2 Punch: 2 Big Nate Books in 1 Box! Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers
Clementine
Diary of a Wimpy Kid (Turtleback School & Library Binding Edition) Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers
Dragonbreath, Book 1 Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers
EllRay Jakes Is a Rock Star Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers
Frankie Pickle and the Closet of Doom
Freckle Juice Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers
Gooney Bird Greene
Got Cake? (Rotten School Series #13) Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers
Head of the Class: Frindle; The Landry News; The Janitor’s Boy Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers
How to Eat Fried Worms
How to Train Your Dragon (How to Train Your Dragon Series #1) Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers
Knucklehead: Tall Tales and Mostly True Stories about Growing Up Scieszka Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers
Stink: The Super-Incredible Collection: Books 1-3
Tales of  a Fourth Grade Nothing
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever!

Silly Humor

Eco-Wolf and the Three Pigs (Seriously Silly Stories)
Lulu and the Brontosaurus
 Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers
Lunch Lady and the Author Visit Vendetta Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers
Magic Pickle And The Creature From The Black Lagoon Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers
Mercy Watson to the Rescue
The Knights of the Kitchen Table

Weird and Crazy Humor

A Whole Nother Story Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers
Boom! Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers
The Dunderheads Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers
SPHDZ (Spaceheadz Series #1) Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers
How to Grow Up and Rule the World (Vordak the Incomprehensible Series) Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers
Fran That Time Forgot (Franny K. Stein, Mad Scientist Series #4) Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers
The Wayside School Collection: Sidways Stories from Wayside School; Wayside School Is Falling Down; Wayside School Gets a Little Stranger Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers

Book Love Hearts Wacky Books Will Hook Reluctant Readers

Sure, these books might not win a Newbery, or even be appealing to you, but just remember that the goal is to get your kids reading. So, ANY book that gets kids reading is good. More time reading gives your reader more practice, more confidence, and improved fluency. Remember — you want BOOK LOVE – that’s the ultimate goal.

Any other wacky favorites to add to this list?

*Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the gift guide are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission.Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. For books, I like to use Barnes and Noble because if you’re a member, you get the extra discount.

23 Reasons to Read Printable Poster

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how to raise a reader 23 Reasons to Read Printable Poster Why do we read?

I spent some time thinking about this . . . and how we want our kids to read for so many reasons. Reasons such as . . .

to imagine
to understand
to dream
to discover
to meet
to empathize
to grow

. . . there are so many reasons, aren’t there?

I wrote the “23 Reasons to Read” printable poster for you.

Use this poster to nurture your child’s love of reading. Consider how you can facilitate reading experiences for each of the reasons.

23 Reasons to Read small 23 Reasons to Read Printable Poster

To receive this free gift, sign up for my email list. You’ll receive emails about twice a week with gems for creating a learning environment in your home, for thriving as a parent, and for encouraging your children as thinkers and learners.

*Thank you to mama-to-be artist, Linda Tieu, for her gorgeous art on this poster!! 

Now, I’m wondering, what is your favorite reason to read?

Mine is . . .

Picky Readers Are Like Picky Kitties So Try Many Flavors

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We adopted a cat recently. . . and started a cat-food collection.

Ugh.

I tried so many brands of cat food but with little success. She didn’t eat for a week. (Anyone want some cat food?)

Eventually, I found a cat food she liked. Finally. No more starving kitty.

It’s not so different with picky readers.

Often we must persistently offer every flavor, size, genre, and topic of book to get our kids into reading.

We don’t want them to starve for books, do we?

New Foods for Picky Readers

Neither of my kids wanted to read over winter break. At all. (Didn’t I just write a book about reluctant readers?!)

 1.    Go Digital
Finally, I tried the Kindle, and it worked. (P.S. I LOVE my Kindle which I bought to test out Book Love. I’ve been buying YA books like crazy. It’s heavenly and immediately gratifying.)

2. Go Shopping
I let each girl buy any Kindle book they wanted to read. And the sequels. AJ choose the Warrior series by Erin Hunter. Do you know how many books that is? Hooray for reading books in a series! I gulp, and spend the money. She’s been reading non-stop for weeks. (I think she’s on book #1,325!)

A less expensive option is to borrow Kindle books from your public library.

3.    Get Recommendations
Kids read what their friends like. So, ask around for ideas.
Look at your child’s favorite books on Amazon. Just underneath you’ll find recommendations where it says “Customers Who Bought This Item Also Bought”. I love browsing there to get new ideas.

Kindle Collage Square Picky Readers Are Like Picky Kitties So Try Many Flavors

Irresistible Books for Kids

Now you need some new books to offer your kids, right? Well good because today I’m hosting the international blogger Carnival of Children’s Literature which means you’re going to get LOTS of recommendations. Keep reading.

First, my recommendations — new books we’re loving.

Ranger’s Apprentice Brotherband Chronicles Book 1 The Outcasts by John Flanagan, ages 9 – 12
I just started this and love it – great action and adventure and perfect for boys who enjoy  battles, outcasts, and trials of the sea life.

Templeton Twins Have an Idea by Ellis Weiner, ages 7 – 9
The sarcastic, funny narrator will keep you laughing in this mystery story.

The Adventures of a South Pole Pig by Chris Kurtz, ages 7 – 9
Delightful, heart-warming story about a brave and adventurous pig who wants to be a sled dog. LOVE.

Echo and the Bat Pack series of books by Roberto Pavanello, ages 7 – 9
Great colorful illustrations throughout this adventure of this talking writer bat who is befriended by the three Silver kids, aka. his Bat Pack and together they solve a mystery.

Mimi and Maty to the Rescue! Roger the Rat is on the Loose by Brooke Smith, ages 7 – 9
Animal lovers will approve of this young entrepreneur’s business of finding lost pets.

Everything Goes In the Air by Brian Biggs, picture book, ages 2 – 5
Cartoon-ish illustrations depecting funny interactions of people using things that fly. “You can’t take your sword on the flight” says security to a one-legged pirate. Other pages show the flying vehicles and their parts.

One Spotted Giraffe A Counting Pop-Up Book by Petr Horacek, ages 1 – 4
Who doesn’t love  a lift-the-flap and pop up all in one awesome book!?

Open This Little Book by Jesse Klausmeier, picture book ages 2 – 100
Whoa- such a cool concept for a book . . . a book within a book within a book within a book . . . So clever and fun!

And Now for the Carnival Books . . .
Carnival Collage1 Picky Readers Are Like Picky Kitties So Try Many Flavors

how to raise a reader Picky Readers Are Like Picky Kitties So Try Many Flavors Fiction Books

Sarah Albee Books - Review of Wonder by R. J. Palacio, ages 9 – 12+
Secrets & Sharing Soda - review of Ricky Vargas by Alan Katz, ages 7 – 9
The Busy Mom Bookshelf - review of Goofballs #1:  The Crazy Case of Missing Thunder by Tony Abbott, ages 7 – 9
Growing Book by Book – snowman books
Shelf-employed - review of Flood, a wordless picture book
Storied Cities - review of Laundry Day, picture book
What Do We Do All Day? - best easy chapter books, ages 6 – 9
Youth Literature Reviews - funny books for boys ages 8 – 12
Story Snug - review of the Katie art books by James Mahew, picture books
Redpeffer’s blog- review of My Huge Bag of Worries by Virginia Ironside, picture book
Read, Write, Repeat - review of Peace, Love and Baby Ducks by Lauren Myracle, 12+
Proseandkahn - review of Butter, YA
Picture Books & Pirouettes - best of dance-themed kids’s books
Booktalking - review of Face Off (hockey) by Jake Maddox, ages 7 – 9
Fourth Musketeer - review of Finding Zasha by Randi Barrow, (historical/animal/adventure) ages 9 – 12
Charlotte’s Library - review of Jinx (fantasy) by Sage Blackwood, ages 8-12
Book Aunt - good realistic fiction for ages 9 -12
Reading Confetti – 25 winter-themed books with craft ideas, ages 4 – 6
Book Chook – after you read, do a fun book project like one of these

Non Fiction Books

Story Snug - review of You Choose by Pippa Goodhart (speaking / listening) picture book
Great Kid Books -review of Bats! Furry Fliers of the Night (ebook) by Mary Kay Carson, ages 6 – 10
Kid Lit About Politics - review of First Mothers by Beverly Gherman, ages 6 – 10
Literacy Notes - Waterfowls and Biofuels by Patricia Newman
NC Teacher Stuff - review of Too Hot? Too Cold? (body temperature in animals and humans)
SpeakWell, ReadWell - I Have a Dream illustrated by Kadir Nelson
Story Seekers – sharing books with babies
True Tales & A Cherry On Top - review of Harlem’s Little Blackbird by Rene Watson
Literary Lunchbox - review of James Averbeck’s picture books

Photos: Melissa Taylor / Will Montague /  SantaRosa OLD SKOOL/  ‘Playingwithbrushes’

- – - – -

See any good books here? Or ten?

What about the Kindle – Are you going to try it? Comment here

(I think it’s worth the money if it gets kids reading, do you?)

Come On, Just Give Books a Chance! (NEW Picture Books I’m Loving)

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picture books Come On, Just Give Books a Chance! (NEW Picture Books Im Loving)

“NO, mom, not that book.”

Ever hear that?

I’m convinced that sometimes I just need to start a book for my kids to see how awesome it is. Not always. But, lately my kids’ pickiness seems to permeate not just their food choices but their book choices as well.

So, even though book choice is important, don’t forget the “sell” — which sometimes includes reading a few pages or a chapter. Then, let them choose.

I have lots of good picture books to share with you– books you’re going to love! (A few would be great gift books for adults, too.) I wonder which you’ll like . . .

FUNNY

Open Very Carefully Come On, Just Give Books a Chance! (NEW Picture Books Im Loving)
Open Very Carefully: A Book with Bite
by Nick Bromley, illustrated by Nicola O’Byne
What could be a very sweet story about the Ugly Duckling quickly turns very silly, er, scary when a CROCODILE sneaks onto the pages. Gasp. Watch out! First he eats the letters, then whole words, then sentences. It’s up to you, the reader, to get rid of him. (You might even draw a tutu on him!)

LIFE-CHANGING

Line 135 Come On, Just Give Books a Chance! (NEW Picture Books Im Loving)
Line 135
by Cermano Zullo, illustrated by Albertine
Gorgeous black and white pencil drawings with a splash of train color move us between the city and grandma’s house in the country. “One day, I will travel everywhere. I will go here. I will go there. I will go this way and I will go that way. I will know the entire world,” says the young narrator. “My mother and my grandmother say that this is impossible.” The traveling train bring us to a deep knowing that”My mother and my grandmother have forgotten what I have always known: it is possible.

Frog Belly Rat Bone Come On, Just Give Books a Chance! (NEW Picture Books Im Loving)
The Story of Frog Belly Rat Bone
by Timothy Basil Ering
From the moment I started the story, I fell into it’s spell. It takes place in a dull gray place called Cementland where a boy finds his a treasure — gray specks. Not certain gray specks can really be treasure, he reluctantly does as instructed by their accompanying note, and buries them in the dirt. After they are stolen overnight, he makes a creature to guard the specks, a creature made of wet smelly socks, moldy pillow stuffing, and scraggly wire. He makes “Frog Belly Rat Bone, King of Treasures”. Frog Belly Rat Bone, the thieves, and the boy transform right along with the treasure that make the gray place colorful. Warm fuzzy sigh!

Awesome Book of Love Come On, Just Give Books a Chance! (NEW Picture Books Im Loving)
The Awesome Book of Love!
by Dallas Clayton
My seven year old thinks that everyone should read this book and then they’d all love each other. It is a book of love, after all. And, it’s illustrated in the captivating, whimsical style of Clayton’s previous book, An Awesome Book! “But you know that’s not all that this love is about / sometimes it’s a whisper when you feel you could shout / or just being around when the others have gone or about letting go when you want to hold on / it’s about living life with such strength and emotion and knowing that waves are just part of the ocean . . . “

Inside Outside Come On, Just Give Books a Chance! (NEW Picture Books Im Loving)
Inside Outside
by Lizi Boyd
If you’ve never read a wordless picture book, you must read this one. And when I say read, I mean engage in the story through the detailed illustrations on kraft paper and the revealing die-cuts sharing glimpses of more.

HEART-WARMING

Why My Baby Dreams Come On, Just Give Books a Chance! (NEW Picture Books Im Loving)
When My Baby Dreams of Fairy Tales
by Adele Enersen
Remember When My Baby Dreams by the uber-talented photographer/blogger/mom from Sweden? Now we have the next story of Mila’s dreams as a princess resting atop a pea, and a red-hooded girl on her way to grandma’s house, and a rabbit eating carrots. Of course, the photographs will warm your heart, make you want to have a baby, and delight your artistic sensibilities. Dreamy indeed. (Peek inside here.)

Wooby Peep Come On, Just Give Books a Chance! (NEW Picture Books Im Loving)
Wooby & Peep
by Cynthea Liu, illustrated by Mary Peterson
Wooby’s new neighbor, Peep, is wild, messy, clumsy, and always well-intentioned. Despite all the disasters Peep creates, the two become friends, best friends forever.

Lullaby Come On, Just Give Books a Chance! (NEW Picture Books Im Loving)
Lullaby (For a Black Mother)
a poem by Langston Hughes, illustrated by Sean Qualls
Sean Qualls transforms Langston Hughes poetic lullaby with swirls of blues, purples, and pinks of nighttime. “My little black baby, My dark body’s baby, What shall I sing For your lullaby? / Moon, Moon, Great diamond moon, / Kissing the night.” The poem captures  a mother’s love as she sings her baby to sleep. Pure magic!

ADVENTURE

Peepsqueak Wants a Friend Come On, Just Give Books a Chance! (NEW Picture Books Im Loving)
Peepsqueak Wants a Friend!
by Leslie Ann Clark
The other chicks go play 2:2 but Peepsqueak is only 1. So, he hops, skips, jumps, and skitters into the woods, down the path, through the rain, in search of a friend. He follows big footprints all the way into a dark cave. Will he find a friend? Yes! He returns to the farm on the back of a great, big bear. “We are 2!” he announces to the others. Then he adds, “Friends don’t just come in 2s. Real friends make room for all!” Which we know is true. It’s the perfect ending. don’t you think?

LEARNING

Plutos Secret Come On, Just Give Books a Chance! (NEW Picture Books Im Loving)
Pluto’s Secret An Icy World’s Tale of Discovery
by Margaret A. Weitekamp with David DeVorkin, illustrated by Diane Kidd
I couldn’t imagine how a story of Pluto could be an entertaining children’s book but this book did it — a fascinating story of Pluto that will engage your kids (and you!) When Clyde Tombaugh discovered Planet X, it was a little girl who suggested the name Pluto after the Roman god of the dark underworld. She imagined it was so far from the sun that it must also be a cold, dark place. Now, in this story, Pluto talks. And Pluto knew he was no planet — that he had a fun orbit, and switched places with Neptune, and was teeny, tiny. So when astronomers declared him to not be a planet, he was thrilled. “Bingo!” A lively way to learn about the icy world formerly known as Pluto.

Round is a Tortilla Come On, Just Give Books a Chance! (NEW Picture Books Im Loving)
Round Is a Tortilla: A Book of Shapes
by Roseanne Greenfield Thong illustrated by John Parra
“Round are sombreros. Round is the moon. Round are the trumpets that blare out a tune” begins this colorful Latin-flavored shape book. As we journey through the day, we find the shapes all around us. “Triangles are crunchy chips for guacamole and other dips.” I absolutely love this book. I’m so glad to see a book of shapes that stands out from the crowd and celebrates Latin culture. “Stars for parties, stars for light, lining streets with colors bright. There are so many shapes wherever you go. How many more shapes do you know?”

Flight 1 2 3 Come On, Just Give Books a Chance! (NEW Picture Books Im Loving)
Flight 1-2-3
by Maria van Lieshout
Count your way through the airport signs in this clever new counting book. “1 Airport / 2 Luggage carts / 3 Check-in desks / 4 Elevators.” Bold, graphic illustrations.

If you could buy one of these books, which would you pick? Comment here.

If You’re Using Google Reader – READ THIS! (Because Reader is going away)

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Yes, Google Reader is going away. So, if you’re using it to read Imagination Soup, you need to switch to another reader, Feedly. OR subscribe by email. Click here to do that.

According to my mentor, Michael Hyatt, you have several choices: Feedly, News Blur, Old Reader, Reeder and Taptu. He recommends Feedly. It’s free and it’s similar to Google Reader. So, that’s what I’m going to suggest to you, too.

How to Switch Google Reader to Feedly

1. First go to Feedly.com. Click on “Get Feedly for Chrome”.

Get Feedly for Chrome If Youre Using Google Reader   READ THIS! (Because Reader is going away)

2. Click on “Connect to Google Reader”.

Login to Feedly If Youre Using Google Reader   READ THIS! (Because Reader is going away)

3. Voila! All the blogs you read are now in Feedly. (I have 212!)

Feedly If Youre Using Google Reader   READ THIS! (Because Reader is going away)

4. Go go preferences on the right sidebar. to make changes in the appearance.

Preferences If Youre Using Google Reader   READ THIS! (Because Reader is going away)

5. Adjust your preferences to your liking.

Preferences in Feedly 2 If Youre Using Google Reader   READ THIS! (Because Reader is going away)

You’re done!

For more information on using Feedly, go to this Building Feedly article on the Feedly blog.

Any questions?

Oh, maybe when is Google reader going away?

July 1, 2013.

BUT. If you’re like me, and you don’t do things when you think about it (NOW) then you chance forgetting to do it until it’s too late. Switch now while it’s fresh in your mind.

Go to Feedly to get started.

Moving from Google Reader to Feedly 284x1024 If Youre Using Google Reader   READ THIS! (Because Reader is going away)

Read an Audiobook, It Counts as Reading!

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Believe it or not, audiobooks count as reading and are a great way to get kids into books.

Benefits of Audiobooks

  1. It counts as reading.
  2. It is quiet.
  3. Motivating for reluctant readers
  4. Builds
    • vocabulary
    • background knowledge
    • visualization
    • listening skills

Audiobook Listening Choices

CDs
Tablets
Phones
Computers

How to Choose an Audio Book

Choose a book at the right reading (listening) level. Read an audiobook Read an Audiobook, It Counts as Reading!

2 – 4 years: short picture books.
5 – 6 years: beginning chapter books.
7 + years: chapter books.
QUICK TIPS:

Audio picture books include the book with the CD. Teach young children how to listen for the beep and turn only one page.

Get kid headphones (for comfort and volume control) with a LONG cord.

FAVORITES:
Preschool – Kindergarten:
 Our all-time favorite picture audiobooks are anything by Doreen Cronin.

Kindergarten – Second Grade:  Both my kids love the Magic Tree House books. I love that there are a zillion books — and they’re learning history.

Third Grade – Sixth Grade:  Harry Potter of course!  Drama, intrigue, magic . . .

Tweens and Teens:  The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman is a slightly scary but very well written and The Book Thief  by Marcus Zusak will give you plenty to ponder.

Where to Find Good Audio Books – FREE & Paid

The library. LOVE the library! It’s the place for free audiobooks.

Library Website Read an Audiobook, It Counts as Reading!

You can borrow books from your library’s website and download. Click on downloads and audiobooks. You’ll be prompted how to download. Most libraries recommend the free Overdrive app.

However, you need to help your children go to the library website and choose audiobooks. Because, at least for my library, the search options don’t filter choices by kids and adults –only genre (mystery, fantasy, etc). I have to help (monitor) my kids’ searches. Otherwise it’s overwhelming. And some of the covers are a bit scandalous — in the romance genre, for example.

Once you borrow a book using your library card number, you’ll have three weeks to listen to your book before you must return it or renew it. Isn’t that cool?!

More Places to Get Audiobooks

Playtime Books
Learn Out Loud
Candlelight Stories (free)
Light Up Your Brain (free)
BOT (Books On Tape)
iTunes
Audible
Your local library

Reluctant Readers

Audiobooks hook reluctant readers on stories — which lead to books. Get more tips for reluctant readers in Book Love: Help Your Child Grow from Reluctant to Enthusiastic Reader and watch this 30 minute video with tips from The Educator’s Spin On It, This Reading Mama and me.
But, I highly recommend audiobooks for all kids.
Have your kids tried audiobooks? 
(*** If you are an RSS subscriber, switch to subscribe by email when Google Reader goes away.)

AudioBestsellersGrey 300x250 Read an Audiobook, It Counts as Reading!  Read an Audiobook, It Counts as Reading!

My Favorite Audiobooks for Kids from Greathall

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You know how great audiobooks are for kids, especially reluctant readers. Now I want to tell you the absolute best audio stories that my family enjoys both in the car and at home.

Greathall Storytelling Recordings by Jim Weiss

Jim Weiss’ storytelling is so engaging. He’s gifted, and so brilliant with voices. Throughout the narration, he uses a multitude of engaging voices for each character, including the narrators. His pacing is perfect. Honestly, listening to these is mesmerizing.

The Greathall website organizes the stories by age group. This is important to me and I agree with their breakdown of what’s appropriate for each age.

Our favorites? Well, everything we’ve listened to are favorites. Isn’t that crazy?! They’re that good. Here’s what we love so far:

Our Favorites So Far

Good Night Jim Weiss My Favorite Audiobooks for Kids from Greathall
6 vignettes that take the listener into scenes which bring about feelings of safety and love.

King Arthur and His Knights
Brings King Arthur and his Knights to life with action and grandeur, at a level which children can really grasp. LOVE!! (We’ve listend to this multiple times!)

Sherlock Holmes for Children
Brings the world of Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Watson to life for children. WOW – we literally couldn’t get out of the car for school one day because we had to see what would happen.
CDs We Want to Order

Here’s our list for what to try next.

Sweet Dreams
Listeners of all ages can drift into Sweet Dreams with these remarkably restful visualizations.

Arabian Nights
Transports the listener to the magical world of the Arabian Nights.

American Tall Tales
These uproarious American folk stories will have you laughing out loud and pondering.

Giants!
A big recording full of big surprises, mixing favorite classics, original songs and the very best folktales for listeners of all sizes.

But, there are so many more selections. I think you’ll find great options for your listening library. (And, no, I am not getting paid to say this!) Go to the Greathall website to see them all.


Learn the Alphabet with Animal Alphabet Friends Books

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Is your child ready to learn the alphabet and letter sounds? You’ll love the new Alphabet Animal Friends book series from Newmark Learning.

Alphabet Animal Friends help your child master letters and letter sounds with photographs of real objects and animals, playful rhymes, and cute characters. I’m already a fan, and think you will be, too. (Scroll for sweepstakes.)

Each alphabet animal book (one for each letter) will build your child’s beginning reading skills by focusing on:

  • Phonemic awareness
  • Letter recognition and formation
  • Sound/symbol relationships
  • Oral language vocabulary

Plus, the 8-page books have tear-off embossed letter cards for tracing and a teaching card.

The curriculum for reading each book includes ways for you to teach your child the letter sounds with the books. For example, to teach phoneme isolation, you say a word that begins with the letter and have the child repeat it. Or for introducing the letter, you hold up the letter card and say “Today we will read a book about the letter ____. This is the capital letter ______” and model tracing the letter with your finger, having the child do the same on their letter card, book cover, and in the air. The curriculum guide suggests activities for after reading like practicing writing the letters or doing art projects with the letters.

Of course, these books meet the Common Core Standards for kindergarten.

Finally, the parent / teacher handbook shares more information and 30 alphabet activities to do at home.

Aren’t these fantastic?

Maybe this would be a great teaching tool for your summer learning.

Sweepstakes of Animal Alphabet Friends Book s

Enter to win an Animal Alphabet Friends Set valued at $95 of all ABC books, a CD with 25 sing along songs, a teacher/parent connections handbook,and a teaching card.

animal alphabet books Learn the Alphabet with Animal Alphabet Friends Books
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Summer Book List for Beginning Readers

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If your kids are beginning readers, ages kindergarten to second grade, you’ll want to buy or borrow enticing books that will keep your kids reading over the summer. Here are lots to choose from. When you choose, remember to consider your child’s interest and reading level.

Reading Level: Early Readers (Not Ready for Chapter Books Yet)

monkey and elephant Summer Book List for Beginning Readers
Monkey and Elephant Get Better
by Carole Lexa Schaefer, illustrated by Galia Bernstein
Hooray, another early reader that doesn’t stink! Clever adventures of friends, monkey and elephant, with bright, bold illustrations.

Trip to the Bottom of the World with Mouse Summer Book List for Beginning Readers
A Trip to the Bottom of the World with Mouse
a Toon Book by Frank Viva
Mouse’s explorer friend sails to the Arctic where he shows mouse all that there is to see – whales, penguins, and more all the while mouse interrupts with “Can we go home yet?” every few pages. A great early reader cartoon book!

Pinch and Dash Summer Book List for Beginning Readers
Pinch and Dash and the Terrible Couch
by Michael J. Daley
Perfect for very beginning readers who don’t want to read nonsensical phonics books. Pinch and Dash has charming characters, a silly problem, and a perfect ending.

Odd Duck Summer Book List for Beginning Readers
Odd Duck
by Cecil Castellucci & Sara Varon
A comic-style book with beautiful illustrations that accompany the story of friendship. Theodora loves er normal, orderly duck life. When the strange bird, Chad, moves in next door, she’s determined to show him how to be more normal. A lovely book about learning to accept others for who they are.


Claude in the City Summer Book List for Beginning Readers
Claude in the City
 by Alex T. Smith
Another great easy reader with an interesting story and adorable main character – Claude, a beret-wearing, adventurous dog, with a best friend Sir Bobblysock. (Who is a sock.) Claude goes shopping, goes the museum, and even takes Sir Bobblysock to the hospital when he’s feeling ill. All without his owners realizing. Very cute book.

Reading Level: Beginning and Easy Chapter Books

Critter Club Summer Book List for Beginning Readers
The Critter Club Amy and the Missing Puppy
by Callie Barkley
This series about animal-loving girl friends gives growing readers an entertaining chapter book they can read by themselves.

Zeke Meeks Science Fair Summer Book List for Beginning Readers
Zeke Meeks vs. the Stinkin’ Science Fair
by D.L. Green
Zeke Meeks books are some of my newest favorite chapter books for boys. I haven’t read this book yet but imagine it’s just as funny as the others in the series.

Mermaid Tales Summer Book List for Beginning Readers
Mermaid Tales
by Debbie Dadey
A fun new series about a third-grade mermaids at Trident Academy. My second grader loves these books and it’s a nice change from the Magic Rainbow books!

LEGO Friends Summer Book List for Beginning Readers
LEGO Friends Lights, Camera, Girl Power!

My 2nd grader loved this story – it’s perfect for any LEGO Friends fan ready for chapter books.

Get to Work Hercules Summer Book List for Beginning Readers
Get to Work Hercules!
by Kate McMullan
This book got us hooked on the Myth-O-Mania series. It’s so hilarious! Hades narrates the TRUE stories of the Greek Myths with panache. (Apparently, his younger brother Zeus is a big fat liar and edited all the myths to make himself look good.) In this story, Hades watches over his young, not-too-smart nephew, Hercules whom Hera has it out for — since he’s the son of Zeus from another woman. LOVE it!

Amelia Bedelia Unleashed Summer Book List for Beginning Readers
Amelia Bedelia Unleashed
by Herman Parish, illustrated by Lynne Avril
I’ve been enjoying these updated Amelia chapter books by the original author’s son. In this story, Amelia searches for the perfect puppy.

DC Super Pets Summer Book List for Beginning Readers
Swamp Thing vs. the Zombie Pets (DC Super-Pets)
by John Sazaklis, illustrated by Art Baltazar
Batman needs help from Swamp Thing and his Down Home Critter Gang of animals with a fire at the Great Dismal Swamp. Everyone leaves except Ace, who stays to protect the Down Home Critter Gang’s swamp. But it’s not long before the Zombie Pets show up. You’ll like the colorful, playful font styles and the adventurous story!

Nancy Clancy Summer Book List for Beginning Readers
Nancy Clancy Secret Admirer
by Jane O’Connor, illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser
Another enjoyable book in the Nancy Clancy series. In this book, Nancy and her best friend, Bree, decide to play matchmaker for Nancy’s babysitter, Annie, and her guitar teacher, Andy. Funny and fun!

. . .

It’s mid-May so stock up with books your child can read starting in June. Coming up next, I’ll give you book ideas for middle grade (9+), then learning apps, and independent learning adventures. Stay tuned!

Spring 2013 Beginning Reader Books Summer Book List for Beginning Readers

New Picture Books for Summer Reading 2013

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Do you need suggestions for new picture books to read and adore this summer? Well, I have a gazillion. Or close. Read on!

NEW Picture Books New Picture Books for Summer Reading 2013

the dark New Picture Books for Summer Reading 2013
The Dark
by Lemony Snicket, illustrated by Jon Klassen
Most kids can relate to young Laszlo’s fear of the dark. In this unique picture book, the dark is n actual thing that lives in the basement, hides in the closet, and waits in the corners. One night, the dark comes to Laszlo’s room and speaks to him. Yikes! The dark wants to show Laszlo something. He shows Lazlo a nightlight in the basement. Now Lazlo has a light and the dark never bothers Laszlo again.

when my baby dreams of fairy tales New Picture Books for Summer Reading 2013
When My Baby Dreams of Fairy Tales
by Adele Enersen
We like this book even better than her first. As with the first book, the author gives some narrative text to accompany her gorgeously staged photos of  baby Mila sleeping. The photography is beautiful and this book gives a stronger storyline than the first one. As you can guess from the title, you’ll read about Mila’s dreams of fairies and princesses. Lovely.

Miss maples Seeds New Picture Books for Summer Reading 2013
Miss Maple’s Seeds
by Eliza Wheeler
I LOVE the author/illustrator’s richly detailed and sensory illustrations of Miss Maple, a tiny little woman who gathers lost seeds. She cares for them as if they are children, taking them on field trips, tucking them into bed with a story at night, and finally, teaching them to find roots of their own. She tells them to take care. “Even the grandest of trees once had to grow up from the smallest of seeds.” Whimsical and imaginative!

Hugo New Picture Books for Summer Reading 2013
Let’s Go, Hugo!
by Angela Dominguez
Adorable, little Hugo lives near the Eiffel Tower, which he loves to admire . . . from the ground. Because he’s afraid to fly. One day, Hugo meets Lulu. When he admits his fear, she helps him practice and then, fly. Flying up towards the Eiffel Tower is so beautiful, he forgets to be afraid. Go, Hugo!

rain linda ashman hardcover cover art New Picture Books for Summer Reading 2013
Rain
by Linda Ashman, illustrated by Christian Robinson
A delightful story contrasting a grumpy old man and a happy-go0lucky little boy who both see their life and the rain from their own perspectives. Until . . . the man forgets his hat in the cafe and the little boy returns it to him. “Ribbit.” So charming.

Rex New Picture Books for Summer Reading 2013
Rex, The King of Space
by Jonny Duddle
Your kids will love the illustrations in this picture book- comic book hybrid. Then, the story. Rex is an imaginative little boy (do you know any like that?) who has the coolest parents (yay!) who back him up when he’s caught trying to take over space with his Warbot, Dastardly Dung Ray, and kidnapped Princess Kooki. He’s done playing so his parents handle it — I love that!

Peace Baby New Picture Books for Summer Reading 2013
Peace, Baby
written by Linda Ashman, illustrated by Joanne Lew-Vriethoff
This sweet picture book leads us through common conflicts that young kids encounter and suggests, “Peace, Baby.” Super message, no?

“Taj is losing, tries to cheat.
Maya’s mean. You’re mad at Pete.
Use your words-not your feet!
Hey, peace, baby!”

land of milk and honey New Picture Books for Summer Reading 2013
Land of Milk and Honey
by Joyce Carol Thomas, illustrated by Floyd Cooper
We travel by train with our young heroine from Oklahoma to the land of milk and honey in this true story of Joyce Carol Thomas’ own life. The prose evokes excitement, hope, and wonder. Thought-provoking.

Look at the people!
And their fascinating faces
Look at the people!
All ages, all races

Cassiopeia New Picture Books for Summer Reading 2013
The Story of Cassiopeia a Roman Constellation Myth
retold by Thomas Kingsley Troupe, illustrated by Robert Squier
Hooray, a  kid- appropriate book for mythology -without too much text to bore / overwhelm young readers! I the story of Cassiopeia, and where the story is in the sky. I be your kids will enjoy it, too.

Monsters Love Colors New Picture Books for Summer Reading 2013
Monsters Love Colors
by Mike Austin
Not only does this book have splots, scribbles, and splashes of colors, the words zig and zag, splot and sploosh over the pages, too. It’s so much fun, you’re going to love it! Silly.

Red is the color of
ROAR!
and
SNORE!
and More! More!
MORE!

Spread 1 600 New Picture Books for Summer Reading 2013

Giant Dance Party New Picture Books for Summer Reading 2013
Giant Dance Party
by Betsy Bird illustrated by Brandon Dorman
Little Lexy loves to dance. Just not on stage. That’s where she freezes up. So, she think that she should be a dance teacher. And, it turns out that a group of gigantic, blue furry monsters want to learn. When it’s time for their recital, they experience the same fear as Lexy, stage fright. What will Lexy do?

special gift for grammy New Picture Books for Summer Reading 2013
A Special Gift for Grammy
by Jean Craighead George, illustrations by Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher
Hunter leaves a special pile of stones on his Grammy porch. He tells her to do what everyone does with a pile of stones. We watch her pile as others use creatively — the carpenter uses a stone for his plumb line or when the mail carrier puts a stone on the letters so they won’t be blown by the wind. When Hunter visits again, there are six stones left. He imagines just what to do with them. Beautiful and very imaginative!

My Neighbor Is a Dog New Picture Books for Summer Reading 2013
My Neighbor Is a Dog
by Isabel Minhos Martins and Madalena Matoso
Prejudice lives in our world but when we see it in our own parents, it’s impossible to ignore. As new, different neighbors move in, neighbors that the little girl likes, her parents don’t change. Her parents move out and the little girl looks forward to coming back to live there. Without her parents.

I thought about this book a lot. It’s very unusual to read a picture book in which the parents aren’t good. But, it is realistic. I liked that. More than that, I liked how the little girl accepted the reality of what is but still hoped for a difference in the future. Interesting.

Jackie and Me New Picture Books for Summer Reading 2013
Jackie and Me A Very Special Friendship
by Tania Grossinger, illustrated by Charles Goerge Experanza
A gorgeously illustrated story of one special girl, who didn’t think she was special, and her friendship with Jackie Robinson — who both encouraged her and inspired her to never be ashamed of who she was. Loved it.

On a Beam of Light New Picture Books for Summer Reading 2013
On a Beam of Light A Story of Albert Einstein
by Jennifer Berne, illustrated by Vladimir Radunsky
Albert loved thinking and wondering about all sorts of things: movement, numbers, music. It’s written like a story, not a non-fiction book. My seven year old daughter didn’t care for this book but I liked it, especially for the classroom. Also, I passionately adore the illustrations!!

Little Raccoon New Picture Books for Summer Reading 2013
Little Raccoon Learns to Share
by Mark Packard, illustrated by Lisa McCue
Part of the Watch Me Grow series of teaching picture books, this is my favorite about Little Raccoon who doesn’t want to share her berries. However, she learns that when you share with others, they share with you, too.

Any other new picture books you’d add to this list?

Twitter Party with PBS Kids Creating a Literate Home

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If you haven’t done a Twitter party before, this week would be a GREAT time to start. Why? Because the topic is just up your alley: Creating a Literate Home.

How cool is that?

I’m hosting the PBSKids sponsored party with Amy of Teach Mama with special panelist, Megan Ardoin of the blog, Honey We’re Home.

Zippity Do Da!

In the party, you’ll have a chance to share and learn ways to include literacy into your daily life, incorporate technology, and tips for making reading fun. (Among other things.)

Create a Literate Home Twitter Party Final Twitter Party with PBS Kids  Creating a Literate Home

PBSKids Twitter Party Info

Who? Anyone with a Twitter account is welcome, especially parents. (Learn how to make a Twitter account here.)

What? See above.

Where? Twitter #booknookchallenge

When? Thursday, June 20, 9 pm EST

Any Prizes?  5 PBS KIDS prize packs (books, DVDs, reading charts, bookmarks, notebook, bag)

How to Participate:

1. RSVP to the party to be eligible for prizes.

2. Join the party at 9 p.m. by signing into Twitter first.

3. Then, go here and follow the prompts to join the party. Enter the hashtag #booknookchallenge. Once you do, you will see all the tweets in the world using that hashtag including your own.

4. I’ll be asking questions. Answer and interact with me and the others in the party. Your input will be valuable! (Plus, this will help you gain new followers on Twitter.)

Follow PBS Kids on Twitter.
Follow Imagination Soup on Twitter.
Follow Teach Mama on Twitter.
Follow Honey We’re Home on Twitter.

Tweet: Chat #literacy and #family with #booknookchallenge event on Thursday, 6/20 (9-10pmET) rsvp here: http://bit.ly/booknookchallengersvp

See you there!

Speakaboos Learning and Literacy App

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When I said I wanted a slow summer, I did not envision getting a nasty (Epstein Barr) virus forcing me to be slow from fatigue. Since I wasn’t at my parenting best, I relied on my husband, our wonderful babysitter, and yes, electronics, especially educational electronics.

When Speakaboos launched a Speakaboos interactive storybook iPad app, I wondered if my girls ages 8 and 11 would like it because it’s recommended for ages 2 – 6. Impressing me was that Dr. Alice Wilder, formerly Head of Research & Testing for Blue’s Clues, developed the Speakaboos curriculum. I figured why not give it a try!?

iPad app screen shot Speakaboos Learning and Literacy App

My kids did like it — a lot!

I think the biggest reason they enjoyed it so much was the wide variety and selection of stories - something for every interest and age group. Plus, each story features lots of fun things to hear, watch, and do.

The stories on the iPad include categories like: Animals, Princesses, Vehicles, Friends and Family, Music, The Changing Seasons, Fantasy, Sports, Monsters, Bugs, Little Pim French, Gustofer Yellowgold, and Judy and Friends, just to name a few.

All the stories are animated in some way with a narrator reading the story. Some stories are videos like the Space Race series that teaches kids about the planets — my kids especially love these! Other stories are more like picture books with moving parts.

Space Race Speakaboos Speakaboos Learning and Literacy App

Kids can follow along with the text. Words are highlighted at the bottom of the screen.

speakaboos words highlighted Speakaboos Learning and Literacy App

Besides stories, you’ll find all sorts of engaging songs. (Our favorite is “Is it a pirate or a parrot?“)

Speakaboos Songs Speakaboos Learning and Literacy App

The load time is slow for each story so be patient. It’s worth it.

You can get the Speakaboos app for free and try 3 stories to see if your kids like it. After that, there’s a subscription plan. 

·         1 Month Subscription – $4.99

·         6 Month Subscription – $24.99

·         1 Year Subscription – $24.99

Speakaboos isn’t going to teach your kids to read, but it’s edu-tainment at it’s best — and in my opinion as a teacher and parent, much better than mindless video games. Learn more about Speakaboos at Speakaboos.com. You can also like Speakaboos on Facebook and follow on Twitter  for more the latest updates.

I received compensation for this review/article, but all thoughts and opinions are 100% my own. Please see my disclosure policy here.

Speakaboos iPad app for literacy and learning Speakaboos Learning and Literacy App

Back to School with Zoobean Book Subscriptions

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Zoobean Book Subscription Back to School with Zoobean Book Subscriptions

Imagine books arriving to your door — perfect in every way from reading level, language, interest to background. That’s what Zoobean gives to families. (Maybe even yours!)

Two Teachers, a Little Boy, and a Dream

Jordan Lloyd Bookey’s son received the picture book, All the World, in the mail from a friend. Not only was he so excited to open his gift, but when reading the story, he said, “Me, me, me!” about the little boy, whose family looked like his. It was a powerful moment.

Jordan says, “We thought, wouldn’t it be wonderful to delight families with relevant, beautiful books that would engage their kids and inspire an even deeper love of reading. And, our inner teachers (we met teaching here in DC over 10 years ago…my husband was DC’s teacher of the year!) decided that we simply had to include useful, fun reading guides as well…to help the book live on with a family.”

So Jordan and her husband Felix Brandon Lloyd created their dream and started Zoobean.

Zoobean Delivers Books

new Zoobean book is so good Back to School with Zoobean Book Subscriptions

Zoobean gives families two subscription plans – either personalized or featured – with monthly delivery of a new book.

The personalized subscription considers interest, age, language, reading level and so forth and sends hardcover books accordingly. Also included is a reading guide which includes literacy tips, vocabulary building, and supplemental activities for that book.

The featured subscription uses your child’s age to send him or her a hardcover book plus a reading guide which includes literacy tips, vocabulary building, and supplemental activities for that book.

All books are curated by parents who are also children’s librarians or educators, who helped write their reading guides.

Here are some favorites of readers and mine. Aren’t they GREAT picks?

(P.S. You can buy additional books than your subscription book and get free shipping.)

Zoobean favorites Back to School with Zoobean Book Subscriptions

I’m pretty sure you’re like me and you’ll spend anything to get your kids into reading. Am I right?

Well, here’s another fantastic way to entice your kids into a good book and keep the excited about reading!

ZooBean in the mail Back to School with Zoobean Book Subscriptions

What do you think?

Is this something you would buy for your kids?

I received compensation for this review/article, but all thoughts and opinions are 100% my own. Please see my disclosure policy here.

Back to School Reading with New Books (All Ages)

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Today I’m going to do new book recommendations for each age groupboard books, picture books and to chapter books. That way there’s something for everyone. Previously, I’ve done reviews for the same age range so will you comment and let me know if you like it or not?

August Book Recommendations

August Book Reviews Back to School Reading with New Books (All Ages)

Board Books

Humpty Dumpty Back to School Reading with New Books (All Ages)
Humpty Dumpty by Charles Reasoner
A fun retelling of this familiar nursery rhyme.

big small Back to School Reading with New Books (All Ages)
Odd One Out Big and Small by Guido Van Genechten
I like this book so much because it’s interactive — it asks questions. The green alligator page asks “Who has lost all his teeth?” “Who is long and who is short” and “And who is ready to go to a party?”

Picture Books

little red Back to School Reading with New Books (All Ages)
Little Red Writing by Joan Holub illustrated by Melissa Sweet
Once upon a time, Little Red’s teacher, Ms. 2, asks her to write a story and gives her a basket of 15 red words for trouble along the way. Little Red’s story goes into a deep, dark, descriptive forest — but is bogged down by description. She reaches into her word basket for help. SCISSORS. She uses the scissors to cut through the description and stay on the story path. Then the conjunction glue oozed out and it was terribly hard to stop writing the sentence until the adverbs arrived. Phew! Oh, no, Little Red hears growly noises and her punctuation goes crazy. She runs to tell Principal Granny. Who was really Wolf 3000: the grumpies, growliest, grindingest pencil sharpener ever made. Fortunatly, she still has a word in her basket left — dynamite. What a story! (Write On! says her teacher.)

Carnivores Back to School Reading with New Books (All Ages)
Carnivores by Aaron Reynolds illustrated by Dan Santat
Did you know that even savage carnivores get their feelings hurt? The wildebeests call the lion “bad kitty” just because he’s eaten half the neighborhood. . . . It hurts. It really does. Nobody understand the great white shark. He’s just a fast eater. And the poor timber wolf, he can’t help it if he eats little girls. So the three have a meeting to share their feelings. They decide to go vegetarian. But that’s a disaster. What will the carnivores do? They’ll listen to the wise old owl who says, “I’m not bad. I’m a carnivore. Eating meat is just what I do.” Now they won’t feel bad when someone gives them dirty looks — they’ll just eat them. Because, after all, they’re carnivores. Eating meat is what they do.

123 Back to School Reading with New Books (All Ages)
123 versus ABC by Mike Boldt
The numbers think the book is about them. But the letters think the book is about them. It’s a battle for page time and both groups want to win. 1 Alligator or A for Alligator? It makes for a silly story that will crack you up.

Monster Back to School Reading with New Books (All Ages)
Is That You, Monster? illustrated by Steve Cox
Slide your hand in the pocket — is that a monster’s hairy back, stubby tail, toe nails, horns? AAAAH! Yes, it is.

Twenty Six Pirates An Alphabet Book Back to School Reading with New Books (All Ages)
Twenty Six Pirates: An Alphabet Book by Dave Horowitz
Pirates from a to z walk the the plank and want their mom. Twenty Six Pirates is perfect for every Juan, Kane, Lee, or Mark with silly illustrations to boot!

16171091 Back to School Reading with New Books (All Ages)
A Very Witchy Spelling Bee by George Shannon illustrated by Mark Fearing
Young witch, Cordelia, loves spelling and spells. So much that she does them together. She adds an O to C-A-T and makes C-O-A-T for example — her yard is filled with the most unexpected things. Now she’s ready to enter the Witches Spelling Bee. when they’re down to just two witches, her nasty opponent, Beulah, tries to win by changing Cordelia’s EARS into PEARS! And her HAIR into CHAIR. Lucky for us, Cordelia is not just smart, she’s also very kind. What she spells makes the perfect ENDING.

Chapter Books

Hypnotists Back to School Reading with New Books (All Ages)
Hypnotists by Gordon Korman Ages 8 – 12
Mix the action-packed writing of Korman with a boy who can hypnotize others – and who is recruited to be in a “special” school to save the world. But is that really what the school does?

Galaxy Back to School Reading with New Books (All Ages)
Galaxy Zack Hello, Nebulon! by Ages 6 – 8
An easy chapter book that’s simple, fun, and entertaining about a boy who moves to a new planet.

Gaby Lost and Found Back to School Reading with New Books (All Ages)
Gaby, Lost and Found by Angela Cervantes Ages 8 – 12
I picked this book because of the cat pictured on the front cover — and found it to be absolutely way more powerful  meaningful than I had expected.

Giveaway

Go here to find out how you can be 1 of 25 winners Jet Blue Soar with Reading sweepstakes!

Thoughts?

Do you like this new all ages book post?

Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission.Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”


Cozi Back to School Organization App and Sweepstakes

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Cozi, a TODAY Show ‘must-have app’ is giving away a Kindle Fire HD!

Join me in using Cozi to organize your family calendar, shopping lists, and to-dos. It’s the perfect app for families juggling new routines, school events, and after-school activities. Plus, it’s accessible from your computer, mobile phone, or tablet. You just use one email for your entire family that everyone uses to log in.

Do you need extra incentive to give it a try with me? (Besides that it’s free.)

How’s this? –> Cozi is giving away a Kindle Fire HD and $25 gift cards to Amazon.com! (P.S. I am addicted to my Kindle Fire and highly suggest you try to win this!) Scroll down for details on how to enter.

Organize your life with Cozi Family Calnear Cozi Back to School Organization App and Sweepstakes

My Favorite Cozi Features

Family Calendar: Cozi gives you a central calendar the entire family can access with color coded family members. I love the color coding, that you can include many K-12 school calendars, and that you can sync with your other calendars like Outlook.

Check out the weekly calendar view here:
weekly calendar on Cozi Cozi Back to School Organization App and Sweepstakes

and the daily view here: (monthly view not shown)
Daily Calendar COZI Cozi Back to School Organization App and Sweepstakes

To Do Lists: Imagine this. You can designate to-do lists to each family member!! Or, make a joint list for the entire family to share. If you want to make sure the person got the list, it’s easy to email it to them. (Are you already thinking about who you’ll assign to do what?)
to do Cozi Back to School Organization App and Sweepstakes

Menus and Shopping Lists: How many times have you gotten to the grocery store only to realize you left your list at home? Not only can you create menus but also shopping lists in Cozi. Check out the Cozi Picks feature, which makes family friendly meal suggestions.

Mobile: I love that this app is mobile and I can use my calendar on the go. (If only my kids would stop moving my icons around on my phone – or adding new folders, then it would be perfect.)
Mobile Sample Screen Shots Cozi Back to School Organization App and Sweepstakes

Using Cozi is free but you can also upgrade to GOLD for only $29.99 a year. That gives you the month view on mobile, more reminders, new shopping mode, more meal planning options, birthday tracker, and no ads.

If you’re like me and eager to get and stay organized, get signed up with Cozi now for free.

When you sign up for Cozi by September 30, you’ll be entered to win the Kindle Fire HD (8.9″) or one of several $25 Amazon gift cards. Use this link ONLY –> COZI

Get organized with Cozi calendar Cozi Back to School Organization App and Sweepstakes

I received  compensation for this post, however all thoughts and opinions are mine. Please see my disclosure policy here.

Picture Book Nonfiction Biographies that Read Like Narrative Stories

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Biographies should be compelling stories that hook the reader immediately. This list of nonfiction picture book biographies do exactly that — they tell a story that makes it seem like you’re reading a fiction book. Which kids generally prefer over a book of facts, dates, and dry informative text. Quite frankly I prefer it, too. Picture Book […]

The post Picture Book Nonfiction Biographies that Read Like Narrative Stories appeared first on Imagination Soup.

New Picture Books About Books, Stories, and the Alphabet

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Recently I read several amazing picture books about books, stories, and the alphabet — which seemed to all fit together. I figured these books were something you might just love for your own kids or your classroom. Here we go, . . . books about books. Picture Books About Books Once Upon an Alphabet Short Stories […]

The post New Picture Books About Books, Stories, and the Alphabet appeared first on Imagination Soup.

Cooking Science: Eat Your Science Homework

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Eat Your Science Homework: Recipes for Inquiring Minds by Ann McCallum, illustrated by Leeza Hernandez shows kids how cooking is chemistry! Although some might say that my cooking and refrigerator are often accidental science experiments. Eat Your Science Homework We tried Invisible Ink Snack Pockets with my own gluten-free recipe substitution — which turned out to […]

The post Cooking Science: Eat Your Science Homework appeared first on Imagination Soup.

New, Fascinating Fairy Tale Picture Books

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We love fairy tale picture books with their life lessons, heroes, heroines, magic, and unusual creatures. It’s interesting to watch as fairy tales adapt and change like the story below of Goldy Luck instead of Goldilocks. But equally as fascinating is the original versions retold to new audiences as with The Snow Queen and Little […]

The post New, Fascinating Fairy Tale Picture Books appeared first on Imagination Soup.

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