Summer Reading
Recommendations
2015
INTERNET, PRINT AND AUDIO RESOURCES
WEBSITES
For Award Winning Books:
http://www.ala.org/ala/alsc/awardsscholarships/literaryawds/newberymedal/newberymedal.htm
http://www.ala.org/ala/alsc/awardsscholarships/literaryawds/caldecottmedal/caldecottmedal.htm
For Reluctant Readers:
http://www.ala.org/ala/yalsa/booklistsawards/quickpicks/05quickpicks.htm
http://www.just-for-kids.com/SERHINT.HTM
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0679860002/103-4390022-5571056?v=glance
For Book Selections:
www.ala.org
www.reading.org
For K-12 Science Books:
http://www.nsta.org/publications/ostb/
Let’s Read and Find Out Stage 1 and 2 Science Series
Books For Boys:
www.guysread.com “Welcome to Guys Read, a web-based literacy program for boys founded by author and First
National Ambassador of Young People’s Literature Jon Scieszka. Our mission is to help boys become selfmotivated, lifelong readers.
www.boysread.org “Our mission is to transform boys into lifelong readers. We are an organization of parents,
educators, librarians, mentors, authors, and booksellers. Periodically, we offer a workshop that helps educators,
parents, and guardians to transform boys into lifelong readers.”
http://childrensbooks.about.com/od/toppicks/a/books_boys.htm “If you are looking for books for boys, from young
children to tweens and teens, you’ll be interested in these reading lists of books for boys recommended by librarians.
It’s nice to know that in addition to being able to save money at your public library, you can also find excellent
online library resources, including recommended reading lists. The books on these books for boys reading lists
include children’s books that will appeal to a wide range of ages and interests. Even boys who complain they can
never find anything good to read about, as a result, are reluctant readers should be able to find books they enjoy on
some of these lists.
Books For Girls:
Picture Books About Strong Girls “I have always tried to expose my son to strong girl characters, but now that I am
a mom to a little girl, providing her with a strong base from which to grow is imperative. Already at 2 she is into
princesses , begs to put on my makeup, and can match her bows to her clothes better than her dad. I won’t stop her
from exploring these stereotypical girl things, nor will I push her to anything she clearly dislikes; however, I will
work hard to provide examples of strong girls. Girls with voices, girls whose feelings are validated, and girls who
don’t give up because someone said ‘a girl can’t do it.’ Picture books are such an amazing vehicle for teaching,
exposing your children to kids just like them (or kids nothing like them), and for prompting discussions about tough
and tricky subjects.”
SOURCES FOR BOOKS ON TAPE
Library for the Blind:
Individuals with documented learning disabilities or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder are eligible to borrow
taped texts from the organizations listed below. Special equipment is required because the books are recorded on 4track cassettes. Call or write to receive an application to Georgia Department of Education, Library for the Blind,
1150 Murphy Ave, SW,Atlanta, GA 30310. 404-756-4619. Library for the Blind is a free public service.
Individuals may request specific books and/or select general areas of interest. 4-track cassette players and recorders
are available on extended loan at no-charge. For information about four track cassette players and recorders which
can be purchased, ask for the publication “Facts: Sources for Purchase of Cassette and Disc Players Compatible with
Recorded Materials Produced by the National Library Service.”
Recorded Books (also called Recording for the Blind):
There is a one time fee of $ 25.00. Individuals who are eligible for services from the Library for the Blind are
automatically eligible for this service – simply send a copy of your mailing label from Library for the Blind with
your application for Recorded Books to Recorded Books, 20 Roszel Road, Princeton, NJ. 1-800-221-4792.
Media Selections Aids
High Interest Low Vocabulary Books
Ammon, Bette D. and Sherman, Gale W. More Rip-Roaring Reads for Reluctant Teen Readers. Englewood, CO:
Libraries Unlimited, 1998. Grades 5-12
Benedict, Susan. Beyond Words; Picture Books for Older Readers and Writers. By Susan Benedicts; edited by
Lenore Carlisle, Heinemann, 1992.
Picture Books may/may not be of a lower readability levels. Pictures can supply context clues for reading.
National Council of Teachers of English. Committee to Revise High Interest Easy Reading. High Interest Easy
Reading: An Annotated Booklist for Middle and Senior High School. Urbana, IL. National Council of Teachers
of English, 1996.
LiBretto, Ellen V., ed. High/Low Handbook: Encouraging Literacy in the 90’s. 3 ed. New York: Bowker,
c1990.
rd
Pilla, Marianne Laino, ed. The Best: High/Low Books for Reluctant Readers. Englewood, Colo.”Libraries
Unlimited, 1990.
Pilla, Marianne Laino, ed. Resources for Middle-Grade Reluctant Readers: A Guide for Librarians. Libraries
Unlimited, 1987.
Sampling of Books Made into Movies
Harriet the Spy
Hildago
Tuck Everlasting
Finding Nemo
Harry Potter
Sounder
Old Yeller
Peter Pan
The Secret Garden
The Indian in the Cupboard
Pippi Longstocking
The Hideways
The Phantom Tollbooth
The Incredible Journey
The Princess Bride
A Wrinkle in Time
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
The Bridge to Terabithia
Because of Winn Dixie
Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of Nihm
The Polar Express
Lemony Snicket: A Series of Unfortunate Events
The Yearling
Little House on the Prairie
The Black Stallion
Ella Enchanted
Caddie Woodlawn
James and the Giant Peach
The Witches
Matilda
The Wind in the Willows
Holes
Shiloh
Charlotte’s Web
The Mixed up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler
My Side of the Mountain
The Education of Little Tree
The Lion, the Witch, & the Wardrobe
Sarah, Plain and Tall
Hoot
For a more complete List see:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_childrens_books_made_into_feature_films
http://www.kidsreads.com/features/books-on-screen
http://vegbooks.org
http://www.amazon.com/Kids-books-made-into-movies/lm/RRUOVVM2KNDJ8
Children’s Books to Develop Phonemic Awareness
ABC I like me! by Nancy Carlson
Action Alphabet by S. Rotner
⌘ The Chick and the Duckling by Ginsburg
Cows in the Kitchen by June Crebbin
⌘ Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by B. Martin and J. Archambault
Dinorella by P. Edwards
⌘ Each Peach Pear Plum by Ahlberg
The Handmade Alphabet by Laura Rankin
The Hungry Thing by Jan Slepian and Ann Seidler
⌘ I Went Walking by Sue Williams
Is Your Mama a Llama by Guarino
Jump, Frog, Jump! by Robert Kalan
Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten by Joseph Slate
Listen Buddy by Andrew Clements
On Market Street by Arnold Lobel
Beginner Books
⌘ A My Name is Alice by Jane Bayer
ABC of Monsters by Deborah Niland
Across the Stream by Mirra Ginsburg
Alfred’s Alphabet Walk by Victoria Chess
⌘ Alligators All Around by Maurice Sendak
Alpha Beta Chowder by Jeanne and William Steig
Animal Homes by Brian Wildsmith
Aster Aardvark’s Alphabet Adventures by Steven Kellogg
Bears by Ruth Krauss
Bears in Paris by Niki Yektai
Carrot/Parrot by Jerome Martin
⌘ Drummer Hoff by Barbara Emberley
PICTURE BOOKS WITHOUT WORDS
(Wordless or nearly wordless picture books)
⌘ Anno’s Counting Book by Mitsumasa Anno
The Witch Kitchen by Ruth Carroll
On Christmas Eve by Peter Collington
Truck by Donald Crews
Carl Goes to Day Care by Alexandra Day
Pancakes for Breakfast by Tomie DePaola
The Spring Hat by Madelaine Gill
The Lazy Dog by John Hamberger
Up and Up by Shirley Hughes
Changes, Changes by Pat Hutchins
⌘ Clementina’s Cactus by Jack Ezra Keats
April Fools by Fernando Krahn
The Chicken and The Egg by Lela Mari
Frog Series by Mercer Mayer
Don’t Forget Me, Santa Claus by Virginia Mayo
The Heartaches of a French Cat by Barbara McClintock
⌘ Picnic by Emily Arnold McCully
Quack by Emily Arnold
Across Town by Sara
Mouse Around by Pat Schories
Do Not Disturb by Nancy Tafuri
Deep In The Forest by Brinton Turkle
The Bear and The Fly by Paula Winter
Up A Tree by Ed Young
Animalia by Graeme Base
Grades K-3
Astronauts Are Sleeping by Natalie Standiford
Inspired by a description of astronauts asleep aboard the space shuttle, Astronauts Are Sleeping is a bedtime book
that is at once a reverie and a visual tour de force. A bright, eager voice describes three sleeping astronauts whizzing
around the earth in a space capsule and asks the thought-provoking question, "What do the astronauts see in their
dreams?" Magnificent pastels show planets that are breathtaking, astronauts who are alive, and a galaxy that is lush,
deeply textured, and beautiful to look at. And happily, readers do discover what the astronauts are seeing in their
dreams: They are seeing their homes on earth and memories of their happy childhoods.
Chicka Chicka ABC by Bill Martin, John Archambault,
"A told B, and B told C, I'll beat you to the top of the coconut tree." Rascally A entices the whole alphabet up the
tree, but the tree cannot handle the weight. All the lowercase letters come crashing to the ground. Uppercase letters
rush in to comfort the little ones, and all is well -- for a while -- in this irresistible, award-winning alphabet book.
Ehlert's bright, graphic illustrations join the foot-tapping rhyme.
The Chicken Sisters by Laura Joffe Numeroff
When the big bad wolf moves into town, he thinks the three chicken sisters next door will be easy prey. But his
tactics backfire when he comes face to face with the eccentric threesome, who knit, bake, and sing him to
distraction, sending him running home to his mother.
The Leaf Men by William Joyce
The brave good bugs march off to save the garden. First, they must fight the evil Spider Queen before summoning
the Leaf Men to save the day...but what about the mystery of the Long-Lost Toy? Here is ancient elfin magic, epic
adventure, and a bugle salute to the power of memory, loyalty, and love as resounding as Robin Hood's call to his
Merry Men!
Market Day by Eve Bunting, Holly Berry (illus.)
The finest lace from Donegal...sweet clover honey to melt in your mouth...a penny poke of gob stoppers from the
sweetie stall...your future glimpsed in a crystal ball.... Hurry along! Thursday has arrived, and the streets of this tiny
Irish village are chock-full of fun. What will you buy with your Market Day penny today?
⌘ Mouse Mess by Linnea Asplind Riley
This giggle-inspiring story rhymes its way into the affections of all who read it. When a hungry little mouse goes in
search of a snack, you should never underestimate the huge mess that follows in his wake. This delightful read-aloud
with its paint box-bright illustrations is sure to become a classic.
The Scrambles States of America by Laurie Keller
At the first annual states party, Virginia and Idaho hatch a plan to swap spots so each can see another part of the
country. Before the party is over, all the states decide to switch places. In the beginning, every state is happy in its
new location. But soon things start to go wrong. Will the states ever unscramble and return to their proper places?
This clever story -- starring all 50 states -- is chock-full of introductory facts and madcap humor. Young readers can
identify their favorite states by color, size, and shape. Learning about geography has never been as easy -- or as
much fun.
⌘ Sheep in a Jeep by Nancy Shaw, Margot Apple
With very few words (sheep, jeep, thud, mud, heap, cheap), a tableau unfolds in which five silly yet distinctive
sheep futilely attempt to ride in their jeep. Amusing details -- such as the tattoos on the pigs' arms -- abound in the
pictures. Apple's expressive illustrations and Shaw's minimal text make this an extremely clever read-aloud.
Visiting the Art Museum by Laurene Krasny Brown, Marc Brown (illus.)
This wonderful offering from Laurene Krasny Brown and her husband -- and kids' fave -- Marc Brown presents a
highly palatable introduction to art. The fun, silly illustrations with reproductions of real works intermingled invite
readers to follow a family through an art museum. On this tour they see examples of various art styles from
primitive through 20th century pop art.
⌘ Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst, Ray Cruz From the moment
Alexander wakes up and finds gum in his hair, everything goes wrong! His brothers both get prizes in their cereal
boxes, his best friend demotes him to third-best friend, there are lima beans for dinner, and there is kissing on TV.
All kids experience this kind of day and will be glad to find they are not alone!
⌘ The Bears' Picnic by Stan Berenstain, Jan Berenstain
The Berenstain Bears endure countless trials before finding a suitable picnic spot.
⌘ Bedtime for Frances by Russell Hoban
It may be bedtime for Frances, but that doesn't mean Frances is ready to go to bed -- not by a long shot. First she
must have a glass of milk and make certain Mother and Father have each kissed her good night (twice). Then she is
ready to imagine there is a tiger in her room, and a giant, and ... each time Frances thinks up something new, off she
goes to tell her ever-patient, if increasingly weary, parents. The familiar delaying tactics of Frances the song-singing
badger have delighted fans young and old for more than three decades. Combining sympathetic understanding with
gentle humor, Russell Hoban created in Frances a character at once immediately recognizable and eminently likable.
In this new edition, the warmth of full color enriches Garth Williams's original artwork, bringing a fresh look to an
enduring favorite.
Caps for Sale: A Tale of a Peddler, Some Monkeys, and Their Monkey Business by Esphyr Slobodkina
A cap peddler wakes from a nap to find all his caps are gone -- a bunch of naughty monkeys have taken them up a
tree. Angrily shaking his finger at the monkeys, the peddler demands his caps back, but the monkeys only shake
their fingers and say "Tsz, tsz, tsz." No matter what the peddler does, the monkeys only imitate him. Finally, the
peddler is so enraged he throws his cap on the ground -- and all the monkeys follow suit!
⌘ Franklin Rides a Bike by Paulette Bourgeois
At the beginning of spring, Franklin and all his friends have training wheels on their bikes. But soon Franklin is the
only one who can't ride without them. Every time he tries he falls down, and he's beginning to get discouraged. His
mom finally convinces him to keep with it, and Franklin finally rides on his own.
⌘ Freckle Juice by Judy Blume
Nicky has freckles -- they cover his face, his ears, and the whole back of his neck. Once, sitting behind him in class,
Andrew counted 86 of them, and that was just a start! If Andrew had freckles like Nicky, his mother would never
know if his neck was dirty. One day after school, Andrew works up enough courage to ask Nicky where he got his
freckles. And, as luck would have it, who should overhear him but giggling, teasing Sharon. She offers Andrew her
secret freckle juice recipe -- for 50 cents. That's a lot of money, but Andrew is desperate. At home he carefully
mixes the strange combination of ingredients. Then the unexpected happens. ...
⌘ If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Joffe Numeroff
What happens if you give a mouse a cookie? Why, he'll need a glass of milk to go with it! He'll also need a straw, a
napkin, a mirror -- each item prompts the need for another. When the mouse is hanging a picture from a refrigerator
(how did he get there?), he's reminded that he's thirsty and needs a glass of milk (uh-oh). With this milk, it's
absolutely necessary to have a cookie, of course! Bond's wonderful illustrations enliven this modern-day classic.
The Listening Walk by Paul Showers
We're going on a Listening Walk. Shhhhh. Do not talk. Do not hurry. Get ready to fill your ears with a world of
wonderful, surprising sounds. In this colorfully illustrated book a little girl and her father take a quiet walk and
identify the sounds around them. This beautiful lesson in appreciating the extraordinary qualities found in the
rhythm of everyday life entices readers to pay more attention to the world surrounding them.
⌘ Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey
This Caldecott Award-winning classic about Mr. and Mrs. Mallard and their brood of ducklings has been a favorite
since 1941. When Mrs. Mallard and her eight ducklings are stuck at a busy street in downtown Boston, their
policeman friend Michael rushes in to stop traffic and make way for them. McCloskey's sepia illustrations are
priceless, and a statue of Mrs. Mallard and her ducklings can be found in the Boston Common today.
⌘ Play Ball, Amelia Bedelia by Peggy Parish
Amelia Bedelia, who knows very little about baseball, stands in for a sick player during a game. The result, as usual
with literal-minded Amelia Bedelia, is hilarious.
There's an Alligator Under My Bed by Mercer Mayer
This sequel to There's a Nightmare in My Closet brings back that story's imaginative young hero for an even funnier
nighttime adventure. All kids will identify with the realistic alligator who just happens to live you know where.
⌘ The Adventures of Taxi Dog by Debra Barracca, Sal Barracca
Jim, a New York City taxi driver, rescues a stray dog and dubs his new pet Maxi. Maxi accompanies Jim in his taxi
and meets all sorts of people. With each new passenger, Maxi makes a new friend -- and even helps Jim get tips!
The text is written in a bouncing rhyme, and Beuhner's paintings capture Maxi's doggy personality and Jim's
geniality. Can you find the cat in every picture?
⌘ Amelia Bedelia (I Can Read Book Series) by Peggy Parish
Meet Amelia Bedelia, the unflappable maid who does everything literally. With her purse on her arm and hat firmly
on her head, Amelia Bedelia follows instructions to a T: Change the towels? Nothing a pair of scissors can't do!
Dust the furniture? That's when the perfumed dusting powder really comes in handy. Dress the chicken for dinner -well, do you want a boy chicken or a girl chicken? Amelia Bedelia's well-meaning gaffs cause readers to chuckle but
her employer to fume -- it's a good thing she's such a good cook!
⌘ The Case of the Spooky Sleepover, Jigsaw Jones Mystery #4 by James Preller
Ralphie Jordan can't sleep. Something is making spooky noises in his room at night. It's a perfect case for Jigsaw
Jones, who pieces together all the ghostly clues.
Chicken Soup with Rice, A Book of Months by Maurice Sendak
"Each month is gay, each season is nice, when eating chicken soup with rice." It's nice in January, April, June, and
December -- here's the every-month dish for everyone to remember.
⌘ Flat Stanley by Jeff Brown
Stanley Lambchop is a nice, average boy. He leads a nice, ordinary life. Then one day a bulletin board falls on him,
and suddenly Stanley is flat. This turns out to be very interesting. Stanley gets rolled up, mailed, and flown like a
kite. He even gets to stop crime. He's flat, but he's a hero!
⌘ The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
A little boy befriends a tree. Loving and generous, the tree provides everything she can for him -- fruit, shade, a
place for a swing -- throughout the boy's life. He, in turn, takes from the tree without noticing the sacrifices she
makes. It isn't until he's old and infirm and gratefully rests on her stump that he understands all she has done. This
powerful parable is fitting for all age groups.
Is Your Mama a Llama? by Deborah Guarino
A young llama is curious -- are all his friends' mamas llamas? Each animal tells Lloyd facts about its mother, and
Lloyd -- along with young readers -- guesses what kind of animal each mother is. The rhyming text and illustrations
give hints, and preschoolers will enjoy yelling out the answers, which are revealed by turning the page.
⌘ Junie B. Jones Smells Something Fishy, Junie B. Jones Series #12 by Barbara Park
Frustrated because the rules for her class's Pet Day will not let her take her dog to school, Junie B. Jones considers
taking a raccoon, a worm, a dead fish, and other unusual replacements.
Martha Blah Blah by Susan Meddaugh
When the current owner of the soup company breaks the founder's promise to have every letter of the alphabet in
every can of soup, Martha, the talking dog, takes action.
Mrs. Katz and Tush by Patricia Polacco
In this special Passover story, Larnel Moore, an African-American boy, and Mrs. Katz, an elderly Jewish woman,
develop an unusual friendship through their mutual concern for an abandoned cat named Tush. Together they
explore the common themes of suffering and triumph in each of their cultures.
⌘ Stellaluna by Janell Cannon, Jewell Cannon
Stellaluna, a little brown bat, is accidentally dropped by her mother. The helpless baby falls smack into a nest of
fledglings and is immediately accepted as one of the family. Stellaluna tries to fit in but keeps acting unbirdlike,
hanging upside down and wanting to fly at night. By chance Stellaluna is reunited with her mother and finally learns
to be a proper bat.
⌘ Tonight on the Titanic, Magic Tree House Series #17 by Mary Pope Osborne
The Magic Tree House whisks Jack and Annie away to the decks of that ill-fated ship, the Titanic. There they must
help two children find their way to a lifeboat -- while they are in danger of becoming victims of that tragic night
themselves.
⌘ You Can't Eat Your Chicken Pox by Amber Brown
Amber Brown has survived third grade -- even though her best friend, Justin, moved away. Now she's heading to
London with her Aunt Pam -- and then to Paris. Before she gets there, Amber finds out she has chicken pox. Amber
Brown is a kid with problems. Now that she can't go to Paris, how will she convince her dad to move back in with
her mom?
⌘ Zelda and Ivy by Laura McGee Kvasnosky
Zelda and Ivy are sisters with a flair for the dramatic. Whether they're performing a circus act, fashioning their tails
in the latest style, or working wonders with "fairy dust," their exploits are described with wit and charm in a very
special trio of stories exploring the intimate dynamic between an older and younger sister.
My Five Senses by Aliki
Through your five senses! Each sound and taste, each smell, sight, and touch helps you to discover something new.
So find out more about your senses-what they are and what you can learn through them about the exciting world.The
world awaits!
Feelings Happy, sad, shy, excited--how do you feel? Sometimes it's hard to explain you feelings. Share this book
with a friend and you'll both feel terrific!
My Visit to the Dinosaurs Dinosaurs are extinct now, but you can visit dinosaur skeletons in a museum. There you
will meet Brachiosaurus, Stegosaurus, and Diplodocus and learn how they ruled the earth millions of years ago.
You'll see dinosaurs with over 1,000 teeth, dinosaurs who could swim, meat-eaters and plant-eaters. And, of course,
you'll meet the king of all dinosaurs, the gigantic Tyrannosaurus rex.
I’m Growing With her trademark simple words and delightful pictures, Aliki explains how and why we grow. Our
arms and legs, our hair and toenails, our muscles, bones, and skin all grow from the moment we are born. nSome
people grow faster than others; some people grow more than others. With the help of good healthy food, we all grow
in our own way and at our own speed. It will happen to you, too!
Digging Up Dinosaurs Long ago, dinosaurs ruled the Earth. Then, suddenly, they died out. For thousands of years,
no one knew these giant creatures had ever existed. Then people began finding fossils -- bones and teeth and
footprints that had turned to stone. Today, teams of experts work together to dig dinosaur fossils out of the ground,
bone by fragile bone. Then they put the skeletons together again inside museums, to look just like the dinosaurs of
millions of years ago.
My Feet We use our feet all the time! With her trademark simple words and delightful pictures, Aliki explains the
many ways our feet are important to us. Our feet hold us up, help us balance, and most importantly, take us
wherever we want to go.
The Mitten by Jan Brett
The Mitten scores on several levels. First, the art is wonderful. Seven or eight animals are pictured in the book (and
very well drawn) which makes it a visual feast. Each two page spread also includes two smaller "summary" and
"foreshadowing" pictures that relate to the previous and following page. It makes for a spread that has a lot of
possibilities for young pre-readers in terms of connecting the story and describing what each character has done and
will be doing. The tale itself is whimsical and amuses the pre-school set. A fine children's book.
Armadillo Rodeo Bo is a lovable Texas armadillo who longs for adventure. Because he is near sighted, he mistakes
a cowboy boot for a fellow armadillo. Together they romp through the Texas countryside. All the while, Bo's mother
is looking for her missing son.
Annie and the Wild Animals When Annie's cat disappears, she attempts friendship with a variety of unsuitable
woodland animals. The borders of the pages foretell the emergence of spring and the birth of kittens.
The Gingerbread Man That sassy cookie! When Matti opens the oven door just a little too soon, out pops a
gingerbread baby instead of the gingerbread boy he was expecting. Eluding all efforts to catch him, the flat,
becandied baby is chased around the village and into the countryside. He mercilessly taunts Matti's parents, a cat,
the milk and cheese man, goats, villagers, a fox, and more. In a less traumatic twist on the classic Gingerbread Boy
story, this Gingerbread Baby even outfoxes the fox. Sure he's bratty, but he doesn't deserve the gruesome end the
Gingerbread Boy usually comes to. Matti makes sure this naughty but appealing little one ends up right where he
belongs.
Arthur (Series) by Marc Brown
The irrepressible Arthur and his equally high-spirited kid sister star in aardvarkian antics that offer, said PW,
"substantial doses of Brown's trademark understated humor and art brimming with witty details."
The Very Hungry Catepillar by Eric Carle
In honor of the 40th anniversary of Eric Carle's The Very Hungry Caterpillar comes the first-ever pop-up edition of
this book. When the familiar, tiny caterpillar pops out of his egg, a dial lets readers help him chug across Carle's
earthy color palette. Next, the caterpillar eats his way through a week's worth of pop-up fruit, as well as a full-page
display of sweet and savory treats, (resulting in a stomach-ache), before his eventual transition into a butterfly. The
pop-ups, particularly a half-cylinder tree trunk that sprouts from the center of the spread and a large accordionlike
cocoon, are well executed and engaging. While the prominent use of white space lends a sparser feel than in the
picture book, the shimmering wings of the pop-up butterfly dazzle on the final spread.
Pancakes, Pancakes The barnyard rooster crows and Jack wakes up -- hungry, of course! What does he want for
breakfast? A big pancake! But first, Jack's mother needs flour from the mill, an egg from the black hen, milk from
the spotted cow, butter churned from fresh cream, and firewood for the stove. Will Jack ever get his pancake?
The Grouchy Ladybug
Walter, the Baker An engaging tale from one of America's most beloved artists and storytellers. When the Duke
notices that Walter the baker has substituted water for milk in his sweet rolls, he presents Walter with a challenge:
create from one piece of dough a roll the sun can shine through three times, or be banished from the Duchy.
A House for Hermit Crab Hermit Crab moves out of his small shell on the sea floor, in search of a new residence.
When he finds a bigger place, a sea anemone offers to move in with him; a starfish agrees to decorate the joint. A
snail and a sea urchin are employed for cleaning and protection, a lantern fish for lighting and smooth pebbles are
used for a wall. Hermit lives happily for a while, until it is time to move again, to a still larger place.
The Very Lonely Firefly As the sun sets, a firefly is born: "It stretched its wings and flew off into the darkening
sky." Searching for other fireflies, the lonely little guy flies hopefully toward other lights (a bulb in a window, a
candle, a flashlight, the shining eyes of an owl, car headlights, fireworks), only to discover that they are not what he
is looking for.
Grades 4 – 6
General Fiction
⌘ The High King by Lloyd Alexander
Newbery Award, 1969. Part of the The Prydian Chronicles series. Fantasy tale of Taran, an assistant pig-keeper
who must fight forces of evil.
⌘ The Gawgon and The Boy by Lloyd Alexander
An 11-year old boy, too sick to attend school, is tutored by the unique and adventures aunt Annie, whose
teaching combines with his imagination to greatly enrich his life.
⌘ I, Houdini by Lynne Reid Banks Tales of an escape artist hamster. Also: The Fairy Rebel, The Farthest Away
Mountain, And The Indian in the Cupboard, all magically fine read-alouds.
⌘ Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbit
Winnie Forest enters the forest and discover mysteries of time and a promise of eternal youth.
⌘ The Shakespeare Stealer by Gary Blackwood
A young orphan is sent to the Globe Theater by an evil master to crib the scrip for Hamlet.
⌘ Fudge, Superfudge and Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume
Comical books for this age group.
⌘ The Enormous Egg by Oliver Butterworth
Nate discovers a gigantic egg laid by one of the family’s hens. However, Nate is unprepared for what hatches out.
The Not-Just-Anybody Family by Betsy Byars
With a young brother in the hospital, a grandfather in jail, and their mother traveling with a rodeo, it’s up to Maggie
and Vern to try to settle family problems. Add a missing dog and you have a not-to-be-forgotten read.
⌘ The Stories Julian Tells by Ann Cameron
Relates episodes in seven-year-old Julian's life which include getting into trouble with his younger brother Huey,
planting a garden, what he did to try to grow taller, losing a tooth, and finding a new friend. Plus, several other
books about Julian and Huey.
The Big Bazoohley by Peter Carey
When his family needs money, 9-year-old Sam allows himself to be “borrowed” and entered a contest to find the
Perfecto Kiddo, hoping to win $10,000.
The Great Pig Escape by Eileen Christelow
This delightful romp by a Vermont author introduces a passel of pigs with above-average IQs as they are loaded
onto the truck to take them to market. They cleverly escape, disguise themselves in clothes from many sources in the
village, and board a bus headed to Florida, leaving the clueless farmers and villagers scratching their heads. Don’t
miss the sequel: The Great Pig Search.
⌘ Ramona Quimby, Age 8 by Beverly Cleary
1981. Ramona's third grade year at school will keep young readers laughing. A Newbery Honor Book. Many other
books by Beverly Cleary.
⌘ Dear Mr. Henshaw by Beverly Cleary
In his letters to his favorite author, 10-year-old Leigh reveals his problems in coping with his parents divorce, being
the new boy in school, and generally finding his own place in the world. Newbery Award, 1984.
⌘ School Story by Andrew Clements
After 12-year-old Natalie writes a novel, her friend Zoe helps her devise a scheme to get it accepted at the
publishing house where Natalies’ mother works as an editor.
⌘ Frindle by Andrew Clements
Nick, a champion time-waster and charming troublemaker, faces the toughest teacher in school and invents a new
language.
⌘ Molly’s Pilgrim by Barbara Cohen
A young Russian immigrant struggles to overcome her feeling of alienation in her new American school.
⌘ Granny Torrelli Makes Soup by Sharon Creech
When Rosie and her best buddy Bailey have a falling out, it is the warmth and wisdom of Granny Torrelli’s kitchen
that provides the ingredients for understanding and growth until tutto va bene-all is well!
⌘ Ruby Holler. Twins escape a terrible orphanage when an eccentric older couple invites them on an adventure.
⌘ Walk Two Moons. Newbery Award 1995. After her mother leaves home, 13-year-old Sal and her grandparents
retrace her mother’s route.
⌘ Love That Dog. Free verse poetry on coming to terms with loss and grief.
⌘ The Hundred Dresses by Elanor Estes
Wanda, a Polish immigrant girl who wears the same dress every day, is the butt of the group’s putdowns. No one
believes the boast that she has a hundred dresses.
⌘ Snowed in with Grandmother Silk by Carol Fenner
In this early chapter book that sports big print, humor, and a situation children can appreciate, Ruddy and his
grandmother learn to be best friends when a surprise storm strands them without electricity or telephone.
Yolanda’s Genius by Carol Fenner
Fifth-grade Yolanda, strong and unafraid of bullies, is determined to prove her younger brother is a musical prodigy.
⌘ Harriet The Spy by Louise Fitzhugh
Harriet enjoys spying of friends and strangers and recording their actions in a diary—until the diary is found.
⌘ Bandit’s Moon by Sid Fleichman
A comic tale of the California gold rush era, where Annyrose links up with a gang of illiterate outlaws.
⌘ The Whipping Boy by Sid Fleichman
Newbery Awards 1987. A poor orphan boy is plucked from the city sewers and given the worst job in the kingdom,
being whipped instead of the king’s bratty son.
⌘ The 13 Floor: A Ghost Story. An elevator takes 12-year old Buddy back in time to a pirate ship and to a New
England witchcraft trial.
th
The Cuckoo’s Child by Susanne Freeman
New orphaned Mia moves from Beirut to Tennessee, where she must make peace with her new life. Full of hope and
humor.
⌘ The Slave Dancer by Paula Fox
Newbery Awards, 1974. Kidnapped by the crew of an Africa-bound ship, a 13-year-old boy discovers to his horror
that he is on a slaver and his job is to play music for the exercise periods of the human cargo.
⌘ Bruh Rabbit and the Tar Baby Girl by Virginia Hamilton
In Hamilton’s retelling of a Gullah version of the beloved Tar Baby story, Bruh Rabbit once again fools the luckless
Bruh Wolf. Ransome’s vibrant watercolor illustrations and Hamilton’s vivid language will make this picture book
an exceptional read-aloud.
⌘ Sable by Karen Hesse
1994. More than anything, Tate wants to keep the stray dog that shows up at her mountain home. With persistence
and hard work, the girl succeeds.
⌘ The Trolls by Polly Horvath
Eccentric Aunt Sally comes from Canada to baby-sit the Anderson children while their parents are on a trip to Paris
and every night the bedtime story adds another piece to a very suspect family history.
⌘ There’s An Owl in the Shower by Jean Craighead George
A young boy whose father has lost a logging job befriends an endangered spotted owlet.
⌘ Joey Pigza Swallowed The Key by Jack Gantos
To the constant disappointment of his mother and his teachers, Joey has trouble paying attention or controlling his
mood swings when his prescription meds wear off and he starts acting wired. Sequels: Joey Pigza Loses Control.
⌘ Hoot by Carl Hiassen
Roy, who is new to his small Florida Community, becomes involved in another boy’s attempt to save a colony of
burrowing owls from proposed construction site.
⌘ The Raft by Jim LaMarche
Nicky is not happy about spending the entire summer at a cottage in the middle of nowhere with only his
grandmother for company. Then he discovers a raft. The rest of the summer flies by as he comes to appreciate the
natural world around him, develops his own artistic skills, and discovers his grandmother is a delightful companion.
A quiet, lovely story which may inspire readers to start a summer sketchbook and wander in the woods.
⌘ My Life as a Fifth Grade Comedian by Elizabeth Levy
With the encouragement of a new fifth grade teacher, Bobby channels his humor into a learning experience.
⌘ What’s the Matter with Herbie Jones? by Suzy Kline
One of many early chapter books by this author, featuring Herbie and his hilarious pals.
⌘ Surviving Brick Johnson by Laurie Myers
Alex discovers that the classmates he fears as a bully is nothing of the sort—in fact, he becomes a friend. With an
open humorous illustration, a perfect choice for reluctant readers.
Dear Whiskers by Ann Whithead Nagda
Jenny is discouraged when she discovers her pen pal does not speak English very well, but they slowly become
friends.
⌘ The Great Gilly Hopkins by Katherine Patterson
Eleven-year-old Gilly has been stuck in more foster families than she can remember, and she's disliked them all
intensely. So when she's sent to live with the Trotters--by far the strangest family yet--Gilly decides to put her
brilliant mind to work. Before long she's devised an elaborate scheme to get her real mother to come "rescue" her.
⌘ Brain’s Winter by Gary Paulsen
Gripping sequel to Hatchet, where 13-year old Brain uses his ingenuity to survive alone in the Canada north. Many
others.
Mrs. Katz and Tush by Patricia Polacco
1992. A kitten helps an old woman and a young boy cross lines of culture and generation.
⌘ The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin
Newberry Awards 1979. The mysterious death of an odd millionaire brings together an unlikely assortment of heirs
who must uncover the circumstances of his death before they can claim their inheritance.
Tar Beach by Faith Ringgold
1991. Based on a quilt by the author, this beautifully illustrated book tells the story of Cassie's magical flight above
Harlem, exploring African-American history through her journey. A Coretta Scott King Medal winner and Caldecott
Honor book.
⌘ Holes by Louis Sachar
Newberry Awards 1999. Stanley Yelnats is sent to a correctional camp in the Texas desert where he finds his first
real friend, a treasure, and a new sense of himself.
⌘ Grandfather's Journey by Allen Say
1993. A Japanese American tells of his grandfather's journey to America, and of the love the family feels for both
countries. A Caldecott Medal winner.
⌘ Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli
Newberry Awards 1991. After his parents die, Jeffrey Lionel Magee’s life becomes legendary as he accomplishes
athletic and other feats which awe his contemporaries.
⌘ Wringer. A 9- year old boy faces his future as a wringer---one of the boys who strangle wounded pigeons. The
hopeful conclusion rests in his love for the pigeon he shelters and saves. Many others.
⌘ Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred Taylor
1976. A black family in Depression Era Mississippi struggles with hardships of poverty and racial strife in this
gripping family novel. A Newbery Award Winner.
⌘ Wayside School Is Falling Down by Louis Sachar
The wackiest elementary school in the world is guaranteed to make kids laugh. Sequels.
⌘ The Times Warp Trio by Jon Sciezka
Series, wacky tales of time travel via a magic book. Includes 2025, Knights of the Kitchen Table, The Not-So-Jolly
Roger, Summer Reading Is Killing Me, Tut Tut and Your Mother was a Neanderthal.
The Terrible, Wonderful Tellin’ at Hog Hammock by Kim Siegelson
Jonas, a young boy living on a remote island of coastal Georgia, must take his late grandfather’s place at the
storytelling festival.
Joshua T. Bates in Trouble Again by Susan Shreve
Joshua stands up to bullies when he has to repeat third grade. One of several about Joshua
Percy Jackson & the Olympians Series by Rick Riordan
A series of modern day adventure books with ties to Greek mythology.
The Kane Chronicles Series by Rick Riordan
A series of modern day adventure books with ties to Egyptian mythology.
The Heroes of Olympus Series by Rick Riordan
A series of modern day adventure books with ties to Greek and Roman mythology.
Grades 4 - 6
Animal Stories
(Books with a ** have movies made of them as well)
⌘ **Sounder by William H. Armstrong
Newbery Award, 1970. Angry and humiliated when his sharecropper father is jailed for stealing food for his family,
a young boy grows in courage and understanding with the help of the devoted dog Sounder.
⌘ **The Incredible Journey by Shelia Burnford
1961. Instinct told them that the way home lay to the west. And so the doughty young Labrador retriever, the
roguish bull terrier and the indomitable Siamese set out through the Canadian wilderness. Separately, they would
soon have died. But, together, the three house pets faced starvation, exposure, and wild forest animals to make their
way home to the family they love. The Incredible Journey is one of the great children's stories of all time--and has
been popular ever since its debut in 1961.
⌘ The Ralph Mouse Collection by Beverly Cleary
⌘ Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo
Ten-year-old India Opal Buloni describes her first summer in the town of Naomi, Florida, and all the good things
that happen to her because of her big ugly dog Winn-Dixie.
⌘ The Tale of Despereaux. Her old-fashioned, somewhat dark story, narrated "Dear Reader"-style, begins "within
the walls of a castle, with the birth of a mouse." Despereaux Tilling, the new baby mouse, is different from all other
mice. Sadly, the romantic, unmouselike spirit that leads the unusually tiny, large-eared mouse to the foot of the
human king and the beautiful Princess Pea ultimately causes him to be banished by his own father to the foul, ratfilled dungeon.
⌘ Owls in the Family by Mowat Farley
1996. Every child needs to have a pet. No one could argue with that. But what happens when your pet is an owl,
and your owl is terrorizing the neighborhood? In Farley Mowat’s exciting children’s story, a young boy’s pet
menagerie, which includes crows, magpies, gophers and a dog grows out of control with the addition of two
cantankerous pet owls. The story of how Wol and Weeps turn the whole town upside down is warm, funny, and
bursting with adventure and suspense.
⌘ Bunnicula by Deborah and James Howe
Told by the dog, Harold, a mystery-comedy featuring a vampire bunny. Several sequels.
⌘ Redwall by Brian Jacques
1987. As the inhabitants of Redwall Abbey bask in the glorious Summer of the Late Rose, all is quiet and peaceful.
But things are not as they seem. Cluny the Scourge, the evil one-eyed rat warlord, is hell-bent on destroying the
tranquility as he prepares to fight a bloody battle for the ownership of Redwall. This dazzling story in the Redwall
series is packed with all the wit, wisdom, humor, and blood-curdling adventure of the other books in the collection,
but has the added bonus of taking the reader right back to the heart and soul of Redwall Abbey and the characters
who live there.
⌘ Orwell's Luck by Richard Jennings
While caring for an injured rabbit that becomes her confidante, horoscope writer, and source of good luck, a
thoughtful seventh grade girl learns to see things in more than one way.
⌘ Faith and the Electric Dogs by Patrick Jennings
A book with the dog as narrator. Wonderfully comic and poignant.
Guardians of Ga’Hoole: The Capture by Kathryn Lasky
Soren, a barn owl still weeks away from fledging, is knocked from his otherwise loving family's nest by his nasty
older brother. He is swooped up from the forest floor by a pair of nefarious owls who hold him--along with many
other owlets of diverse species--captive in a kind of owl social reformatory.
⌘ Rabbit Hill by Robert Lawson
1982. New folks are coming to live in the Big House. The animals of Rabbit Hill wonder if they will plant a garden
and thus be good providers.
⌘ Ben and Me, 1988. The remarkable life of old Ben Franklin is related with wit, warmth and wisdom by Amos, a
mouse who has a way with words.
⌘ Stay! Keeper’s Story by Lois Lowry
Separated early in life form his mother and siblings, Keeper (a dog) relates his adventures with various humans and
his continual search for his little sister.
⌘ **Shiloh by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
Newbery Award, 1992. When he finds a lost beagle in the hills behind his West Virginia home, Marty tries to hide it
from his family and the dog's real owner, a mean-spirited man known to shoot deer out of season and to mistreat his
dogs. Two sequels.
The Alice series, comical and introspective look into a young girl's life.
Jade Green, in which an orphaned girl living with her uncle is haunted by a ghost.
⌘ **Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of Nihm by Robert O’Brien
1971. Mrs. Frisby, a widowed mouse with four small children, is faced with a terrible problem. She must move her
family to their summer quarters immediately, or face almost certain death. But her youngest son, Timothy, lies ill
with pneumonia and must not be moved. Fortunately, she encounters the rats of NIMH, an extraordinary breed of
highly intelligent creatures, who come up with a brilliant solution to her dilemma. And Mrs. Frisby in turn renders
them a great service.
⌘ Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O’Dell
1971. This is based on a true story of a girl stranded alone on a deserted island and features her friendship with the
animals around her.
⌘ The Amazing Maurice and His Educated Rodents by Terry Pratchett
A talking cat, intelligent rats and a boy cooperate in a con game in this delightful, comic fantasy.
⌘ Harry Kitten & Tucker Mouse by George Selden
A tiny New York City mouse longs for a name and a home, finds both, and makes a friend. This early history of
Tucker Mouse and Harry Kitten, that well-loved couple from The Cricket in Times Square (Farrar, 1960) and other
books, will attract new, younger readers in this attractive large format book.
The Mouse of Amherst by Ellizabeth Spires
When she moves inot Emily Dickinson’s bedroom, Emmaline the mouse discovers her own talent for poetry.
⌘ **Charlotte’s Webb by E.B. White
⌘ Trumpet of the Swan, 1973. Although he lacks a voice in the traditional "Ko-hoh!" sense, trumpeter swan Louis
learns to speak to the world with a trumpet stolen from a music store by his father. With the support of an unusual
boy named Sam, who helps Louis learn how to read and write, the swan has some rather unswanlike adventures and
ultimately wins the love--and the freedom--of a beautiful swan named Serena.
Sports
⌘ On the Field with: Mia Hamm by Matt Christopher
1998. A biography of one of the top female soccer players in the country, Mia Hamm, who helped the United States
win a gold medal in soccer in the 1996 Olympics.
⌘ The Kid who Only Hit Homers, 1986.
When a mysterious man promises to make him a great player, Sylvester accepts and begins a phenomenal home-run
streak.
⌘ The Spy on Third Base, 1990.
When a newspaper reports that T. V. Adams, third baseman for the Peach Street Mudders, seems to have psychic
powers, T.V.'s playing is all fouled up.
⌘ Center Court Sting, 1998.
Daren's tendency to blame everyone but himself when anything goes wrong causes problems with his best friend,
with a young neighbor who idolizes him, and with one of his basketball teammates.
The Everything Kids Soccer Book by Deborah Crisfield
2002. Soccer player and coach Deborah W. Crisfield gives you lots of advice on stretching, endurance building, and
strength training. Along the way, she includes some amazing facts on the World Cup and American soccer stars,
such as Landon Donovan and Mia Hamm, and offers dozens of puzzles and games.
Cliff-Hanger by Jean Craighead George
2002. When Axel's dog, Grits, is left stranded after following two climbers up a mountain trail, danger is imminent
as a lightning storm threatens. Kaboom! Can Axel, with the help of his dad, make the difficult climb up Cathedral
Wall to rescue Grits before it's too late?
Shoeless Joe & Me: A Baseball Card Adventure by Dan Gutman
2002. In this latest Baseball Card Adventure, Shoeless Joe & Me by Dan Gutman, Joe "Stosh" Stoshack travels
back to 1919 but will he be in time to prevent Shoeless Joe Jackson from being implicated in a conspiracy to throw
the World Series?
⌘ The Million Dollar Kick by Dan Gutman
2003. Whisper Nelson, a seventh grader living in Oklahoma City, enters a competition to create the best slogan (the
Million Dollar Kick Contest at the Donut City) and wins "the chance to take a single shot against the Kick
goalkeeper Carmen Applegate for a million dollars."
Salt in his Shoes by Deloris and Rosyln Jordan
2000. Deloris Jordan, mother of the basketball phenomenon, teams up with his sister Roslyn to tell this
heartwarming and inspirational story that only the members of the Jordan family could tell. It's a tale about faith and
hope and how any family working together can help a child make his or her dreams come true.
This Rocks by Gordon Korman
2001. The Monday Night Football Club can hardly believe it when unathletic Elliot turns out to have a natural
ability for rock-climbing. Things turn dangerous, though, when Elliot gets his foot wedged on the side of the cliff
and Nick has to save him - with the help of X-Games championship climber Katie Brown.
Louise, Soccer Star? by Stephen Krensky
2002. Louise can't wait for soccer season to start! She has been practicing, planning, and even dreaming about it all
summer. But at the team's first practice she is thrown completely off by Trelawney, a new girl with some very
impressive soccer skills. Louise makes some desperate attempts to outshine Trelawney, but her greatest effort comes
when she realizes that she and Trelawney have a lot in common.
⌘ Wilma Unlimited: How Wilma Rudolph Became the World’s Fastest Woman by Kathleen Krull
2000. Before Wilma was five years old, polio had paralyzed her left leg. Everyone said she would never walk again.
But Wilma refused to believe it. Not only would she walk again, she vowed, she'd run. And she did run--all the way
to the Olympics, where she became the first American woman to earn three gold medals in a single olympiad.
⌘ In the Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson by Bette Bao Lord
Shirley Temple Wong comes to the U.S. in 1947. Her efforts to make friends and fit in are successful when she
discovers baseball.
The Magic Hockey Stick by Peter Maloney
1999. When her parents win Wayne Gretzky's hockey stick at a charity auction, a young girl begins playing with it
and becomes her team's star.
⌘ Hour of the Olympics by Mary Pope Osborne
1998. Their magic tree house takes Jack and Annie back to retrieve a lost story in ancient Greece, where they
witness the original Olympic games and are surprised to find what girls of the time were not allowed to do.
⌘ The Boy who Saved Baseball by John H. Ritter
The fate of a small California town rests on the outcome of one baseball game, and Tom Gallagher hopes to lead his
team to victory with the secrets of the now disgraced player, Dante Del Gato.
⌘ Taking Sides by Gary Soto
2003. Lincoln is in a jam when his basketball team at his new school--where the students are rich and mostly white-faces his old team from the barrio on the boards. How can he play his best against his friends? No matter who wins,
it looks like it will be lose-lose for Lincoln.
⌘ Baseball in April & Other Stories, 2000. In this unique collection of short stories, the small events of daily life
reveal big themes--love and friendship, youth and growing up, success and failure. Calling on his own experiences
of growing up in California's Central Valley, poet Gary Soto brings to life the joys and pains of young people
everywhere. The smart, tough, vulnerable kids in these stories are Latino, but their dreams and desires belong to all
of us.
Hockey: The Fastest Game on Ice by Mark Stewart
1999. Discusses the origins and evolution of the game of hockey, as well as memorable events and key personalities
in this sport.
Science Fiction/Fantasy
⌘ Poppy by Avi
Poppy the deer mouse urges her family to move next to a field of corn big enough to feed them all forever, but Mr.
Ocax, a terrifying owl, has other ideas.
⌘ The Lost Years of Merlin by T.A. Barron
1999. A young boy destined to become a great wizard has no name, no family, and an uncertain heritage and
blossoming power. When that power injures another and blinds him, he makes a vow never to use it again - even
though his journeys bring him into contact with an overwhelming evil which could change his world. Merlin's quest
for the truth brings him many new friends and insights.
A is for Aarrgh by William J. Brooke. 2000 Mog, a young boy living during the Stone Age, discovers words and
language and teaches his fellow cave dwellers how to talk, thus altering the course of history.
⌘ Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer
2002. When a twelve-year-old evil genius tries to restore his family fortune by capturing a fairy and demanding a
ransom in gold, the fairies fight back with magic, technology, and a particularly nasty troll.
The Spiderwick Chronicles by Tony DiTerlizzi
The first book in a beautifully produced series of five, The Field Guide sets up the story of the Grace children--13year-old Mallory and 9-year-old twins Jared and Simon--who with their mother move into the dilapidated
Spiderwick Estate only to quickly find themselves sucked into a dark and fascinating world of faeries.
⌘ Half Magic by Edward Eager
Four children looking forward to an ordinary summer enjoy a series of fantastic adventures by double-wishing on an
ancient coin.
The Ear, the Eye, and the Arm by Nancy Farmer
1995. In 2194 in Zimbabwe, General Matsika's three children are kidnapped and put to work in a plastic mine while
three mutant detectives use their special powers to search for them.
⌘ Inkheart by Cornelia Funke
Meggie lives a quiet life alone with her father, a bookbinder. But her father has a deep secret--he possesses an
extraordinary magical power. One day a mysterious stranger arrives who seems linked to her father's past. Who is
this sinister character and what does he want? Suddenly Meggie is involved in a breathless game of escape and
intrigue as her father's life is put in danger. Will she be able to save him in time?
⌘
**The Princess Bride by William Goldman
⌘ Redwall by Brian Jacques
1998. When the peaceful life of ancient Redwall Abbey is shattered by the arrival of the evil rat Cluny and his
villainous hordes, Matthias, a young mouse, determines to find the legendary sword of Martin the Warrior which, he
is convinced, will help Redwall's inhabitants destroy the enemy.
⌘ Chronicles of Chrestomanci, Volume 1: Charmed Life by Diana W. Jones
2001. In this multiple parallel universes of the Twelve Related Worlds, only an enchanter with nine lives is
powerful enough to control the rampant misuse of magic--and to hold the title Chrestomanci. The Chants are a
family strong in magic, but neither Christopher Chant nor Cat Chant can work even the simplest of spells. Who
could have dreamed that both Christopher and Cat were born with nine lives--or that they could lose them so
quickly?
⌘ **The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster
Milo travels to The Lands Beyond when he drives his small electric car through a mysterious, miniature tollbooth
gate.
⌘ Nose Pickers from Outer Space by Gordon Korman
A nerdy exchange student turns out to be an alien who works magic with a computer inside his nose.
⌘ **A Wrinkle in Time by Madelieine L’Engle
1963. It was a wild, stormy night when the unearthly visitor arrived to change the lives of Meg, her small brother,
Charles, and their scientist mother. "Has the general appearance of being science fiction, but it is not. There is
mystery, mysticism, a feeling of indefinable brooding horror . . . original, different, exciting."--Saturday Review.
1963 Newbery Medal winner.
⌘ **Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine
1998. Cinderella meets Goody Two-shoes in this tale about a girl cursed by the "gift" of obedience. Ella is,
nonetheless, a take-charge, intuitive heroine who, despite her love for Prince Char, learns how to just say, "no."
⌘ **The Lion, the Witch, & the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
Four English school children find their way through the back of a wardrobe into the magic land of Narnia and assist
Aslan, the golden lion, to triumph over the White Witch who has cursed the land with eternal winter.
⌘ Gathering Blue by Lois Lowry
2002. Kira, an orphan with a twisted leg, lives in a world where the weak are cast aside. She fears for her future
until she is spared by the all-powerful Council of Guardians. Kira is a gifted weaver and is given a task that no other
community member can do. While her talent keeps her alive and brings certain privileges, Kira soon realizes she is
surrounded by many mysteries and secrets. No one must know of her plans to uncover the truth about her world and
see what places exist beyond.
⌘ The Merchant of Death (The Pendragon Series) by D.J. MacHale
2002. Bobby Pendragon is a seemingly normal fourteen-year-old boy. He has a family, a home, and even Marley,
his beloved dog. But there is something very special about Bobby.
He is going to save the world. And not just Earth as we know it. Bobby is slowly starting to realize that life in the
cosmos isn't quite what he thought it was. And before he can object, he is swept off to an alternate dimension known
as Denduron, a territory inhabited by strange beings, ruled by a magical tyrant, and plagued by dangerous
revolution.
⌘ Charlie Bone and the Time Twister by Jenny Nimmo
2003. January 1916:Henry Yewbeam and his younger brother, James, have been sent to stay with their cousins at
the Bloor's Academy. It is one of the coldest days of the year, and all Henry wants to do is hide from his mean
cousins and play marbles. He finds a nice, long hall and begins to roll his marbles. Then he discovers a marble that
doesn't look familiar to him. Suddenly a series of strange events takes place. Henry begins to disappear. He quickly
scribbles on the floor Give The Marble To James, and then he vanishes from the year 1916.
⌘ Alanna: The First Adventure by Tamora Pierce
1989. Becoming a legend is not easy, as young Alanna of Trebond discovers when she disguises herself as boy and
begins training to be a knight. But it takes more than hard work to stop this heroine, whose skills and stubbornness
help her make friends with Prince Jonathon and enemies with his uncle, Duke Roger.
The Golden Compass, The Subtle Knife, The Amber Spyglass by Phillip Pullman
2003. In the epic trilogy His Dark Materials, Philip Pullman unlocks the door to worlds parallel to our own.
Dæmons and winged creatures live side by side with humans, and a mysterious entity called Dust just might have
the power to unite the universes--if it isn't destroyed first.
⌘ **Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling
The Waterstone by Rebecca Rupp
2002. Twelve-year-old Tad, finding that he holds an ancient wisdom and the power to draw beings together,
embarks on a quest to seek a powerful crystal which, when retrieved from the evil Nixie, will restore balance to the
world.
Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket
While it's true that the events that unfold in Snicket's novels are bleak, and things never turn out as you'd hope, these
delightful, funny, linguistically playful books are reminiscent of Roald Dahl, Charles Dickens, and Edward Gorey.
After they get their paws on this boxed set, there is no question that young readers will want to read the continuing
unlucky adventures of the three Baudelaire orphans.
Historical Fiction
Williamsburg Household by Joan Anderson
1988. What life was really like in eighteenth-century Williamsburg is demonstrated through narration and dialogue,
as we see the interdependence of blacks and whites required to run a typical colonial household.
⌘ Turn Homeward, Hannalee by Patricia Beatty
1984. During the closing days of the Civil War, plucky 12-year-old Hannalee Reed, sent north to work in a Yankee
mill, struggles to return to the family she left behind in war-torn Georgia. "A fast-moving novel based upon an
actual historical incident with a spunky heroine and fine historical detail."
⌘ Caddie Woodlawn by Carol Ryrie Brinks
1935. Caddie Woodlawn is a real adventurer. She'd rather hunt than sew, plow than bake, and beat her brother's
dares every chance she gets. Caddie is friends with Indians, who scare most of the neighbors -- neighbors, who, like
her mother and sisters, don't understand her at all. Caddie is brave, and her story is special -- because it's true, based
on the life and memoirs of Carol Ryrie Brink's grandmother, the real Caddie Woodlawn. Her spirit and sense of fun
have made this book a classic that readers have taken to their hearts for over fifty years
⌘ Mieko and the Fifth Treasure by Eleanor Coerr
When the bomb was dropped on Nagasaki, Mieko's nearby village was turned into ruins, and her hand was badly
injured. Mieko loves to do calligraphy more than anything, but now she can barely hold a paintbrush. And she feels
as if she has lost something that she can't paint without-the legendary fifth treasure, beauty in the heart. Then she is
sent to live with her grandparents and must go to a new school. But Mieko is brave and eventually learns that time
and patience can help with many things, and may even help her find the fifth treasure.
Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes by Eleanor Coerr
1.
Hiroshima-born Sadako is lively and athletic--the star of her school's running team. And then the dizzy spells start.
Soon gravely ill with leukemia, the "atom bomb disease," Sadako faces her future with spirit and bravery. Recalling a
Japanese legend, Sadako sets to work folding paper cranes. For the legend holds that if a sick person folds one
thousand cranes, the gods will grant her wish and make her healthy again. Based on a true story, Sadako and the
Thousand Paper Cranes celebrates the extraordinary courage that made one young woman a heroine in Japan.
⌘ War Comes to Willy by Christopher Colllier
1987. A free thirteen-year-old black girl in Connecticut is caught up in the horror of the Revolutionary War and the
danger of being returned to slavery when her patriot father is killed by the British and her mother disappears.
⌘ Bud Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis
2002. Ten-year-old Bud, a motherless boy living in Flint, Michigan, during the Great Depression, escapes a bad foster
home and sets out in search of the man he believes to be his father--the renowned bandleader, H.E. Calloway of Grand
Rapids.
⌘ The Watson’s Go to Birmingham by Christopher Paul Curtis
1997. A wonderful middle-grade novel narrated by Kenny, 9, about his middle-class black family, the Weird Watsons of
Flint, Michigan. When Kenny's 13-year-old brother, Byron, gets to be too much trouble, they head South to Birmingham
to visit Grandma, the one person who can shape him up. And they happen to be in Birmingham when Grandma's church is
blown up.
⌘ Matilda Bone by Karen Cushman
2002. Fourteen-year-old Matilda, an apprentice bonesetter and practitioner of medicine in a village in medieval England,
tries to reconcile the various aspects of her life, both spiritual and practical.
⌘ Catherine Called Birdy by Karen Cushman
1995. The 14-year-old daughter of a rustic knight records the events of her days in the year 1290, writing perceptive,
scathing, and often raucously funny observations about her family, friends, and would-be suitors. A delightful, rebellious
heroine, determined not to marry the man of her father's choice.
⌘ The Door in the Wall by Marguerite DeAngeli
1989. When Robin, the son of a nobleman, falls and loses the use of his legs, he is abandoned and left alone. A monk
named Brother Luke rescues Robin and takes him to the hospice of St. Mark's, where he is taught woodcarving and--much
harder--patience and strength. Winner of the Lewis Carroll Shelf Award.
⌘ Bull Run by Paul Fleischman
1993. Through the alternating viewpoints of 16 characters from various walks of life, readers gain insight into the first
battle of the Civil War and into the nature of war in general. Poignant, dramatic cameos seamlessly woven together make
for compelling historical fiction.
⌘ Bandit’s Moon by Paul Fleischman
Twelve-year-old Annyrose relates her adventures with Joaquin Murieta and his band of outlaws in the California goldmining region during the mid-1800s.
⌘ Jenny of the Tetons by Christiana Gregory
1989. Orphaned by an Indian raid while traveling West with a wagon train, 15-year-old Carrie Hill is befriended by the
English trapper Beaver Dick and taken to live with his Indian wife Jenny and their children. This award-winning novel
will captivate readers as they learn about pioneer life in the 1870s.
⌘ Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse
1999. After facing loss after loss during the Oklahoma Dust Bowl, Billie Jo begins to reconstruct her life. A triumphant
story, eloquently told through prose-poetry.
The Legend of White Doe by William Hookes
1988. After the destruction of the English colony on Roanoke Island by hostile Indians forces the survivors to live with a
friendly tribe, Virginia Dare finds her first love coming to a tragic and supernatural end.
⌘ The Iron Dragon Never Sleeps by Stephen Krensky
1994. A simply written story about the contributions of Chinese immigrants to the building of the transcontinental
railroad. In 1867, Winnie Tucker and her mother arrive in Cisco, California, where hundreds of Chinese workers are
massed to dig the Summit Tunnel through the Sierra Nevada mountains. The two look forward to spending the summer
with Winnie's father, a mining engineer for the Central Pacific Railroad, who is helping to supervise the work.
⌘ Nim and the War Effort by Milly Lee
1997. A Chinese-American schoolgirl, Nim proves to all her classmates that she can be true to both her country and her
heritage when she collects the most papers for a war-effort paper drive during World War II.
⌘ Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
1998. The gripping story of a ten-year-old Danish girl and her family's courageous efforts to smuggle Jews out of their
Nazi-occupied homeland to safety in Sweden. Readers are taken to the very heart of Annemarie's experience, and, through
her eyes, come to understand the true meaning of bravery.
The Magician’s Apprentice by Tom McGowen
1994. A young pickpocket becomes apprenticed to a magician who opens a whole new world for the boy, not only of
magic and healing, but of kindness and adventure. Together they seek knowledge lost since the Age of Magic thousands of
years before.
⌘ Run Away Home by Pat McKissack
2001. In 1886 the last of the Apache Indians, led by Geronimo, were defeated in New Mexico and sent to reservations.
This is the compelling story of what happens when one of the boys escapes and is rescued by an African American family.
⌘ **Sarah, Plain and Tall by Patricia McLachlan
1985. When their father invites a mail-order bride to come live with them in their prairie home, Caleb and Anna are
captivated by their new mother and hope that she will stay
⌘ Mr. Tucket by Gary Paulsen
1994. Fourteen-year-old Francis Tucket is heading west on the Oregon Trail with his family by wagon train. When he
receives a rifle for his birthday, he is thrilled that he is being treated like an adult. But Francis lags behind to practice
shooting and is captured by Pawnees. It will take wild horses, hostile tribes, and a mysterious one-armed mountain man
named Mr. Grimes to help Francis become the man who will be called Mr. Tucket.
A Break with Charity: A Story of the Salem Witch Trials by Ann Rinaldi
1992. Susanna desperately wants to join the circle of girls who meet every week at the parsonage. What she doesn't
realize is that the girls are about to set off a torrent of false accusations leading to the imprisonment and execution of
countless innocent people. Susanna faces a painful choice. Should she keep quiet and let the witch-hunt panic continue, or
should she "break charity" with the group--and risk having her own family members named as witches?
⌘ Mississippi Bridge by Mildred Taylor
1992. During a heavy rainstorm in 1930s rural Mississippi, a ten-year-old white boy sees a bus driver order all the black
passengers off a crowded bus to make room for late-arriving white passengers and then set off across the raging Rosa Lee
River.
Biographies and Autobiographies
Louisa May Alcott: Her Childhood Diary by Louisa May Alcott
Laura’s Album: A Rememberance Scrapbook of Laura Ingalls Wilder by Willliam Anderson
⌘ Warriors Don’t Cry by Melba P. Beals
⌘ Abigail Adams: Witness to a Revolution by Natalie S. Bober
⌘ Through My Eyes by Ruby Bridges
Anastasia’s Album: The Lost Tsar’s Youngest Daughter Tells Her Story by Hugh Brewster
⌘ A Boy Called Slow: The True Story of Sitting Bull by Joseph Bruchac
⌘ Chocolate by Hershey: A Story About Milton S. Hershey by Betty Buford
⌘ Home Run: The Story of Babe Ruth by Robert Burleigh
A is for Abigail: An Almanac of Amazing Women by Lynne Cheney
Sedako by Eleanor Coeer
⌘ The Story of Ruby Bridges by Robert Coles
⌘ Eleanor by Barbara Cooney
⌘ On the Track with Jeff Gordon by Matt Christopher
⌘ Albert Einstein and the Theory of Relativity by Robert Cwiklik
⌘ Boy by Roald Dahl
⌘ Helen Keller by Margaret Davidson
⌘ Louis Braille: The Boy Who Invented Books for the Blind by Margaret Davidson
⌘ Meet Martin Luther King, Jr. by James De Kay
Colin Powell by Reggie Finlayson
The Abracadabra Kid: A Writer's Life by Sid Fleischman
Meet Thomas Jefferson by Pat Fogarty
⌘ Eleanor Roosevelt: A Life of Discovery by Russell Freedman
The Life and Death of Crazy Horse by Russell Freedman
The Amazing Life of Benjamin Franklin Charles Lindbergh: A Human Hero by James Giblin
⌘ My Life with the Chimpanzees by Jane Goodall
Frank O. Gehry: Outside In (Architect) by Jan and Sandra Jordan Greenberg
In Disguise: Stories of Real Women Spies by Ryan Ann Hunter
⌘ Small Steps: The Year I got Polio by Peg Kehret
Pablo Picasso: Breaking all the Rules by True Kelley
⌘ Harvesting Hope: The Story of Cesar Chevez by Kathleen Krull
⌘ Marie Antoinette: Princess of Versailles by Kathryn Lasky
⌘ Author: A True Story by Helen Lester
Beethoven Lives Upstairs by Barbara Nichol
Katherine Dunham: A Pioneer of Black Dance by Barbara O’Connor
Henry Matisse: Drawing with Scissors by Jane O’Connor
⌘ If Only I had a Horn: Young Louis Armstrong by Roxanne Orgill
⌘ My Life in Dog Years by Gary Paulsen
Within Reach: My Everest Story by Mark Pfetzer
Steven Spielberg by Tom Powers
⌘ Joan of Arc by Nancy Ross
Searching for Anne Frank by Susan Goldman Rubin
Satchmo’s Blues by Alan Schroeder
The Man Who Went to the Far Side of the Moon: The Story of Apollo 11 Astronaut Michael Collins by Bea by
Uulsing Schyffert
⌘ Knots in my Yo-Yo String by Jerry Spinelli
⌘ We Rode the Orphan Train by Andrea Warren
Children’s Books about Learning Differences
General Learning Differences
A Walk in the Rain with a Brain, by Edward Hallowell
The Survival Guide for Kids with LD*: *(Learning Differences), by Gary Fisher Ph.D. and Rhoda Cummings
The Don't-Give-Up Kid: and Learning Disabilities (The Coping Series), by Jeanne Gehret and Michael LaDuca
All Kinds of Minds: A Young Student’s Book about Learning Abilities and Learning Disorders, by Mel Levine
ADHD
Cory Stories: A Kid’s Book About Living with ADHD, by
Jeanne Krauss and Whitney Martin
Eukee the Jumpy Jumpy Elephant
Clifford Corman and Esther Trevino
Otto Learns About His Medicine (ages 4-8), by Matthew Galvin
Learning To Slow Down and Pay Attention: A Book For Kids About ADHD (ages 9-12), by Kathleen Nadeau,
Ellen Dixon, & Charles Beyl
Putting on the Brakes: Young People’s Guide to Understanding Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, by
Patricia O. Quinn and Judith M. Stern
Shelley, the Hyperactive Turtle, by
Deborah M. Moss
Sparky’s Excellent Misadventures: My A.D.D. Journal, by
Phyllis Carpenter
The Girls’ Guide to AD/HD: Don’t Lose This Book!, by Beth Walker
The Survival Guide for Kids with ADD or ADHD, by
John F. Taylor
The Adventures of Phoebe Flower: Stories of a Girl with ADHD, by Barbara Roberts
Understanding My Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (for ages 4-7), by Kara Tamanini
Dyslexia
My Name Is Brain Brian (grades 4-6), by Jeanne Betancourt
The Alphabet War: A Story about Dyslexia, by Diane Burton Robb and Gail Piazza
It's Called Dyslexia (Live and Learn Series), by Jennifer Moore-Mallinos and Nuria Roca
The Upside-Down Kids: Helping Dyslexic Children Understand Themselves and Their Disorder (grades 3-8), by
Harold Levinson & Addie Sanders
Thank You, Mr. Falker, by Patricia Polacco
I Have Dyslexia. What Does That Mean?, by Shelley Ball-Dannenberg
Social Skills
Have You Filled a Bucket Today: A Guide to Daily Happiness for Kids, by Carol McCloud
How to Be a Friend: A Guide to Making Friends and Keeping Them (Dino Life Guides for Families), by Laurie
Krasny Brown
Personal Space Camp, by Julia Cook
Howard B. Wigglebottom Learns to Listen, by Howard Binkow
Dude, That's Rude!: Get Some Manners (Laugh And Learn Series, ages 9-12), by Pamela Espeland & Elizabeth
Verdick
Making Choices and Making Friends: The Social Competencies Assets (Adding Assets Series, ages 9-12), by
Pamela Espeland & Elizabeth Verdick
Join In and Play (Learning To Get Along Series, ages 4-8), by Cheri J. Meiners
Share and Take Turns (Learning To Get Along Series, ages 4-8), by Cheri J. Meiners
Talk and Work it Out (Learning To Get Along Series, ages 4-8), by Cheri J. Meiners
Simon's Hook; A Story About Teases and Put-downs, by Karen Gedig Burnett
Nobody Knew What to Do: A Story about Bullying, by Becky Ray McCain
Trouble Talk (grades 2-4), by Trudy Ludwig
Series
Learning to Get Along Series (ages 4-8), by Cheri J. Meiners
Adding Assets Series (ages 9-12), by Pamela Espeland & Elizabeth Verdick
Laugh And Learn Series (age 9-12), by Pamela Espeland & Elizabeth Verdick
Out of This World Comic Book Guidance, by Jon Filitti and Eric Erbes