Love to Read: Kindergarten-3rd book list
Kaitlyn Hickman
Julie Bryant
LLSS 443.005- Children’s Literature
30 April, 2013
Table of Contents
Picture Books…………………………………… 1
Story Books……………………………………... 3
Non-Fiction……………………………………… 10
Realistic Fiction…………………………………. 16
Fantasy…………………………………………... 19
Folktales and Myths…………………………….. 22
Poetry……………………………………………. 29
Series…………………………………………….. 31
Picture Books
Title: Chicka Chicka Boom Boom
Genre: Alphabet Picture Book
Author: Bill Martin Jr./John Archambault
Level: Kindergarten
Illustrator: Louis Ehlert
Number of Pages: 30
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: September 1991
Summary: Chicka Chicka Boom Boom! Will there be enough room? An alphabet race to the top
of a coconut tree!
Literary Critique: In this wonderful book of simple rhymes and non-sense words, the author
uses a coconut tree to help kids learn their ABC’s.
Activity: Before reading- see how many students can recite the alphabet. After reading- Have
students create their own alphabet book. For each letter the student will draw a picture that
matches with the letter. (Ex. “A” apple, “B” balloon).
Title: Mirror
Genre: Picture Book, Fiction
Author: Jeannie Baker
Level: 2nd
Illustrator: Jeannie Baker
Number of Pages: 34
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Pub. Date: 2010
Summary: Two cultures, two different stories. A picture book about two boys, two families and
two totally different lifestyles. Following one boy living in Australia and the other in Morocco,
North Africa, it depicts a day of going shopping. A wonderful book which show how two
cultures looking and being completely different can and will have similarities to connect each
other no matter where they live.
Critique: A unique book, in which is completely wordless, shows how two cultures looking
totally different and being different can and will have similarities to connect to each other no
matter where they live. A great book that allows students to see and interpret everyday life in
other cultures and how they can relate it to their own life and culture. Without words, there are
many ideas, understandings, concepts and meaning in which the author was able to portray just
through her artwork. A true picture book.
Activity: Before reading- Have students present their own story through oral tradition.
Throughout reading- Explain or ask students what each picture is portraying. After readingHave students make their own picture book of their day, from day to night.
Title: Animalia
Genre: Picture Book
Author: Graeme Base
Level: 1st + Up
Illustrator: Graeme Base
Number of Pages: 31
Publisher: Harry A. Abrams
Pub. Date: 1986
Summary: What will you find between these pages? Look through and see Lazy Lions
Lounging in the Local Library or Crafty Crimson Cats Carefully Catching Crusty Crawfish. A
wonderful ABC book.
Critique: A splendid alphabet book where each letter focusses on a specific animal and has
alliteration with each word associated with that animal. It is very interactive and does a great job
of making more difficult words easier to understand because of the wonderful illustrations to go
along with each passage.
Activity: Give each student a letter in the alphabet. Have them create an animal mask that starts
with the letter given to them. Have them write a sentence about the animals, each word starting
with their letter, just as the book.
Story Books
Title: A Bad Case of Stripes
Genre: Story Book, Fiction
Author: David Shannon
Level: 2nd
Illustrator: David Shannon
Number of Pages: 30
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1998
Summary: Camille Cream loved lima beans although she would not let anyone know. Always
caring what others thought of her, she set out to impress everyone on the first day of school. But
Camille did not end up going to school for she had developed a bad case of stripes. Doctors,
nutritionists, allergists and even a veterinarian came to give poor Camille a cure but nothing
worked. Along an old woman, though, in which she had the most unusual remedy.
Critique: “The Bad Case of Stripes” is a story that could engage any child with its vibrant
illustrations. Although at the same time these illustrations could disengage any child too. The
writing is well written and has a good message behind it.
Activity: Read on the first week of school. Before reading- Ask students to keep these questions
in their mind while reading the story: Why do we worry what others think about us? Should we
be afraid to be ourselves? After reading- Based on the book, create classroom rules. How are we
to treat each other in the classroom and outside the classroom? Also have them draw their own
self with a bad case of stripes. Display the drawings outside of the classroom with title of “We
Respect Our Differences”
Title: Blueberries For Sal
Genre: Story book, Fiction
Author: Robert McCloskey
Level: 1st
Illustrator: Robert McCloskey
Number of Pages: 52
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1948
Summary: On top of Blueberry Hill were Little Sal and her mother picking blueberries to can
for winter. Also on top Blueberry Hill were Little Bear and his mother eating blueberries to store
for the long, cold winter. Both Little Sal and Little Bear wondered off from their mothers and
soon lost sight of them. Little Sal started looking for her mother while Little Bear started looking
for his. A delightful story about a little girl, and little bear and lots and lots of blueberries.
Critique: A gentle and beautiful told story and wonderfully complemented by the illustrations.
A very old story that portrays the simple pleasure of being outside experiencing nature.
Activity: Before reading- Ask students what kind of animal eats blueberries? Show a short film
on bears. After reading- Make blueberry pancakes. Go up to the mountains. Explain to the
students what to do if they encounter a bear. Talk about nature and blueberries.
Title: The Grouchy Ladybug
Genre: Story book, Fiction
Author: Eric Carle
Level: 1st
Illustrator: Eric Carle
Number of Pages: 40
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1977
Summary: “Hey you,” said the grouchy ladybug. “Want to fight?” “If you insist,” said the
yellow jacket, beetle, praying mantis, sparrow, lobster, skunk, snake, hyena, gorilla, rhinoceros,
elephant and whale. A very grouchy ladybug decides to show how tough and intimidating he
can be. Although to his surprise he may find it otherwise to be true.
Critique: A wonderful illustrated and multilayered story. The illustrations of Eric Carle are
vibrant yet not too overpowering where it keeps your eyes glued to the page. The multilayered
story teaches children about time, bullying, and even comparing sizes. A certain read again and
again book.
Activity: Before reading- Show a picture of a ladybug. Ask them if they think ladybugs are nice
or mean. After reading- Lesson on time, make a clock. Lesson on comparing sizes, measurement.
Lesson on bulling, ways to prevent and ways to stop bullying.
Title: Snow Dance
Genre: Story book, Realistic Fiction
Author: Lezlie Evans
Level: Kindergarten
Illustrator: Cynthia Jabar
Number of Pages: 28
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1997
Summary: Whirling, twirling, snowflakes swirling….oh how great it is to dance for snow. Two
young girls make a snow dance to have a fun filled day playing outside in the snow. Making
snow angles and having snowball fights. Nothing is greater than having fun playing in the snow
during winter.
Critique: A fun and entertaining book for young children that will get them very excited about
winter and the snow. A rhyming book that is very lyrical making it a very engaging read.
Activity: Before reading- What is winter? When is winter? What happens during winter? Who
likes winter? Why? After reading- How many like playing in the snow? Does anyone know how
snow is made? Explain the seasons, focus on winter. Maybe show a quick video about
snowflakes. As an art activity either make paper snowflakes or paint snowmen.
Title: Swimmy
Genre: Story book, Fiction
Author: Leo Lionni
Level: Kindergarten
Illustrator: Leo Lionni
Number of Pages: 28
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1963
Summary: Swimmy was the fastest and only black fish among his brothers and sisters. They
were all very happy until one day a big fish came and swallowed up everyone except Swimmy.
He was very sad and lonely swimming into the deep dark sea. Realizing that the sea was full of
marvels Swimmy became happy again and soon met another school of fish just like his own.
With his help Swimmy and this school of fish were able to chase all the big fish away.
Critique: A nice short text that allows the reader to experience the world of the sea with
wonderful sponge watercolor paintings. Although it is a sweet and short text it has two
wonderful lessons behind the story: it is okay to be different and embrace being unique and when
people work collaboratively with one another you can accomplish any big task ahead of you.
Activity: Ask students if they have ever been to the aquarium. Show a short video on sea life.
After reading- Describe what a school of fish is. Make a science experiment on pet sea monkeys.
Ask students how Swimmy overcame his difference. What does working together do? Is it
helpful? Do own sponge watercolor lesson. Have students create their own underwater sea
picture.
Title: No Jumping on the Bed!
Genre: Story book, Fiction
Author: Tedd Arnold
Level: 1st
Illustrator: Tedd Arnold
Number of Pages: 27
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1987
Summary: “If I’ve told you once I’ve told you a million times, no jumping on the bed!” But
Walter cannot help but to ignore his father’s advice. One more jump can do no harm, can it? The
floor cracks, the mattress creaks and soon enough Walter is falling through the floor to the rooms
below encountering his friends and neighbors of the apartment.
Critique: A fun and enjoyable read to children, especially if they love to jump on beds. A fun
twist at the end that will keep kids engaged through the whole. The book has wonderful usage of
repetition both in the text and illustrations.
Activity: Before reading- Ask the children if their parents ever told them not to jump on the bed.
Start reading the story and say let’s see what happens when Walter jumps on his bed. After
reading- What happens to Walter when he jumps on his bed? Can anyone recall how many floors
he fell? Can anyone tell me all the people he met while falling?
Title: Somebody and the Three Blairs
Genre: Story book, Fiction
Author: Marilyn Tolhurst
Level: Kindergarten + Up
Illustrator: Simone Abel
Number of Pages: 24
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1990
Summary: One day the three Blairs decided to go to the park. They got on their coats and
headed out the door. Soon after a Somebody came walking through their front door and roamed
through the house. When the Blairs arrived home they noticed not everything was the same as
they left it and found a Somebody they did not expect in their home.
Critique: An entertaining reversal of the story of Goldilocks. The orientation of the book is
portrait. All the pages are plain white except for the color of the images, making specific images
stand out. The text placement is found in different places throughout the page, making the text
stand out as well. A topsy-turvy version of an old fairytale that will delight many young readers.
Activity: Have the students write a police report on the happened incident. For example on the
police report ask, “Who was involved? What happened? Where/when did the incident occur?”
etc.
Title: Little Cloud
Genre: Story book, Realistic fiction
Author: Eric Carle
Level: Kindergarten-1st
Illustrator: Eric Carle
Number of Pages: 24
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1996
Summary: Clouds slowly drift across the sky, except for one—Little Cloud. Little Cloud is busy
exploring the world, changing into shapes he sees. Such as a sheep, an airplane or even a clown.
Critique: A very simple yet great book to introduce children to clouds. Eric Carle's trademark
collages will make every reader want to run outside and discover their very own little cloud.
Activity: Before reading- Take students on a nature walk putting emphasize on the clouds. What
types of shapes do you see in the sky? Are the clouds big, small, fluffy, wispy? After reading- If
you were a cloud what kind of shape would you want to be? Have students paint their cloud and
shape. Afterwards have them write a sentence or just a word about the cloud.
Title: Spaghetti in a Hot Dog Bun
Genre: Story Book
Author: Maria Dismondy
Level: 1st + Up
Illustrator: Kim Show
Number of Pages: 28
Publisher: Fern Press
Pub. Date: 2008
Summary: Lucy, a young girl, is one of a kind who likes to be different from others. However,
another boy, Ralph, thinks otherwise and bullies Lucy. He comments on her hair to even the
things she eats. When Ralph truly needs help, Lucy stands up for who she is and has the courage
to make a good/right choice. This is a charming book about having the courage to be who you
are.
Critique: Spaghetti in a Hot Dog Bun is a heartwarming and inspirational book. It embraces the
message that is okay to be who you are and don’t be afraid what others may think. A great lesson
for children of any age. The illustrations are beautiful and really portray the emotions of young
Lucy. A wonderful book that shows what friendship really is and how to embrace who you are.
Activity: Before reading- Describe a time when someone treated you unfairly. Do you think you
should help someone who has not been nice to you? Explain what you know about solving
problems with friends/classmates at school. After reading- Describe the characters (compare
Lucy and Ralph in a Venn diagram). If Ralph were to write a letter to Lucy at the end of the story
what do you think it would say? Play some teamwork games.
Title: The Potato Chip Champ
Genre: Story Book
Author: Maria Dismondy
Level: 1st + Up
Illustrator: Dawn Beacon
Number of Pages: 32
Publisher: Making Spirits Bright: One Book at a Time
Pub. Date: 2012
Summary: Champ is a boy who has many material possessions but always wants more and
never really seems to have enough, something is missing. Walter is a boy who has little money
but achieves many things and has many friends. Champ and Walter are completely different with
Champ absolutely resenting Walter. Could baseball and a potato chip fundraiser bring these
together? Discover why kindness counts.
Critique: The Potato Chip Champ is an absolutely wonderful book that delivers many
powerful/meaningful messages. Important issues, such as class, jealously, friendship, kindness,
can be brought up through this book. The illustrations are very engaging that brings the story to
reality.
Activity: Before reading- What is jealously? What do you get jealous about? Explain that this
book will talk about jealously. Encourage them to listen and find out what the jealously is all
about in The Potato Chip Champ. After reading- Story mapping (Problem, resolution, characters,
author’s message, major events, etc.) Potato chip comprehension chips.
Title: Sun and Moon
Genre: Story book, friendship
Author: Marcus Pfister
Level: Kindergarten + Up
Illustrator: Marcus Pfister
Number of Pages: 24
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1990
Summary: As the sun and moon long for friendship they can’t see to find a way to meet. It
seems as if they would be perfect friends but how would they ever cross each other? However on
one cloudy day the impossible may happen with dramatic results!
Critique: Sun and Moon is a wonderful book about friendship, weather and eclipses. Pfister
shows the beauty and wonder of nature and weather through illustrations using vivid colors, bold
shapes of the sun and moon and bold patterns through the earth and sky.
Activity: Before reading- Discuss and talk about the sun and moon. What are their relations to
each other? After reading- Place water and tea bags in a jar with a tight lid and set it in the sun
for three or four hours. Celebrate the sun’s energy by serving the tea. You may want to add sugar
or lemon wedges. Many stories, myths and legends relate the origin of the sun or the role the sun
plays in our world. Read and discuss several of these with the children, pointing out the
difference between fact and fiction.
Title: Stellaluna
Genre: Story Book
Author: Janell Cannon
Level: 1st + Up
Illustrator: Janell Cannon
Number of Pages: 44
Publisher: Harcourt Inc.
Pub. Date: 1993
Summary: Stellaluna, a young bat, loses her mother and ends growing up with a family of birds.
From the very beginning she notices how different she is from her new family. They do weird
things such as eats worms, sleeps right-side up and even sleeps at night. Will Stellaluna ever find
her true family again? Or will she embrace her new family?
Critique: Stellaluna is a wonderful children’s book that does a wonderful job of educating its
readers on bats and birds and the difference between the two. This book also has a great message
on why we shouldn’t judge people based on appearance and treat them differently for it.
Activity: Before reading- Talk about bats. See what your students know about them. After
reading- Show a video on Carlsbad Caverns, explain that bats live there. Bat art activity.
Title: The Giving Tree
Genre: Story Book
Author: Shel Silverstein
Level: Kindergarten + Up
Illustrator: Shel Silverstein
Number of Pages: 52
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Pub. Date: 1964
Summary: A boy, a tree and the life between the two. “Once there was a tree and she loved a
little boy.” She was happy and he was happy. A moving story about giving and receiving.
Critique: Touched with sadness, glowing with comfort The Giving Tree narrates the meaning of
love and sacrifice. Although criticized for being detrimental and unmoral, The Giving Tree is a
story that every child could learn from.
Activity: Before reading- Talk about giving a receiving gifts. When giving a gift is it wrapped in
love. You care about the people you give gifts to. After reading: Discuss the theme and ask
students for their definition of a gift. In the story, the gift is not a material gift, but one that is
from the heart. Brainstorm a list of gifts that don’t cost money. Some of the gifts that might come
up are laughter, respect, and perseverance. Give each student an apple and have them write a gift
on it. Display the tree on a wall or bulletin board. Place the apples on the tree. Discuss the
relevance of giving each other these gifts and what the act of giving will do for them: it
will not only make them better students; it will also make them better people.
Non Fiction
Title: The Story of Ruby Bridges
Genre: Non Fiction
Author: Robert Coles
Level: 1st
Illustrator: George Ford
Number of Pages: 25
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1995
Summary: In 1960, Ruby Bridges, a six-year-old African American, is the first to attend the
elementary school, William Frantz. On her first day of school she encounters an angry mob, who
calls her names and say ugly things. A true story of a brave young girl who receives an education
going to an all-white elementary school.
Critique: Based off of a true story and historical movement, the author uses historical facts and
narrative to make the story of Ruby Bridges compelling and inspirational. He describes a brave
six-year-old girl who shows forgiveness and compassion to those who dislike her.
Activity: Before reading- Ask the students if they have ever felt left out or if they ever felt out of
place and lonely. After reading- Talk about Ruby Bridges and how she might have felt. Talk
about discrimination. Bring up a short history lesson on civil rights and the history of African
Americans of the United States.
Title: September 12th: We Knew Everything Would Be All Right Genre: Non-fiction
Author: 1st grade students of H. Byron Masterson Elementary
Level: Kindergarten + Up
Illustrator: 1st grade students of H. Byron Masterson Elementary Number of Pages: 25
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 2002
Summary: A book put together by a class of 1st grade students discussing the day of 9/11.
Everything was going to be all right, even though at the time it might not have seemed like it.
Critique: A very heart touched story written by students as well as the illustrations done by
students. A great book to read to your students to show them that even through tragedy
everything will end up all right.
Activity: (Only read this book after a tragic event) Have students create their own poster board
on how they know everything is going to be alright.
Title: The Moon Book
Genre: Non-fiction, picture book
Author: Gail Gibbons
Level: 1st-2nd
Illustrator: Gail Gibbons
Number of Pages: 30
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1997
Summary: Everything you need to know about the moon. Identifies the moon as a natural
satellite, describes its movements and phases, and discusses how we’ve explored and observed it
over the years. What not to love?
Critique: The Moon Book is a wonderful informational book for young children that introduce
them to the moon. It is very visual stimulating with colorful pictures against a dark night sky.
The text is very engaging filled with wonderful information that will stir the imaginations of
young children. Makes children eager to learn about the mysteries of the moon.
Activity: Before reading- Show pictures of the moon. Ask them what it is. When does it appear?
Etc. After reading- Find a short video that gives information about the moon, such as the Magic
Tree House video. If possible have a Star Night Gaze. As a class go over what they learned by
reading the book, make a worksheet of all the moon phases.
Title: Wild, Wild World: Dinosaurs and other Prehistoric Reptiles Genre: Non-fiction, Inform.
Author: Denny Robson
Level: 2nd + Up
Illustrator: James Field
Number of Pages: 32
Publisher: Parragon Publishing
Pub. Date: 2001
Summary: A fascinating question and answer book that gives wonderful facts/information about
the biggest, hungriest and most dangerous creatures known to the world, the Dinosaurs. Why did
the dinosaurs disappear? Which were the biggest? Whose teeth were as long as knives? Find out
in this wonderful dinosaur book.
Critique: Wild, Wild World: Dinosaurs and other Prehistoric Reptiles is a wonderful and fun
informational book that will engage many young readers from the beginning to end. Using clear
text and basic information the reader will not be overloaded. The detailed illustrations will only
engage the reader more, seeing what life looked like millions and millions of years ago.
Activity: Before reading- Show a video clip on dinosaurs. Show them a few pictures and ask
them questions pertaining to that dinosaur. Was this dinosaur a herbivore or a carnivore? etc.
During reading see if they can answer some of the questions before reading the answer. After
reading- Do fun worksheets. Take them to the Natural History Museum. Make own dinosaur
footprint. Do a fossil hunt throughout the school.
Title: Wild, Wild World: Snakes and other Reptiles
Genre: Non-fiction, Informational
Author: Anita Ganeri
Level: 2nd + Up
Illustrator: James Field
Number of Pages: 32
Publisher: Parragon Publishing
Pub. Date: 2001
Summary: A fascinating question and answer book that gives wonderful facts/information about
serpents, lizards, turtles and crocodiles. Which is the biggest reptile? Which snake has the
longest fangs? Which reptile uses its tongue as a catapult? Find out in this wonderful reptile book
that any young boy will want to read.
Critique: Wild, Wild World: Snakes and other Reptiles is a wonderful and fun informational
book that will engage many young readers from the beginning to end. Using clear text and basic
information the reader will not be overloaded. The detailed illustrations will only engage the
reader more, seeing the life of reptiles through their eyes.
Activity: Before reading- Show pictures of animals. Ask them which ones are considered
reptiles. List the characteristics, on a promethean board, of what makes them reptiles. After
reading- Snake art activity. Make a snake using penne pasta, card stock, pipe cleaners and paint.
Afterwards have them write a story about their snake using informational facts.
Title: Abe Lincoln Goes To Washington (1837-1865)
Genre: Non-Fiction, Story book
Author: Cheryl Harness
Level: 3rd + Up
Illustrator: Cheryl Harness
Number of Pages: 44
Publisher: National Geographic Society
Pub. Date: 1997
Summary: A wonderful told story of Abe Lincoln’s life focusing on the events leading up to and
during his presidency. Abe Lincoln Goes to Washington tells of Abe’s family, business and
political life, also giving details about the Civil War.
Critique: This narrative does a wonderful job capturing the mood/emotions of the president
during his time in office. Bright and colorful illustrations including maps, battle scenes, big
moments in Lincoln's life, his family and contemporaries allows the reader to become fully
involved with the text.
Activity: Before reading- Begin with a Civil War unit. Discuss who was president during the
time of the Civil War. After reading- Hold own class election. Discuss politics and elections and
explain what they are.
Title: Journey to the Center of the Earth
Genre: Non-fiction, Informational
Author: Nicholas Harris
Level: 3rd + Up
Illustrator: Gary Hincks
Number of Pages: 25
Publisher: Orpheus Books Ltd
Pub. Date: 1999
Summary: Take a trip of a 4,000 mile long experience to the center of the earth. Tunnel down
through this book to learn about the surface, crust, upper mantel, lower mantel and the core of
our earth. A journey through the different layers of the earth.
Critique: Using die-cut windows Journey to the Center of the Earth is a very educational book
for young readers introducing them to geology. The information isn’t too pact and the
vocabulary is fairly simple. The die-cut windows allows for the reader as they travel deeper and
deeper, to look back and see where they have been.
Activity: Before reading: Show pictures of the earth. Ask them what the earth is made up of.
What would you find if you traveled through the Center of the Earth? After reading: Engaged the
students more by visiting a website that allows them to explore and learn about the earth with
hands-on computer interaction.
Title: The Incredible Journey through the World of the Dinosaurs Genre: Non-fiction, Inform.
Author: Nicholas Harris
Level: 3rd + Up
Illustrator: Inklink Firenze
Number of Pages: 25
Publisher: Orpheus Books Ltd
Pub. Date: 2001
Summary: Travel back in time and experience what life looked like through the ages of
dinosaurs! Each page is filled with dinosaurs during a specific age in time and each page tells
you the life and habitat during the specific time of age. Leap into the world of dinosaurs!
Critique: Using die-cut windows The Incredible Journey through the World of Dinosaurs is a
very educational book for young readers introducing them to the prehistoric age. The information
isn’t too pact and the vocabulary is fairly simple. The die-cut windows allows for the reader to
travel deeper and deeper into age of time and to look back and see where they have been.
Activity: Before reading- Show a video clip on dinosaurs. Show them a few pictures and ask
them questions pertaining to that dinosaur. Was this dinosaur a herbivore or a carnivore? etc.
After reading- Do fun worksheets. Take them to the Natural History Museum. Make own
dinosaur footprint. Do a fossil hunt throughout the school. Go through each prehistoric age of
time and list some dinosaurs that lived during that time.
Title: Whales and Dolphins
Genre: Non-fiction, Informational
Author: Susanna Davidson
Level: 2nd + Up
Illustrator: John Woodcock
Number of Pages: 42
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 2003
Summary: Whales and dolphins, two beautiful and well-loved underwater creatures.
Throughout this book read about all kinds of whales and dolphins, including how they breathe,
swim, hunt and eat. Discover how dolphins can find their way around in dark water, how deep
whales can dive and how fast they can swim.
Critique: A fascinating and wonderful informational book that is filled with interesting and fun
filled facts. Amazing underwater photography gives close-up views of these incredible creatures
while lively illustrations provide an insight into their habits. An internet-linked book that allows
for the reader to delve deeper into these animals.
Activity: Before reading- Have a unit on underwater sea creature. One day focus on dolphins
and whales. Discuss how these two creatures differ from other fish in the ocean. List
characteristics of each animal using pictures. After reading- If possible take students to the
aquarium. As a class visit the website to learn more about these amazing animals.
Title: Ballet for Martha
Genre: Non-fiction
Author: Jan Greenberg and Sandra Jordan
Level: 1st + Up
Illustrator: Brian Floca
Number of Pages: 40
Publisher: Flash Point
Pub. Date: 2010
Summary: Together Martha Graham, Aaron Copland and Isamu Noguchi created an American
masterpiece: Appalachian Spring. This is a true story of a trailblazing choreographer, a
distinguished American composer and an artist, sculptor, craftsman. Through months of
planning, rehearsing and preparation on October 30, 1944 a ballet performance was performed
that is now a beautiful and acclaimed classic.
Critique: Ballet for Martha is much more than just about a dancer. It is a wonderful book that
promotes creativity and collaboration. Accurate information, vivid illustrations make this an allaround lovely book.
Activity: Before reading- Talk about the title and the front cover of the book. Have you ever
heard the word “ballet?” Talk about its meaning. Do you know anyone who dances ballet? After
reading- Listen to a clip of the music or watch a portion of the dance. Was it what you were
expecting? Talk together about collaboration and cooperation. What ways did these people
cooperate to make this artwork? What can be hard about working together? What can be good
about working together?
Realistic Fiction
Title: The Very Hungry Caterpillar
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Author: Eric Carle
Level: Kindergarten
Illustrator: Eric Carle
Number of Pages: 15
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1969
Summary: One Sunday Morning a very hungry caterpillar popped out of its egg and started to
look for some food. Throughout the week this little caterpillar eats and eats until he isn’t hungry
or so little any more. He builds himself a small house until he needs it no more. A simple, yet
brightly illustrated story of a very hungry caterpillar.
Critique: Using his unique artistic style, Eric Carle, tells a simple story about a very hungry
caterpillar that teaches young children how to count, learn the days of the week and the stages of
a butterfly. A modest but educational book for young readers.
Activity: Before reading- Talk about caterpillars and butterflies. After reading- Show a video on
butterflies. Create an environment where butterflies can live. Show them real live caterpillars and
butterflies. Do an art activity where they draw their own caterpillar turning into a butterfly.
Title: Verdi
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Author: Janell Cannon
Level: Kindergarten
Illustrator: Janell Cannon
Number of Pages: 40
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1997
Summary: Verdi, a young python, was in no rush to grow up. Being bright yellow and having
bold stripes he was perfectly happy the he was. Verdi tried everything he knew from growing up
and turning green. A wonderful adventure of a snake that is not afraid to be who he is on the
inside and out.
Critique: The wonderful illustrations make the amazon come to life. A simple yet touching story
that can brighten any child’s feelings by expressing an important message: don’t be afraid to be
yourself, express your personality!
Activity: Before reading- show a video on amazon snakes. After reading- Ask the students what
they learned about snakes from the book. Ask the students what they learned about snakes from
the video. Have them create their own story about a snake.
Title: Because of Winn-Dixie
Genre: Chapter Book, Fiction
Author: Kate DiCamillo
Level: 3rd
Illustrator: -----------
Number of Pages: 182
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 2000
Summary: One day in Naomi, Florida, ten-year old Opal comes home with a stray dog she
names Winn Dixie. Instantly they become best friends and through their friendship, Opal is able
to start friendships of her own in the small town of Naomi. Eventually creating a welcoming
community where everybody has a story to tell. A warming story that teaches the importance of
friendship, not judging of other and how to accept people for who they are.
Critique: An inspiration and moving novel of a young girl who learns all about friendship. A
simple yet emotionally deep story that enriches the importance of community showing the
sweetness, sorrow and hope there is in life.
Activity: Before reading- Ask the students if they have any pets? Ask them if they consider their
pet as a friend. Ask students to explain their relationship they have with their pet. After readingShow the movie Winn-Dixie. Have them write the differences from the book and the movie.
Title: The Gardener
Genre: Picture Book, Fiction
Author: Sarah Stewart
Level: 1st
Illustrator: David Small
Number of Pages: 30
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1997
Summary: Lydia Grace Finch moves in with her Uncle Jim, a baker, until her papa can find a
job and things get better at home. Immersed in the new city life Lydia learns how to bake,
helping her Uncle Jim. Although Uncle Jim, never smiles, Lydia uses her love of gardening to
make him smile, while making the city come to life.
Critique: A beautifully told story and illustrations that evoke the Depression era setting. Letters
written to home do a wonderful job explaining the hard times during this age of time. It
captivates the reader into the life of a young girl that uses her talents to lift up everyone’s spirit.
Activity: Before reading: Ask students if they have ever written a letter to someone? What did
they write, who did they write it to? Explain how writing letters used to be the only way people
could communicate long distances before technology was invented. After reading- Have students
write their own letter to a family member or friend and then mail it to them. Start a school
garden. Teach a lesson on science about plants and gardening.
Title: Bink and Gollie
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Author: Kate DiCamillo & Alison McGhee
Level: 1st and up
Illustrator: Tony Fucile
Number of Pages: 81
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Pub. Date: 2010
Summary: Bink and Gollie are two best friends. They do everything together but can't always
agree (except for putting on roller skates, they always agree to that.) When it comes to wearing
socks, venturing to the Andes Mountains or buying a goldfish a compromise is required. For
Bink and Gollie, even though they might not see eye to eye, these two girls will always be the
best of friends.
Critique: This book was a wonderful read. It was comical, artistic and would be a great way to
introduce students to beginner chapter books. It also is a great story on friendship and how
friends can work out disagreements. The story itself is good but the illustrations are what brings
it to life. Without the pictures, half of the story would be missing. The book could be considered
a graphic novel, where it is read like a comic book.
Activity: Before reading- Have students fill out the Marvelous Companion worksheet. After
reading- Science activity, make “gray matter” (outrageous ooze). Explain what gray matter is.
Title: Clementine
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Author: Sara Pennypacker
Level: 3rd + Up
Illustrator: Marla Frazee
Number of Pages: 136
Publisher: Hyperion Books for Children
Pub. Date: 2006
Summary: Clementine seems to be having a horrible week. Sent to the principles, parents being
disappointed and friends no longer talking to you are just some of Clementine’s problems. "Pay
attention!" Clementine is always hearing those two words, but what no one seems to understand is
that she is paying attention; just maybe not the things others want her to pay attention too.
Clementine is a fun and entertaining book that will leave everyone laughing.
Critique: Clementine is wonderful fun read that is great for younger students. It is bright,
impulsive, charming, and emotional at a level where many children can connect to. The plot
keeps the readers interested and waiting to see what else the character is going to get into. Overall a
very cute and easy read.
Activity: Before reading- How many of you have had a bad day? What made it a bad day? How
did you deal with your bad day? After reading- When you are angry, sometimes it helps to write
down exactly how you are feeling. Pretend you are Clementine or Margaret. Write a letter from
one girl to the other, explaining and describing why you are mad.
Fantasy
Title: The Night Fairy
Genre: Fantasy
Author: Laura Amy Schlitz
Level: 3rd
Illustrator: Angela Barrett
Number of Pages: 117
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Pub. Date: 2010
Summary: Flory, a young night fairy, lost her wings and the ability to fly due to the fact that a
bat mistook her for a moth. What happens to a fairy that no longer has wings and can fly? Well
Flory discovers a world that is very big and very, very dangerous. She has to create a new
identity (becoming a day fairy) and do whatever it takes to survive, even if that means telling
others what to do.
Critique: Not a typical fairy story. It's a deceptively simple story, but one filled with conflict
and change for the protagonist. Flory must adapt and grow, both physically and
emotionally. Flory has to think beyond herself and solve complex problems without seeing a
definite plus side for herself. Young children must learn these same skills, which this book can
be used for the children to connect to the same emotions Flory feels.
Activity: Why did Flory, the night fairy, decide to be a day fairy? What are her challenges?
Why do you think Flory is willing to help Skuggle get food? What doe Flory seem to admire
about the hummingbird? Why do you think this? Discuss the growing relationship that develops
between Flory and Skuggle. How can you compare this to a friendship you developed? Flory
developed several good friends. Which friendships do you think will continue to grow? Why do
you think this?
Title: The Tale of Despereaux
Genre: Fantasy
Author: Kate DiCamillo
Level: 3rd and up
Illustrator: Timothy Basil Ering
Number of Pages: 269
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 2003
Summary: In the halls of a castle was the birth of a very small mouse, Despereaux. Born with
big ears and eyes wide open, this little mouse was no ordinary mouse. He loved music, stories,
and even a princess. Years before was the birth of a rat, Roscuro, in the deep, dark dungeon of
the castle. He ventured out of the dungeon, into the light and become to love it until he fell into a
bowl of soup and killed the queen. And even years before that was the birth of a girl, Miggery
Sow, who was sold by her father and eventually ended up being a kitchen girl in the castle. No
one ever cared or even bothered to ask what she ever wanted but always had the hope of
becoming a princess. By fate, these three characters embark on a journey that leads them into
each other’s lives, a glittering castle and a horrible dungeon.
Critique: The Tale of Despereaux is a tale full of adventure, bravery, and stamina. The
romanticized and descriptive novel is a story full of lessons on courage, honor, humility,
individualism, good heartedness, empathy, and self-esteem. A very engaging story that captures
the reader in a fairy tale adventure with wonderful illustrations promoting imagination. Although
this is a very fun book there were some dark scenes that could be controversial to whether it
should be read in the classroom.
Activity: Before reading- Is it easy to be brave? What makes a story a fairy tale? Do stories have
power over their readers/listeners? After reading- What do the character’s names give away
about the characters? Do the characters always act as they are expected to? Why? Is it brave or
foolish to disobey rules like Despereaux does in the story? Show the movie the Tale of
Despereaux. How is the book and movie the same and different from each other?
Title: Sylvester and the Magic Pebble
Genre: Fantasy
Author: William Steig
Level: 2nd
Illustrator: William Steig
Number of Pages: 30
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1969
Summary: Sylvester Duncan had a hobby of collecting unusual shaped and colored pebbles.
One day he found a very extraordinary one which was flaming red, shiny and perfectly round.
Not knowing it was a magic pebble Sylvester wished for something he greatly regretted. This
unfortunate wish eventually makes Sylvester realize that all he ever needed was right in front of
him.
Critique: Sylvester and the Magic Pebble is an emotional book dealing with sadness, loneliness,
and happiness. A great way for children to experience emotion while reading. The pictures are
great adding a lot of detail to the story, although the text is okay, it is the pictures that bring the
story to life.
Activity: Before reading- Have you ever made a wish? Did it come true? After reading- If you
had a magic pebble what would you wish for? Talk about how each character felt and their
emotions; make a chart using a Promethium Board of each characters emotions.
Title: Where The Wild Thing Are
Genre: Fantasy
Author: Maurice Sendak
Level: Kindergarten + Up
Illustrator: Maurice Sendak
Number of Pages: 37
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1983
Summary: Max, a boy with a wild imagination is sent to his room, without supper, after
threatening to eat his mom. There in his room a forest grows where Max enters a ship and sails
across the ocean to where the wild things are. He is met with snarls, claws and eye-rolling but
soon becomes crowned as the most wild thing as all.
Critique: A very fun and imaginative book. The illustrations are very unique that really show
the wild imagination of the young boy Max. The text is very simple and without the illustrations
there would be hardly any book at all.
Activity: Before reading- Do you have dreams? What are your dreams like? After reading- Did
Max experience a dream? Was the place of where the wild things are a real place? Have students
paint and write about a dream of their own.
Title: Jamanji
Genre: Fantasy
Author: Chris Van Allsburg
Level: 2rd + Up
Illustrator: Chris Van Allsburg
Number of Pages: 28
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1981
Summary: Two children are left home alone for the afternoon. Being bored out of their minds
they find a bored game called Jamanji: A Jungle Adventure. They being to play and soon find
out that this bored game is no ordinary bored game. It’s a real life game! Having to deal with
lions in the living room, monkeys in the kitchen and even a stampede of rhinoceros these two
children face a game they have never encountered before.
Critique: A masterpiece for Chris Van Allsburg! The illustrations are done in grays with
shading. The pictures of people, animals, and the setting are very realistic. Most of the pictures
are at eye level, so the reader feels like he or she is in the house along with the characters. The
story itself is so colorful and adventurous that the black and white pictures complement the
mystical aspects of this fantastic story!
Activity: Before reading- Have you ever played a game or put something together without
reading the instructions? What happened? What do you do when you are bored? How do you
find imaginative ways to amuse yourself? After reading- Invent your own magical board game.
Think carefully about the rules of the game as you design it. Don't forget to write the rules down!
Folktales and Myths
Title: The Mitten
Genre: Folktale
Author: Jan Brett
Level: Kindergarten
Illustrator: Jan Brett
Number of Pages: 30
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1989
Summary: Young Nicki really wanted snow-white mittens so finally his grandmother knitted
him a pair but warned not to drop them in the snow for he would never find them. Nicki went off
playing in the snow and it wasn’t soon until one of his new mittens dropped in the snow where
many animals found it as a cozy and warm place to stay. Will the mitten ever be returned to
Nicki?
Critique: The Mittens is a tale that engages every child into the story. Wonderful illustrations
make the book by creating a warm and cozy but suspenseful tale. A very enjoyable story that
brings out the imagination in a child.
Activity: Before reading- Show them the cover of the book. Ask the students what they think the
story is going to be about. After reading- Introduce a math lesson on shapes and sizes, using
mittens.
Title: The Legend of the Indian Paintbrush
Genre: Folktale
Author: Tomie dePaola
Level: 1st
Illustrator: Tomie dePaola
Number of Pages: 35
Publisher: Paper Star; the Putnam & Grosset Group
Pub. Date: 1988
Summary: Little Gopher was the smallest boy in his tribe among the Plains. Never being able to
keep up with the other boys to prove strength and power, Little Gopher discovers his own special
gift, painting. Although, wanting to be a warrior, Little Gopher becomes great among his people
by never giving up on the talent he was given.
Critique: Based on a Texas legend, DePaola uses rich illustrations to capture the setting and
character. A meaningful tale that encourages children to follow and discover their own dreams
and wishes.
Activity: Before reading- What dreams do you have? Explain dream catchers. Discuss Native
American culture; this can be part of the social studies curriculum. After reading- Kids create
their own dream catcher. In groups discuss their own dreams/talents and how they can pursue
them.
Title: One Fine Day
Genre: Folktale
Author: Nonny Hogrogian
Level: 1st
Illustrator: Nonny Hogrogian
Number of Pages: 25
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1971
Summary: One fine day, a fox, after traveling through a forest, stole milk from an old woman
because he was very thirsty. In anger, the old women cut off his tail and told him before he could
get his tail back he had to give her back the milk. Through several encounters and the help of
others, the fox learns how acts of kindness can take you really far.
Critique: The retelling of an American folktale, Hogrogian uses cumulative storytelling to
create a picture of community. By acts of kindness and the help of others the story leaves a warm
and comforting ending.
Activity: Have an act of kindness day! Before reading- In what ways can you show acts of
kindness? In what ways do you not show act of kindness. How does that make others feel? How
does it make you feel when you are kind to others? After reading- Encourage students to do an
act of kindness for their friends or parents that day. Have them write a card to someone they
appreciate.
Title: Tikki Tikki Tembo
Genre: Folktale
Author: Arlene Mosel
Level: 1st
Illustrator: Blair Lent
Number of Pages: 40
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1968
Summary: Once a long time ago a mother and her two sons lived in a small mountain village in
China. It was the custom to give the first and honored son’s great long names and the second any
hardly any name at all. These two sons loved to play around a well where troubled aroused. A
fantastically retold folktale where two brothers find trouble and help each other out.
Critique: The tale of Tikki Tikki Tembo is wonderfully retelling of an old Chinese folktale that
is enriched in Chinese culture and heritage. The artist extends the story by using imaginative
beauty that shows true Chinese spirit.
Activity: Before reading- Ask the children what they think the story will be about by looking at
the cover. Have them create their own setting, characters and plot. After reading- Have the
students write down the actual characters, setting and plot of the story. Have them do this by
creating a drawing. Show them Reading Rainbow of Tikki Tikki Tembo
Title: Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters
Genre: Folktale
Author: John Steptoe
Level: 2nd
Illustrator: John Steptoe
Number of Pages: 30
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1987
Summary: There once was a village in Africa, a long time ago, where a father, Mufaro, and his
two beautiful daughters, Manyara and Nyasha, lived. In another far away city, the Great King
was looking for “the most worthy and Beautiful Daughters in the land” to take as his wife. In this
wonderful folktale Manyara and Nyasha set out to the great city to meet the King and their fate.
Critique: An inspiring and heartfelt African Folktale. Using illustrations based off of the ancient
cities and landscaping of Zimbabwe the story is set to life that teaches lessons on kindness and
beauty.
Activity: Before reading- Ask students what do they think it means to be beautiful. Write down
their answers. After reading- Ask the students the same question, what does it mean to be
beautiful. Again write down the answers. Compare what they said before and after reading the
story. Explain that beauty is found on the inside, not always on the outside. Kindness is beauty,
forgiveness is beauty and so on. Have them write down characteristics that make them beautiful
on the inside.
Title: The Seven Chinese Brothers
Genre: Myth
Author: Margaret Mahy
Level: 3rd
Illustrator: Jean and Mou-sien Tseng
Number of Pages: 35
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1990
Summary: Once upon a time lived an Emperor of China who was very nasty towards his people.
At the same time lived seven brothers who each all had a special talent of their own. When times
got bad each brother got to play a part to save China from the horrible Emperor to restore peace
throughout the land.
Critique: A simple yet poetic and artistic story that is laced with deep truth and values.
Although this is a Chinese folk tale, if it were to have no pictures the Chinese culture and
essence would be hard to depict.
Activity: Before reading- Introduce a history lesson on Ch’in Shih Huang and the Great Wall of
China. After reading- Have students relate what they learned from the history lesson and what
they heard from the book. How could the fictional story have some truth to the real history?
Title: The Talking Eggs
Genre: Folktale
Author: Robert D. San
Level: 2nd
Illustrator: Jerry Pinkney
Number of Pages: 30
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1989
Summary: Once lived a widow and her two daughters, Rose and Blanche. Blanche was very
sweet and kind but was mistreated by her mother and Rose, for she had to do all the work around
home. Being yelled at so many times, Blanche runs away into the woods where she meets an old
woman who takes Blanche back to her place, where magic happens. What will ever happen to
the widow and her two daughters?
Critique: The water colored filled pages are very detailed and unique, just as the story is. A very
distinctive story that focuses on the morals between good and bad, what is right and what is
wrong?
Activity: Before reading- Ask students to think of fairytales that had good and evil characters in
them. Have them discuss these characters. After reading- Using a concept map (good vs. evil)
have the students discuss the personality traits and behavior of the good sister, then have the
students discuss the personality traits and behavior of the bad sister.
Title: Strega Nona
Genre: Folktale
Author: Tomie de Paola
Level: 1st + Up
Illustrator: Tomie de Paola
Number of Pages: 30
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1975
Summary: Long ago in Calabria in a small town lived a woman everyone called Strega Nona,
“Grandma Witch.” Although the townspeople were wary of her, they still came to see her for
potions and cures because they worked every time. But Strega Nona was growing old and she
needed some help around the house, so she hired Big Anthony, who didn’t pay attention. As Big
Anthony begins to help Strega Nona he is instructed to not touch the pasta pot but of course he
does. There are consequences to not listening as the pasta floods the town. What will happen to
Big Anthony?
Critique: A very engaging and enjoyable story. A story that has a great, age appropriate moral
that is very appropriate and relevant for young children—listen and pay attention.
Activity: Create a story map as a class on a promethean board. What was the setting? Who were
the characters? What was the problem? What was the solution?
Title: Cloud Tea Monkeys
Genre: Folktale
Author: Mal Peet & Elspeth Graham
Level: 2nd
Illustrator: Juan Wijngaard
Number of Pages: 42
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Pub. Date: 2010
Summary: After her mother gets sick, a little girl named Tashi tries to step into her place as a
tea-harvester. Unfortunately, she is too small, the job too big, and the overseer too heartless.
Luckily, and magically, she is saved from her predicament by a group of monkeys she has
befriended and the special cloud tea they deliver for the empress.
Critique: This is a great book to talk to students about diversity and different life styles. It could
be a great introduction to a history topic of how some things we take for granted and the issue of
child labor and how that in some parts of the world not all children are granted the excess to
education. The rich and eloquent art work really captivates the reader into the story.
Activity: Before reading- Based on the title what do you think the story is going to be about?
Based on the picture what do you think the story is going to be about? After reading- What is the
story really about? Who was the main character of the story? What does she do to help her mom?
A great introduction to a history topic of how some things we take for granted and the issue of
child labor and how that in some parts of the world not all children are granted the excess to
education.
Title: Rapunzel
Genre: Fairy Tale
Author: Paul O. Zelinsky
Level: 3nd + Up
Illustrator: Paul O. Zelinsky
Number of Pages: 32
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1997
Summary: A well-known story of a long-haired girl, Rapunzel, kept in a high inaccessible tower
by an evil sorceress. Kept in the tower she knows nothing of the world and has never met
anyone, until a prince hears her singing. He climbs up the tower and immediately falls in love.
Will they live happily ever after?
Critique: Paul O. Zelinsky takes this classic fairy tale and turns it into a beautifully illustrated
and told story. The book stays true to the Brothers Grimm story of Rapunzel. It is the images that
create this whimsical story.
Activity: Before reading- Ask the students if they have heard of Rapunzel. See what their
version of the tale sounds like. After reading- Have the students compare what they knew and the
way the Zelinsky tells the tale. What was different/the same? How would the book look different
if it were set in India, in Africa, in the American Southwest, or in Russia? What would the
longed-for herb be? What art history sources would you use? Design a tower using another art
history source.
Title: The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales
Genre: Fantasy/Fairytales
Author: Jon Scieszka
Level: 1st + Up
Illustrator: Lane Smith
Number of Pages: 49
Publisher: Viking
Pub. Date: 1992
Summary: The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales retells--and wreaks havoc on—
most well-known and cherished fairytales. The ugly duckling grows up to be just an ugly duck,
princess in the frog the frog just tricks the princess to kiss him and little red riding hood is little red
running shorts. Individual tales with very unique twists.
Critique: A hilarious and delightful book with its unconventional page arrangement and eclectic,
frenetic mix of text and pictures. The images are full-bleeds and the text changes with each page
turn. A very eye-catching engaging text that will have both you and your students laughing.
Activity: Compare and contrast a traditional fairy tale with The Stinky Cheese Man’s version,
and then ask students to ‘remix’ their own wacky version of a story by creating a beginning,
middle, and ending storyboard.
Title: Zen Shorts
Genre: Folktales and Myths
Author: Jon J. Muth
Level: 1st + Up
Illustrator: Jon J. Muth
Number of Pages: 35
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Pub. Date: 2005
Summary: Three children encounter a mysterious panda, Stillwater, in their backyard. He each
tells them a simple, moving story that relates to their lives and personality. Each story teaches a
lesson on which helps the children become better people and improve on their weaknesses.
Critique: Zen Shorts is a beautifully written and reflective story. The high literary quality stems
from the author making the reader reflect and think. The illustrations are beautiful and integral to
the story. The illustrations of the overarching story are done in watercolors in both vibrant and
relaxing colors. In contrast, the stories that Stillwater tells are in black ink and have only 3 colors
on the page: black, white and the page color. The differences between the illustrations help the
reader to distinguish between the short stories and the main story.
Activity: Before reading- Draw a concept map on a whiteboard or chart paper and write the
word “Feelings” in the middle. Then add the word “angry” to the map. Ask students what
makes them angry. How do they feel when they are angry? Do they think anger is a good thing
or a bad thing? Why? Do the same about “sharing” After reading- What did you learn from one
of Stillwater’s stories?
Poetry
Title: The Spider and the Fly
Genre: Poem
Author: Mary Howitt
Level: 2nd
Illustrator: Tony DiTielizzi
Number of Pages: 30
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 2002
Summary: A cunning spider finds a pretty, young fly. “Will you walk into my Parlor?” said the
Spider to the Fly. Being polite and flattering the spider lures the fly into his den. Will the fly ever
be seen again?
Critique: A very dark cautionary tale that is absolutely wonderful, although it could scare many
young children. The illustrations are very haunting but that what makes the book so great and
Howitts displays a wonderful gothic story with a lyrical prose.
Activity: Halloween activity. Before reading- Have the students do a Halloween art activity.
Make a spider web using a marble, black paper and white/silver paint. After reading- Have the
students write their own Halloween poem. For science you could bring in spider and have
students look at it through a microscope.
Title: There Was An Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly
Genre: Children’s Song/ Poem
Author: Simms Taback
Level: Kindergarten
Illustrator: Simms Taback
Number of Pages:
Publisher: Child’s Play
Pub. Date: 1992
Summary: There was an old lady who swallowed a fly. Why did she swallow the fly? We don’t
know why, maybe she’ll die.
Critique: A fun and simple read that will capture many young children. A die cut board book
that appeals to many young readers.
Activity: Before reading: Have student guess what the old lady swallowed and why. After
reading: On promethean board, as a class, make sequence of what the old lady swallowed.
Title: Mirror Mirror: A Book of Reversible Verse
Genre: Fairytale/Poem
Author: Marilyn Singer
Level: 2nd and Up
Illustrator: Josse Masse
Number of Pages: 28
Publisher: Penguin Group
Pub. Date: 2010
Summary: A book of fairytale poems. Read the story going down then read it going up. Two
ways to read the poem, two sides of the story.
Critique: Exquisitely illustrated, decisive, and witty, this book of fairytale poems brings the
stories to life, leaving you living the life of the princes and princesses, whether it’s good or bad.
Activity: Before reading: Ask the students if they like reading poems. Do an introduction to
poems. After reading: Have the students analyze each fairytale poem. What is each version of the
poem say or mean? Explain what a reverso is, have the students write a reverso poem, and then
have them illustrate the poem.
Title: Camille Saint-Saens’s: The Carnival of the Animals Genre: Poetry/Music book
Author: Jack Prelutsky
Level: 2nd
Illustrator: Mary GrandPre
Number of Pages: 30
Publisher: Alfred A. Knopf
Pub. Date: 2010
Summary: In 1886 Camille Saint-Saens composed The Carnival of the Animals. This book
takes Carnival of the Animals to turn music into captivating stories of animals through poems.
Critique: Jack Prelutsky captures Carnival of Animals through rhymes and cadence, humor and
beauty, and feeling of music in catchy, fun to read poems. Mixed with the interaction of classical
music the rich illustrations make all the animals come to life.
Activity: Before reading- Introduce the students to a lesson on music. Talk about classical music
and the musical instruments. During reading- Have kids act out the animals. After readingWhile listening to Carnival of the Animals have the students draw to the music then write a story
about it.
Series
Title: Junie B., First Grader: Cheater Pants
Genre: Chapter Book, Series
Author: Barbara Park
Level: 2nd
Illustrator: Denise Brunkus
Number of Pages: 86
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 2003
Summary: Junie B. Jones is an enthusiastic first grader who is a bundle of mess. In Cheater
Pants Junie B. makes the mistake of copying A+ May’s homework and cheating off Herbs
spelling test. In this delightful chapter book Junie B. learns the consequences of cheating and
how to make things right.
Critique: Cheater Pants is an excellent tool for young readers to get engaged and excited about
reading. Extremely funny and well written books for beginner readers that will help them grow
in vocabulary and comprehension. Not do the Junie B. Jones books engaged children but educate
them on life lessons. They are great books that any young child could because what Junie B.
does a lot of the time are real life situations.
Activity: Before reading- What is a cheater pants? What does cheating mean? After reading- Is
cheating an honest act? What does it mean to be honest? How are ways we can be honest? Was
Junie B. honest in the book? How or how not?
Title: Magic Tree House: Dinosaurs Before Dark
Genre: Chapter Book, Series
Author: Mary Pope Osborne
Level: 2nd
Illustrator: Sal Murdocca
Number of Pages: 68
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1992
Summary: Jack and Annie, brother and sister, find a mysterious tree house that is filled with
books. Jack, having a love for books, finds one about dinosaurs and the prehistoric past and
wishes he could see a real Pteronadon. Before he even has time to put the book away, Jack and
Annie are whisked away to the prehistoric past. An adventure, like never before, will Jack and
Annie ever find their way back home?
Critique: The Magic Tree House series books are entertaining, imaginative reads that help
children learn history through a fun and exciting way. They are great books to introduce children
to chapter books and a great way to show that history can be exciting and interesting.
Activity: Before reading: Show a film on dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures. Maybe take them
to a natural history museum. After reading- Have students make a booklet of all the dinosaurs
Jack and Annie discover, listing information of each dinosaur and drawing a picture. They can
look up information using the computer or give them the information.
Title: If You Give A Mouse A Cookie
Genre: Story Book, Series
Author: Laura Joffe Numeroff
Level: Kindergarten
Illustrator: Felicia Bond
Number of Pages: 28
Publisher: HarperCollinsPublishers
Pub. Date: 1985
Summary: This delightful book is about a young boy and a very energetic mouse. The young
boy gives a mouse a cookie and by doing so the mouse keeps asking for more and more from the
boy, such as milk, scissors, a broom and a pen. Will the mouse ever become satisfied?
Critique: A very cute and fun read. A book that is lovable to young children. Although there is
no lesson behind this book and is purely for enjoyment there are many fun educational activities
you could do with it.
Activity: Before reading: Ask students if they have ever given a mouse a cookie. What do you
think would happen if you gave a mouse a cookie? After reading- Have students make cookies in
class: Measurement. Create cookie jar estimation. Create a counting and subtracting game using
cookies.
Title: Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day
Genre: Story Book
Author: Judith Viorst
Level: 2nd
Illustrator: Ray Cruz
Number of Pages: 28
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 1972
Summary: Have you ever had a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day? Well, Alexander has.
Waking up with gum in his hair, no prize in his cereal box, and no dessert in his lunch are just a
few events that makes his day terrible.
Critique: A story any kid can relate to. As told by a young boy, Alexander, the language is very
true to what a child might say. The whole text is a long run on sentence, like babble. The
illustrations are in black and white keeping it simple and not distracting from the story.
Activity: Before reading- Ask the students what make a bad day/good day? After reading- Have
students write a sentence about one of their bad days at school. Have them illustrate with pencil
only of how what made it a bad day.
Title: Giggle, Giggle, Quack
Genre: Series
Author: Doreen Cronin
Level: Kindergarten
Illustrator: Betsy Lewin
Number of Pages: 29
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pub. Date: 2002
Summary: Farmer Brown is going on vacation and leaves his brother, Bob, in charge of the
farm. Farmer Brown leaves specific orders to keep an eye on duck. “Keep an eye on duck. He’s
trouble.” However, Bob finds himself performing odd chores such as ordering pizza for the barn,
giving the pigs a bath, and renting the movie "The Sound of Moosic." Armed with a pencil and a
sense of humor, Duck keeps Bob very busy.
Critique: From the same author as Click, Clack Moo: Cow that types, Giggle, Giggle, Quack is
very fun, easy and cute read. There really is no moral or lesson in the story but is really just for a
fun read.
Activity: Before reading- Have you’ve ever been to a farm? What sorts of animals live on a
farm? What sort of sounds do these animals make? After reading: Sing Old McDonald on a
Farm. What do you think Farmer Brown did when he got back from the farm?
Other Great Children’s Books
1. The Lion and the Mouse
2. Lon Po Pos
3. Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs
4. Interrupting Chicken
5. Goodnight Moon
6. The True Story of the Three Little Pigs
7. Molly Lu Melon
8. Chrysanthemum
9. The Kissing Hand
10. Madeline
11. Harold and the Purple Crown
12. The Keeping Quilt
13. Charlotte’s Web
14. The Boxcar Children
15. Diary of a Wimpy Kid
16. Frindle
17. The Spiderwick Chronicles
18. The One and the Only Ivan
19. Giraffes Can’t Dance
20. Freckle Juice
21. A Series of Unfortunate Events
22. The Hundred Dresses
23. Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing
24. The Chronicles of Narnia
25. Mr. Popper’s Penguins