My Children's Literature Portfolio by Matthew Williams

Carney, Elizabeth. (2012). Planets.

williams7288 — 2023-09-13 12:31:49 UTC

This book gives an overview to the planets in our solar system. The book introduces the reader to planets and what they are, and how they are aligned in our solar system. It covers how the first four planets (Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars) are The Inner Planets and how the last four (Saturn, Jupiter, Neptune, and Uranus) are The Gas Giants. It even mentions some of the dwarf planets like the once-loved Pluto. It also covers the different moons in the solar system including an in depth look at our moon and the different explorations that have occurred. This is a great book for children interested in space and our solar system. I would totally have this book in my classroom library!

Meredith, Susan. (2003). Night Animals

williams7288 — 2023-09-13 12:44:26 UTC

This book is a very cute informational read on nocturnal animals. The book gives an introduction to several nocturnal animals including but not limited to: raccoons, koalas, bushbabies, geckos, and bats. The book mentions for several animals that the reason they are nocturnal is because their predators are active during the day. They have adapted to living at night to keep safe. The book also mentions the special features that these night animals have to assist them in the dark. Some of the night animals have big eyes to help them see in the dark, some have heightened senses of smell and hearing to make up for the lack of light for them to see. The book also covers how since the nocturnal animals sleep during the day, some of them have the ability to camouflage to keep them hidden during the day since their predators are awake during that time. Overall, this is an amazing book to introduce children to the different ways that the animals around them live in the wild. I would definitely have this in my classroom library!

Palacio, Patricia. (1998). Thank You, Mr. Falker.

williams7288 — 2023-09-13 13:04:30 UTC

This children’s book covers a little girl who has yet to learn to read. The story explains her emotions as her family members each tell her that she will eventually learn to read. The little girl goes to school and believes she is dumb because she does not know how to read yet. She is bullied and ridiculed by her fellow students for this. She begins to give up until one day, she meets Mr. Falker. Mr. Falker takes the little girl under his wing and realizes that she does not know how to read. Over time, reading becomes easy for the little girl. At the end of the story, the reader finds out that the little girl is the author herself. and that she gets to meet Mr. Falker again to tell him that because of him and his guidance, that she now writes children’s books.

Jordan, Deloris. (2000). Salt in His Shoes.

williams7288 — 2023-09-13 13:08:26 UTC

Little Michael loved playing basketball on the weekend with his brothers. However, he always was worried that he was not tall enough. He felt discouraged by this and but never gave up practicing basketball. His mother told him that if he put salt in his shoes every day, prayed, and had patience, that he would become taller in no time. Michael listened to his mother and prayed every night that he would grow taller, but this did not happen right away. Michael practiced and practiced until one day he received some encouragement from his father. Michael went out to play with his brother and his team again and scored the winning basket. Michael then realized that he could play basketball, even though he was not super tall. At the end of the book, it is discovered to the reader that little Michael in the book is actually Michael Jordan who grew to be 6’6” and a very successful professional basketball player.

Allard, Harry. (1997). Miss Nelson is Missing!

williams7288 — 2023-09-14 18:56:23 UTC

This is one of my all time favorite children's books! I remember my mom reading this book to me when I was in elementary school. This book is about a teacher, Miss Nelson, whose class misbehaves all the time. One day, Miss Nelson goes missing. The students in the class then meet their new substitute, Miss Viola Swamp. Miss Viola swamp is the exact opposite of Miss Nelson. She is very strict and stern toward the students. The students begin to miss their teacher and begin to worry that she will never return and that they are stuck with Miss Viola Swamp forever. Miraculously one day, Miss Nelson returns to class and the students are relieved! At the end of the story, it is revealed to the reader that Miss Nelson was Miss Viola Swamp all along. She had enough of their misbehavior and decided to show her students just how nice she actually was. I will 100% have this book in my classroom library. Regardless of what grade level I teach, I also plan on doing this as a read aloud at the beginning of the year for my students as it teaches a message but is also comical.

Allard, Harry. (1982). Miss Nelson is Back.

williams7288 — 2023-09-14 19:11:18 UTC

The sequel to Miss Nelson is Missing!, Miss Nelson is Back is a childhood favorite! The book covers the story of Miss Nelson when she has to be out sick getting her tonsils out. Since this was a different class, they had not experienced the wrath of Miss Viola Swamp. The students plotted that while Miss Nelson was going to be absent, that they were going to act out and rule the classroom. Another student overheard their plot and informed the students of "The Swamp" and how she was a real witch. This instilled fear in Miss Swamp's current group of students. They feared that they would have Miss Viola Swamp as their substitute and that they would have no fun while Miss Nelson was absent. To the students' surprise, the school principal, Mr. Blandsworth, would be personally taking over the class while Miss Nelson was absent. Mr. Blandsworth was not fit to be a substitute. He absolutely bored the students and was no fun. The students in the class ended up impersonating Miss Nelson by dressing up as her and led Mr. Blandsworth to believe that Miss Nelson was back. The students had accomplished one of the most unspeakable things. They left the school with no supervision. They were out on their own for the day. On their way back, they made the mistake of passsing by Miss Nelson's house where she became immediately alarmed. She called Mr. Blandsworth and he was no help as he was had just seen Miss Nelson back in the classroom with her students. Miss Nelson knew exactly what to do. The next day, Miss Viola Swamp came to the classroom and was the new students' substitute. The students' worst fear came true. Miss Viola Swamp got the students back into shape just in time for Miss Nelson to fully return back to the classroom as herself. I just love this book series!

Barber, Barbara E. (1996). Allie's Basketball Dream.

williams7288 — 2023-09-14 19:19:49 UTC

Allie has always loved basketball. Her love has stemmed from her father introducing her to the sport and taking her to her first game at Madison Square Garden. Her father gifts Allie her very own basketball. She is full of confidence and when she hits the courts, she falls short of making a basket. She is ridiculed on the court for being a girl playing basketball. Eventually, she gains the courage and makes a basket, believing in herself. This is a true story of self-determination amongst young girls and boys, especially those wishing to pursue a sport!

Allsburg, Chris Van. (1991). The Wretched Stone

williams7288 — 2023-09-25 12:18:28 UTC

In a journal format, this book covers the story of Captain Ethan Hope and the people aboard the Rita Anne. While aboard, the crew comes across this stone out on an island. The crew brings the stone aboard and things start to suddenly change. All of the members aboard the ship, except the Captain, become infatuated with the stone and start to lose interest in the things that mean the most to them. Eventually, all of these members become apes who do not understand any English. The Captain makes it his life mission to rid the ship of this stone. The members aboard the ship finally were rescued and life resumed to normal...except for the fact that the crew members started to become addicted to bananas. This can be connected to our lives today with how so many of us are addicted to our electronic devices. We stare at them and become "ape-like" in nature as these devices take up so much of our time that we forget about the things that mean the most to us. This is a phenomenal read!

Silverstein, Shel. (1964). The Giving Tree

2023-10-22 00:59:04 UTC

A little boy stumbles upon a tree and falls in love. Every day, he would come and eat the apples from the tree and play with its branches. This made the tree happy. As time went on, the boy got older. He kept returning to the tree, wanting it to give him something. The tree was happy with the boy being happy. Over time, the tree kept giving and giving until it was just a stump. All the tree wanted was for the boy to be happy. Even as a stump, the boy returned and rested against the tree. The tree was happy.

Marsh, Laura. (2015). Ugly Animals.

2023-10-22 01:06:25 UTC

This book covers several animals that do not have ideal appearances and how they survive on Earth! This book covers animals such as mudskippers, viper morays, colugos, and much more! The book is separated into animals that are underground, in the air, in trees, etc. The book covers the fact that some of the ways these animals are "ugly" are the way that they survive.

Jenkins, Martin. (1997). Chameleons are Cool.

2023-10-22 01:16:36 UTC

This book covers several reasons why chameleons are cool! The book introduces that chameleons are lizards and that half of the 120 types of chameleons types come from Madagascar. The other kinds live in mainland Africa. The book goes into that chameleons are quite grumpy creatures; it is not just how they appear. It details the chameleon's long tongue that is used to sneakily eat its prey. Of course, the book also touches on how chameleons change color!

Pringle, Laurence. (2000). Bats! Strange and Wonderful.

2023-10-22 01:22:37 UTC

This book details several different types of bats and how they are both strange and wonderful! The book covers how bats are nocturnal mammals that are commonly found in tropical rainforests, mountains, and deserts. It also mentions that some bats may live in our own neighborhoods! All of the bats that live in North America are microbats. Microbats are harmless and are good neighbors! The book also discusses how bats rely on echolocation to find their way around and to communicate with other bats. Other types of bats are mentioned as well!

Seuss, Dr. (1990). Oh, the Places You'll Go!

2023-10-22 01:28:23 UTC

From looking up and down streets, to going up and seeing great sights, this book is a very inspirational book for anyone starting a new chapter or milestone! This book talks about how life can be challenging sometimes but we have to find the joy within! This book can provide motivation and inspiration to all ages.

Singer, Marilyn. (2012). A Stick is an Excellent Thing.

2023-10-22 01:41:49 UTC

This book is a collection of poems celebrating outdoor play. One poem, titled "Bubbles", is a poem about two siblings both blowing bubbles outside. The brother is boasting about how he can blow the biggest bubbles, while his sister is hiding in the shade blowing the most bubbles. Hers are smaller but she is able to blow more bubbles than he. One poem covers hide-and-seek and how it is a very fun and entertaining game. At the end, the book goes into its title, how a stick is an excellent thing. It mentions that a stick can be a magic wand and can do several things if you leave your imagination to it. Overall, this book mentions several different activities that children can do outside to incorporate play.

Silverstein, Shel. (1974). Where the Sidewalk Ends.

williams7288 — 2023-10-22 02:20:56 UTC

This book is a collection of poems and drawings by Silverstein for children. One poem, "Hug O' War" is a sweet poem talking about how we all should hug and care for each other, and not "tug" at each other. Another poem, "I Won't Hatch!" is a poem that references a chick in an egg that will not hatch. The poem talks about how the egg is a safe space for the chick as on the outside, there is talk of pollution and war. There are several other poems in this collection that allow the children to use their imagination and to have their own interpretation of the text.

Shetterly, Margot Lee. (2018). Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race.

williams7288 — 2023-10-22 02:36:18 UTC

Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson, and Christine Darden were key at helping NASA send the first men into space during the Space Race. All four women were exceptional at math. This book tells the true story of how these four women fought to break through the racial and gender barriers of the time to become some of the most successful and influential people of their time. It was unheard of for a black female to be good at math, and these four women proved their spot alongside the men they were competing with in the challenging field. This book teaches about determination and perseverance. This is the picture book that was adapted from the novel of the same author. The novel was adapted into a film.

Mosca, Julia Finley. (2017). The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin.

williams7288 — 2023-10-22 02:48:39 UTC

This is a biography on the autistic scientist, Dr. Temple Grandin. The book covers how Dr. Grandin grew up a little different than most kids. Loud sounds bothered her along with crowded places. She faced criticism from other parents, especially as a young child. Eventually, it was found that Dr. Grandin had autism and thought differently than other children. She got kicked out of school and was sent to her aunt's farm to have "time away". She began to realize that she thought in pictures, just like some of the animals on the farm. She ended up going to college and earning three degrees! Her passion is farming and helping the animals. She also has created several farm designs that are used around the country. She is now a motivational speaker on how just because someone may think differently, that does not mean that they will not be successful.

Yousafzai, Malala. (2022). My Name is Malala.

williams7288 — 2023-10-22 03:02:22 UTC

This book is a book written by Malala Yousafzai, who is a Pakistani Nobel Peace Prize winner and activist. She is an activist for young girls to receive a quality education. This board book gives a glimpse into Malala's life. It explains that even though she is a well-known activist, she is still a person like everyone else. This book allows the reader to relate to her in several ways.

Bridges, Ruby. (2022). I Am Ruby Bridges.

williams7288 — 2023-10-22 03:10:47 UTC

Ruby Bridges was the first black student to integrate with an all-white elementary school at the young age of six. This is an autobiography of Bridges' story through her own eyes. This book covers how such a young child could change and shape history and the Civil Rights Movement. This story provides an intimate lens into such a pivotal moment in history!

Heiligman, Deborah. (2013). The Boy Who Loved Math: The Improbable Life of Paul Erdős.

williams7288 — 2023-10-22 03:21:45 UTC

Paul Erdős from a very young age was very intelligent with numbers. He could do very complicated calculations at age 4 that high schoolers probably couldn't compute. As he aged, he enjoyed traveling around the world to share his love for math with others, especially other mathematicians. He was known as "The Magician from Budapest". His math work has heavily influenced modern society and mathematicians! Paul continued to love math until he passed in 1996. He left behind a great legacy in mathematics.

Jazynka, Kitson. (2017). Hellen Keller.

williams7288 — 2023-10-22 03:32:51 UTC

This book covers the life and story of Hellen Keller. Hellen Keller was both deaf and blind. She paved the way for people like her to succeed and learn. Even though she was both deaf and blind, she still learned how to read and write. She learned primarily through Braille, which is featured in the background of the book's cover. Her teacher, Annie Sullivan, stayed by Hellen's side as she grew up, helping her achieve great heights that were unheard of for deaf and blind individuals.

Tiger Tales. (2011). A is for Apple.

williams7288 — 2023-10-22 03:37:21 UTC

Introduce children to letters and sounds with this interactive board book! This book goes into the letters and sounds of the alphabet. It also allows students to trace the letters if they struggle with writing them. This book gives 2 examples for each letter. This book would be beneficial in pre-k or kindergarten classroom with students who still do not know their letters or sounds.

Kann, Victoria & Kann, Elizabeth. (2006). Pinkalicious

williams7288 — 2023-10-22 03:44:41 UTC

Pinkalicious LOVED the color pink. She loved everything about it! When her mom made pink cupcakes, Pinkalicious ate a few too many and turned pink! She loved being pink at first but then turned red! She had eaten too many pink cupcakes. She followed the doctor's orders and ate a green diet to return to her normal self. At the end of the story, her brother Peter turns pink, too.

Johnson, Crockett. (1955). Harold and the Purple Crayon.

williams7288 — 2023-10-22 03:48:57 UTC

Young Harold loved his purple crayon. He decided that he wanted to go on a late night walk with his purple crayon. He drew out his own journey with just his purple crayon. His journey included setting sail in the moonlight, eating a picnic on the sandy beach, and much more. This story is a true testament to the wonders of our imaginations.

Martin Jr, Bill & Archambault, John. (1989). Chicka Chicka Boom Boom.

williams7288 — 2023-10-22 03:56:34 UTC

This is a lovely book that covers a race for all of the letters of the alphabet to get to the top of a coconut tree. Will they all make it and will there be enough room? The book also introduces upper-case and lower-case letters to the reader as "mamas and papas and uncles and aunts hug their little dears". This is a super cute book that introduces the alphabet to beginning learners!

Knudsen, Michelle. (2009). Library Lion.

williams7288 — 2023-10-22 04:13:55 UTC

This is a great story about a lion who visited the library. To everyone's surprise, the lion was very calm and enjoyed listening to books being read. The lion eventually put himself to work by dusting the encyclopedias and licking envelopes. The rule was that the lion could not be loud and disruptive. One day, tragedy struck the library and the lion did what he thought was best, to roar really loud to get someone's attention. He was kicked out of the library by someone who did not know what was going on. He became devastated as he was only trying to help in the only way he knew how. Once it became known why he roared, he was welcomed back into the library. He was truly missed!

Barrett, Judi. (1982). Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs.

williams7288 — 2023-10-22 04:25:47 UTC

In the town of Chewandswallow, the people ate what came from the sky! Their meals, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, came from the sky. One day, spaghetti tied up the town and that messed up the rest of the meals that came from the sky. The food portions kept getting larger and larger. The weather was out of control! How will the people of Chewandswallow get their weather and meals back to normal?

Gorman, Amanda. (2023). Something, Someday.

williams7288 — 2023-10-22 20:30:23 UTC

Sometimes the world may seem broken. Sometimes we wonder what we can do to help. This is an inspirational story from poet Amanda Gorman that highlights that all we have to do is try. Sometimes something so small can make the biggest impact. This is very motivational for young children as they have their whole lives ahead of them.

Janeczko, Paul B. (2014). Firefly July.

williams7288 — 2023-10-22 20:36:27 UTC

36 poems for the whole year. Organized by seasons, these poems outline a whole year. Poems about spring, summer, autumn, and winter form a wonderful collection of poetry to suit all interests and ages. My favorite poem in the book, "The Red Wheelbarrow" by William Carlos Williams, is such a classic poem. It is very short but packs so much meaning. The poem can be related to several aspects of life.

Munsch, Robert. (1981). The Paper Bag Princess.

williams7288 — 2023-10-22 21:00:29 UTC

Elizabeth is a princess and she just knows that she is going to marry a prince named Ronald. One day, a mean dragon comes and takes Ronald away while crashing into her castle, tearing it down and burning all of her clothes! Elizabeth puts on a paper bag to follow the dragon. There, she tires the dragon by having him show off all his "superpowers". She goes to recover Ronald when the dragon is asleep and Ronald is very rude to her since she is wearing a paper bag. She tells Ronald off and they do not end up getting married.

Allsburg, Chris Van. (1985). The Polar Express.

williams7288 — 2023-10-22 21:08:44 UTC

A young child lies awake on Christmas Eve night when he hears a train whistle roar. A train has appeared in front of his house! He boards the train to see other children. They travel through forests and up mountains. They are headed to the North Pole to see Santa! Santa gives the boy a bell and he ends up losing it due to a hole in his bedrobe. The next morning, the bell is in a box wrapped underneath the tree. The bell only rings for those who believe.

Stevens, Janet. (1984). The Tortoise and the Hare.

williams7288 — 2023-10-22 21:14:31 UTC

One of Aesop's fables, this story is about a tortoise and a hare that are in a race. Who will win? The hare is already off to a great start but the tortoise has barely moved. This fable is a great one to teach students about patience and that the fastest will not always win the race.

Forest, Heather. (1998). Stone Soup.

williams7288 — 2023-10-22 21:36:52 UTC

Two hungry travelers are hungry and are expecting the local townspeople to give them something to eat, as that has been the custom along their trip. To their surprise, the townspeople are not in the giving mood. The two travelers begin to make their own soup, with a stone as the beginning ingredient. People notice this and start to contribute some vegetables to make the soup bigger and better. This is a story about contribution and how if everyone contributes even the tiniest little bit, that the impact can be huge.

Sendak, Maurice. (1963). Where the Wild Things Are.

williams7288 — 2023-10-22 21:47:52 UTC

Max loved to wear his wolf costume and cause mischief. He was sent to bed one evening without supper by his mom for misbehaving. That night, a forest grew in his room! He was able to see all of the wild things in this forest. He was where he was imagining and pretending to be. He was having the time of his life as King of the Forest! Eventually, he got bored and lonely. He ventured back home where his dinner was waiting for him in his room when he returned.

Williams, Marcia. (2012). The Elephant's Friend And Other Tales From Ancient India.

williams7288 — 2023-10-22 22:04:42 UTC

A collection of tales from Ancient India, The Elephant's Friend and Other Tales From Ancient India shares different tales with kid-friendly illustrations. The title tale, The Elephant's Friend, is about a king's elephant that is very well-loved and fed. Outside the palace gates, lies a dog that has been neglected. The dog ends up inside the palace and becomes great friends with the well-cared-for elephant. The king was offered a great sum of money for the dog, and sold him and took him away from the elephant. The elephant grew sad and lonely and eventually, he is able to reunite with his long-lost companion!

Hennessy, B. G. (2006). The Boy Who Cried Wolf.

williams7288 — 2023-10-22 22:11:28 UTC

A lonely boy who tends sheep cries out that there are wolves around him and people come to his cry for help. To their surprise, there are no wolves in sight. The boy decides to cry out for help again as he is lonely. People come running to help again. Still, there are no wolves in sight. One night, a wolf does come out of the forest. The boy is genuine this time when he cries out for help that there is a wolf near him. This time, no one comes to help him. The wolf made a good meal of his flock that night. One of Aesop's fables, this is a fable to not lie. People do not trust those who lie repeatedly.

Boelts, Maribeth. (2007). Those Shoes.

williams7288 — 2023-10-23 01:27:46 UTC

Jeremy needs some new boots for winter, but all he wants are those shoes---the shoes that all the kids at his school are wearing. His grandma does not approve of his want, rather she recognizes his need for boots. Jeremy is adamant that he has shoes like everyone else. He ends up buying a pair that are too small for him. He does not enjoy wearing these small shoes. Antonio, his new friend, needs new shoes. Jeremy ends up gifting his shoes he bought to Antonio and Jeremy wears his new winter boots his grandma bought for him. Jeremy realizes that he already has everything he needs

Davies, Nicola. (2003). Surprising Sharks.

williams7288 — 2023-10-23 01:29:30 UTC

Surprising Sharks is a cute book about different kinds of sharks and how they interact in the ocean. The book gives examples of several sharks that the reader may not know about. It informs the reader that sharks are not as scary as they are often portrayed. The book also gives the reader a chance to see diagrams of sharks and their bodies. Overall, the book is a fascinating read to young readers who are interested in sharks!

Pikley, Dav. (1996). The Paperboy.

williams7288 — 2023-10-23 01:41:02 UTC

A paperboy and his dog get up each morning to do hard work. They both get up before anyone else in the house or neighborhood and set out to deliver the daily newspaper. Both the boy and his dog know the route by heart. One their job is done, they are both able to get back into bed and dream big dreams.

de la Peña, Matt. (2015). Last Stop on Market Street.

williams7288 — 2023-10-23 01:51:58 UTC

CJ and his grandma board the bus after church. CJ is a curious young boy who is very observant. He begins to ask his grandma questions about why they aren't like everyone else and why they do not have certain things that everyone else has. is grandma responds to each question wholesomely and patiently as she is just trying to explain that certain things are just the way they are in the world. She helps CJ see the beauty in the world around them through what they do have.

Yolen, Jane. (1987). Owl Moon.

williams7288 — 2023-10-23 02:06:10 UTC

A young girl and her father (pa) go owling late one night. Pa always says that you must be quiet. They try calling for an owl but no owls came. They couldn't talk with each other since they had to be quiet. They both went on quietly in search of owls. Still, no answer. They both were not disappointed as they both had each other...even though they couldn't speak. Finally, a great big owl appeared. This story shows the true companionship between a father and daughter. All they needed was hope.

Klise, Kate. (2009). Dying to Meet You. [43 Old Cemetery Road].

williams7288 — 2023-10-23 02:09:57 UTC

This is a funny and mysterious story about a man named Ignatius B. Grumply who moves into an old mansion to write a book. But, surprise! People already live there! Ghost Olive C. Spence and a boy named Seymour Hope with his cat Shadow. The story unfolds through letters, notes, and illustrations as they team up to write a book together. With lots of humor and surprises, this book is a delightful read for kids who love quirky tales and friendly ghosts.

Levine, Ellen. (2007). Henry's Freedom Box: A True Story from the Underground Railroad.

williams7288 — 2023-10-23 02:12:08 UTC

Henry Brown does not know when his birthday is. The slave owners do not keep track of the slaves' birthdays. Henry is torn away from his family to go work for a different slaveowner. Henry grows up and marries a woman named Nancy and they have several children together. Henry is devastated to hear that his family has just been sold at a slave auction. Henry wants to fight for his freedom. He received help from a white man who was against slavery and was put in a box to be shipped to Philadelphia. There, he would be free. He had a new birthday...his freedom day.

Bridges, Shirin Yim. (2002). Ruby's Wish.

williams7288 — 2023-10-23 13:35:56 UTC

Ruby grew up in a large family in China. During this time, the boys grew up to go to university while the girls were expected to get married and have children. Ruby was not like most girls in her family. She excelled at school tasks while also excelling at the tasks at home. One day, she wrote a poem in class about how the boys are treated better than the girls. Her grandfather (patriarch) is concerned and wants to hear why Ruby feels this way. Ruby receives all the support from her family and ends up getting accepted as the first female student at a local university.

Birtha, Becky. (2010). Lucky Beans.

williams7288 — 2023-10-23 13:46:49 UTC

Set during the great depression, Marshall's family was quite poor. They often had beans for dinner. Marshall was getting tired of eating beans. One day, he saw that a sewing machine was in a raffle at the local furniture store. They had to correctly guess how many beans were in the jar to win the sewing machine. Marshall was determined to win this sewing machine for his Ma. He used his math skills and knowledge of eating beans to get the closest guess out of everyone as to the correct number of beans in the jar. They won the sewing machine and Marshall's family's life was starting to turn around for the better. Except now, they had a lifetime supply of beans to eat.

Lowry, Lois. (2009). Crow Call.

williams7288 — 2023-10-23 13:48:24 UTC

A lovely recount of a story between a girl and her father, this story focuses on the strained relationship created by war. Written about the time of World War 2, Liz has a strained relationship with her father. Her father has been away at war for too long. They begin to reconnect. They reconnect over a hunting shirt, cherry pie, tender conversations, and the Crow Call. At the end of the story, Liz and her father end up reconnecting.

Mara, Wil. (2016). If You Were A Kid During the American Revolution.

williams7288 — 2023-10-23 13:50:58 UTC

Who doesn't love traveling back in time? While reading this story, the reader can imagine themselves if they were a kid during the American Revolution. In the story, Samuel Richardson's family is accused of being defiant Patriots. Samuel and his cousin Molly must work together to find away for his family to escape the British.

Moss, Marissa. (2004). Mighty Jackie.

williams7288 — 2023-11-13 14:40:09 UTC

Young Jackie Mitchell is a great baseball player. She played for the Chattanooga Lookouts. She could outplay everyone on the field...even the boys. However, so many people saw baseball as a "boy's sport". Players like Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig on the New York Yankees thought that no girl could out pitch them. One day, the Yankees stopped in town to play against the Lookouts. Jackie ended up striking out Ruth and Gehrig back to back making baseball history.

Levine, Ellen. (2007). Henry's Freedom Box.

williams7288 — 2023-11-13 14:46:37 UTC

Summary for this book is under Historical Fiction.

Coles, Robert. (1995). The Story of Ruby Bridges.

williams7288 — 2023-11-13 14:55:18 UTC

This is the story of young Ruby Bridges, the first black female student to integrate into an all-white elementary school. Young Ruby was faced with much criticism by the public as "black students were not allowed in white schools". Ruby was in a class by herself because all of the white students quit going to school since she was there. Every day, Ruby prayed before going to school for the crowd. One day, she forgot and prayed in front of the crowd. This is a riveting account of a true story from the time of school integration in the 60's.

Scillian, Devin. (2013). Memoirs of a Hamster.

williams7288 — 2023-11-13 16:13:57 UTC

This book covers 14 days of a hamsters life. It starts out by the hamster talking about how good its life is. Then, the house cat starts to tease the hamster about the sunroom. The hamster decides to escape its cage to go to the sunroom. Little does the hamster know, the cat is just wanting the get him out of his cage to eat him! The little girl in the house ends up saving the mouse and giving him lots of vanilla drops (his favorite treat).

Beaty, Andrea. (2013). Rosie Revere Engineer.

williams7288 — 2023-11-13 16:16:11 UTC

Rosie has always dreamed of becoming an engineer. When others see junk, Rosie sees an opportunity. She has created several different projects, but has never let anyone see them. Her great-aunt Rose, who used to work with airplanes, shares with Rosie that we all have failures. We learn from them. You can only truly fail if you quit.

Hubbard, Crystal. (2005). Catching the Moon.

williams7288 — 2023-11-15 13:17:13 UTC

Marcenia Lyle loved baseball. She enjoys every part of it. Her father, on the other hand, does not know why she devotes all her time and attention to baseball and not to her studies. Marcenia is determined to show her father that she is meant to play baseball. Marcenia grows discouraged when she is told that no girls are allowed on the local baseball summer camp by the camp manager. She ends up proving that she is worthy, just like the boys, to be apart of the summer camp to the team manager and her parents.

Godin, Thelma Lynne. (2014). The Hula-Hoopin' Queen.

williams7288 — 2023-11-17 13:24:00 UTC

Kameeka loves hula-hooping. She is determined that she will beat her rival, Jamara to become the hula-hooping queen of 139th street. Kameeka becomes blinded by this determination when it is her neighbor Miz Adeline's birthday. Kameeka ends up ruining Miz Adeleine's cake and has to apologize to Miz Adeline. Then, Miz Adeline confesses to Kameeka that she also has a love for hula-hooping! Everyone at the party ends up hula-hooping. They all have the hula-hooping itch.

Wheeler, Lisa. (2002). Turk and Runt: A Thanksgiving Comedy.

williams7288 — 2023-11-20 15:31:59 UTC

Turk is the showstopping bird at Wishbone farm. He has it all! His father and mother are so proud of him. Turk has a brother, Runt, who is the opposite. No one ever listens to Runt. Every year near Thanksgiving, people come to Wishbone farm to pick out the best turkeys. Runt knows what happens to turkeys and makes fun of it. He ends up having to get his family's attention when it comes down to him getting chosen by a human.

Abrams, Stacey. (2022). Stacey's Remarkable Books.

williams7288 — 2023-11-20 15:52:30 UTC

Stacey loves Thursday's. On Thursday's, her class goes to the library. Stacey loves books! One Thursday, Stacey realizes that a new student, Julie, has trouble reading in English. Stacey takes Julie under her wing and starts helping Julie read by spreading her love for books! Soon, more students join Stacey and Julie. This is a story about how the library is a magical place and can bring people together!

McKissack, Patricia C. (2008). Goin' Someplace Special.

williams7288 — 2023-11-20 15:54:09 UTC

Written about the time of segregation, ‘Tricia Ann loved going to the place she called “Someplace Special”. It was a place that everyone could visit, regardless of their skin color. She wanted togo by herself for the first time. As her grandma agreed, ‘Tricia Ann boarded the bus. She had to walk to the very back to sit behind a Jim Crow sign that read “Colored Section”. She had seen such signs all of herlife. A story about the frustration of living in the Jim Crow south, ‘Tricia Ann’s story is a lovely account of hope and freedom.

Bone, Emily; Maclaine, James; Turnbull, Stephanie. (2013). Grasslands.

williams7288 — 2023-11-20 16:07:45 UTC

This is a good informational book on the different animals in the grasslands! This book covers butterflies, prairie dogs, burrowing owls, foxes, meerkats, elephants, and tigers. For each of the animals, information was provided on the shapes and sizes, their habitats, and things they eat. The reader is also able to color in some of the pictures for each animal! Even though the book is geared toward young readers, the information is deep enough for elementary students.

Osborne, Mary Pope. (1996). Sunset of the Sabertooth. [Magic Tree House]

williams7288 — 2023-11-20 16:25:04 UTC

In "Sunset of the Sabertooth" by Mary Pope Osborne, Jack and Annie travel through their magical treehouse to the Ice Age, where they encounter woolly mammoths and a sabertooth tiger. With the help of a new friend named Lucy, they must solve a riddle to find a special object and save the ancient animals. As they navigate this frozen world, Jack and Annie discover the importance of bravery and teamwork. This adventure-packed book is a great choice for kids who love thrilling journeys and learning about prehistoric creatures.

Osborne, Mary Pope. (1996). Midnight on the Moon. [Magic Tree House]

williams7288 — 2023-11-20 16:26:00 UTC

In "Midnight on the Moon" by Mary Pope Osborne, Jack and Annie blast off to the moon in their magical treehouse. Once there, they explore the lunar landscape, discovering secrets and meeting interesting creatures like moon mice. The siblings must solve riddles and face challenges to find a special object that will help them return home. Packed with excitement and fascinating facts about space, this book is perfect for young readers who dream of intergalactic adventures.

Osborne, Mary Pope. (1997). Dolphins at Daybreak. [Magic Tree House]

williams7288 — 2023-11-20 16:27:17 UTC

In "Dolphins at Daybreak" by Mary Pope Osborne, Jack and Annie discover a magical treehouse near the beach that transports them back in time to an ocean filled with playful dolphins. To find their way home, the siblings must solve a riddle and navigate the challenges of the sea. Along the way, they encounter fascinating marine creatures, learning important lessons about teamwork. Packed with excitement and fun facts about the ocean, this book is a perfect choice for young readers who love magical journeys and underwater wonders.

Osborne, Mary Pope. (1997). Ghost Town at Sundown. [Magic Tree House]

williams7288 — 2023-11-20 16:29:18 UTC

In "Ghost Town at Sundown" by Mary Pope Osborne, Jack and Annie find themselves in a Wild West adventure after traveling through their magical treehouse. They arrive in a dusty ghost town and meet a mysterious cowboy named Slim. To solve a riddle and help a friendly ghost, the siblings must be brave and face the challenges of the Old West. Along the way, they encounter horses, stagecoaches, and even outlaws. Packed with excitement and interesting facts about the Wild West, this book is a thrilling choice for young readers who enjoy time-traveling escapades and cowboy tales.

Osborne, Mary Pope. (1998). Lions at Lunchtime. [Magic Tree House]

williams7288 — 2023-11-20 16:30:26 UTC

In "Lions at Lunchtime" by Mary Pope Osborne, Jack and Annie's magical treehouse transports them to the vast African savannah. Surrounded by incredible wildlife, they encounter friendly giraffes and elephants. However, their adventure takes a thrilling turn when they face lions. To solve a riddle and find a way back home, Jack and Annie, along with their new friend Mdu, must navigate the challenges of the wild and learn valuable lessons about courage and teamwork. With vivid descriptions and exciting encounters, this book is a captivating choice for young readers who love stories of exploration and the fascinating world of African animals.

MacLachlan, Patricia. (2016). The Poet's Dog

williams7288 — 2023-11-20 21:33:53 UTC

This is a heartwarming story about Teddy, a dog who talks and loves poetry. When a snowstorm separates him from his owner, a poet named Sylvan, Teddy rescues two kids, Nickel and Flora. Together, they share a magical adventure filled with friendship and courage. The book is a sweet tale that shows how special bonds can form between animals and kids, and how love and poetry can help us through tough times.

Shannon, David. (1998). A Bad Case of Stripes

williams7288 — 2023-11-20 21:44:22 UTC

This is a whimsical tale that follows the colorful journey of Camilla Cream. Camilla loves lima beans but worries about what her classmates will think, so she decides to hide her true preferences. As a result, Camilla's body starts transforming into a variety of patterns and colors, mirroring her attempts to conform to others' expectations. Her condition becomes increasingly complex and bizarre, drawing the attention of doctors and experts who cannot figure out the cause. It takes the wisdom of a kind old woman and a surprising dose of lima beans to help Camilla realize the importance of being true to herself.

Munson, David. (2000). Enemy Pie

williams7288 — 2023-11-20 21:44:27 UTC

This is a heartwarming tale about a young boy navigating the complexities of friendship and misunderstandings. The story begins with the boy realizing that he has an "enemy" in the neighborhood, and he seeks guidance from his father. His dad shares a magical recipe for "enemy pie" but with a twist—the boy must spend an entire day with his supposed enemy before sharing the pie. Reluctantly, the boy follows his dad's advice, spending a day getting to know his neighbor and discovering their common interests. As they share experiences, the boy realizes that his enemy is not so different after all, and by the end of the day, they become fast friends.

Roy, Jennifer. (2006). Yellow Star.

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 00:48:40 UTC

This is a true story about a brave girl named Syvia who lived during a time called the Holocaust. She had to wear a yellow star on her clothes because she was Jewish. The book tells us about her life in a place called the Lodz Ghetto, where she faced many challenges. Through all the tough times, Syvia shows us how strong and brave kids can be even when things are really hard.

Hesse, Karen. (1992). Letters from Rifka.

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 01:17:44 UTC

This is a heartwarming story about a brave girl named Rifka, who leaves her home in Russia in 1919 to escape danger. As Rifka travels to America with her family, she faces many challenges, including contracting ring worm that separates her from her loved ones on Ellis Island. The story unfolds through the letters Rifka writes to her cousin Tovah, sharing her adventures and dreams. Along the way, Rifka discovers the power of hope and the importance of family.

Lowry, Lois. (1989). Number the Stars. [Newbery Winner]

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 01:23:02 UTC

This is a compelling historical novel set in Denmark during World War II. Best friends Annemarie Johansen and Ellen Rosen face the harsh reality of the Nazi occupation as the Germans begin to target Jewish families. When Ellen's life is in danger, Annemarie's family takes her in and devises a plan to keep her safe. The story unfolds with suspense and bravery as the characters navigate the challenges of living under occupation. Filled with themes of sacrifice, resistance, and the strength of friendship, this book paints a vivid picture of courage in the face of adversity, making it an inspiring and impactful read for young audiences.

Clements, Andrew. (1996). Frindle.

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 01:24:52 UTC

Nick Allen loves to come up with creative ideas. One day, Nick decides to invent a new word for pen, calling it a "frindle." His idea spreads like wildfire, and soon everyone in his school is using the word. This creates a hilarious and sometimes chaotic situation as the students rebel against their language-loving teacher, Mrs. Granger. The story explores the power of words, friendship, and creativity as Nick and his classmates embark on a delightful adventure of language and imagination. It's a tale that shows how a simple idea can have big and unexpected consequences.

DeClements, Barthe. (1981). Nothing's Fair in Fifth Grade.

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 01:27:10 UTC

Jenny's life gets turned upside down when a new student, Elsie, joins her class. Jenny and Elsie start off as rivals, but as they get to know each other, they discover common ground and become friends. The story explores themes of friendship, understanding, and empathy as Jenny learns to look beyond surface differences. It also touches on important topics like bullying and the impact of family situations on children's lives. With relatable characters and a heartwarming narrative, the book is a great read for kids navigating the challenges of school and friendship.

Hesse, Karen. (1997). Out of the Dust. [Newbery Winner]

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 01:31:29 UTC

"Out of the Dust" by Karen Hesse is a compelling tale set in the challenging times of the Dust Bowl in the 1930s. We follow the life of Billie Jo Kelby, a young girl living on an Oklahoma farm, as dust storms wreak havoc on her family's land and well-being. Through Billie Jo's heartfelt diary entries, we witness her journey of resilience and self-discovery in the face of loss and hardship. The book beautifully explores themes of family, determination, and hope, making it a touching and inspiring read for young readers.

DiCamillo, Kate. (2000). Because of Winn-Dixie.

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 01:37:21 UTC

This is a delightful story about a young girl named Opal who moves to a new town with her preacher father. One day, she discovers a lovable stray dog in a Winn-Dixie grocery store and decides to keep him. She names him after the grocery store. Opal and Winn-Dixie become fast friends and embark on a series of adventures in their quirky Southern town. Through Winn-Dixie, Opal forms meaningful connections with diverse characters like Miss Franny, the librarian, and Gloria Dump, a wise older woman. As Opal copes with the absence of her mother and grapples with growing up, Winn-Dixie's companionship helps her learn valuable lessons about love, acceptance, and the importance of understanding others.

Kinney, Jeff. (2007). Diary of a Wimpy Kid.

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 01:40:21 UTC

This is a story that follows the life of Greg Heffley as he navigates the ups and downs of middle school. Greg is just trying to survive the chaos of adolescence, from dealing with his pesky older brother Rodrick to trying to climb the popularity ladder with his best friend Rowley. The book is presented as Greg's personal journal, complete with hilarious illustrations that capture the humor and awkwardness of his daily experiences. Readers get to join Greg on his quest for popularity, his attempts to impress his crush Holly Hills, and his various misadventures that include everything from sleepovers gone wrong to failed attempts at becoming a class clown.

Levy, Elizabeth. (1997). My Life as a Fifth Grade Comedian.

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 01:41:29 UTC

This is a delightful tale that follows the entertaining journey of Bobby Ellis, a fifth-grader with a knack for making people laugh. Bobby faces typical challenges of adolescence, like adjusting to his new glasses and dealing with a school bully. When his teacher announces a class talent show, Bobby seizes the opportunity to showcase his comedic talents. The story intricately weaves together Bobby's amusing adventures, his creative attempts at comedy, and the ups and downs of school life. As Bobby navigates friendships and discovers the true power of humor, young readers are treated to a detailed and heartwarming exploration of the joys and challenges of growing up. With funny jokes, relatable moments, and a touch of wisdom, this book offers a rich reading experience for kids who enjoy humor and heartfelt stories.

Howe, Deborah and James. (1979). Bunnicula: A Rabbit-Tale of Mystery.

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 01:48:55 UTC

"Bunnicula" by Deborah and James Howe is an enchanting story about a lovable pet bunny named Bunnicula. When the Monroe family finds Bunnicula at a movie theater, they decide to adopt him into their home, thinking he's just an ordinary rabbit. However, their cat Chester becomes suspicious when he notices Bunnicula's strange behavior, like staying up at night and hissing at vegetables. Chester becomes convinced that Bunnicula is a vampire bunny, sucking the juices out of vegetables. The story unfolds through Chester's humorous and imaginative narration, as he teams up with Harold the dog to uncover the truth about Bunnicula.

Cleary, Beverly, (1975). Ramona the Brave

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 01:51:59 UTC

Follow the adventures of Ramona Quimby, a spirited and imaginative girl. Ramona is in first grade now, and she faces new challenges like riding the school bus and dealing with a bossy teacher. She's determined to prove her bravery, especially when her older sister Beezus gets annoyed with her. Ramona's vivid imagination leads to hilarious situations, like the infamous "egg-cracking incident" at school. Through it all, Ramona discovers the importance of being true to herself and facing her fears with courage.

Clarke, Jane. (2017). Dr. Kitty Cat: Pumpkin the Hamster.

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 01:55:56 UTC

The story revolves around Dr. KittyCat, a feline veterinarian, and her trusty assistant, Peanut the mouse. In this particular adventure, they meet a little hamster named Pumpkin who is feeling very tired and sleepy all the time. Dr. KittyCat and Peanut embark on a medical mission to figure out what's wrong with Pumpkin and help him feel better. Through a series of fun and friendly examinations, they discover the root of Pumpkin's sleepiness and come up with a clever solution.

Yates, Elizabeth. (1950). Amos Fortune: Free Man. [Newbery Winner]

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 01:58:17 UTC

This is a detailed and inspiring biography of Amos Fortune, an African man who faced extraordinary challenges during his life. Born a prince in Africa, Amos is captured by slave traders and transported to America. Despite the hardships of slavery, Amos remains resilient and determined to forge his own path. He learns valuable skills, including the art of blacksmithing, and eventually buys his freedom. The story not only explores Amos's personal journey but also delves into the complexities of the time, offering young readers a nuanced understanding of history, human strength, and the pursuit of freedom. The book paints a vivid picture of Amos's character, his relationships, and the indomitable spirit that led him to become a free man and a respected member of his community.

Viorst, Judith. (1972). Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day.

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 02:01:38 UTC

This is a classic children's book that takes young readers on a relatable and humorous journey through a particularly challenging day in the life of Alexander. From the moment Alexander wakes up, things go wrong. He experiences a series of mishaps, frustrations, and disappointments, from finding gum in his hair to facing perceived injustices at school. Throughout the day, Alexander repeatedly declares that he wants to move to Australia to escape his troubles. However, by the end of the story, Alexander's mother reassures him that everyone has bad days, even in Australia. The book is not only entertaining but also provides a valuable lesson about resilience and the universal experience of facing tough times.

Flournoy, Valerie. (1985). The Patchwork Quilt.

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 02:02:03 UTC

This is a heartwarming story about a grandmother and her granddaughter, Tanya. Grandma is making a special quilt that holds the memories of their family. When Grandma becomes ill, Tanya decides to finish the quilt with the help of her mother and other family members. Each patch in the quilt represents a special memory or moment, and as they work together, they share stories and celebrate their family history. The quilt becomes a symbol of love, unity, and the cherished connections that bind generations together.

Freeman, Don. (1968). Corduroy

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 02:02:15 UTC

This story tells the heartwarming tale of a little teddy bear named Corduroy who lives in a department store. Corduroy longs for a home and dreams of finding a friend to share his adventures. One day, Lisa comes into the store with her mother and is instantly drawn to Corduroy. However, Lisa's mother points out that Corduroy is missing a button, and they leave the store without him. Undeterred, Corduroy embarks on a nighttime journey through the department store to find his missing button. The next day, Lisa returns to buy Corduroy with her own savings, and they become the best of friends.

Shannon, David. (1998). No, David!

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 02:02:27 UTC

This is an energetic and entertaining picture book that takes young readers on a wild ride with the mischievous and endearing character, David. Each page vividly illustrates David's antics, from tracking mud through the house to causing chaos during mealtime. David's spirited behavior often prompts his mother to sternly say, "No, David!" Despite his missteps, the story beautifully portrays the unconditional love between a child and his mother. The vibrant and expressive illustrations capture the essence of childhood, making it a relatable and humorous exploration of the challenges and joys of growing up.

Keats, Ezra Jack. (1996). The Snowy Day.

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 02:02:37 UTC

"The Snowy Day" by Ezra Jack Keats is a classic picture book that tells the story of a young boy named Peter who experiences the magic of a snowy day in the city. The book captures Peter's adventures as he puts on his red snowsuit and explores the winter wonderland outside. Peter makes footprints, creates snow angels, and even puts a snowball in his pocket to save for later. The story beautifully depicts the simple joy and wonder that a snowy day can bring to a child.

Munsch, Robert. (1990). Love You Forever

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 02:02:57 UTC

This is a touching and heartfelt picture book that follows the enduring love between a mother and her son throughout their lives. The story begins with a mother cradling her newborn son and singing a lullaby that expresses her deep love for him. As the boy grows, the roles reverse, and the son takes care of his aging mother. The book beautifully illustrates the cyclical nature of life, emphasizing the unbreakable bond between parent and child.

Dean, Kimberly and James. (2014). Pete the Cat and the New Guy.

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 02:03:08 UTC

A fun and colorful picture book that follows the adventures of Pete and his friends as they welcome a new friend, Gus the Platypus, to their school. At first, Gus seems a bit different from the other animals, but Pete and his pals quickly discover that everyone has their unique talents and qualities. As they all work together on a school project, they learn the importance of embracing diversity and celebrating each other's strengths.

Joy, N. (2007). The Secret Olivia Told Me

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 02:03:19 UTC

A lovely children's picture book that unfolds a story about friendship, trust, and the power of keeping secrets. In the book, Olivia shares a secret with her friend that is not meant to be told to others. However, the secret starts to spread, and the tale explores the consequences of sharing something that should be kept private. It teaches young readers valuable lessons about the importance of trust, the impact of gossip, and the significance of respecting others' confidences.

Steig, William. (1986). Brave Irene.

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 02:07:35 UTC

This is an adventurous and heartwarming story about a young girl named Irene. Irene's mother, a dressmaker, falls ill just before the Duchess's ball, where she needs to deliver a beautiful gown. Determined to help her mother, Irene decides to brave the fierce snowstorm and deliver the gown herself. Along the way, she faces many challenges, including the strong wind and deep snow. Despite the difficulties, Irene shows great courage and determination. The story teaches young readers about bravery, perseverance, and the love between a mother and daughter.

Pfister, Marcus. (1992). The Rainbow Fish

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 02:07:45 UTC

This is a beautiful and enchanting tale about a fish with shimmering, colorful scales. At first, the Rainbow Fish is admired by all the other sea creatures for his dazzling appearance. However, he becomes lonely as he refuses to share his scales with others. Seeking advice from a wise octopus, the Rainbow Fish learns that true happiness comes from sharing and making friends. Reluctantly, he starts giving away his scales, and in doing so, discovers the joy of friendship and generosity. The story imparts valuable lessons about the importance of sharing, kindness, and the true meaning of beauty.

Cannon, Janell. (1993). Stellaluna.

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 02:07:56 UTC

This tells the enchanting story of a young fruit bat named Stellaluna who becomes separated from her mother and ends up in a bird's nest. Raised by a family of birds, Stellaluna learns to behave like a bird, even though she's different. Despite her efforts to fit in, her natural bat instincts sometimes create amusing and challenging situations. Eventually, Stellaluna is reunited with her bat family, and she learns to embrace her differences while maintaining the friendships she formed among the birds. The story is a celebration of diversity, acceptance, and the strength of familial bonds, beautifully illustrated and engaging for young readers.

Rosenthal, Amy Krouse. (2015). I Wish You More.

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 02:08:06 UTC

This is a delightful and uplifting picture book that celebrates the beautiful moments in life. The story is a series of heartfelt wishes, each accompanied by charming illustrations. From wishes for days of bubbles, giggles, and adventures to wishes for days of quiet and cozy moments, the book expresses the hope for a wide range of positive experiences. The overall message is one of love and optimism, making it a perfect read for sharing warm wishes with someone special. With its sweet and simple language, "I Wish You More" is a touching exploration of the joy and love that life has to offer.

Henkes, Kevin. (1990). Julius, the Baby of the World

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 02:08:23 UTC

Lily is a little mouse who has always been the center of attention until her baby brother, Julius, arrives. Lily is initially thrilled about the new addition to the family but becomes frustrated when everyone showers Julius with attention. Lily declares that Julius is the "baby of the world," and she's not happy about it. However, as the story unfolds, Lily's feelings gradually shift from jealousy to acceptance and love. The book beautifully explores the dynamics of sibling relationships and the evolution of Lily's emotions as she learns to appreciate her little brother.

Scillian, Devin. (2014). Memoirs of an Elf

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 02:08:37 UTC

The story is narrated by an elf just before Christmas, sharing the behind-the-scenes details of Santa's workshop. The elf takes readers on a whimsical journey through the North Pole, revealing the secrets of toy making, gift wrapping, and the bustling preparations for the big night. With a playful tone, the book provides a peek into the daily life of an elf and their dedication to making Christmas magical. The story is filled with humor, charm, and festive illustrations, offering young readers an enchanting and imaginative perspective on the holiday season from an elf's point of view.

Polacco, Patricia. (1994). My Rotten Redheaded Older Brother

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 02:08:50 UTC

Patricia Polacco shares the lively and humorous story of her childhood rivalry with her older brother, Richard. Despite their constant bickering and competition, Patricia recounts how she learns to appreciate her brother's unique talents and how they both grow to recognize each other's strengths. Richard excels in sports and often outshines Patricia, but when it comes to certain situations, Patricia discovers her own strengths and skills. The story beautifully captures the dynamics of sibling relationships, highlighting the ups and downs, the shared memories, and the love that grows despite the rivalry.

Coleman, Evelyn. (1996). White Socks Only

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 02:09:15 UTC

This is a story about a girl named Lillian who visits her grandmother in the South. Excited to play in the park, she learns about signs that say only white people can go there. Curious and brave, Lillian decides to wear her white socks and test this rule. Through her adventure, she discovers important lessons about fairness and making friends beyond what people look like. This heartwarming tale teaches kids about standing up against unfair rules and the power of friendship to overcome differences.

Winter, Jonah. (2010). Here Comes the Garbage Barge!

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 02:09:59 UTC

This is a humorous and environmentally themed picture book that tells the true story of the Mobro 4000, a garbage barge that made headlines in the late 1980s. The book follows the journey of the garbage barge, which sets sail with a load of trash from New York City in search of a place to dump it. Along the way, it faces rejection from various ports, and the garbage barge becomes a symbol of the growing problem of waste disposal. The story cleverly combines humor with a powerful message about the importance of taking care of our planet and finding sustainable solutions for our trash.

Stone, Tanya Lee. (2015). The House that Jane Built

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 02:10:08 UTC

A picture book biography, this is an inspiring story of Jane Addams, a pioneering social reformer and the founder of Hull House in Chicago. The narrative follows Jane's journey as she transforms a neglected mansion into a welcoming space that provides support and resources for immigrants and the less fortunate. Through engaging text and vibrant illustrations, young readers learn about Jane's dedication to social justice and her efforts to create positive change in her community. The book highlights Jane's belief in the power of kindness and compassion, encouraging children to understand the impact of one person's vision and determination to make the world a better place. "The House That Jane Built" is a celebration of civic responsibility and the importance of building bridges to create a more inclusive society.

Shulevitz, Uri. (2008). How I Learned Geography

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 02:10:49 UTC

The story is a memoir of the author's childhood experiences during World War II. Young Uri and his family have to flee their war-torn homeland, and they find themselves in a refugee camp with very little to their name. One day, Uri's father spends the family's precious money on a large map instead of bread. This decision initially upsets Uri and his mother, but as they unfurl the map, they are transported to different lands and exotic places, providing a mental escape from the harsh realities of their current situation. The story beautifully conveys the transformative power of imagination and the ability of a simple map to open up new worlds, offering solace and hope during difficult times.

Stier, Catherine. (2007). If I Ran for President.

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 02:11:08 UTC

This is a children's picture book that follows a young girl as she imagines what it would be like to run for president of the United States. As the story unfolds, the girl explores the various aspects of a presidential campaign, from creating a platform and connecting with voters to engaging in debates and making important decisions. Through vivid illustrations and a straightforward narrative, the book provides young readers with an accessible and engaging introduction to the democratic process. It not only sparks the imagination of children but also encourages them to think about leadership, citizenship, and the responsibilities of being a leader in a fun and informative way.

Martin Jr., Bill; Archambault, John. (1987). Knots on a Counting Rope

williams7288 — 2023-11-21 02:11:39 UTC

This is a special story about a Native American boy and his grandpa. The boy, who is blind, listens to his grandpa tell a tale while making knots in a counting rope. Each knot represents a special moment in the boy's life, and together, they go on a journey remembering these moments. The counting rope becomes a symbol of love, bravery, and the strong connection between the boy and his grandpa. It's a heartwarming story that teaches us about family, courage, and the importance of remembering the good times.