Some researchers have theorized that the reading decline after 3rd grade is because children are not able to comprehend nonfiction as well as they comprehend fiction. True or not, we know that kids are expected to read informational texts much more in the upper grades, middle school, and high school so we must be intentional about asking them to practice reading nonfiction. Providing children with … [Read more...]
Informative Biographies for Children Ages 7 – 17 (New in 2018)
Many kids need encouragement to read biographies but do it -- it's a valuable thing to do. Why? Because biographies show that ordinary people can have extraordinary lives. It helps children be self-reflective, particularly if parents and teachers use biographies for discussion and reflection. Not to mention, reading nonfiction is an important part of developing a well-rounded skill … [Read more...]
80 Favorite Book Character Costumes
Dress up as your favorite book character and have a Happy Bookish Halloween! How about one of these book character costume ideas from the favorite children's picture and chapter books? I've linked to many costumes you can buy and some you can make. Hopefully, this list will inspire you to find a fun book costume that works for you! Favorite Book Character Costumes Alice in … [Read more...]
Picture Book Character Costumes for Halloween
Would your child like a book-themed costume this Halloween? How about one of these picture book character costume ideas? If you have older kids, find chapter book costume ideas here. Also, visit my BIGGEST list of 80+ Book Costume Ideas Picture Book Character Costumes for Halloween Elephant and Piggie by Mo Willems buy elephant costume buy pig costume Fly Guy by Tedd … [Read more...]
Inspiring Children’s Books for Art Loving Kids
Do you have an art loving kid? These books celebrate many aspects of art whether you're an artist or just like to know about art, your kids will love these inspiring picture books and chapter books about trips to the museum, famous artists, and making your own art. Inspiring Children's Books for Art Lovers PICTURE BOOKS The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds Vashti is discouraged -- she is no artist. … [Read more...]
Picture Books About Present Day Indigenous Families
Children often learn about indigenous cultures from history but it's just as important to know that indigenous cultures are still alive and strong in the modern day, too. Picture books like these show Native American and Native Canadian cultures incorporating tradition, culture, and language in the present day. As I find more books, I'll add to this list. Please comment if you have … [Read more...]
More Recommended NEW Chapter Books, Fall 2018
Ready for more new books? I just love so many of these and hope you check them out to see if your kids and students will, too. Recommended New Chapter Books, Fall 2018 Blended by Sharon Draper REALISTIC / COMING OF AGE / DIVORCE Isabella spends one week with her dad and his girlfriend, the next week with her mom and her boyfriend. She hates it. She really hates exchange day when she … [Read more...]
10 Favorite Spooky Chapter Books for Middle Grade Readers
written by Kathie MacIsaac, librarian and middle-grade book lover (full bio below) Do you like to read a book that makes you pull the covers a little tighter around you? Do you enjoy a story that gives you goosebumps, or requires you to sleep with the light on? Many kids love scary stories with ghosts and supernatural forces, but I also like a dark and emotional tale that tugs at my … [Read more...]
Kwame Alexander on New Book, Reading, & Upcoming Tour
Kwame Alexander's books connect to kids. In fact, it's why he's one of the most popular authors of our time --kids can't put his books down! In a recent phone conversation, Alexander shared, "I try to write books that kids are going to want to pick up and not going to want to put down. I'm writing for me, the book that I would want to read and not put down." Well, he succeeds. If you haven't … [Read more...]
The Best Dystopian Chapter Books for Middle Grade Readers (Ages 9 – 12)
You've probably read a dystopian novel or two in high school. (Remember 1984 and Farenheight 451?) This genre gets kids reading a LOT. Although there are more young adult (YA) dystopian novels than middle-grade, don't worry-- there are many great middle grade choices, too. These are my favorite books to introduce your tween kids (ages 9 - 12) to this addictive genre. The Oxford … [Read more...]
Important Slice-of-Life Picture Books
The best books give us a glimpse into other people's lives. Books like these. Richly illustrated and told with simplicity, these picture books will transport readers. When we expose children to a wide variety of experiences in a story they can see themselves in books, travel the world, talk with strangers, and develop deeper empathy. Talk about what you notice. Talk about what might be similar or … [Read more...]
New Mayan Mythology Adventure Chapter Book Giveaway
Disclosure: Disney Book Group is partnering with me for a giveaway! Do you know about Mayan mythology? You will after reading The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes published by Rick Riordan Presents, an imprint of Disney Book Group. Learn more about this new fictional book infused with Mayan mythology at ReadRiordan.com. Then, buy The Storm Runner on Amazon AND/OR enter to win a copy (and $100 Visa … [Read more...]