Each year, I read and read tons of children's chapter books then deliberate at length about the best. (It's so hard!) These books are my favorites for the year 2016. Also read: The Best Picture Books of 2016 and Best Non Fiction Books of 2016 Best Beginning Chapter Books 2016 New readers, ages 6 to 8, want to read engaging books. So here are my favorite beginning chapter books from 2016 … [Read more...]
Interesting Nonfiction Books for Kids
You might want to add these interesting nonfiction books to your kids' collections or classroom bookshelf. Interesting Nonfiction Books for Kids Charles Darwin: Around-the-World Adventure by Jennifer Thermes From the time he was a boy, Charles Darwin loved nature and collecting. As an adult, he observed and studied the natural world of South America. This richly illustrated and interesting … [Read more...]
13 Marvelous New Fantasy and Science Fiction Chapter Books
Check out these marvelous new fantasy and science fiction chapter books! From serious to funny, these chapter books are practically guaranteed to spark your child's interest in reading. 13 Marvelous New Fantasy and Science Fiction Chapter Books Mighty Jack by Ben Hatke FANTASY / FAIRY TALE (ages 7 - 10) My 11-year old and I devoured this book by one of our favorite graphic novelists only to … [Read more...]
Painful, Hopeful Growing Up Stories: New Realistic Fiction
Growing up stories show us painful challenges and hopeful futures. These coming of age middle grade fiction books tackle the tough job of showing a realistic character who matures throughout the story, finding his or her place in the world. And because some of you are curious, I don't review everything I read. (And, I can't possibly read everything ever published even though it was my childhood … [Read more...]
These Picture Books Will Make You Laugh
Kids LOVE funny picture books. Well, who doesn't want a book that will make you laugh?! I know these new picture books (2016) will get you giggling and chortling. These Picture Books Will Make You Laugh Dragon Was Terrible by Kelly DiPucchio, illustrated by Greg Pizzoli What a funny story with fantastic illustrations! Kids will love this naughty dragon who scribbles in books, steals candy … [Read more...]
Beautiful! 101 Books to Read Before You Grow Up
Both a list of recommended books and an interactive journal, 101 Books to Read Before You Grow Up: The Must-Read Book List for Kids by Bianca Schulze, is a beautiful tribute to children's literature, designed to encourage readers to read and expand their worlds. Beautiful because it's about children's literature and beautiful in it's playful presentation as well. 101 Books to Read Before You Grow … [Read more...]
Entertaining and Wise, The Inquisitor’s Tale Is a Must-Read
"There are some people in this world who have magic in them. Whose very presence makes you happier. Some of those people, it turns out, are children." The Inquisitor's Tale: Or, The Three Magical Children and Their Holy Dog by Adam Gidwitz, illustrated by Hatem Aly immerses us in a story rich with layers of meaning, filled with questions of faith and prejudice, about three children: Jeanne, a … [Read more...]
Best Books for Boys
In my experience, most boys have different interests than most girls. YES, it's a generalization. Although in this case, it's for a specific purpose -- FOR READING. Boys (and girls) like to read what's interesting to them. They also want good books. And that's why I've made this list of books that generally appeal to a boy's interests. Because sometimes it just takes that right book to get a boy … [Read more...]
Meaningful Realistic Chapter Books
Books don't just entertain us, they enlarge our worlds. Realistic books especially. John Green wrote, "Great books help you understand, and they help you feel understood." These realistic fiction books, for ages 8 - 12 years old (middle grade), are opportunities for kids to feel a range of emotions, to build empathy, and to find connection, to feel less alone in the world; that whatever … [Read more...]
Summer Vacation Books About Summer Vacation
The hot summer months provide many reading opportunities. Make your summer reading more summery with books about . . . yes, you guessed it, . . . summer vacation! Here are middle grade chapter books about camp, vacation, friendships, trips, and other summer time adventures. Enjoy! Summer Vacation Books About Summer Vacation Judy Moody and the Not Bummer Summer by Megan McDonald (ages 6 - … [Read more...]
Delicious New Middle Grade Books
Want to read the latest in middle grade fiction (chapter books for elementary students in grades 3 - 6)? Today's group of new 2016 books contain original plots and memorable characters. They'll spark your compassion, imagination, and sense of humor. New Middle Grade Chapter Books Unicorn vs. Goblins Another Phoebe and her Unicorn Adventure by Dana Simpson HUMOR My family thinks I'm nuts … [Read more...]
Fantastic New Chapter Books
Which of these fantastic new chapter books will your kids want to read first? The disappearing cousin in London? The lonely girl with a passion for stars? The history of Crazy Horse? So many books, so little time. I hope you find these books as interesting as me! Fantastic New Chapter Books Warren the 13th and The All-Seeing Eye: A Novel by Tania Del Rio, illustrated by Will Staehle I loved … [Read more...]