What are the best middle-grade books of 2018? I've picked my favorite books of the year. Books that transported me to other worlds, made me feel deeply, and inspired me to think about big issues. And these books are so well written, I couldn't put them down. Comment if you've read any of these or you want to share other favorites! Find ALL these books on my Amazon store here. If you're curious … [Read more...]
12 Novels in Verse (That Get Kids Reading)
Have your tween kids tried reading novels in verse, stories written in free verse or prose? The text looks easy to read which often entices reluctant readers but dive deeper and you'll find compelling stories filled with heart, important themes, and precise language. I first fell in love with novels written in verse as an elementary fifth-grade teacher reading Love That Dog by Sharon Creech … [Read more...]
7 Middle-Grade Chapter Books I’m Loving, Summer 2018
As summer wraps up, I wanted to share some of my new favorite middle-grade titles. If you like historical fiction, Lifeboat 12 is a must-read. Artists will love The Frame-Up mystery novel. Fantasy lovers, you don't want to miss the enchanting Willa of the Wood whose beautiful cover is one of my favorite covers EVER. But, there are even more good books on this list. See for … [Read more...]
8 New Middle-Grade Books, July 2018
If you're looking for new middle-grade books for your kids or students, these eight won't disappoint. I particularly want to highlight The Rhino in Right Field, The Adventures of a Girl Called Bicycle and The Jigsaw Jungle. But all the books on this list are great! 8 New Middle-Grade Books, July 2018 The Rhino In Right Field by Stacy DeKeyser HISTORICAL FICTION I loved this … [Read more...]
Riveting Robot Books for Kids
Robots rock, right? (See what I did there? rrr ...) Get your STEM-loving kids jazzed about robots with these books all about robots! From picture books to nonfiction tomes, these books will get your kids excited about robotics. Riveting Robot Books for Kids The Robot Book by Heather Brown This robot has two eyes, two arms, and two legs, but what really makes him tick? Inside The Robot Book, … [Read more...]
Travel the World: Books for Kids About Japan and Japanese Culture
Travel to Japan by reading picture books and chapter books that are set in Japan and show Japanese culture and traditions. Books help kids learn about different countries and their cultures. For me, the book Shogun first got me interested in Japanese culture. I wonder what it will be for your kids? Happy travels! Picture Books About Japanese Culture My First Book of Japanese Words: An … [Read more...]
Children’s Chapter Books Set in South and Southeast Asia
Are you looking for chapter books for kids that take place in south and southeast Asia? Specifically Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Vietnam? Or you might be looking for stories in Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist countries. Find more about these countries and religions in this list of novels. Isn't it wonderful that we can connect to the larger world through stories? … [Read more...]
22 Magical Children’s Books About Unicorns (Picture Books & Chapter Books)
Does your child love unicorns? Of all the magical creatures in the world, unicorns are probably the most beloved by children. Celebrate these fantastical creatures with memorable stories -- in picture books for younger readers and chapter books for older readers. And, if you find out that unicorns are real, will you let me know? Because I'm almost positive they're out there … [Read more...]
What’s Good in New Middle Grade Books
I've been reading new middle grade books, as I do. :) Here are my favorite choices from the new release bookshelf for spring 2018. What's Good in New Middle Grade Books Elementals: Ice Wolves by Amie Kaufman FANTASY If you like adventurous fantasy stories with unique plots, this book is for you. Homeless, orphaned 12-year old twins, Anders and Rayna, unexpectedly discover that they … [Read more...]
Children’s Books About Aging, Memory Loss, and Alzheimer’s
As grandparents grow older, we must often help our children understand about aging, memory loss, and even, Alzheimer's. These picture books and chapter books tell stories that will help you learn more about and discuss old age and the changes that may go with it. It can be a confusing time for children. (And us!) I hope these books help. Children's Picture Books About Aging, Memory Loss, … [Read more...]
Recommended Books for Kids About Families with Divorced Parents
Are you looking for recommended books that show families with divorced parents? Children's books with divorced parents (picture and chapter books) help kids know that other kids experience similar family situations as them. Bibliotherapy! This is a good thing. And I have lots of books to recommend... Recommended Picture Books About Divorce Thee picture books show your children what it can be … [Read more...]
Books for Kids with Characters on the Autism Spectrum
Reading books with characters on the autism spectrum like these picture and chapter books validates, educates, and develops empathy in our kids. I love using books to inform and spark conversation. I hope these books help you have rich conversations and new understanding about autism. There's a saying that when you've met one person with autism, you've met one person with autism meaning that … [Read more...]