Teachers and parents, do you need suggestions for good read-aloud books for the 4th grade? Research shows that reading aloud, as you probably know, expands vocabulary, improves comprehension, develops imagination, increases attention span, and best of all, engages readers in wonderful stories! What's more, sharing a read-aloud story can offer a wealth of instructional value as well as spark … [Read more...]
What’s New in Middle Grade Books, February 2019
Want to know what's new in middle-grade books? Here's what I've been reading that I want to share with you all. Hope you find something good to read. What's New in Middle-Grade Books, February 2019 Beast Rider by Tony Johnston and Maria Elena Fontanot de Rhoads (pub: 3/19/19) REALISTIC / IMMIGRATION I couldn't put this book down! It's an eye-opening, powerful story of growing up, … [Read more...]
New Middle Grade Books (Ages 8 – 12)
Ready to see what I've been reading? Here's what's new in middle-grade books from realistic to sci-fi to historical fiction. But before I get to the reviews, I did want to address what we talked about a few months back...whether or not I include book reviews of books that aren't positive. So many of you emailed me that it would be helpful for you to know about books that I didn't love. … [Read more...]
Yummy Chapter Books for Foodie Kids (Who Like to Cook and Bake)
Do you have a foodie kid who loves to cook or bake? Or maybe you have a child who isn't interested in foodie topics yet. No matter what, these fictional chapter books are sure to delight and inspire more time in the kitchen. Yummy Chapter Books for Foodie Kids (Who Love to Cook and Bake) Tales for Very Picky Eaters by Josh Schneider (ages 5 - 7) A picky eater's dad presents the options for … [Read more...]
Have You Seen These New Graphic Novels?
If your kids like graphic novels, you'll want to check out these new titles. There's a little bit of everything here -- fantasy, realistic, and sci-fi. Have You Seen These New Graphic Novels? Click by Kayla Miller (pub: 1/2019) REALISTIC Click is an excellent, relatable book about friendships and finding your place --my daughter felt could have been her own story. When the talent show is … [Read more...]
Best Middle Grade Chapter Books of 2018
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...]
11 Ways to Motivate Middle School Students to Read
A teacher recently wrote to me asking how to motivate her middle school students to read more. It's such a relevant question for parents and teachers everywhere. In a time when technology is more alluring than ever and test scores are driving instruction, here are some ways to get our middle grade students excited about reading-- either again or for the first time. And before I launch … [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...]
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...]
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...]
Hook Tweens on Magical Realism with These Incredible Books
Magical realism books aren't like fantasy -- there are no magicians or magical creatures -- this is a genre of realistic stories containing just a little bit of magic. Like the story of a girl on a farm with chickens who have powers. Or a tree in an orchard who grows things that the child most needs. I fell in love with magical realism in college when I read Isabel Allende's House of … [Read more...]