It’s hard for me to believe that it is October! The leaves are beginning to change and thankfully we’re having some cool nights, which are perfect for curling up with your favorite book. We are finally back home after our dream trip of visiting FIVE National Parks and driving over 4500 miles!! It was an amazing adventure, but it feels good to be back home, too. I’m very hopeful that I’ll be talking with you on a much more regular schedule now that our lives have quieted down. I’m beginning that conversation, by once again sharing some kids’ books to remember in the hope that you’ll find some to add to your library list. Maybe you’ll discover some new favorites, or one you might have forgotten from your own childhood.

kids’ books to remember: read alouds

Anna Hibiscus by Antinuk

Four stories about Anna and her West African family as Anna spends her time splashing in the ocean, searching for shells and dreaming of one time seeing snow.

Catwings Return by Ursela K. Le Guin

This is part of the magical series about four cats who use their wings to escape the city.

Lady Lollipop by Dick King Smith

Another book from the author of Babe.

From the publisher’s summary: “Lollipop is no ordinary pig. According to her young trainer, Johnny Skinner, she’s the smartest pig in the entire kingdom. When people stare into Lollipop’s bright, intelligent eyes, it somehow changes them for the better.”

kids’ books to remember: picture books

What a Wonderful World by George David Weiss and Bob Thiele; illustrated by Ashley Bryan

This beautifully illustrated book brings us a needed reminder about all of the small things in life that help to make our lives truly wonderful.

Time for Bed by Mem Fox

An endearing bedtime story which is perfect for all ages.

Youpala, Queen of the Jungle by Youpala and illustrated by Zau

kids’ books to remember: middle grade chapter books

Each Little Bird that Sings by Deborah Wiles

This is a charming story of a 10 year old girl’s struggles as she deals with the changes in her life in a small Mississippi town.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key

Alabama Moon is a true adventure story.

Hank Zipper: The Curtain Went Up, My Pants Fell Down by Henry Winkler and Lin Oliver

This is part of a hillarious series based upon Henry Winkler’s struggles in school as he was growing up. It will engage even the most reluctant reader.

 LINKS FOR MOM AND DAD

If you’re wondering how you might best help your kids this school year, just read this inspiring post.

The Lunchbox Note and storytelling: lifetime lessons

This is a great list of diverse books for your middle grader reader.

Middle Grade Books with Latino Characaters

If you have a Penderwick series fan in your house, here’s special book you need to immediately add to your library hold list!

The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street

I wish you all a wonderful week! Thank you for inviting me into your inbox and into your world.

First of all, I want to send my thoughts and prayers to all of those effected by Hurricane Harvey. I can only imagine how awful it is for everyone. Happily, our country has rallied together and an amazing amount of money has been raised to help those in need. One fund raiser you might not have heard about is KidLitCares: Our Hurricane Harvey Relief Effort. An author I greatly admire, Kate Messner and many other kid’s lit authors and illustrators have begun a relief effort to raise funds for The Red Cross Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund and Global Giving Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund.   I hope you’ll check it out! Now, on to Kids’ Books to Remember!

Well, can you believe it’s September? As I write this, the evenings are getting cooler and the days are shorter. I even have some leaves on my magnolia tree turning a very pretty yellow. How can that be?

I hope school is off to a good start for all of you. Here are some kids’ books to remember to look for at the library. I wish you all cozy evenings as you curl up under a blanket for a family read aloud!

kids’ books to remember: read alouds

Elmer and the Dragon by Ruth Stiles Gann

This is part of the imaginative series from the 50s.

Rabbit Hill by Robert Lawson

This is one of my all time favorites and is told from the point of view of the rabbits. It’s great for all ages, and especially for animal lovers!

Pee Wee Tales by Johanna Hurwitz

kids’ books to remember: picture books

A Bad Case of the Stripes by David Shannon

A fun story about learning to like yourself just as you are.

Komodo! by Peter Sis

“Mad about dragons, the boy who narrates this picture book is pleased when his doting parents decide to take him to Indonesia, home of the Komodo dragon….[The boy] takes the road less traveled through the jungle, where he encounters the dragon of his dreams….Full of intriguing detail….picture book, original in concept and beautiful in design.”–Booklist.

Good Boy, Fergus! by David Shannon

Follow Fegus through his perfect doggy day, except for when it’s time for his bath!

kids’ books to remember: middle grade chapter books

Listening for Lions by Gloria Whelan

This historical fiction book is about a very strong girl who is tricked into a criminal scheme after her parents die in Africa in the Influenza epedemic of 1919.

Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli

A Newberry Award winning classic. Amazon’s summary: “Jeffrey Lionel “Maniac” Magee might have lived a normal life if a freak accident hadn’t made him an orphan. After living with his unhappy and uptight aunt and uncle for eight years, he decides to run–and not just run away, but run. This is where the myth of Maniac Magee begins, as he changes the lives of a racially divided small town with his amazing and legendary feats.”

Inside Out & Back Again by Thanhha Lai

This Newberry Honor book is another historical fiction book based upon the author’s experiences of fleeing Vietnam after the fall of Saigon, and moving to Alabama.

LINKS FOR MOM AND DAD

We all hope our kids will grow up to be readers. This New York Times article will give you lots of ideas.

How to Raise a Reader

If you’re looking for some titles to capture the attention of even your most active child, these might do the trick.

8 interactive Books to captivate your Restless Reader

I always wanted to make sure my kids’ rooms would entice them to curl up and read. If you feel the same way, you’ll find lots of great ideas here!

Kids Room Ideas from the cutest kids book store ever (really it’s amazing) 

Finally, I want to thank you for inviting me into your Inbox. I realize how busy everyone is, and I really appreciate you taking the time to read about some kids’ books! Have a great week!

Can you believe August  is drawing to a close and school is beginning? I feel like the summer is flying by! As this happens, I’m thinking more and more about books I can share with you on Red Canoe this fall as your kids begin the school year. Of course, your calendars will be full with activities, back-to-school nights and homework, but I hope all of you can find a little time each day to read a fun book. It might be listening to an audio book while you’re doing car pool or hurrying to the next activity, or it might be reading an ebook with some of the kids while you wait for a practice or a lesson to conclude. However you find time to squeeze in a bit of reading, just enjoy! And if you’re wondering what you might read, just add these titles from Kids’ Books to Remember to your list for your next library visit!

kids’ books to remember: read alouds

Ruby Lu Empress of Everything by Lenore Look

“Starred Review from School Library Journal. Grade 1-3–Ruby Lu takes her role as Smile Buddy to her deaf cousin, Flying Duck, so seriously that her work suffers, dooming the second grader to a vacation marred by summer school and a repeat of last year’s swimming lessons.”

Pigs Might Fly by Dick King-Smith

By the author of Babe, “It’s impossible to remain unmoved . . . a soaring, heartening fantasy.”—Publishers Weekly

kids’ books to remember: picture books

Imogene’s Antlers by David Small

“Young Imogene wakes up one morning to find she has sprouted antlers. Unflappable, Imogene takes the whole thing in stride; the same cannot be said for her mother, who faints every time her daughter comes into view….The effervescent, softly colored illustrations incorporate all the humor inherent in the tale. A laugh-aloud read-aloud.”–Booklist

The Curious Garden by Peter Brown

I wrote about The Curious Garden in this post, Author, Peter Brown.

Otis by Loren Long

“Starred Review, School Library Journal: PreSchool-Grade 2—Otis is a fun-loving tractor who roams the fields after a hard day’s work and plays in the haystacks. In the barn one night, his engine provides a gentle purr that helps a frightened young calf fall into a peaceful sleep. The two become inseparable.” This is a heart warming book and the first of many Otis stories your kids will love.

kids’ books to remember: Middle Grade Chapter Books

The Fourteenth Goldfish by Jennifer L. Holm

“School Library Journal Review: Gr 4–8—Eleven-year-old Ellie Cruz’s life changes dramatically when her mother brings a teenage boy home one night and she learns it is her estranged grandfather. Melvin is a scientist who has figured out how to reverse aging and is now 13 again.”

Harriet the Spy by Louise Fitzhugh

You might remember Harriet from your own childhood. She’s still observing and recording everything around her and in the process alienating some friends.

Hate that Cat by Sharon Creech

Each short page in this story is written in verse about Jack’s struggle with poetry in Miss Stretchberry’s class. It has lots of humor and is perfect for a reluctant reader.

links for mom and dad

This post is about a new middle grade chapter book you will want to know about. This is a story of friendship and stars a third grade boy on the autism spectrum.

A Boy Called Bat

Do you have a hard time reading to your kiddos, because they just won’t sit still? These titles promise to change that!

Read Alouds for a Child Who Won’t Sit Still

These inspirational posts are from two of my favorite blogs.

Change the World

Education is a Political Act by Donlyn Miller

Have you found some old favorites during your library visits? Have you read a recent story or article about reading that has inspired you? Please share them with all of us in the comments.

As always, thank you for inviting me into your inbox. I write Red Canoe Reader, because my passion is to help moms, dads and kids learn about some great books, and to help kids become lifelong readers. I hope you found some inspiration in something you read today on Red Canoe Reader!

It’s June and we are officially enjoying summer in Michigan. Now that we’re both retired, we can spend a lot more time at our lake house. Our greyhound, Brandy, is spending her first summer here and is loving the freedom, the breezes and the laziness of it all (of course that pretty much describes her life at home, too, but there’s just something about this lake air that makes us all relax a little bit more!).

As I’ve mentioned in the past, I frequently post about new books on Instagram. In case you’ve missed those, I’ve gathered some reviews of my latest favorite picture books to share with you. I learn about picture books by reading fellow instagramers posts and publisher newsletters, which literally takes hours every week, and I’ve narrowed my findings to these favorites in order to help you find the perfect picture books for your kids. All of these books came from my local library, thanks to their great collection, so I hope you can easily find them, too. If there’s a picture book you would really like to read, but it isn’t in your library’s collection, talk to your librarian. Very often they can help you borrow it from another library, or they might even order it for you! I may be a little prejudiced, but librarians are a book lovers best friend!

Jabari Jumps

By Gaia Cornwall

Jabari reminds me so much of myself when I was his age. I was terrified of jumping into a pool, even though my mother had sent me to countless swim lessons. To stand on the side of a pool, let alone a diving board as everyone was expecting me to jump, was completely overwhelming. Even though Jabari feels the same way, he announces to his dad “I’m jumping off the diving board today.” Of course, though, that’s a little easier said than done! Gaia Cornwall’s illustrations capture his fear, but also his determination and courage. I loved that every page included “pool turquoise” in some way, whether it was the sky, the water or the surrounding trees. This helped me feel like I was standing right there on the board with Jabari as he curled his toes around the edge. If you have a little one who may be wondering if they have the courage to jump in, this is a wonderful book that might provide just the encouragement they need to succeed.

We’re All Wonders

Written and Illustrated by R.J. Palacio

A few years ago I was part of a parent child novel study of Wonder, an amazing middle grade book about kindness, empathy and accepting differences. This remarkable book opened up many meaningful conversations among the students, their parents and the staff member participants. In fact, the saying from the book, Choose Kindness, was featured all over our elementary school. Now R.J. Palacio has worked her magic again and has written a picture book to help our little ones gain a better understanding of these concepts. The main character is “an ordinary kid”, who just wants to be accepted by everyone around him, despite his different appearance. He helps us to understand how it feels to be excluded, stared at, pointed at or laughed at and how much it hurts his feelings. Ms. Palacio gently points out that we are all different and all special in our own way. This book will be a great pathway to conversations with all of your kids from toddler through elementary school to help them to understand, “We’re all wonders!” and to “look with kindness and you will always find wonder.”

That Neighbor Kid

By Daniel Miyares

This is a heartwarming wordless picture book about a friendship that develops between a boy and a girl when she moves in next door. They are both a little lonely until they collaborate on building a tree house together. The drawings are black and white in the beginning, but as their friendship blossoms and each of them contributes to building their playhouse, colorful leaves begin to appear. The illustrations show us the sweet expressions on the friends’ faces as they dream and relax together in their new hideaway. I love wordless picture books, because it gives so many opportunities for discussion as you share the story with your little ones. I hope this is a good one for your family!

Newspaper Hats

By Phil Cummings

Illustrated by Owen Swan

Do you remember making newspaper hats? I certainly do! My dad and I had so much fun creating these. It was especially fun using the comics from the Sunday paper when we actually had lots of those! In Newspaper Hats Georgie is visiting Grandpa and wonders if Grandpa will remember him today. Grandpa, who is surrounded with newspapers from bygone years, remembers lots of things from the past such as his mom’s warm bread bread and honey and his fun escapades with his little brother, but he doesn’t know Georgie. That is until Georgie shows him a picture, with Georgie, his dad and Grandpa, all wearing newspaper hats. Then Georgie and Grandpa can’t stop making lots of hats for all of Grandpa’s friends! This poignant story is a special one to share with any of your little ones who are trying to understand why Grandma or Grandpa doesn’t remember them, but also offers hope that somehow your kiddo might be able to find that missing connection with their loved one.

When God Made You

By Matthew Paul Turner

Illustrated by David Catrow

We all want our children to know they are loved and have their own special gifts. This book is a wonderful reminder to your kids that we are all unique, we all fit into God’s divine plan and without them the world would not be the same. The story will help your little ones understand that we are all given talents, and we need to use our talents to create our special place in the world.

David Catrow’s vibrant illustrations bring you joy before you even open the book. When you do, you’ll find the playful and happy drawings just add to the charming verse on every page.

In addition to being a great book to read to all kids, it would also be a perfect baby gift for a special little one, or perhaps a gift for a Christening or Baptism.

Pass it On

By Sophy Henn

This colorful, joyful picture book follows a little girl on a walk through her neighborhood. It begins with the command, “When you see something terrific…smile a smile and pass it on.” She can’t contain her joy when she sees a rainbow, frolics in a pool, swings through a jungle or rides a roller coaster and has to share it with everyone she meets. She discovers that when you “pass it on” a smile or a chuckle makes the world a better place.

What are some new picture books you’d like me to know about? I’d love to hear about them in the comments. Meanwhile, enjoy your summer with your families in the park, at the pool or curled up with a book. These perfect days fly by so quickly!

Last weekend my husband and I spent a wonderful weekend visiting our son and his girlfriend in Virginia. We got to tour Washington D.C. including Arlington National Cemetery, The National Art Museum, The Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, The Vietnam War Memorial and of course, The Lincoln Memorial. It was a whirlwind, but so meaningful, and also so much fun to get to spend time with two of our favorite people. It was very hard to leave after looking forward to our visit for so long. I’m very grateful our son lives just an eleven hour car ride away, after living on the west coast for many years, but it’s still hard to say goodbye.  As I mentioned to him, wouldn’t he like to find a job in Chicago? Actually, though, we’re just thankful that he is happy, healthy, and surrounded with friends, because what more do we want for our kids?!

Now that we’re back home, here’s the latest edition of Kids’ Books to Remember. As always, I hope you find some new favorites!

KIDS’ BOOKS TO REMEMBER: READ ALOUD

Arthur Plays the Blues by Marc Brown

Emily’s Runaway Imagination by Beverly Cleary

A Llama in the Family by Joanne Hurwitz

KIDS’ BOOKS TO REMEMBER: picture books

This week’s books include an old favorite, Bark, George, that I shared with kindergarten and first grade over and over, and they never ceased to roar with laughter. I’ll bet it will have the same effect on your kids!

Bark, George by Jules Feiffer

Duck at the Door by Jackie Urbanovic

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Helen Oxenbury

KIDS’ BOOKS TO REMEmber: chapter books

I have always referred to these books as chapter books, but your kids may call them middle grade books. However you refer to them, they are fiction books that are on grades 4-6 reading level, with content that is appropriate for grade 3 and above. Please don’t shy away from suggesting some these to your middle schoolers, as well, as your younger children. These stories are so good, that they will entice them to keep reading, and isn’t that the goal?

The View from Saturday by E.L. Konigsburg

The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo

Watsons Go To Birmingham — 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis

links for mom and dad

This list is from a great website I’m sure you’ll like, and from one of my favorite librarians (an online friend I greatly admire).

Top Ten Picture Books for Read Alouds by Kate Olson

I am such a big believer in the value of reading aloud to children of all ages. This story, by one of my favorite bloggers, confirms my belief.

The Best of Jim Trelease

I always put a lot of thought into every birthday and Christmas gift for my children through the years. I hope that I gave these gifts as well, especially number 35.

35 Gifts Your Children Will Never Forget

For Mother’s Day, here’s a post and some comments that will remind us to linger awhile, cherish the journey and take time to smell the roses with our children.

Motherhood is Not a Finish Line

First of all, WELCOME SPRING!! We had some teaser days in February, but now maybe we can have the real thing. I’ve missed writing to you during the past few weeks, but we were enjoying 14 days in sunny Florida (here’s a sunset from our trip). Actually, we did have one day of rain and one hot and humid day, but other than that, the weather was great! We spent a lot of time reading, watching the birds off our balcony (Rosette Spoonbills, Ibis, Egrets and Pelicans) and hiking in state parks. We were in Cedar Key, which is very peaceful and laid back. All in all, it was a great change! Now we’re back and I want to share some Kids’ Books to Remember with you to help with your next library trip.

kids’ books to remember: read aloud

The Story of Doctor Dollitle by Hugh Lofting

The Best Loved Doll by Rebecca Caudill

The Adventures of Danny and the Dinosaur Treasury by Syd Hoff

KIDS’ BOOKS TO REMEMBER: picture books

The Man Who Lost His Head by Claire Huchet Bishop and Robert McCloskey

Daisy Gets Lost Chris Raschka

Dog Team by Gary Paulsen

KIDS’ BOOKS TO REMEMBER: chapter books

Two of these chapter books, Redwall and Seekers are book 1 in a series, so if your kiddos like one or both of these, there are lots more for them to read.

Redwall by Brian Jacques

When Zachary Beaver Comes to Town by Kimberly Willis Holt

Seekers, Return to the Wild, #1: Island of Shadows by Erin Hunter

Links for Mom and Dad

The world lost a remarkable person this week, author, Amy Krouse Rosenthal. I have reviewed two of her special books during the past year, I Wish You More and That’s Me Loving You. This is a touching tribute by her dear friend and editor.

Amy Krouse Rosenthal Remembered

Have Struggling or Reluctant Readers? These Hi-Lo Titles Will Keep Them Engaged

harvard PSYCHOLOGISTS reveal: Parents who raise “good Kids” do these five things

Thank you for inviting me into your inbox today. Have a wonderful week!

First of all, you may be wondering about the flowers.  These were a special gift from my son-in-law that brightened my day! Even though we’ve had unusually warm weather, my garden is a long way from blooming. These are helping me wait! Now, on to what I want to share today. There are so many picture books published every week. I follow lots of publisher websites and Twitter accounts, as well as Instagram accounts to help me learn about all of these. I often add the titles to my reserve list at the library, and thankfully I have a great local library which usually has every one. And if they don’t, they are happy to order it! Once I get the books, if I like them, I share them on Instagram. If you’d like to see my favorites, be sure and follow me there. The link is toward the bottom of this page on the right hand side. Or another option is to wait for me to share them on Red Canoe Reader. That’s what I’m doing today! Here are seven picture books you don’t want to miss!

MY WASHINGTON, D.C.

BY KATHY JAKOBSEN

Are you planning a family trip to Washington, DC this spring to see the cherry blossoms and visit some of the museums and monuments? If so, My Washington, DC, is a great book to prepare your kids for the experience. Kathy Jakobsen’s lavish paintings illustrate each stop that the two characters, Becky and Martin, make along their way as they explore our capital. The kids learn lots of little known facts, as well as a lot about history. The book ends with some fun facts about Washington, along with a seek and find throughout the pages in the book. The paintings contain so many details, that your kids will pour over the book for hours. It might even keep them occupied during your travels!

Washington, D.C.; history

the unexpected love story of alfred fiddleduckling

by timothy basil ering

I was completely enthralled by this story. The illustrations are exquisite from the first endpaper to the last. Timothy Basil Ering’s words and paintings draw you into the story as you find yourself rooting for Alfred Fiddleduckling, Captain Alfred, his dog and his wife.  You are hoping they can all find each other in the end, and the magical conclusion on the final pages of the book convinces you this will happen. In between, Ering uses his beautiful words and colorful illustrations to describe Alfred Fiddleduckling’s voyage, his love for the violin and the beautiful music Alfred creates as he drifts through the sea. I heartily recommend this story, that will warm your heart as you cozy up with your kiddos and get to know Alfred.

Caring; friendship; family; perseverance 

that’s me loving you

by amy rosenthal

This sweet book is the perfect one to share with your little one before his or her first day of school, or anytime the two of you will be separated. Amy Krouse Rosenthal’s reassuring text promises that “wherever you are, wherever you go, … that feeling you always have in your heart? That’s me loving you.” I could see this as a graduation gift for your child before they leave for college, or a book that will help your little ones as they struggle to work through their grief over losing a loved one. The simple, muted and whimsical illustrations add to this tender family story. Be sure and look for this on your next trip to the library!

Families; love.; grief

teacup

by rebecca young

Rebecca Young’s lyrical text and Matt Ottley’s magical illustrations tell the story of a young boy who is forced to leave his home and everything he has ever known to find another. All he carries with him is a backpack filled with a water bottle, a book and a blanket, along with a teacup filled with a speck of soil and a few seeds. Sometimes his days are peaceful and sometimes they are filled with peril. But as he travels, the seeds begin to grow, and grow, until he has an apple tree to protect him from the sun, to give him food to eat and to provide a cozy nook for reading. This beautiful story reminds us of what it must be like for the children who are currently fleeing their homelands in search of safety. And of how, even though we all face hardships, with bravery and determination we can succeed.

Determination; bravery; immigration; refugees.

the friend ship

by Kat Yeh

The Friend Ship ✨by Kat Yeh ✨illustrated by Chuck Groenink. Hedgehog is lonely and craves to be surrounded by friends, so he bravely sets sail in search of The Friend Ship. As he and a curious beaver sail along, they encounter animal after animal who also would love to find some friends, but no one has seen The Friend Ship. After sailing the world, Hedgehog’s boat is full of animals, but he’s so sad that he hasn’t found The Friend Ship. He’s instantly surrounded by his shipmates who offer encouragement “you can count on me”, we’ll stick with you till the end!”, and “don’t give up!” He vows to sail on, after all of the reassurances that he will indeed find The Friend Ship, until he meets an elephant on a very small island, who asks “isn’t that it right there?” This tender story will lead to a discussion with your little ones about friendship and the fact that friends are out there waiting for us. We just need to be a friend and to remember to keep looking!

Friendship; kindness; perseverance.

barefoot book of children

BY tessa strickland, kate depalma and david dean

Barefoot Book of Children will help your kiddos better understand the diversity of our world. It reminds us, that although children live in many different places and in many different situations, they all need a home to live in and people to teach them about the world. Barefoot Book of Children will help your little ones understand that there are many different families in our country and in our world. Some may be large, some may have a mom and dad, some may have two dads, some may be a foster family or some families may be yearning for someone who is very far away. The colorful illustrations will lead to a better understanding of our differences and to the fact that even though we eat different foods, play different games, speak different languages and worship differently, we all have love to give and we all have our own story to share.

Families; diversity; differences.

found

BY salina yoon

After reading and loving Salina Yoon’s, Be a Friend last fall, I decided to look for more of her books and I wasn’t disappointed after reading Found. Bear finds a lost bunny in the forest and decides to help the sad little rabbit find it’s home. He posts flyers all over the forest, by the pond and even on the top of the highest tree on the mountain. Sadly, he doesn’t get a response, so he decides to take the sad bunny on a picnic. They have an absolutely perfect day, until…they encounter Moose who is thrilled to find his long lost Floppy. However, Moose knows that sometimes passing along a special toy to someone who will love it very much is the kind thing to do. This heart warming book is full of empathy and kindness messages to share with your little ones.

Empathy; kindness.

That’s all for this time, but look for a post about more of my favorite picture books next month. Meanwhile, have you found some picture books lately that have become family favorites, old or new? We’d love to hear about them in the comments!

I hope you’ve had a good week beginning with the school holiday on Monday. It was wonderful to have such warm temperatures on President’s Day! We had a great dinner with my sister, brother-in-law and niece and nephew on Monday. It was fun to catch up! Then on Thursday, we visited old friends and on Friday we got to take one of our niece’s out for dinner. Now I’m ending my week by sharing some Kids’ Books to Remember with you.

KIDS’ BOOKS TO REMEMBER: READ ALOUD

Hank the Cowdog  by John R. Erickson

Agnes and Clarabelle  by Adele Griffin and Courtney Sheinmel. This is the first book of a new beginning chapter book series that you won’t want to miss.

Judy Moody Predicts the Future  by Megan McDonald

KIDS’ BOOKS TO REMEMBER: PICTURE BOOKS

Freedom Summer  by Deborah Wiles. This is an excellent book that will help your kids better understand our country before the Civil Rights Act was law.

Four Feet, Two Sandals  by Karen Lynn Williams and Khadra Mohammed. This story will help your children develop an understanding of, and develop empathy for the refugee children of our world.

Magic Beach  by Alison Lester. This story will help you prepare for your trip to the beach for spring break!

KIDS’ BOOKS TO REMEMBER: CHAPTER BOOKS

Trixie Belden mysteries, along with Nancy Drew books were my first true favorite series. I was surprised and so happy when I found this on the library shelf!

Trixie Belden, The Mystery at Bob-White Cave  by Kathryn Kenny

Mallory vs. Max  by Laurie Friedman

The following two books are part of a fun series that appeal to both boys and girls.

The Girls Get Even  by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor

Boys in Control  by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor

LINKS FOR MOM AND DAD

In celebration of President’s Day:

Fantastic Kids Books about American Presidents

As you begin to get ready for spring break, here are some audio books that will help your trip go much faster.

Great Audio Books for Kids

This link tells about one of my favorite chapter books of the past year.

Survival and Wildness with Peter Brown

This is a new blog you will want to follow. The Loud Library Lady shares a new series that is bound to become a favorite with your family.

We Love Fenway and Hattie!

Thank you for once again inviting me into your inbox. I’m taking a few weeks off, so Kids’ Books to Remember will return on March 19th. Have a good few, hopefully warm, weeks!

It’s been a rough week and a rough year in our country. No matter, which side you are on, you can’t help but be concerned about what has been said during the past year and how our kids have been exposed to it. Even if we do our best to protect them from the media, they go to school or to sports or to art classes and they hear things we wish they hadn’t. They ask questions, just as we are, about what happens now? If they are older, they may even be anxious. You may be asking, as I am, how can we help them? How can we help our country?

Then I remembered one of my favorite quotes from Fred Rogers.

 “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, 

‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’” – Fred Rogers

After much thought, I realized that the answer, for me, is that I can continue doing what I’ve been doing. I can help you find some children’s books about compassion, kindness and caring to share with your kiddos that might answer their questions, and will definitely lead to some discussions about how they can become helpers. I can assist you in finding some books that will help to instill the values in our children that the world needs to create change, such as the values of kindness, respect, acceptance of differences, compassion and empathy. By doing this, I will try to be one of the helpers, just as Fred Rogers said.

 We don’t know what will happen next, which is always a little scary, but I have faith in the American people, that we will “choose kind”. By working together, we can help our children grow up to be one of the helpers.

I have compiled a list of some childrens books about compassion and caring that I think might be just right for now. Many thanks to Pernille Rip for sharing some of the titles on Instagram, and for inspiring not only the kids in her classroom, but the readers of her blog. She inspired me to write this post about children’s stories about compassion.

Helping Books for Now

Seeds of Freedom, The Peaceful Integration of Huntsville, Alabama, by Hester Bass, illustrated by E.B. Lewis.

We can work together peacefully to make big changes. “It starts with one person; that could be you.”

Good People Everywhere, by Lynea Gillen and illustrated by Kristina Swarner.

“Today millions and millions of people will do very good things. And so will you. I wonder what you will do?”

Courage by Bernard Waber

“Courage is what we give to each other.” Something we all need to become a helper.

Guess How Much I love You by Sam McBratney and illustrated by Anita Jeram

To help reassure our little ones, even if they are sensing our anxiety, that they are loved “right up to the moon – and back.”

Arthur’s Perfect Christmas by Marc Brown

Arthur learns that his friends may celebrate the holidays differently, but they all find joy.

Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse by Kevin Henkes

This charming story will help your little ones understand about apologies and how important they are in a caring world.

What a Wonderful World by George David Weiss and Bob Thiele, illustrated by Ashley Bryan

This beautifully illustrated version of the song made famous by Louis Armstrong, reassures children that there is beauty and kindness in our world.

Love Will See You Through by Angela Farris Watkins, PhD, illustrated by Sally Were Comport

This is Martin Luther King Jr.’s six guiding beliefs, as told by his niece. “Uncle Martin was a man of peace. Love was his way of life. … His life was proof that love will see you through.”

Strictly No Elephants by Lisa Mantchev, illustrated by Taeeun Yoo

This little boy and his elephant show everyone the true meaning of friendship. Friends “help each other, lift each other over cracks, brave the scary things with you, and never leave anyone behind.” May our kiddos find friends, as well as be one.

My Heart Will Not Sit Down by Mara Rockliff and illustrated by Ann Tanksley

Kedi, although she and everyone else in her African village have very little, is inspired to help the children of New York City during the depression, because her heart “will not sit down.” Perhaps Kedi’s story will inspire your little ones’ hearts “to not sit down”, so that they will want to help those around them in a way that they can.

Sidewalk Flowers by Jon Arno Lawson and Sydney Smith

A little girl walks through a gray city with her distracted father and picks flowers along the way. The flowers become gifts to those she encounters, and in the process transforms the city and it’s inhabitants. May your children find beauty in their world and share it with others.

Abe Lincoln’s Dream by Lane Smith

Abraham Lincoln is restless. He wasn’t finished with everything he dreamed of doing for the country in 1865. A little girl takes his ghost on a tour of the country to reassure him that the country is united, however the people of the country still “fuss’n fight with his fellow man. We’re still working on that one,” she replies. This illustrates the fact that our leaders want to do their very best for our country.

Be a Friend by Salina Yoon

The story of Dennis and Joy, how they express themselves and the friendship that follows will encourage your children to reach out to others and to “be a friend.”

Worm Loves Worm by J.J. Austrian and illustrated by Mike Curato

This delightful story celebrates love even though “we’ll change how it’s done”, says worm. It will help your children understand that love is love!

It’s now been a few days since the election and everyone is relaxing a bit. I hope, as questions arise in your families in the days and weeks to come, these “helping books” will lead you to some answers. I also hope you’ll share your ideas about helping books in the comments below. What are your favorites? I’d love to hear about them!

For more books about kindness and compassion, please link to my previous post:

Kindness Picture Books for Kids

After reading about the opening of the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in 2002, I knew I wanted to visit. The museum was founded by Eric Carle and his wife, who after visiting Japan in the 1980s and visiting many picture book museums, decided to create their own picture book museum. This opened in 2002 in Amherst, Massachusetts. It houses over 6000 illustrations in its permanent collection, as well as many more pieces in the many exhibitions which are held every year. The good news is that I get to visit next week! My husband and I are traveling to our niece’s wedding in Doylestown, PA this week. After the festivities and the special family times that are sure to occur, we are taking a road trip to Massachusetts! I plan to take lots of pictures and share them with you once we get back home.

eric carle museum exhibitions

When we made the decision that we would add the museum to our travel plans, I began doing my research. I was delighted to learn that there are three special exhibitions at the Eric Carle Museum this summer, featuring three renown American illustrators, Robert McCloskey, Eric Carle and Louis Darling. After learning this, I checked out many books by these men, and as a result had so much fun revisiting old favorites!

The art of eric carle: hide and seek

During Eric Carle’s fifty year career, he has illustrated more that 70 books. In reading about this exhibit, I was amazed to learn that Mr. Carle has hidden an R and a C in many of his illustrations, which are the first letters of his children’s names. He’s also hidden names of people and places that are important to him. This exhibit invites the visitor to find these hidden gems. We’ll see how well I do!

Americana on Parade: The Art of Robert McCloskey

When I read about this exhibit at the Eric Carle Museum, I couldn’t have been happier. You see, I began a love affair with Robert McCloskey’s books when I was in my Children’s Literature class at Purdue, many many years ago. My professor was friends with Robert McCloskey, so we were extremely fortunate to have him visit our class and talk about his books. I remember him as a quiet man and very kind. I didn’t really realize at the time how amazing it was to have this opportunity to chat with a two time Caldecott Award winner in our small group setting. I look back now and I can’t really believe it! However, I have proof. Here’s my signed copy of Time of Wonder. Two years later my brother started college in Boston, so I was able to have many joyful visits to The Public Garden, the swan boats and of course the duckling statues. And thanks to Robert McCloskey’s books, I also developed a love of the rocky beaches of Maine.

The Eric Carle Museum’s exhibit is in celebration of the 75th anniversary of Make Way for Ducklings. The exhibit of over 90 pieces includes sketches, drawings, watercolors and paintings. I can’t wait!

Louis darling: drawing the words of Beverly cleary

The Eric Carle Museum is celebrating Beverly Cleary’s 100th birthday by presenting this exhibit of Louis Darling’s illustrations of Beverly Cleary’s books. Mr. Darling illustrated Ms. Cleary’s books beginning with her first work, Henry Huggins in 1950 until his untimely death twenty years later. In all, he illustrated twelve of Beverly Cleary’s books. After learning about this exhibit, I visited my local library and was able to find these copies that are illustrated by Louis Darling. After his death, and through the years new copies of her older titles were newly illustrated, but if you look hard you can find some titles with the original illustrations. Here are two that I found!

I’ll be posting again in a few weeks and report on our trip. In the meantime, why don’t you visit your library or peruse your book shelves for copies of Eric Carle’s, Robert McCloskey’s and Beverly Cleary’s books? I’m sure you’ll enjoy revisiting these classics, as much as I did! Can you find the hidden letters in Eric Carle’s books? Let us know in the comments below.