Bug Butts

Okay, so kids are always curious about bugs, even if they don't particularly like them. So, how about a book about bug butts? Dawn Cusick has an information book for kids called Bug Butts that has really interesting information and can answer questions for that curious kid. While this book could be of interest to all ages, it does have an AR level of 6.2. So, the younger curious learners will need a buddy to get the most from this book.

Magic Bone

Nancy Krulik has written a fun easy chapter book series called Magic Bone. One title, Follow that Furball (AR level 2.8), tells the story from a dog's point of view on a simple mystery. In this story there are a few funny scenarios with cats and the main character Sparky. This could be a read aloud to K-2 students or an independent read for 2nd-3rd grade. More titles by Nancy Krulik can be found on Amazon, just click this sentence.

My Little Book of Animals

A wonderful book of photos of animals in the natural world is called My Little Book of Animals by Camilla De La Bedoyere. The text is written well giving young readers, as well as those in the 2nd-4th grade, solid general information about animals in multiple environments. The book includes, orcas, kangaroos, ostriches, chameleons, artctic hares, and many others.  There is a simple index listing the 50 different animals presented. This book can be found in the juvenile non-fiction section of the library.

Ms. Hanna is Bananas

A popular easy chapter book series is called My Weird School by Dan Gutman. One of his titles, Ms. Hannah is Bananas (AR level 3.6), has the setting in a lower elementary grade. The characters have silly things that happen with their teachers who keep fun in the classroom. Other titles are Mr. Macky is Wacky (AR level 3.7) and Mrs. Kormel is Not Normal (AR level 3.8). For a full listing of Gutman's titles, click this sentence for the Amazon link.

Leo Lionni books

Leo Lionni has many popular titles that are of interest to the younger reader. One title called Fish is a Fish  (AR level 3.7) is a lively tale of imagination. Fish has a tadpole friend who when he becomes a frog returns and tries to describe to fish all that he sees. Additional favorites are Frederick (AR level 3.1), Swimmy (AR level 2.9), and A Color of His Own (AR level 2.3). Here is the link to Amazon for more Leo Lionni titles (click this sentence). The illustrations are also very well done in these stories describing the world in which we live.

Eric Carle Books

A favorite children's author is Eric Carle. While books are written for the younger reader, older children are still drawn to the colorful illustrations and the stories have some simple life lessons. Some of his titles are: The Very Hungry Caterpillar (AR 2.9), Very Busy Spider (AR 1.3), The Grouchy Lady Bug (AR 2.8), Walter the Baker (AR 3.7), and more great choices. So click here for Eric Carle's titles on Amazon (and no, I'm not getting paid as an Amazon affiliate at this time).

Summer Reading

Summer Vacation is upon us. While playing outside is good for all, we also need to soak in good stories. Many children do not realize the great books and other activities that can be found at the public library. Most libraries have some kind of summer reading program that encourages all family members to keep reading during the summer. So check your local library for special summer events!