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2.59k reviews by:

librarybonanza


Age: 1st - 3rd grade

"In the midst of a fearsome blizzard, a weary traveler seeks refuge from the cold." Each old gentleman he asks for a room, he is sent to their father. Meant as a storytale, Seven Fathers loses its clarity and intent. The author explains that "we are all connected to the ones who came before us and the spiritual origins that underpin our entire existence." But the story ends too mysteriously without character development. Perhaps in the story told aloud, characters are given in voice but there is nothing to indicate itself in this picture book. Earthy, darker pictures also fail to reveal much characterization. Unfortunately, the author fails to give alternate titles that may lead to other tellings.

Age: 1st-2nd grade

The strong, arrogant Wolf brandishes his bulliness while walking through the woods, requiring praise from familiar folktale creatures as he comes across them. Soon enough he stumbles upon a "little toad of sorts" that may just blow out Wolf's flame.

A short read that would accompany a preschool section that has already introduced other folk and fairy tales. For caregivers, I would suggest this for older children that are already familiar with Little Red Riding Hood, Snow White, and 3 Little Pigs. Not sure what the rabbit is in reference to.

Age: 1st-3rd grade

Although the title doesn't indicate it, this story, based on real events, describes the powerful symbol of the mule in Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s life and Belle the mule's part in the black American's right to vote in the 60s. Although the supplementary material was not strong (no sources, repeated what was said in the fictionalized tale), this book discusses another, more unique part of the Civil Rights Movement, perhaps interesting to students that have already studied it in depth.

Age: K - 2

An underdog tale, Gunner's dedication push him to become Rookie of the Year. This story's greatest pull is its subject matter. Otherwise, the story is somewhat contrite and has a hard time reading aloud.

Age: 1st - 3rd grade

Cute concept where cats can fly, but not poor Caramba. Accompanied with soft illustrations, the humor is suitable for grades 1-3 but the listeners should be introduced to the possibility of cats flying because this story jumps right in as if it was common knowledge.

Age: 1st-2nd grade
Award: Caldecott Honor 2011

Perfect for kids interested in inventions and creatively solving problems--a specialty of Tony Sarg.

Age: Preschool - 2nd grade
Award: 2006 Caldecott Medal
Family: Grandparents

This story begs to be read out loud with a child's wonder and storytelling quality. The artwork is an ode to children's drawings, full of color and movement. As the story describes life at Nanna and Poppy's house, the story keeps coming back to the central theme of the Hello, Goodbye window. Cute and memorable for both the listener and reader.

Age: Preschool - Kindergarten
Award: Monarch Award

While these dust bunnies love to rhyme, one has some reservations about his surroundings. When his/her warnings do not rhyme with the others' game, their ignorance costs them a trip in the vacuum. Ties words and visual pictures well so, although some words may be hard, it is still good for beginning readers.

Age: K - 3rd grade
Award: Monarch award

Zack is certain that second grade will be just as boring as first grade, that is until Miss Smith opens up her magical storybook. Out pours fairy tale characters and magical creatures, knights, pirates, dragons, and mermaids. As each story finishes, the characters go back into the book. When Miss Smith takes a sick day, everyone takes a chance reading from the book. Fun and exciting at first, the characters won't go back until the stories are finished.

A nice piece of history that can be studied for its historical implications. However, this should NOT be read to children. I understand that some people have fond memories of this book when they were children but there are far more fun, engaging picture books out there for children that do not include overtly sexist comments.