Hard to believe we’re coming into December but time flies when we’re having fun. Speaking of fun, a shout-out of thanks goes out to Ms. Stella Smith, my favorite BookPal Librarian over at La Ballona Elementary School in Culver City, who introduced me to a WONDERFUL book recently:
Stella Louella’s Runaway Book by Lisa Campbell Ernst (1-4)
Stella’s library book has gone missing, it’s due by the end of the day, but somehow her book is on the move and she can’t seem to find it. Warning! If you’re the type who launches into various voices when given the opportunity, be prepared to have about 10-12 different ones available. I could’ve used that advice before I began reading, but all went well, and it was a great rollercoaster ride for the students, their teacher, and me.
Picture Books (including some beautifully illustrated stories):
Red Leaf, Yellow Leaf by Lois Ehlert (K-2) This author is known for her innovative illustrations and we’re blessed with Autumn for a little bit longer, after all. Lovely book.
The First Day of Winter by Denise Fleming (K-2)
Also known for her bright and cheery illustrations, you just might find yourself singing instead to the familiar tune of “The 12 Days of Christmas” while the story of the making of a snowman unfolds.
Stella, Queen of the Snow by Marie-Louise Gay (K-3)
Stella’s little brother Sam is experiencing his first snowstorm and has lots of questions that Stella does her best to answer for him. This book’s a cutie!
Salt in His Shoes (Michael Jordan In Pursuit of a Dream) by Deloris Jordan (4-6)
Told by his mother with the help of his sister, this is the story of how Michael got his start in basketball. Timely story for the start of this sport’s season.
The Turning of the Year by Bill Martin, Jr. (K-3)
In fine poetic form, this fine author briefly details each new adventure brought on by the changing months and seasons.
The Potato Man by Megan McDonald (4-6)
A grandfather tells a story from his childhood; a lesson learned and remembered with a little “peace on Earth, good will toward men” thrown in for good measure.
In November by Cynthia Rylant (1-4)
I’m not quite ready to let go of November and the story of how animals and people prepare for the winder, is a lovely one by this Newberry Award winner.
Don’t Fidget a Feather! by Erica Silverman (K-3) A story of competition and friendship.
The Lemon Drop Jar by Christine Widman (1-4)
Great-Aunt Emma shares a story from her childhood and her secret to brightening wintery days with her own bit of sunshine.
Non-Fiction Picture Books about Animals, Migration and Hibernation
The Peregrine’s Journey – A Story of Migration by Madeleine Dunphy (3-6)
Other than the Arctic Tern, few birds have as long a migratory route as does the Peregrine Falcon (some 8,000 miles, from Alaska to Argentina). This tale follows hers, as she flies toward her destination.
Honey Paw and Lightfoot by Jonathan London (K-4)
The upcoming season would not be complete without a story about a Grizzly Bear and her cub.
Catching The Wind by Joanne Ryder (K-3)
Imagine waking up and turning into a magnificent Canada goose and following the flock and the call of the wind. A delightful story using the game of “Pretend.”
Home at Last – A Song of Migration by April Pulley Sayre (K-4)
This story describes the various behaviors of the different animals as they “head home” from their respective seasonal journeys.
Flying Squirrel at Acorn Place by Barbara Gaines Winkelman (K-4)
Alright, so maybe this isn’t a story about migration, but it’s a good story, nonetheless, describing the possibly little-known everyday life of a flying squirrel.
Additional Fun Books:
Where is Gah-Ning? By Robert Munsch (1-3)
Gah-Ning, who lives in Northern Ontario, Canada, wants to go on a shopping trip to Kapuskasing. She tries to get there in many different ways, but her father keeps bringing her back; he won’t let her go by herself.
Poppleton in Fall by Cynthia Rylant (K-3)
The adventures of Poppleton the Pig continue in this easy reader.
Short Novels:
The Story of Holly and Ivy by Rumer Godden (K-5)
The loving tale of a lonely runaway orphan girl, an unsold Christmas doll, and a childless couple on Christmas Eve.
The Littles by John Peterson (1-4)
Fast-paced action centering on a colony of 6” people who live inside the walls of the Bigg family’s home and have dramatic escapades with gigantic mice, cats, gliders, and telephones.
Compiled by Karen Rose Richter; Literacy Programs for The Screen Actors Guild Foundation
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