As promised, I’m returning to one of my favorite pastimes–talking about and recommending fantabulous books for kids of all ages (even the grown-up variety). Here are a few perennial favorites that I’m sure you will enjoy as much as we in Libraryland do.
What happens when two friends enthusiastically divide various delectable treats into halves, thirds, and fourths? You get a delicious–and entertaining–introduction to fractions! When the kids joyfully eat what they have divided–with a little help from a ravenous dog–the fun multiplies. Kid-friendly recipes round out this winner. Ages 4-8
Sunny Meerkat is growing tired of life with his family in the Kalahari Desert, and feels he needs a change. So he packs his suitcase and sets off to visit various meerkat relatives (all members of the mongoose family). In a series of postcards home, which the reader can flip open, Sunny describes his experiences. Adorable illustrations add to this humorous (and–yes–informational) tale by a master. Ages 5-8
Raphael is a haughty prince who believes no one can match his beauty, intelligence, and wealth. In fact, he has all he desires, except one thing: for his beloved father, before he died, decreed that Raphael would not be king until he found a wife who was his equal in every way. When the beautiful and wise Rosamund appears at the palace (sent by a mysterious talking wolf) the proud prince believes he has found her. However, Rosamund proves that she has more than he, and that Raphael must become worthy of her. Stunning illustrations accompany this incredible tale. Magnificent. Ages 8-11
Jay Berry Lee is a happy 14-year-old living on his parents’ homestead when he makes an unexpected discovery: some monkeys have taken up residence at the creek bottoms. When he learns that they have escaped from a traveling circus, and there is a reward for catching them, Jay Berry enlists the help of his reluctant grandfather to capture the critters. This funny, warm story is vintage Wilson Rawls. A great read-aloud for all ages. Ages 11 up
13-year-old twins Dallas and Florida have been through a string of horrendous foster homes, and are not convinced that they will ever find a perfect one. So, when they are informed that they are being sent to live with an elderly couple, the teens are understandably suspicious. However, the Moreys are not like anyone Dallas and Florida have experienced. Another blockbuster from the magical pen of Sharon Creech. Ages 9-13
April is 16 and wants what many girls do: to enjoy life as an American teen and be able to plan her own future. Her problem: a very traditional Chinese grandmother, who has very different ideas about a woman’s role and place. What’s a girl to do to maintain a relationship with the grandmother she loves and live her life as well? A humorous, sensitive story. Ages 12 up
