12-year-old Derek Fallon, like many kids, can’t wait for summer vacation. However, there is one wrinkle: he has to read three books before school begins again. Even though Derek is labelled a reluctant reader, that’s not really true. He enjoys reading, as long as the material is along the lines of Calvin & Hobbes. And there are other more important things to do: like hanging out with his best friend, Matt, and cooking up schemes that his parents do not exactly appreciate. So, Derek is devastated when his mother determines that her son would benefit from attending Learning Camp.
But Derek’s focus changes when he discovers a ten-year-old newspaper clipping in the attic. The article describes the death of a babysitter who, while saving her two-year-old charge, was caught in a riptide on a beach on Martha’s Vineyard. When he asks about the story, Derek learns that he was the little boy. With mixed feelings, he does some research, and hatches a plan to convince his parents to take a vacation there. When the family arrives on the island, they are surprised to learn the truth of what happened that fateful day–relieving not only Derek but his parents from the guilt that has been part of their lives.
Told with a perfect combination of humor and sensitivity, Derek’s story is complemented by his amusing drawings (penned by the author’s teenage son, Jake Tashjian) illustrating the meanings of vocabulary words.
Janet Tashjian’s gem is sure to be a favorite with kids, especially if, like the hero of the story, reading isn’t their thing. Derek is likable, smart, and creative. A word of caution: even if a kid isn’t a reader, he or she might become one after reading Derek’s tale. (Great news: his adventures continue in My Life as a Stuntboy and My Life as a Cartoonist!)
One rainy day, a young caterpillar named Farfallina meets Marcel, a gosling. The two youngsters become fast, inseparable friends. As spring turns into summer, Farfallina and Marcel play games (each careful not to engage in activity too difficult for the other) and enjoy their time together. However, one day, the caterpillar does not feel right, and goes up into a tree to rest. Marcel, devoted friend that he is, waits and waits for her return. When Farfallina does not reappear, the young goose sadly wonders if he will ever see his beloved companion again. The marvelous conclusion to this heartwarming tale puts Holly Keller’s timeless treasure alongside the greatest friendship stories of all time.
In a kingdom far, far away, live three little dragons. The realm is also home to the Good Knight, who keeps faithful watch from his tower. One night, the Good Knight hears a loud roar. When he dutifully goes to investigate, who does he find but a pajama-clad young dragon who wants a drink of water before bed. Being a Good Knight, the dedicated guardian complies–then returns to his tower. He is on watch for only a short time when another loud roar sounds through the night. When the Good Knight arrives at the cave, another little dragon is waiting for him. After tending to her needs, he makes his way home, only to be summoned again, and a fourth time. The Good Knight’s introduction to the three little dragons is the beginning of something wonderful in the world of children’s literature. Little people (and their parents) will smile at the familiarity of the bedtime scene. And everyone will be delighted by the further adventures of the Good Knight and his new friends.
A mother bird watches with excitement as her eggs hatch. When all seven youngsters have emerged from their shells, they immediately begin a chorus of “Feed us! Feed us!” The new mother immediately responds, flying off to find food for her brood. As each baby is fed, he falls asleep–but the remaining hatchlings take up the chant. Naturally, the increasingly exhausted mama bird rushes to fulfill their needs, until every tiny bird is satisfied. This treasure begs to be read aloud, and listeners will have a marvelous time shouting out the refrain. (And mommies will love the spot-on ending!)
Ella knows what a story needs to be perfect. It should have words like “Once upon a time.” And, of course, a princess, fairies, and funny and exciting parts are important. But there is one thing a story doesn’t need: bears. Once having made her preferences known, Ella begins her tale. However, unknown to the storyteller, a bear not only makes an appearance, but is an important part of the story. Hilarious.
Ant is thrilled: the king has invited her to a dinner party. She is careful to arrive on time, and uses her best table manners. However, the same cannot be said for the king’s other guests. As they grab food and otherwise act horribly, the royal host says nothing. Things reach a crescendo when a cake is passed around the table. The elephant takes half, and each succeeding guest takes half of what is left. By the time the cake reaches poor Ant, the piece is too small to divide, and crumbles under the knife (leaving nothing for the king). Embarrassed, she offers to bake a special cake for her host. Another participant promises two cakes, another four, and so on. This rib-tickling story will have kids laughing so hard, they may not realize they are learning several math concepts (and a lesson in proper behavior, as well).
Aside from being an enjoyable story, this is an unforgettable and poignant tale. When Ruben Plotnick, the zany kid everybody likes, wants to come over to do homework, David is apprehensive. What will Ruben think of his grandmother, who suddenly begins talking to her husband (who passed away years before) and acting strangely? Will he make fun of her at school the next day? What really unfolds is what makes this story memorable. There is so much food for thought and discussion here beyond the obvious theme of dementia and its effects of family members. Friendship, popularity, not judging by appearances or first impressions, and the many facets that make up a human being are all topics that can be explored.
Yes, it was originally published in 1993, but I’m including this book for two reasons. Firstly, it was republished in 2010 with new illustrations. Secondly, Babara Goldin’s timeless tale merits inclusion on anyone’s list of favorites. As the story opens, young Hershel, the only blind boy in his European village, enjoys spending time at the riverbank, creating structures out of mud–and catching a frog whenever he can. Typical of boys everywhere, he is not above creating interesting “diversions” in class when he is bored. Yet he also feels concern for the difficulties he causes his widowed mother when he comes home with mud-caked clothing or she must appease his teacher after Hershel’s latest escapade. He longs to be a help to her, not only by performing mundane chores, but in a real way. Hershel discovers his chance when he is visited in a dream by an angel, who encourages him to make what he sees. Inspired, the boy locates the dough his mother warned him not to touch–with results that change not only people’s perceptions, but his future as well.
Mary Batten takes science books to a whole new level. Two pajama-clad girls learn about the sleep habits of a number of different creatures, and we join them in their journey of discovery. In simple prose, the author provides basic information, which is expanded upon on each page. Combined with illustrator Higgin Bond’s detailed art work, this wonderful book is more than just another animal book. It’s a treasure.
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