Children

They say never to “judge a book by its cover,” but how do most of us select books? The wonderful mammoth illustrations by Kurt Cyrus forced me to grab the book, and Lisa Wheeler blends poetry and non-fiction in a way that brings science alive to students to keep them interested.

The most common question parents ask me is how much time they should allow their children to watch television. I always answer that it doesn’t really matter as long as parents read frequently with their children and provide lots of interesting books for their children to read on their own. Let’s face it: television is here to stay. However, there are some great shows for kids to watch on television, and one of those shows is Dora the Explorer. This book is an easy sell to kids, as it boasts a character they are probably already familiar with. And one of the great things about Dora is that she is bilingual, making her one of the best Spanish teachers in America.

You need to remember that Mother’s Day is this month. There are a lot of wonderful titles to choose from, but I wanted to include this one for its lovely illustrations by LeUyen Pham and charming store of a mother reminiscing about her own childhood with her daughter.

Maybe this is my penance for Lent this year: recommending important authors that everyone needs to read. Richard Scarry is one of the most important children’s authors of the 20th century, and, even though I read this book when I was a kid, it is just as important today as it was 30 years ago. I present vocabulary workshops around the country, and teachers often ask me about authors who are good about introducing important vocabulary in their books. Besides Dr. Seuss, I’d put Richard Scarry right up there as one of the best vocabulary teachers. This book, in particular, does a fantastic job of introducing students to the many “things that go.”

This one is a MUST BUY. Beautiful illustrations by David Diaz and wonderful poems throughout chart the life of one of my favorite painters, Diego Rivera. The colorful illustrations and poems match this artist’s colorful life. Perfect for read alouds.

Childhood obesity concerns me, as I believe that active children are healthier and smarter (if you don’t believe me, read Change Your Brain, Change Your Life by Dr. Daniel Amen). Kids need to play, and this book demonstrates a number of activities for children to enjoy in all seasons.

What a wonderful story for children to follow their passions but be careful to “measure with their whiskers.” With enchanting illustrations by Jeremy Wendell, this book makes a wonderful parable to read aloud to children and adults alike.

The best part of the Fall is the return of football, and the worst part is the dwindling days of baseball. No worries, as this comprehensive guide will tell your kids everything they ever needed to know about the “first” America’s game.

There are great pictures in this book, and it reminds me of the Christmas I spent grasping the porcelain potty after eating a pound of fudge and dozens of Hershey Kisses.

Chabon amazes me with his versatility as a screenwriter (Wonder Boys), Pulitzer Prize-winning scribe (The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay) and now – children’s author. Specifically, he knows how to write in a way that gets guys interested in reading with his wonderful wit and, in this case, Jake Parker’s terrific illustrations.

Wilson’s debut is a hit, as your children will love this funny tale of animal’s sneaking into a cozy bear’s lair that reminds me a lot of Jan Brett’s The Mitten. Wonderful illustrations by Jane Chapman and a clever and humorous ending.

Caldecott winners do not need my reviews, but this one is so beautiful that I would feel like a criminal to not include it on one of my lists. Floca is a truly gifted illustrator, and this story will delight your children and any train enthusiasts.

This is one of the first books I remember reading on a daily basis as a young lad. Every child can appreciate this dog who does not particularly enjoy baths.

You read it here first: congratulations to what should be the Caldecott winner for this year. I have always loved Lane Smith – his collaborations with Jon Scieszka are legendary (in fact, he won a Caldecott for the rioutous The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales), and while I have always loved Smith’s sense of humor, Grandpa Green might be his best. Readers of the hilarious Robert Munsch (author of the witty The Paper Bag Princess and the tear-jerker Love You Forever) may observe that while both author/illustrators were known for their funny books, the one they will be forever remembered by are their touching, personal stories.

All kids love Pete the Cat lift-the-flap books, and I am just intrigued by the married couple of authors/illustrators who left corporate America to pursue their passion for art. Kimberly and James Dean are my heroes!