Long Way Down

Author and Illustrator: Jason Reynolds
Genre: Fiction
Awards: National Book Award Finalist
Grade Level:10- Young Adult

Rules. Violence. Death. Revenge. Repeat.
Shawn was Will's brother. They grew up together in a dangerous neighborhood; ran by inherited bad business and rules. Shawn was shot, dead. Just like his friends and family, Will was well aware of the deaths caused by gun violence in his neighborhood; however, everyone acts invisible. Against his nature, Will decides to follow the rules, find his brother's murder, and get his revenge. Will gets Shawn's gun, tucks it in his pants, and makes his way to the elevator. Will makes his way down the elevator to the lobby. As he reaches the next floor, he is visited by past relationships including friendships and all. As each visitor comes and goes, Will gains insight to Shawn's murder. Will also gains perspective and the realization of what will happen if he decides to carry out his revenge. Will fearfully hears from these ghost, and in turn these ghost help will make his decision. 

This book is an amazing read even though I heard it. This book is written in poetry; prose. The author has many points to get across to his readers; he wants to reveal truth, a broken cycle, and relevance of how your decisions impact your life forever. The author writes with such beauty, the reader is captivated by the novel. I would not have this book in my classroom since it is not age appropriate. I do encourage high school educators to have this book in  their classroom, or suggest it to their students. This book would be very beneficial to an array of students. Educators could use this book in their classroom to have students write a report on it, or have a book club.

Red

Author and Illustrator: Michael Hall
Genre: Fiction
Awards: Younger Reader's Choice Award
Grade Level: Kindergarten - 2nd grade

Red tried his hardest to please everybody. In everything Red did, it wasn't good enough. His mother, his grandparents, and other art supplies tried to fix Red. However Red was never broken, he was just misunderstood. Instead of everyone trying to fix him, to make him normal, or color the right way, everyone began to change their perspective. Thanks to the color purple, Red discovered he was really Blue. Blue used his full potential thanks to purple who believed in him.

Michael Hall was dyslexic as a child, and growing up everyone tried to fix him. Red is different on the inside, and Red does things his own way. When everyone starts to realize this, people change to accommodate for Red. I love this book because it reminds us that not everyone is what we call ' normal'. Everyone acts a certain way, everyone is different in how they think, everyone is different in what they do, and that is okay. I would use this book in my classroom as a read aloud. It is important that we do not label people, and this book would be a perfect reminder on how to treat others.

Diary of A Wimpy Kid

Author and Illustrator: Jeff Kinney
Genre: Fiction
Awards: 
Grade Level: 3rd - 6th

Cabin fever is book 6 out of many Diary of a Wimpy Kid books. Greg Heffley is the middle child to his two other brothers, Rodrick and Manny. Greg and his family are stuck at home during a winter storm so this books tells of the adventures Greg goes through. Cabin Fever tells of the many things Greg experienced, it is his own personal journal, not a diary. Some of the things Greg writes about it is behaving well in front of Santa's Scout, creating his Christmas list, hanging out with his best friend Rowley doing dares and making up challenges, doing lame chores and talking to neighbors, all while it snowed. Greg goes back to school and writes about all the little changes happening and how the student body is responding to them. Greg and Rowley start their own newspaper to promote their own event, and this gets them into sticky trouble. While trying to advertise their new paper, it began to rain and Greg and Rowley unintentionally vandalizing school property. The rest of the book is about Greg trying to hide his mistakes. 

This book is humorous and easy to read. The text, the informal writing, the illustrations, and the story line engage young readers. I would not use this book in my classroom because it is not age- appropriate. However, educators could use this book to transition readers from short books to longer books, or encourage students to write their own journals. This book would also work well for students to simply enjoy reading, not having an assignment attached to it. 

This Is Not My Hat

Author and Illustrator: Jon Klassen
Genre: Fantasy
Award: Caldecott Award
Grade Level: Prekindergarten- 1st grade

A little fish steals a hat from a huge sleeping fish. Little fish swims towards a grassy area to hide; he is trying to justify his actions to himself. The huge sleeping fish notices that his hat is missing, and goes on a mission to find it. A little crab points the huge fish in the direction little fish swam, and both fishes disappear into the plants.Huge fish swims away with his hat.

This book is very cute, and entices students to investigate the illustrations in the book. I would use this book in my classroom as a read aloud and a reading center. This book reminds children to not steal; to not take something away that does not belong to them. This would be a cute book to use when introducing reminders on behavior in a classroom. 

Leonardo da Vinci

Author and Illustrator: M. Provensen , John Strejan
Genre: Nonfiction
Awards:
Grade Level: 2nd- 5th grade

Leonardo da Vinci's life is characterized by his experiments, his artwork, his studies, his discoveries, and his inventions. This pop-up book creates emphasis on his creations; the Mona Lisa, flying machines, and studies of the sun and earth.

Even though this book is advanced for Kindergartners, I would use this book as a read aloud. This is a fun way to introduce historical figures, the pop-up pages engages the reader and encourages or stimulates thinking. Students could also use this book to recreate their own versions of Leonardo da Vinci's inventions. 

A Tree Is Nice

Author and Illustrator: Janice May Udry, Marc Simont
Genre: Fantasy
Awards: Caldecott Award 1957
Grade Level: Prekindergarten - 1st grade

Trees are beautiful and have many purposes. A child can climb a tree, provide shade for a house,  for a picnic, and hold a swing. This book celebrates the beauty and need for trees, especially through illustrations. 

I would use this book in my classroom as a read aloud, and in a reading center. This book encourages children to appreciate trees and overall nature. I would use this book to show the importance of plants, and how plants are important to us.

Where The Wild Things Are

Author and Illustrator: Maurice Sendak
Genre: Fantasy
Awards: Caldecott Award
Grade Level: Preschool - 1st grade

Max is a little boy who has a wild heart. He wants to follow his own rules, so when his mom sends him upstairs without dinner for being disrespectful; Max sets sail to where the wild things are. There the wild things grant Max to be king of the wild things. Together they start a wild rumpus, but Max's stomach begins to growl and missed his mom. Max sails back home to where he knows he is loved and safe. 

I would use this book in my classroom because it is age- appropriate. I would use this book as a read aloud and have it in the reading center. This book encourages imagination in a child. As a teacher, I would use this book as a read aloud, and then have the students reenact the repetitive parts such as; the rumpus, roar terrible roars, and gnash terrible teeth. 

Last Stop On Market Street

Authors and Illustrator: Matt De La Pena, Christian Robinson
Genre: Fiction
Awards: Newbery Award, Caldecott 
Grade Level: Kindergarten - 2nd grade

"Sometimes when you're surrounded by dirt, CJ, you're a better witness for what's beautiful." CJ questions the places he goes and the things he sees in his neighborhood. However, his Nana always encourages CJ to find the beauty in everything. On the bus, CJ closes his eyes, alongside a blind man, his Nana, and a spotted dog, to listen to a man play his guitar. CJ opens his mind and finds the beauty. When their stop arrives, his Nana reassures him of the beauty in all things even if it doesn't look like it.

I would use this book in my classroom as a read aloud and have it in a reading center. This book introduces what poverty or run down neighborhood looks like to a child; its reality. Nana guides CJ to find the beautiful things in life, even if it does not appear to be beautiful. I love the message this book conveys. This book would be great for educators to take the chance to talk about the life of their students, and how everything is not perfect. 

The Right Word: Roget and His Theasaurus

Author and Illustrator: Jen Bryant, Melissa Sweet
Genre: Nonfiction
Awards: The Robert F. Sibert Medal, Caldecott Honor Book, Golden Kite Award
Grade Level: 2nd- 5th grade

When Peter was a young boy; he found the power of words and books. Throughout his life, Peter would write down many many words in his own book. Peter categorized the observations he made and continuously searched for the right word to say. Peter was a teacher, a doctor, a speaker, and a writer. Peter published all the words he encountered throughout his life; this was called a thesaurus. 

This picture book tells of a great informational story about Peter Roget. At the very end of the book, there is a list of major events that occurred, and an author's and illustrator's note about Peter Roget and this book. I would not use this book in my classroom since it is not age-appropriate. However an educator could use this book to expand vocabulary. The teacher could provide students with mini journals, and students would be required to write a word they felt that could not properly explain themselves, and search for a word that would be a better fit. These illustrations and text of this book is intriguing and captures the reader's eye. 

Once a Mouse

Author and Illustrator: Marcia Brown
Genre: Traditional Literature
Awards: Caldecott Winner
Grade Level: Prekindergarten - 1st grade

Hermit saw a mouse who was a crow's prey. Hermit saved the mouse, and protected him so much that Hermit changed the mouse's being. Hermit changed the mouse into a cat, a dog, and a tiger. The mouse, who is now a tiger became prideful and tried to eat Hermit. Hermit was aware of the tiger's plan and sent the tiger back into a mouse, and into the forest. 

This is a tale, traditional literature, from India. This book conveys a good message; to stay humble no matter much success or growth is given to you. I would use this book as a read aloud in my classroom. Students could also participate in an activity, the changes of the mouse character. 

Sarah, Plain and Tall

Author:Patricia MacLachlan
Genre: Fiction
Awards: Newbery Medal Winner, Scott o'Dell Award for Historical Fiction for Children, Golden Kite Award for Fiction
Grade Level: 3rd - 5th 

Anna, Caleb, and Papa, Jacob,  had their mother unexpectedly stolen from them by Caleb's birth. Papa comes to the realization that he can no longer care for his farm and two children; so he sets out a ad for a wife. Papa gets this idea from a friend, and he breaks the news to Anna and Caleb when Sarah, a woman from Maine who lives by the sea, answers. Sarah and Jacob agree for Sarah to visit for a month to see how life would be. Anna secretly  hopes for Sara to stay even though she misses her mother, and Caleb clings to Sarah the moment he lays her eyes on her. Sarah misses the see after a while, and returns home. Later that evening; Anna and Caleb's attitude perk up when they see Sarah coming from the distant; to stay for good. 


This book is short, simple, and sweet. However, I would not use this book in my classroom since it is not age appropriate. This would be a great read for readers transitioning into lengthy and complex chapter books. Students could write about the different types of characters and emotions the characters go through at the beginning, middle, and end of the book. 

The Big Bug Book

Author and Illustrator: Margery Facklam, Paul Facklam
Genre: Nonfiction
Awards:
Grade Level: 2nd - 5th grade

This book is an informational bug book about 13 of the world's largest insects. Insects have many features such as: exoskeleton, spiracles, and thorax, as well as stages of life. The tarantula hawk wasp is located to southwestern states. Since the male wasps are harmless, the female wasps catches prey, feeds the wasp babies, and painfully stings. As the female wasps hunts, she waits for the perfect moment to sting the spider with her paralyzing venom. The female wasp then takes the live spider to her hole and lays her eggs on it. The spider serves as the perfect lunch for the baby wasps.

I would use this book as a read aloud in my classroom. An educator can use this book if the unit is about animals and insects. Younger students tend to better understand and retain factual information  verbally. Students can choose an insect they are interested in, create the insect, and choose one fact to identify, explain, or demonstrate. For example, a student chose the giant wetapunga. The student would draw the Giant Wetapung with craft materials. Depending on the fact that is chosen, the student could identify the insects native origin, New Zealand, explain why wetapungas are close to extinction, or draw a comparison between crickets, grasshoppers, and wetapungas, 

Cesar

Author and Illustrator: Carmen T. Bernier-Grand, David Diaz
Genre: Nonfiction
Awards: Pura Belpre Honor Book
Grade Level:2nd - 5th grade


Cesario Estrada Chavez, later known as Cesar Chavez, was born in 1927 to a father who believed in honorable deeds and to a mother who taught of God's love. Although there were happy moments in Cesar's childhood, his family had to continuously work for their necessities. Cesar's moved from field to field chasing work, picking lettuce, and attended 30 schools. As Cesar got older, he became aware of the unfair dirty work conditions; for his mother told him," to do justice, to love kindness." Cesar began to stand up for injustice, spreading his messages, persuading mexican-americans to vote, organize a union, fasting, and was a part of peaceful protest, strikes, and marches. Gathering farmers and people to participate in protest, boycotts, bring awareness and draw attention of the difficulties. The book ends with the accomplishments Cesar Chavez's brought about; better working conditions, higher wages, banned tools, as well as the gain of self- respect and dignity. 

I would not use this book in my classroom since it is not age-appropriate. However, this book could be used in various ways in the classroom. Cesario's whole life is told through these poems. Students could choose a poem to analyze and expand on, or they could use theses poems as mentor text. Students could chose an important figure and write poems about that persons life.

The Secret Stars

Author and Illustration: Joseph Slate, Felipe Davalos
Genre: Fiction 
Awards:
Grade Level:1st - 4th grade

It is the night of the Three Kings in New Mexico, where Pepe, Sila, and their grandmother stay. Pepe and Sila wake up to the pitter-patter of the rainfall worried that the Three Kings will not find their way. As a dream, the grandmother tells a story to Pepe and Sila; the secret stars the Three Kings will follow to find their way. When morning comes, Pepe and Sila race downstairs to find out if the Three Kings found their way, took the figs, hay and shoes, and left toys for them.

I would not use this book in my classroom since it is not age appropriate in the classroom. However this book tells of a Hispanic tradition of the Three Kings bringing gifts to Jesus. This book offers the opportunity for children to connect and relate to it, as a well as showing the traditions of other cultures.

Flora and Ulysses - The Illuminated Adventures

Author and Illustrator: Kate DiCamillo, K.G. Campbell
Genre: Ficiton
Awards:Newbery Award, Bluebonnet Book
Grade Level: 3rd- 5th

Flora's life is changed when a squirrel who is named Ulysses, after a vacuum that almost killed him,gains super strength. Flora believes Ulysses is an amazing superhero, however Flora believes her mother's cynic perspective about her. Flora encounters many people which enhance the drama within the book, but Flora stays persistent in her actions and beliefs. Ulysses stirs up many emotions and responses in Flora's family and friends; such as Flora wanting to stay at her father's house because her mother does not approve of Ulysses. Even though Flora's parents and friends may have been a bit skeptical at first about Ulysses, Ulysses brings the family closer together, and continues to write his stories.

I would not use this book in my classroom since it is not age-appropriate. This is a good book because integrates pictures and text; it is a good transition book from picture books to chapter books. This book is an easy read, and easy to follow. An activity students can participate inis recreating the story line, and make a video for the class to see. 

Pictures of Hollis Woods

Author: Patricia Reilly Giff
Genre: Fiction
Awards: Newbery Honor Book
Grade Level: 4th - 6th

Hollis Woods has had it tough ever since she was born; she was abandoned as a baby with only a note saying, "call her Hollis Woods." Hollis is very talented in her art, however this does not satisfy her. Hollis is just a lonely child wanting to belong to a family; her wish. Hollis is in the foster care system, and contentiously runs away from the families she is placed with. Hollis has the Regan family and spends a lot of her time with Josie, who has dementia. Hollis runs away from the Regan family when a horrible accident occurs. Time after time, Hollis is loved. When Hollis finally decides to be loved, she gets a family of her own; Hollis now has a mother, a father, a brother, and two sisters. Hollis has 14 pictures throughout her time that demonstrate and reflect how she feels, who is important to her, and what is significant in her life. The last picture is of Hollis and her new family.

This book is a great read for students who are interested in drama, and is realistic. The emotions and feelings Hollis feel are very true, and reflect what other foster children are possibly going through. I think children who are struggling or simply interested can relate to this book. I would not use this book in my classroom because it is not age appropriate. Students could use this book to complete a book report, or become familiar with plot, setting, characters, and other elements of a book. 

Bud, Not Buddy

Author: Christopher Paul Curtis
Genre: Historical Fiction
Awards: Newbery Medal, Coretta Scott King Medal, Dorothy Canfield Fisher Children's Book Award, Golden Kite Award for Fiction
Grade Level: 3rd - 8th

Bud is a young boy who was born in Flint, Michigan. When he was six years old, his mother passed away and his only option was an orphanage; his father was never around. Bud and his friend Jerry find foster families that are willing to take them in, however, Bud's foster family is not as nice as they seem. The Amos family is strict and the older Amos son causes trouble for Bud. One of Bud's punishments for misbehaving was Mrs, Amos locking Bud in a shed and hiding Bud's prized possession; his suitcase. Bud's suitcase holds valuable possessions, one being a flyer that gives a clue to who his father might be. Bud is determined to find his father, Herman E. Calloway. Bud leaves his foster family, and takes a journey to find his father. Bud encounters many people and an old friend, Bugs. Bud lives by these rules to make his life a bit better:Bud Caldwell’s Rules and Things for Having a Funner Life and Making a Better Liar Out of Yourself. During his journey, Bud spends nights at the library, rides train cars, eats breakfast with his pretend family, and stays at his new friend Deza. Bud continues to travel until he meets Herman E. Calloway in Grand Rapids. At first Calloway was skeptical while his jazz members treat Bud kindly. The jazz members take Bud and take care of him, and through this Bud finds a family. While trying to discover the truth, Calloway finds rocks that he thinks bud stole. However, Bud did not. Bud's rocks given to him by his momma reveal a huge secret; Herman E. Calloway is his grandfather. 

This book is a great read. It is humorous and very captivating. I would not use this book in my classroom because it is not age appropriate. For older students, this book could be should be used as a class read. This book would be good to read during the history content area. Students could participate in a book club. I encourage educators to give the opportunity for their students to read this book. It was great!

Noah's Ark

Author and Illustrator: Peter Spier
Awards: 1978 Caldecott Winner, National Book Award for Children's Books
Grade Level: Preschool - 1st grade

Illustrations tell the story of Noah's Ark. Beautiful illustrations show Noah building the ark with other people, gathering a bunch of supplies, and herding animals around the ark. A song called 'The Flood' is about the flood being a part of God's plan and with his grace, we are here. The book begins with Noah guiding the animals into the ark as it begins to rain. As it begins to flood, the ark floats away with all inside. Noah tends to each section filled with different animals. As the book goes on, it emphasizes the duration of the flood, and eventually the ark lands on a high rock. Noah releases a dove, and the dove later returns to him with an olive branch. Noah rejoices and shows the olive branch to the animals; they unload the ark and Noah plants a vineyard.

I would have this book in my classroom; in independent reading center and as a read aloud. I think this book can be used by many grades; the illustrations can be analyzed and the students can discuss it, or write about it. This book encourages thinking and the illustrations depict a beautiful story.

Only Passing Through - The Story of Sojourner Truth

Author and Illustrator: Anne Rockwell, R. Gregory Christie
Genre: Nonfiction
Awards: Nominated for Coretta Scott King
Grade Level: 2nd - 5th grade

Isabella who became known as Sojourner Truth, was auctioned off as little girl from New York to a farmer. Until she turned 13 years, Sojourner did not understand the multiple slave owners she was sold to; she spoke Dutch. She was set up with a slave man and they had four children. Her slave master, Dumont made false promises of freedom which led to her escape. Sojourner stayed with a couple that were a few miles away; they did not believe in owning slaves. Ironically, the couple were forced to buy Sojourner, and with this set her free. After her son was illegally sold, Sojourner took Dumont to court. She was doing many things that were unheard of; she crossed states to tell of her story and the truth. She was such a powerful woman, and had a way with words; she changed people's perspective on slavery. Sojourner Truth was only passing through to spread the message against evil.

I would not use this book in my classroom since it is not age- appropriate. This book could be used in a history lesson, as a read aloud, or be assigned for students to do a report over. I like this book because it provides insight on who Sojourner Truth was. At the end of the book, there is a timeline of important events during her life time. 

Action Jackson

Author and Illustrator: Jan Greenberg and Sandra Jordan, Robert Andrew Parker
Genre: Nonfiction
Awards: Nominated for Sibert Medal
Grade Level: 2nd - 5th grade

This book is about how Jackson Pollock creates his beautiful artwork titled Lavender Mist. Pollock opens up his mind strolling throughout his town, observing everything around him. Pollock returns to his studio and prepares his work space. Unlike most artist, Pollock has many unconventional methods when he paints; such as not having a base coat, not hanging up his canvas, placing it on the floor, using hardware paint, and letting the paint moves as it pleases. After hours of hard work, his painting is done; onto the next he goes. A biography about Jackson Pollock is at the end of the book.

I would not use this book in my classroom since it is not age appropriate. This book could be used in an art class; students select an artist, create a presentation, and present the artist to the class. Since this book describes how Pollock went about his painting, an art teacher, or teacher could have the students create their own art piece using the same methods.

The OCEAN Alphabet Book

Author and Illustrator: Jerry Pallotta, Frank Mazzola, Jr
Genre: Nonfiction
Award:
Grade Level: Prekindergarten - 2nd Grade

 This is an informational alphabet book that introduces ocean animals and list facts about them. For example the letter S; "S is for scallop. Scallops are like clams, and they have pretty shells. There are many other creatures whose name begin with S: sharks, sculpins, salmon, sand dollars, .." However, the letter X is blank; there is not an ocean animal that begins with the letter X.

I would use this book in my classroom, it is age appropriate and factual. I would use this book as a read aloud or have it in a reading center. Students would be able to choose a letter and write about that ocean animal. The students could expand on the letter they chose and present it to the class.

Does A Kangaroo Have A Mother, Too?

Author and Illustrator: Eric Carle
Genre: Non-fiction picture book
Awards:
Grade Level: Prekindergarten - Kindergarten

This is a picture story book about the different types of animals and the relationships of those animals. This book shows how baby animals have mothers, such as kangaroos, monkeys, bears, and swans.

This book is nonfiction in the simplest form through illustrations, and relevance to children's lives. I would use this book in my class room as an independent reading; set in the reading center. This book can be used to show the relationships among animals.

I Have A Dream

Author and Illustrator:Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr,  Kadir Nelson
Genre: Nonfiction
Awards: Coretta Scott King Honor 
Grade Level: 1st grade- 5th

This book is an excerpt of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr's speech. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. speech is about the equality of all men; against segregation and discrimination. His dream is under God, and with faith we will all be able to come together, and freedom will ring across all nations. " Free at last, free at last! Thank God Almighty, we are free at last!"

This is a storybook about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr's speech. This book is a perfect introduction about his speech. This book could be used in all grade level, yet the application of how this book is used would differ among grades. I would use this book in my classroom to discuss many topics such as kindness, equality, and history. I would use this book as a read aloud followed by a discussion, or think, pair, share technique.

My Season with Penguins An Antarctic Journal

 Author and Illustrator: Sophie Webb
Genre: Nonfiction
Awards: Robert F. Sibert Honor Book, Smithsonian Notable Book
Grade Level: 2nd- 5th 

This book is a journal written by Sophia Webb, and her stay in Antarctica for 2 months beginning in December. Sophia wrote about her flight experience, her living conditions, waste and management training, camp equipment, the weather, and traveling. Sophia then transitions into writing about the Adelie penguin. Sophia describes the penguins' diet, lifestyle, and the ecosystem around them. Sophia and her team study the penguins; their colony and mating. Sophia writes about the  study of the life cycle of Adelie penguins. Once the two months are over, Sophia heads back to California.


As an educator, this book is very informational and provides insight on how research and studies are completed. I would not use this book in my classroom because it is not age appropriate. However, an educator could use this book if they were learning about penguins, or as an independent reading. This book could also be used in an independent reading assignment. 

My Colors, My World Mis Colores, Mi Mundo

Author and Illustrator: Maya Christina Gonzalez
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Awards: Pura belpre Illustrator Honor Award, Criticas Magazine's Best Children and YA Books of 2007, Texas 2x2 Reading List Selection, texas Library Association
Grade Level: Kindergarten - 2nd 

Maya is engulfed by the colors surrounding her in her every day life. Maya lives in the desert, so the colors in her world boldly shine. Although Maya's favorite color is pink, she describes how on hot days she enjoys playing with brown mud and orange flowers. Maya opens her eyes wide to see the beautiful colors in her world.

This book is written in Spanish and English; therefore it could be read in Spanish or English. I would use this book in my classroom as a read aloud. It provides perspective to the life of one who lives in the desert. It also demonstrates that colors surround us in the world. For an activity, students could choose a color, spell it in that color correctly, and write, draw, or discuss how and where that color could be found in that student's life.

Freedom over me

Author and Illustrator: Ashley Bryan
Genre: Historical Fiction
Awards: Newbery Honor, Correta Scott King Author and Illustrator Honor, ALA Notable Children's Books, Arnold Adoff Poetry Award, Bank Street Best Books of the Year, Boston Globe/Horn Book Award, CBC/NCSS Notable Social Studies Trade Book, Center for the Study of Multicultural Children's Literature. Best Multicultural Books List, Chicago Public Library's Best of the Best, ILA Notable Books for a Global Society, Kirkus Prize Finalist, Maine Student Book Award Master List, NCTE Notable Poetry List, NCTE Notable Verse Novel List, New York Public Library Best Books for Kids
Grade Level: 2nd - 5th

This book tells of the Fairchilds'  Estate, and was set in the 1800s. The estate owners are Mary and Cado; Mary speaks of her husbands death. She praises him for the apprenticeship of the slaves, and in turn the estate is running well. This book shares each story of the slaves underneath their estate that were being sold alongside animals: Mulvina, Bacus, Charlotte, Stephen, Jane, Qush, Betty, Athelia, John, and Peggy. Each person has a one page poem describing their life experiences and another page of their dreams. Charlotte, 30 years old and Dora, 8 years old, worth $400 dollars. Charlotte 'jumped the broom' with Bacus and later had a child. The other slaves helped with their daughter while they worked, now Dora is weaving basket next to Charlotte. In Charlotte dreams, she speaks of her basket weaving as an outlet from the world she stays in and a reminder of home, Africa.

I would not use this book in my classroom because it is not age appropriate. However, the stories of these slaves are very touching, and it brings a sense of realness and relevance to the reader. This book could be used to provide insight and perspective to students who are unaware about the real effects of slavery. An educator could use this book as a gateway to investigate and study the real history of slaves and slave owners; this book is one case of many instances during the 1800s.

Running the Road to ABC

Author and Illustrator: Denize Lauture, Reynold Ruffins
Genre: Historical Fiction
Awards: Coretta Scott King Author Honor
Grade Level: 1st - 4th

Children in Haiti endure long journeys during the night. During the night, breakfast is prepared since the children leave for school at dawn. Children running barefoot with their handmade palm tree book bags, and lunch do not care for the bugs, the wet land, twisted ankles, bleeding toes, rocks and red clay, or locals as they race against the sun. Passing the locals, the children reach school to learn. They go up and down everyday, morning moon, evening star, morning star, and evening moon.

I would not use this book in my classroom since the text would be a bit mature for Kindergartners to read. If I were to have this book in my classroom, I would use it as a read aloud. This book could be used to introduce a topic or lesson, learn vocabulary, or for a writing prompt.

Working Cotton

Author and Illustrator: Sherley Anne Williams. Carole Byard
Genre: Historical Fiction
Awards: Caldecott Honor
Grade Level: 1st - 5th

Shelan tells the story of the long days her and her family pick cotton. They wake when its cold and leave when its dark, Her dad picks so much cotton, her siblings try to have fun while picking, and Shelan helps her mom with picking cotton and the baby. A new field and a new day, Shelan sees children she longs to be friends with. After a long day, they eat lunch together and sparingly drink their water. Through this story, Shelan portrays her father as hope, and wanting to be better than her siblings. When the sun goes down, back on the buses they go.

I would not use this book in my classroom since it is grammatically incorrect, and might confuse the students. However, it is a great opportunity for older students to analyze why this might be the case. Since this book gives insight about a child's life as a slaves and the labor they must do, an educator could use this book for perspective. It would be a great way for students to realize diversity and history. Some discussion questions would be why does Shelan talk the way she does or what is the text inferring and implying?

Easter Fires

Author and Illustrator: Mary Dodson Wade, Patty Rucker

Genre: Historical Fiction

Awards:

Grade Level: 2nd - 5th grade

The books tells of a family from Germany traveling across the sea to live in Texas. They were promised a land with a house; their whole life would be set. However, it did not work out this way. The settlers did not expect for no houses or no supplies. The men who came from Germany gather together and made friendly offerings to the Indians who preoccupied the nearby land. One night, Mama, Sofia, and Wilhelm were frightened by the fires on the top of the hills; so mama told them how the Easter Bunny boiled and decorated the eggs for Easter. After traveling from place to place, the family finally settled down after a peaceful treaty was made. 

I would not use this book in my classroom since it is not age- appropriate. However, this book provides insight on what life was like for settlers, the worries, and missions they had to complete. A great activity for students to make connections of history and the present day would be to reenact this book. Each small group creates a short skit of a chapter in this book, and act it out to the class. This engages students, and encourages them to actively learn history.  

Freedom In Congo Square

Author and Illustrator: Carole Boston Weatherford. R. Gregory Christie
Genre: Historical Fiction
Awards: Caldecott Honor, Coretta Scott King Honor, Charlotte Zolotow Award, 2016 New York Times Best Illustrated Book
Grade Level: Kindergarten - 5th grade

Six days out of the week, the slaves labored; for a day without work and chores was unusual. But on the special Sunday afternoon, the slaves came together in New Orleans' Congo Square. Here at Congo Square, the slaves were free to be, enjoy music, dance, and sing. For half a day, the slaves were free. This book is very moving. It tells the history of slaves counting down the days they could come together. It also tells how some slaves tried to escape and the types of labor they endured.

I would use this book in my classroom. Although the topic may be viewed as a little mature, it is important children are exposed to the history no matter how tough it may be. I would use this book in my classroom as a read aloud. This book can be used in multiple classrooms and grade level due to the content. I think it would be appropriate for middle and high school students to use this book. This book could be used to interpret the content, the illustrations, start a discussion, be an introduction to a lesson and so much more.

Thunderboy Jr

Author and Illustrator: Sherman Alexie, Yuyi Morales
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Awards: Parents’ Choice Awards, Picture Books Gold, The Kirkus Prize 2016 Finalist, Picture Books, ALA Notable Books for Children Nominee, Charlotte Zolotow 
Grade Level: Prekindergarten - 1st grade

Thunder Boy Jr. is about a little boy who wants his own name. He loves his dad, but he does not want to be known as Little Thunder. Throughout the story, he searches for a new name. He wants a name that celebrates who he is, his new name is Lighting.

This is a good book because it represents the need of identity and ownership of a child, and the relationship between father and son.  I would use this book as a read aloud in my classroom. This book also provides diversity for children through literature.

Tales for Very Picky Eaters

Author and Illustrator: Josh Schneider
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Awards: Geisel Award
Grade Level; 2nd- 5th grade

James is a very picky eater, like who enjoys eating disgusting broccoli, smelly lasagna, repulsive milk, lumpy oatmeal, and slimy eggs? Since James is a very picky eater, his father tells him of the outlandish results if he does not eat his food. If James does not eat his smelly mushroom lasagna, the the troll who cooked will have to go back to work at the rat circus. The father tells James chooses the better options and eats the food he is given.

I would not have this book in my Kindergarten class because it is not age appropriate. However it would be a good book for older students because it has humor, it is relate-able, and it is an easy chapter book. This book could be used for independent reading or small group reading.

Big Brothers Don't Take Naps

Author and Illustrator: Louise Borden, Emma Dodd
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Awards:
Grade Level: Prekindergarten- 1st grade


 Nicholas has an older brother named James. Nicholas tells of all the wonderful and caring things James does for him. James holds Nicholas's hand while crossing the street, lets him try on his way-too-big red boots, and even searches for his favorite animals on the computer. James tells Nicholas a little secret, and together they come up with names for this secret. James, being the generous big brother that he is, lets Nicholas choose the name...for their baby sister.

This book is very sweet and it provides insight on the relationship and 'duties' of a big brother. Big brothers are super busy, therefore big brothers don't take naps. I would use this book in my classroom as a read aloud or for independent reading. I could use this book in my classroom during a learning about relationships and community lesson plan.

The Recess Queen

Author and Illustrator: Alexis O' Neill, Laura Huliska Beith
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Awards: Maryland Children's Book, Virginia Young Readers, Junior Library Guild Selection, Los Angeles Times Children’s Bestsellers List,
Bulletin for the Center of Children’s Books, Recommended Book, Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, Bank Street College, Best Books of 2002
Grade Level: Kindergarten - 2nd


This book is about a young girl named Jean, she is the recess queen. No one is allowed to play with any playground equipment until Mean Jean  has played with it all. Mean Jean is portrayed as a bully and no one likes to play with her. One day Katie-Sue, a new girl comes to school and plays with the playground equipment before Mean Jean. Mean Jean is shocked and wants to put Katie- Sue in her place. Katie-Sue does something no one has ever done before, she invited Mean Jean to play with her. Mean Jean ends up playing with Katie-Sue and the two become friends at the end.

I would have this book in my classroom because it discusses the topics of bullying and friendships. This book could be used to introduce how students should respond to bullying, the expectations of the playground, sharing, and being kind to one another. This book could also be used to introduce beginning, middle, and end or how characters undergo change.

No, David!

Author and Illustrator: David Shannon
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Awards: Randolph Caldecott Medal
Grade Level: PreK- Kindergarten

This book is about a little boy named David who gets into trouble. David is always told no by his mother. David cannot play ball inside the house, he has to chew with his mouth closed, and not be too loud. Although David is constantly told no by his mother; at the end of the book, Davis gets an I love you instead.

I would have this book in my classroom because students can relate to it, and it is an easy read for young students who are trying to read. I would have this book as an option for students in the individual reading center. This book would also be great to introduce rules and correct behavior among students.