‘Peepsqueak!’
By Leslie Ann Clark
In the usual bright barnyard setting, a chipper little chick pops out of his shell and from that moment on, “He was on the move!” Children will love following him around the farm as he tries one place after another to launch himself from in attempts to fly. Time after time Peepsqueak jumps “Up, up, up” and then falls “Down, down, down.” The language is comfortable and funny with a predictable rhythm that invites pre-reading children to join in with the repetitions. Published by Harper, 2012.
‘The Swimsuit Lesson’
By Jon Holsten;
illustrated by Scott Freeman
The Swimsuit Lesson is an essential addition to every family’s library as “Goodnight Moon.” In a warm, natural and non-threatening way, the topic of sexual abuse is introduced to young children. Mark and Lisa are playing outside in the sprinkler, when mom calls them in for some lemonade and to “tell them something very important.” By using the bathing suits they’re wearing, she shares the off limits areas for anyone to touch or see. A short parent’s guide is in the back of the book to aide parents in using this resource meaningfully, and through the discussions that will likely follow. Published by Holsten Books, 2006.
‘A Warmer World’
By Caroline Arnold;
illustrated by Jamie Hogan
This brand new, beautifully illustrated and thought-provoking work of non-fiction is ideal for early elementary children to understand ecosystems of the world, climate changes, endangered species and the unifying connectedness all species have as earth dwellers. Issues like melting polar ice caps and how warmer waters cut down some fish populations, but increase others. This book is full of fascinating facts and has an informative glossary and a list of book and web resources. Published by Charlesbridge, 2012.
‘Blackout’
By John Rocco
This is a perfect summer read for 4-8 year olds, as it takes place on a hot summer’s night in the city. We see a family inside their apartment, and one child, who goes from person to person toting a board game. One by one, he is turned away, as they are too busy with whatever electronic device they are plugged into and then the lights go out! They discover a block party on the rooftop, ice cream from a street vendor and learn that the unplugging is worthwhile. Published by Hyperion Books, 2011.
