Ada Twist and the Perilous Pants (The Questioneers) – Andrea Beaty

As a follow up to her fantastic STEAM based picture books, Andrea Beaty has created a series of chapter books that feature familiar characters like Rosie Revere, Ada Twist, and Iggy Peck as “the questioners”.  Utilizing questioning methods that scientists use to further their understanding and solve problems, “the questioners” are a terrific blend of science and fun.

Ada Twist and the Perilous Pants Book Cover Ada Twist and the Perilous Pants
Andrea Beaty
JUVENILE FICTION
Amulet Books
2020
144

"When Rosie Revere's Uncle Ned gets a little carried away wearing his famous helium pants, it's up to Ada and friends to chase him down. As Uncle Ned floats farther and farther away, Ada starts asking lots of questions: How high can a balloon float? Is it possible for Uncle Ned to float into outer space? And what's the best plan for getting him down?"--

Way Back Wednesday ~ Iggy Peck, Architect – Andrea Beaty

This review was originally posted on February 1, 2010.

Creativity and self expression are celebrated in Iggy Peck, Architect.  Iggy Peck is a little boy who loves to build.  Part of the charm of his creations lies in the nontraditional building supplies he often utilizes.  When he reaches the second grade trouble strikes.  His spirit appears as though it will be broken as a result of his teacher who does not see a place for building in second grade.

A class trip quickly changes the view of his teacher Miss Lila Greer.  After the unexpected collapse of a bridge Iggy Peck is able to rally his classmates and build another which allows the class and Miss Greer to cross back over the stream and get back to school.  After the rescue, the importance of encouraging Iggy as well as the other students in class is recognized and Iggy become a weekly guest speaker who extols the merits of building.

Engaging pictures and clever use of rhyme makes this one a favorite!

Iggy Peck, Architect Book Cover Iggy Peck, Architect
Andrea Beaty
Juvenile Fiction
Abrams Books for Young Readers
2007-10
32

Outside in – Deborah Underwood

Outside in is a very special book that reminds readers that very little separates us from the outside.  It is a fantastic celebration of the beauty and wonder of the outdoors.  Magnificent illustrations enhance the beautiful, rhythmic text.  This one is a new favorite!

Outside In Book Cover Outside In
Deborah Underwood
JUVENILE FICTION
HMH Books For Young Readers
2020
40

Remarkably You – Pat Zietlow Miller

Remarkably You is a wonderful picture book that provides encouragement to embrace your unique you-ness.  Uplifting text is coupled with delightful illustrations.  This book would be a phenomenal resource to use at the beginning of the school year no matter what age learners you might be working with this year.

Remarkably You Book Cover Remarkably You
Pat Zietlow Miller
Juvenile Fiction
HarperCollins
February 5, 2019
32

I Will Be Fierce! – Bea Birdsong

Looking for a book to the kick-off the new school year?  I Will Be Fierce is a fun read that features a young lady who takes on the world as a brave explorer on an epic quest.  This a great book to set the tone for a new school year of discovery!

I Will Be Fierce Book Cover I Will Be Fierce
Bea Birdsong
Juvenile Fiction
Roaring Brook Press
April 23, 2019
40

Goodbye, Friend!  Hello, Friend! – Cori Doerrfeld

Goodbye, Friend!  Hello, Friend  is a great little children’s book that tackles the topic of change and highlights challenges as well as rewards.  Gentle text and engaging illustrations make this a wonderful read aloud that will resonate with students and most assuredly spark further discussion.

Goodbye, Friend! Hello, Friend! Book Cover Goodbye, Friend! Hello, Friend!
Cori Doerrfeld
Juvenile Fiction
Dial Books
2019
40

It Will Be Okay: Trusting God Through Fear and – Lysa Terkeurst

Our daughter re-discovered this book recently and found it was a reassuring read during these uncertain times.  This review was originally posted December 18, 2014.

It Will Be Okay: Trusting God Through Fear and Change is a terrific book.  The friendship that develops between little seed and little fox is a sweet one.  Their adventures together ultimately help them realize that although things around them may change – God is always there.

For little ones who tend to be anxious and worry, this book is a must have!

While this complimentary book was provided for review by Harper Collins Publishing, no other compensation was given.  All remarks are my personal and honest opinions.

It Will Be Okay Book Cover It Will Be Okay
Lysa TerKeurst
Juvenile Fiction
Harpercollins Christian Pub
October 7, 2014
32

Surf’s Up – Kwame Alexander

Surf’s Up is a terrific end of the school year read aloud option.  It not only features the fun of reading, but it also shares the delight that can be found in coupling reading with other fun summer activities.  This gem is a real winner!

Surf's Up Book Cover Surf's Up
Kwame Alexander
NorthSouth (NY)
February 1, 2016
32

Plant a Kiss – Amy Krouse Rosenthal

Plant a Kiss is an uplifting story about generously sharing your gifts.  The text is deceptively simple for a book with such a meaningful message, and the pictures are a delightful addition to the text.  This book could be easily used for a meaningful read-aloud with learners of all ages.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Plant a Kiss
Juvenile Fiction
Harpercollins Childrens Books
December 27, 2011
40