Our family absolutely fell in love with this book.  The first person narrative of a gorilla named Ivan who is living at the Big Top Shopping Mall is a tale of heartbreak as well as new beginnings.  This book provides a lot to think about and discuss.  Ultimately an inspirational tale, The One and Only Ivan is a winner!

The Hundred Dresses tells a thought provoking tale about peer pressure.  Although written in the 1940’s it is sadly still highly relevant.  Although a short book, there is great depth to this story, and I chose to partner read it with our daughter.  It served as the catalyst for some excellent discussion about friends and friendship.  Even as an adult I found the story compelling and haunting.  It really sticks with you.

Sarah, Plain and Tall is simply a great book.  The fact that this tale of loss and love is told from the point of view of a child intensifies the power of this story.  MacLachlan’s simple straight-forward writing style provides the perfect manner in which to meet Anna and her 19th century mid-western family as they wait and subsequently get to know Sarah.  An enjoyable read which provides lots to discuss.