The Library is full of new books for kids! Here are a couple of great ones to read aloud to your class.
Picture Books:
When Grandfather Flew by Patricia MaClachlan.
In the beautiful book by Newbery winner Patricia MaClaclan, Emma’s grandfather, known to his grandchildren as “birdman”, loves to watch birds. He passes his love onto his grandson, Milo, who isn’t much of a talker. This is a great book to start a conversation about families, generations, and hobbies.
The Problem with Problems by Rachel Rooney.
Problems, they are everywhere, and it doesn’t matter how old or young we are. We all have to deal with them. This is a wonderful book that helps the reader(s) identify problems and strategies for dealing with them.
Chapter Books:
Healer of the Water Monster by Brian Young*
“When Nathan goes to visit his grandma, Nali, at her mobile summer home on the Navajo reservation, he knows he’s in for a pretty uneventful summer, with no electricity or cell service. Still, he loves spending time with Nali and with his uncle Jet, though it’s clear when Jet arrives that he brings his problems with him.
One night, while lost in the nearby desert, Nathan finds someone extraordinary: a Holy Being from the Navajo Creation Story—a Water Monster—in need of help.
Now Nathan must summon all his courage to save his new friend. With the help of other Navajo Holy Beings, Nathan is determined to save the Water Monster, and to support Uncle Jet in healing from his own pain.”
This book is published as part of the Heartdrum imprint which is centered around a wide range of intertribal voices, visions, and stories.
Almost There and Almost Not by Linda Urban*
“California Poppy has been dropped off, yet again, with an unsuspecting relative. This time it’s her eccentric Great-Aunt Monica, a woman she’s never even met. Aunt Monica has no idea what to do with an eleven-year-old, so she puts California to work researching their ancestor, the once-famous etiquette expert Eleanor Fontaine.
California soon discovers that Great-Great-Great Aunt Eleanor is…not exactly alive and well, but a ghost—and a super sensitive one at that. The grand dame bursts into clouds of dust whenever she loses her composure, which happens quite often. Still, an unexpected four-legged friend and some old-fashioned letter writing make this decidedly strange situation one that California can handle.
Just as California’s starting to feel like she’s found a place for herself, life turns upside-down yet again. Thankfully, this time she has some friends almost by her side…”
A funny, clever, and kind quick read that your whole class will enjoy!
*Publisher description