Ahoy there, matey! Be yer little one seekin’ books o’ adventure, booty, and excitement? Yaaarrrrr! Set sail on gripping voyages, discover hidden treasures, and learn to talk like a pirate with these captivating books that introduce young readers to a thrilling world of adventure. With engaging illustrations and endearing characters, your child (and you) will enjoy from cover to cover.
How to Be a Pirate by Isaac Fitzgerald and Illustrated by Brigette Barragar
Cece would love to be a pirate. When the boys on the playground tell her she can’t, she asks her Grandpa what it takes to be a real pirate. Grandpa teaches Cece valuable life lessons that build her confidence to be a pirate. It is a beautiful and sweet book, focusing on the positive characteristics pirates share.
How I Became a Pirate by Melinda Long and Illustrated by David Shannon
When Jeremy Jacobs goes to the beach with his parents, he happens upon a pirate ship coming in from the sea. While his parents are preoccupied tending to his younger sister and hoisting the beach umbrella, Jeremy throws caution to the wind and joins Captain Braid Beard and his buccaneers. Jeremy quickly learns the ways of the pirates–language, throwing manners to the wind and even gets to play a mighty game of soccer. Will Jeremy adopt this lifestyle or long for his old life with his parents?
Give Me Back My Bones by Kim Norman and Illustrated by Bob Kolar
Learn the names of individual skeletal bones in this fun picture book! In Give Me Back My Bones, a silly pirate skeleton seeks to reunite their bones at the bottom of the sea. With silly poems on each page, help locate the skeleton’s bones to resume the pirate business. This amusing book is perfect for a preschool unit on body parts. Learn the anatomical names of skeleton bones with this playful picture book.
Pirate Chicken: All Hens on Deck by Brian Yanish
Illustrated by Jess Pauwels
Lily is unlike the other chickens; while they roosted, she read; when they pecked, she plotted. Lily dreams of seeing the world, and when pirates capture the chickens, she seizes this opportunity. Quickly adapting to life on the ship, is pirate life the life for Lily? This silly book is reminiscent of Doreen Cronin and Betsy Lewin’s Click Clack Moo series, and readers will delight in the antics of these quirky chickens! I particularly love the detailed illustrations, including the expressions on the chicken faces and chalkboard drawings explaining Piracy 101.
The Pirates Are Coming by John Condon and Illustrated by Matt Hunt
This is an adorable retelling of the classic story of the boy who called wolf. Tom spends his day on the lookout for pirate ships. Sitting high on a hill, he warns the village of the pirate’s forthcoming arrival, but they fail to show. Will the villagers believe it when pirates do come? I loved the ending; it wasn’t what I had anticipated! It’s an excellent and non-scary pirate book.
Pirates Love Underpants by Claire Freedman & Ben Cort
Enjoy this hilarious tale of pirates seeking the ultimate treasure–pants of gold! Grownups and kids will delight in all the references to underwear and pirate lingo. A great read-aloud, giggles will abound with the silliness that pairs with underwear. It is an excellent pirate book for preschool!
Thank you!
Thanks for stopping by! To keep with the sea-themed storytime, check out these great fish books!
Happy Reading!
XO, Sheryl
From classic favorites to new titles, these books feature dogs sure to please kids of all ages. Your child will find joy in these entertaining stories about a human’s best friend.
*This page contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you
Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo
Because of Winn-Dixie is a heartwarming middle-grade novel about Opal, a ten-year-old girl who moves to a new town and has no friends. On a trip to the supermarket to buy groceries, Opal finds a dog running havoc through the store! Determined not to let the dog go to the pound, Opal convinces the store manager the pup belongs to her and takes him home. Read this book and discover how this friendship transforms their lives! Ages 8+
The Sailor Dog by Margaret Wise Brown, Illustrations by Garth Williams
This is a Little Golden Book classic, written by Margaret Wise Brown (author of Goodnight Moon) and illustrations by Garth Williams (illustrator of Charlotte’s Web and Stuart Little). Scuppers, a dog born at sea and raised on land, dreams of returning to sea. Join Scuppers on his journey to sail the seas. The voyage is not easy; challenges arise; see how Scuppers perseveres in living his best life! (Ages 2+)
Harry the Dirty Dog by Gene Zion and Illustrated by Margaret Bloy Graham
Harry, a white dog with black spots, liked everything except taking baths (do you know anyone who dislikes taking baths?). So one day, when he hears the water running, he takes the bath brush and runs outside to hide it, which leads him on an adventure! Read this funny book and follow Harry as he “changes from a white dog with black spots to a black dog with white spots!” Great for all ages.
Bonus: Harry the Dirty Dog is available on Storyline Online, read by Betty White(!!!), a project of the Screen Actors Guild.
Clifford by Norman Bridwell
Meet Clifford, the big red dog, and Emily Elizabeth in the first book in the beloved series! First published nearly 60 (!) years ago, Clifford has charmed his way into the hearts of generations of children. Clifford is a funny, oversized pup who is a wonderful friend. If you enjoy this book, you are in luck: dozens of books are in the series!
Where’s Spot? by Eric Hill
This classic lift-the-flap board book is perfect for the youngest readers! Help Sally (the mommy dog) find Spot; he still needs to eat his dinner; where could he be? Kids love the interactive lift-the-flap feature and enjoy helping Sally. Be warned: we have the flaps do rip; we have been through several copies already! All ages.
Wish by Barbara O’Connor
Such a great book! Charlie Reese makes wishes every day on anything she can make a wish on. Wishbones, shooting stars, fallen eyelashes, if there is something to make a wish on, she’s done it! Unable to live with her parents, Charlie Reese must move in with an estranged family member she hardly knows. The chances of Charlie Reese’s wishes coming true seem unlikely… until she finds a stray dog. Read this book and see the power of friendship and the magic of having a dog. Ages 8+.
Snuggle Puppy by Sandra Boynton
There is so much to love about Snuggle Puppy. The illustrations are adorable: full of detail, warmth, and humor. Snuggle Puppy is a bright and colorful board book. The book begins with the parent dog and the pup making chocolate chip cookies; I love this book already! The text is a love letter from a parent to a child describing the parent’s love. I have read (and sung, I made up a tune) this book countless times; I have it memorized!
Doggies by Sandra Boynton
A super fun counting book! Adorably funny illustrations coupled with a wide assortment of dog sounds (“Two dogs ‘woof!’ ‘yap yap!”), this book is a joy to read for dog lovers of all ages.
Graphic Novels
PAWS: Gabby Gets It Together by Nathan Fairbairn and Illustrated by Michele Assasakorn and Allergic by Megan Wagner Lloyd and Illustrated by Michelle Mee Nutter are two terrific graphic novels that feature pups! Check out my reviews for these books here.
Rez Dogs by Joseph Bruchac
Malian is enjoying a visit to her grandparent’s home on the Wabanaki reservation when, unexpectedly, the reservation was placed on lockdown. As a result, Malian must stay on the reservation and can not return to her parent’s home in Boston. This is the start of what we now know of as the COVID-19 pandemic. Bruchac captures the challenges many experienced at the beginning of the pandemic, including remote learning, and limited knowledge of how COVID-19 spread, while organically connecting this experience with the culture, history, and contemporary challenges experienced by First Americans.Ages 8+
Favorite pup
Do you have a favorite pup? I would love to hear about your favorite dog! Please send me a DM on Instagram @playgroundlibrarian.
Happy Reading or Woof Woof!!!
Xo, Sheryl
Start the school year by reading fabulous school-themed books that will grab kids’ attention and leave them smiling. Whether you’re looking for something fun or educational, I’ve got you covered! Read on to see some of the best back-to-school books for children.
We Don’t Eat Our Classmates By Ryan T. Higgins
4+
Going to a new place where you don’t know anyone can be scary. Higgins uses humor to show making friends can be easy….as long as you don’t eat your classmates! In the first book of Ryan Higgin’s Penelope Rex series, Penelope is excited to start school but is a little nervous about meeting her classmates and making friends. Will her classmates be friendly? Penelope is in for a big surprise when she discovers that she goes to school with CHILDREN instead of dinosaurs and has to curb her appetite for kids to make new friends. This book could be a discussion opener about how to make friends and show them kindness.
Tags: Funny, Dinosaurs, School, Beginning of School year, Making Friends
The Pigeon HAS to Go to School By Mo Willems
3+
Pigeon’s anxiety about starting school changes to excitement when he discovers all the amazing things he will do there. This book normalizes the beginning of school jitters, identifying all the wonderful new experiences you will encounter.
Tags: New Experiences, School, Nervous, Funny
Queen of Kindergarten By Derrick Barnes Illustrated by Vanessa Brantley Newton
Ages 4+
What makes a queen? Someone who brightens a room is kind and helpful. MJ is ready to start her first day of kindergarten–she washed up, Momma braided her hair, and she looks good. She’s just missing one accessory–a tiara. A sweet story of how a mom prepares her daughter for the first day of school so she is confident and booming. The book is filled with fun, bright colors and follows MJ from school arrival to coming home at the end of the day. I also love the character illustrations, as readers may identify with Leo’s missing teeth, variety of skin tones, and hairstyles. I love how this book focuses on strategizing success rather than worrying about the unknown. When MJ walks through the doors of her new school, she is all set to have a great day (Daddy, on the other hand, like many parents, is a little apprehensive).
Talk about After Reading: What are three easy things your child can do on the first day that will set them up for success? Like MJ, they can show kindness, be helpful, and brighten someone’s day with a smile.
Tags: New School, Kindergarten, Trying something new, Kindness, Confidence,
All Are Welcome By Alexandra Penfold Illustrated by Suzanne Kaufman
3+
All Are Welcome invites readers to spend a school day in a warm classroom where differences are celebrated, happiness abounds, and students grow together. Kids (and grown-ups, too!) will love the fun, colorful illustrations. Kaufman does a beautiful job, including characters of different skin tones, abilities (there is a student with a wheelchair, a few wearing glasses), religions, and family makeup. This visual representation implies that everyone is unique and everyone matters. My favorite part of the book is when the kids are in the cafeteria at lunchtime. At the top of the page are various flags representing the nationalities of the students. At the lunch tables, every friend has a different type of bread they brought from home, representing their individual heritages. You see pita, baguette, the bagel–all yummy carbohydrates in different shapes. I love how this recognizes the common denominator–bread–similarities and celebrates each unique flavor.
The book provides kids with what Rudine Sims Bishops, professor emerita at Ohio State University and dubbed “mother of multicultural children’s literature,” as this book provides readers a “mirror” to identify with the characters in the book and a “window” to learn about new cultures. All Are Welcome is a great first-day-of-school read, as the book celebrates individual identity and fosters a welcoming environment celebrating a safe space to learn and grow together.
Tags: Inclusivity, Repetition, Rhyme, School, Respect
If I Built a School by Chris Van Dussen
Age 5+
How would you design the perfect school if you were to build it? Would it be in a tree house? Will there be a helipad on the roof? Or would it be on the moon? Come along with Jack as he takes you on a tour of the fantastic school he designed, and check out the neat architectural features (part trampoline basketball court), furniture (love the hover desks!), and out-of-this-world playground!
I love the creativity Van Dussen incorporates throughout this book, no idea is too wild, and Jack’s School sounds fantastic! Jack’s creativity empowers readers to dig deep into their creative thoughts and explore their imaginations.
Extension Activity: How would you design a school? Who would you be developing the school for r? What features would it have? Inviting students to unleash their imaginations and plan the ultimate school is a fun beginning-of-the-year activity that can incorporate creative writing, drawing, and building. The kids will have fun, and the teacher will have insight into the child’s interests.
Tags: Architecture, School, Design, rhyming, Imagination, Art, Fun,
Sideways Stories from Wayside School By Louis Sachar Illustrated by Tim Heitz
Ages 7+
Wayside School was supposed to be one level with thirty classrooms. Instead, the builders stacked them on top of one another. They said they were sorry. It works out for the kids because the playground is super big. The silliness isn’t limited to the architecture, and one teacher has a habit of turning kids into apples! Each chapter of this wonderfully funny book will surely bring out giggles from everyone. As soon as you want to put the book down, I am sure you will hear, “just one more chapter, please!” Sideways Stories from Wayside School is a hysterically zany chapter book for first grade and up. This excellent back-to-school book will break the ice of first-day jitters with tons of belly laughs.
Tags: Wacky, School, Humor, Classic, Laugh
I would LOVE to hear your thoughts on these titles!
Happy Reading!
XOXO,
Sheryl
Are you looking for your next great read? Look no further! This page has a comprehensive list of books discussed, so you’ll find something that piques your interest. From bestsellers to lesser-known titles, there’s something for everyone. So pick up one of these recommended reads and start enjoying the beauty of literature today.
*This page contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. I appreciate your support!
Titles
Click on the book below to find your copy of the title on Amazon!
I would love to hear from you!
Please let me know if any of these tips help! Write me @playgroundlibrarian on Instagram.
XO, Sheryl
October is fire safety month, a great time to review fire safety as a class or family. This collection of firefighter books for kids includes stories that will keep them interested while teaching them important lessons about fire safety.
*This page contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you
Fire Chief Fran
Written by Linda Ashman and Illustrated by Nancy Carpenter
Astra Young Readers
Age 4+
This exciting rhyming book is a compelling look into the many tasks firefighters encounter daily, from training to be vital community helpers. One of my favorite things about this book is the representation of people of color and women, demonstrating to children that firefighters could look just like themselves. This storybook, engaging and fun, is also packed with cool facts, like why some stations have firepoles or a variety of colors firetrucks can be. A first-pick buy for libraries.
Fire Engine No. 9
By Mike Austin
Random House Books for Young Readers
Ages 1+
Kids will have fun reading this exciting, mostly wordless book that follows firefighters on a mission to save the day! Kids will enjoy picking this book up independently and “reading” it by narrating the bold, colorful illustrations. This is an excellent book for the youngest firefighter fans!
Firefighter Duckies
By Frank W. Dormer
Published by Atheneum
Ages 3+
The Firefighter Duckies are strong and brave and rescue whales out of trees! This delightful book is silly and makes for a fun read-aloud. Early readers will also enjoy this book, as there are few words on pages filled with cartoonish illustrations.
Fire Safety
by Emma Bassier
Published by Cody Koala
Ages 4+
This nonfiction book is an excellent introduction for kids to fire safety. The book is factual and to the point, identifying how to handle fire (get help from an adult), awareness of smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, and the importance of having an escape plan. This book is not a cozy bedtime read, but a vital topic to be discussed in each classroom and at home.
The book has some neat features, including a glossary identifying new vocabulary and the most helpful conversation starters connecting the book to the reader, other texts, and the community.
Fireboat
by Maira Kalman
Puffin Books
Ages 4+
This beautiful nonfiction introduces young readers to John J. Harvey, a fireboat launched in 1931 and retired in 1995. In its heyday, the John J. Harvey was the fastest fireboat of its time, but fireboats were used less frequently by the mid-nineties. A group of friends saved the boat from becoming scrap metal and refurbished it to glory. Read about the incredible role the John J. Harvey played in helping to extinguish the fires of 9/11.
Hamsters Don’t Fight Fires
Written by Andrew Root and Illustrated by Jessica Olien
HarperCollins
Ages 3+
Hugo is a hamster who is good at many things, but can he, who is so tiny, achieve his dream of being a mighty firefighter? This charming picture book reminds us that we each have unique talents and can make a difference.
Send a Girl: The True Story of How Women Joined the FDNY
Written by Jessica M. Rinker and Illustrated by Meg Hunt
Bloomsbury Children’s Books
Ages 8+
The true, courageous story of the first professional female firefighter in New York City. After going to law school, Brenda Berkman wanted a job where she could help people, use her strength, and be outdoors; as soon as New York City opened the firefighter exam to women, Brenda signed up! This is a beautiful biography of a heroic woman who overcomes discrimination from the public and other firefighters. This inspiring book demonstrates that women can do anything they set their hearts on.
Happy Reading!
I would love to hear your thoughts on these books!
XO, Sheryl
Graphic novels are stories told in pictures. Visually stimulating graphic novels are often high-quality reading material that engages even the most reluctant readers. They are fun, hard to keep on library shelves, relatable, and appealing to young readers.
I will continue to add to this post as I discover new titles. If you have suggestions, I would love to hear them; DM me on Instagram at @playgroundlibrarian.
*This page contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea by Ben Clanton
Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea by Ben Clanton is a winner of the Will Eisner Award for best early reader comic book and is perfect for kids ages 4+. Clanton weaves facts about narwhals and jellyfish with a funny and cute friendship story between two marine animals. Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea is the first book in an engaging series! For younger friends, Ben Clanton has come out with a cute board book, Bubbles.
Mad Scientist Academy: The Dinosaur Disaster by Matthew McElligott
Do you know someone who LOVES dinosaurs? The Mad Scientist Academy: The Dinosaur Disaster by Matthew McElligott is a great picture book version of a graphic novel for children. ages 5+. Please read my review here.
El Deafo by Cece Bell
El Deafo (ages 7+) won the Newberry Honor in 2015. Chronicling the author’s experience as she navigates childhood with a cochlear implant, El Deafo is a funny memoir. Years ago, I led a parent-child reading club, and this was one of the books we discussed. This book was a favorite of many in the group due to its humor and relatability.
The Aquanaut by Dan Santat
Distraught since her father was lost at sea, Sophia spends time between school and Aqualand, an amusement park/research center her late father and uncle created. One day, she discovers a fantastic creature who reminds her of her Dad, The Aquanaut. Dan Santat, author of many works, including the Caldecott Award-winning picture book The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend, crafts a whimsical fantasy graphic novel that is both moving and funny. Ages 8+
Allergic by Megan Wagner Lloyd and Illustrated by Michelle Mee Nutter
More than anything, Maggie wants a puppy. At home, everyone is paired up but her; her parents have each other, and her younger twin brothers have each other. Plus, her mom is expecting a baby, leaving Maggie the odd one; if only she would get a dog. Ages 8+
PAWS: Gabby Gets It Together by Nathan Fairbairn and Illustrated by Michele Assasakorn
PAWS is a coming-of-age graphic novel about three friends who bond over a love of animals, but none of whom have a pet of their own. The three eager problem solvers are Gabby Jordan, Mindy Park, and Priya Gupta, and they brainstorm how they can spend time with dogs, even though their parents won’t let them get one of their own. The trio comes up with a dog walking service that will give them ample time to play with pups AND earn some money. Will everything work out as planned? Read PAWS to find out!
This book is perfect for fans of The Baby-sitters Club and Allergic! I love the diversity of the characters’ interests, cultures, and economic backgrounds and that readers can see themselves in the character’s experiences. Recommended for ages 8+.
Raina Telgemeier
Raina Telgemeier, the QUEEN of Graphic Novels! Ms. Telgemeier’s books are relatable, visually appealing, and enjoyable to read! In the library, it is rare to find her books on the shelves because they are SO popular! The books are great gifts, and I know many kids who have read them repeatedly!
Smile by Raina Telgemeier is a New York Times bestselling, Will Eisner-winning graphic novel for kids ages 8+. This is a sweet and funny graphic memoir based on the author’s childhood, capturing the challenges of growing up, braces, and friendship. This is a book you don’t want to miss! 
If you enjoy Smile (I 
It!), check out other phenomenal books by Raina Telgemeier!
Sisters (ages 8+) describes the author’s challenging childhood relationship with her sister and interpersonal challenges at home with her family.
Guts (ages 8+) is a fantastic book to read with your child! This autobiographical graphic novel addresses challenges with friendship, anxiety, and growing up. This book is a great discussion opener for social-emotional learning!
Kristy’s Great Idea: A Graphic Novel (The Baby-sitters Club #1), Written by Ann M. Martin and Illustrated by Raina Telgemeier, is the graphic novel adaptation of Ann M. Martin’s popular middle-grade series. After seeing her single mom’s struggles in finding a babysitter for her younger brother, Kristy organizes a way to address this challenge. Readers will enjoy this sweet and funny first book in the series.
New Kid by Jerry Craft
New Kid is the winner of the Newbery Award, the Coretta Scott King Award, and the Kirkus Prize, all prestigious awards for children’s literature. Craft tackles the challenges faced by a kid starting a new school where he is in the minority and encounters prejudice. Even if you were never the “new kid,” the book is super relatable about trying to fit in a new environment.
Swim Team: Small Waves, Big Changes by Johnnie Christmas
Join Bree as she moves with her Dad to Florida, starts a new school, builds friendships, learns to swim, and overcomes her anxieties. Swim Team inspires readers that nothing is impossible with good friends, hard work, and perseverance! I enjoyed this book immensely! This book is perfect for fans of Raina Telegmeier. Ages 8+.
Be Prepared by Vera Brosgol
Many of the kids at Vera’s school will go to sleep-away camp for the summer. Vera desperately wants to go too. The only camp her single mother can afford is a Russian summer camp. Will the experience be as wonderful as she expects? Excellent book about social acceptance, friendship, and camp. For ages 8+.
Love to hear YOUR thoughts!
I am always on the lookout for a great graphic novel! Please DM me on Instagram @playgroundlibrarian or Facebook at Sheryl Hoffman with recommendations!
Happy Reading!
XO, Sheryl
Dive into the world of fish with these top fish-themed picture books. With colorful illustrations and engaging stories, these books will capture your child’s imagination and spark their love for marine life. Get ready to swim with the best!
The Fish With the Deep Sea Smile by Margaret Wise Brown and Illustrated by Henry Fisher
Join The Fish With the Deep Sea Smile as it swims all across the sea and evades a family on a fishing expedition. Written by Margaret Wise Brown, author of Good Night Moon, this book contains fun rhymes and bright, colorful illustrations. This book is a favorite in my household, and we love reading about such a clever fish.
The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister
A modern day classic. Rainbow Fish has spectacular iridescent scales, unlike any other fish in the sea. Proud of his unique beauty, Rainbow Fish refuses to share his special scales. Rainbow Fish sadly notices how lonely he feels when the other fish choose not to play with him. Will Rainbow Fish choose to share his scales to make friends? Read this eye-catching book to find out.
Mister Seahorse by Eric Carle
Mister Seahorse is a wonderful tale of a father seahorse who takes care of his baby seahorses before they hatch. While he waits patiently to see his babies born, he encounters other male fish enduring the same journey.
Eric Carle introduces the youngest readers to the important role males of some fish species play in protecting their young. A joyful book celebrating fathers!
Love, love, love, Eric Carle’s illustrations!!! The cover alone is a joyful collage of sea-inspired colors that I find inviting! The rest of the book does not disapoint! Interspersed throughout the book are gorgeous clear overlays creating impressive seascapes.
Where Is Little Fish? by Lucy Cousins
There are a few books that I end up buying multiple copies of because they are so loved in my home. Where Is Little Fish? is one of them. My children LOVE lifting the flaps looking for Little Fish. We enjoy interacting with the text playing a peek-a-boo game of sorts.
1 Year +.
Swimmy by Leo Lionni
After Swimmy’s school of fish is gobbled up by a tuna fish, Swimmy explores the sea and meets many sea creatures. When Swimmy happens upon a school of fish that reminds him of his home, Swimmy invites them to play and helps them overcome their fear of big fish.
Readers will delight in Leo Lionni’s serene artwork. Enjoy the soothing earth tones that grace the pages as you read the book. The illustrations are outstanding (the title is a 1964 Caldecott Honor recipient). If you are reading this book with a child or children, invite them to hypothesize what mediums Lionni used to create his art.
Ages 4+
Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea by Ben Clanton
The Narwhal and Jellyfish series (this is the first) is one of my go-to recommendations for emergent readers. The graphic novel-style picture book is full of engaging cartoonish illustrations. A great story about friendship, and readers will learn fun facts about narwhals and jellyfish. I previously wrote about this title here.
Fishies
It is so much fun to read about sea creatures! Watch one of my family’s favorite fish songs to make storytime extra special. We are big fans of Laurie Berkner and love “The Goldfish” song.
Happy Reading!
XO, Sheryl
Butterflies are fascinating creatures that capture children’s imagination (and grownups, too!). If you’re looking for educational and entertaining butterfly books for kids, you’ve come to the right place. From picture books to nonfiction guides, this list has something for every young reader who wants to learn more about these beautiful insects.
The Very Impatient Caterpillar Series, Written and Illustrated by Ross Burach
The Very Impatient Caterpillar Series is a hilarious collection of four books (so far) about metamorphosis and filled with humor and wit with valuable social-emotional lessons interspersed. These books are a true pleasure to read. I rarely fan books in a series; however, this one is an exception! Start with The Very Impatient Caterpillar; cheer Butterfly on in The Little Butterfly That Could as you learn about butterfly migration; learn about nocturnal and diurnal animals in Good Night Butterfly, and find out how butterflies make excellent pollinators in the newest book of the series, Make Way for Butterfly. This series is perfect for fans of Mo Willems!
Butterfly or Moth by Christina Leaf
How do you differentiate between moths and butterflies? Before reading this book, I thought they contrasted because of their colors, but I’ve learned there are many more pieces to this puzzle. Check out this book about insect cousins and learn what makes them beautiful and unique! Age 5+
Monarch Butterflies: Explore the Life Journey of One of the Winged Wonders of the World, Written by Ann Hobbie and Illustrated by Olga Baumert
Take an in-depth look at Monarch butterflies and learn about their migration patterns, life cycle, anatomy, and cultural significance. Monarch Butterflies is full of resources to guide readers on how to rear monarchs, build a friendly butterfly habitat, and how we can help protect them. The colorful illustrations are beautiful.
Monarch Butterfly by Gail Gibbons
Gail Gibbons Monarch Butterfly has been a staple on classroom bookcases for decades for a good reason: from the gorgeous and informative watercolor illustrations to the introduction to relevant vocabulary, this book is an informative resource on the lifecycle of butterflies. Ages 4+.
National Geographic Readers: Caterpillar to Butterfly by Laura Marsh
The National Geographic Kids Reader books are excellent nonfiction sources for emergent readers! Readers will enjoy the bright gorgeous photographs, cool facts, and accessible language. The riddles sprinkled throughout the book are fun to find. Caterpillar to Butterfly is perfect for an early elementary-grade research project or pleasure reading. Ages 3+.
Life Cycle of a Butterfly by Colleen Sexton
This beautiful nonfiction, filled with facts, would be PERFECT for a class study of butterflies! Includes detailed photographs for an up-close view. Ages 5+.
Classroom Activity
The books listed above are terrific for introducing little ones to butterflies.
One fun activity to do at home or school is raising caterpillars. It is super easy with this Butterfly Science Kit. Once you purchase the kit on Amazon, you can arrange for live caterpillars to be sent to you. It is so much fun to watch the daily growth of a caterpillar as it metamorphs into a beautiful butterfly!
Visit my Teachers Pay Teachers Store to purchase a Life Cycle of Butterfly Worksheets. The worksheets align with the Common Core and Next Generation Science Standards and are perfect for a no-prep butterfly unit for Pre-K through second grade.
Happy Reading!
XO, Sheryl
Celebrate Earth Day with your kids by reading these six picture books! These stories are engaging and educational, with important lessons about protecting the environment, from reducing waste and planting trees to conserving water and using green energy.
The EARTH Book by Todd Parr
I love Todd Parr’s books! His style incorporates vibrant, playful colors, funny pictures, and concise language, making his books an instant must-buy for me. The EARTH Book is a beautiful introduction to toddlers and preschoolers on caring for the Earth. Ages 2+.
We Are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom and Illustrated by Michaela Goade
Water is sacred, the source of most life on Earth. In the Ojibwe culture, women are water protectors, advocating to reduce water waste and pollution. The 2021 winner of the Caldecott Award, We Are Water Protectors is a beautiful ode to water and its vital importance to all life on Earth. Inspired by the Standing Rock Water Protector movement, We Are Water Protectors introduces the impending dangers to this life source and implores readers to take the initiative in protecting our water sources.
The water-colored illustrations are filled with culturally significant symbols. Take note of the floral designs throughout the book. The illustrator, Michaela Goade, is the first Indigenous artist to win the Caldecott Medal. Goade paid homage to Lindstrom and her heritage in motifs throughout the book.
One Plastic Bag: Isatou Cessay and the Recycling Women of Gambia by Miranda Paul and Illustrated by Elizabeth Zunon
Learn about Isatou Cessay, a Gambian activist who started the One Plastic Bag Movement. This fascinating nonfiction is filled with exquisite illustrations. The multimedia collages that adorn the pages bring the story of Isatou Cessa to life, utilizing recycled materials embodies the values the words represent. A must-have book for all libraries! Ages 5+.
The Water Princess by Susan Verde and Illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds
Join Gie Gie and her mother as they embark on foot on their daily trek to collect water. Based on the experience of celebrated supermodel Georgie Badiel, read about how girls and women in Burkina Faso, Africa, walk miles to secure water for their families to drink and bathe. Water Princess is such a moving, beautiful story that informs and reminds us that clean water is a vital resource that is not to be taken for granted. Ages 4+.
A Tree Is Nice by Janice May Udry and Illustrated by Marc Simont
The excellent book choice for Earth Day! This Caldecott-winning picture book identifies many beautiful gifts trees give all creatures daily. I LOVE the watercolor illustrations and simple poetic text.
This book would make an excellent mentor text! Invite learners to fill in the end of the sentence: “A Tree is nice_____.” Afterward, the learners can illustrate the text with their beautiful watercolors. If you incorporate this into your lesson, I would love to see your students’ work; please share it with me on Instagram @playgroundlibrarian.
Hey, Water! Antoinette Portis
Join a young girl as she notices water all around her! Water is everywhere, from the faucet to the sprinkler, to our bathtubs! In the back of the book, Ms. Portis introduces readers to the different forms of water, the water cycle, and why it is necessary to conserve water. Readers will be engaged with the lively painting illustrations and understandable language. Ages 3+.
Classroom Activity
The books listed above are excellent conversation starters to discuss the tremendous gifts we receive daily from the Earth. Encourage the conversation and invite your children to think about how they can help our planet.
Visit my Teachers Pay Teachers Store to purchase a no-prep Earth Day printable book. This fun activity informs about the history of Earth Day, what natural resources are, and ways we can help our beautiful planet.
I love to hear YOUR thoughts!
I am always on the lookout for a great book! Please DM me on Instagram @playgroundlibrarian or Facebook at Playground Librarian with recommendations!
Happy Reading!
XO, Sheryl
The Holocaust is difficult to explain to young children, but it is vital to provide them with a basic understanding of this dark historical period. Fortunately, there are several books available that offer age-appropriate introductions to the Holocaust. Here is a list of 6 Holocaust books for kids that can help you teach your children about this tragic event.
The Tower of Life: How Yaffa Eliach Rebuilt Her Town in Stories and Photographs by Chana Stiefel and Illustrated by Susan Gal
This book was marvelous, the text was well-researched, and the illustrations were rich and poignant. Yaffa Eliach was born in Eishyshok, in what was once Poland. Yaffa’s family had lived in that town for over 900 years until the Nazi regime came to power. Forced to flee, Yaffa carried photographs, taken by her grandmother, hidden in her shoe. Long after the war, Yaffa would build a memorial to Holocaust victims at the US Holocaust Museum. The Tower of Life documents this journey. The Tower of Life is an excellent book to gently introduce this history to elementary-age children. Ages 6+.
Hana’s Suitcase: The Quest to Solve a Holocaust Mystery by Karen Levine
A small Holocaust education center in Japan seeking artifacts to teach children about the Holocaust received a suitcase marked “Hana Brady, May 16, 1931.” Curious to discover more about the suitcase owner, the center educator, and her students embark on a quest to discover Hana’s fate. I appreciated how the content is told in alternating chapters with an account of how the curator of a Japanese Holocaust center learns about the suitcase and Hana’s story. Ages 9+.
The Tattooed Torah: A True Story of the Rescue and Restoration by Marvell Ginsburg and Illustrated by Lemelman Martin
Learn the true story of a small beloved Torah stolen at the beginning of World War II and how it found its way to a new home in Chicago decades later. The Tattooed Torah is a gentle introduction to young children to how the Nazis attempted to destroy Jewish communities. There is no mention of human violence in this book. Ages 5+.
White Bird by R. J. Palacio
Winner of the Sydney Taylor Award for outstanding books for children that portray a Jewish experience, White Bird by R. J. Palacio is a powerful graphic novel about a young girl’s experience hiding from the Nazis during World War II. White Bird is a spinoff of Palacio’s bestselling middle-grade novel Wonder (a must-read for all) and provides a backstory of Julian’s grandmother.
White Bird is an excellent introduction to the atrocities of the Holocaust and World War II for children in grades five and above. I recommend reading this book with your child and stopping when necessary to explain concepts and discuss themes in the book, such as bravery and kindness.
Martin & Anne: The Kindred Spirits of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Anne Frank by Nancy Churnin and Illustrated by Yevgenia Nayberg
Born the same year and an ocean apart, Anne Frank and Martin Luther King Jr. lived very different lives. Never meeting, both individuals faced prejudice and injustice yet preached kindness and hope. Read this book and learn about the similarities between these two icons. Ages 8+.
Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
Are you looking for an outstanding novel for upper elementary learners or middle school? Check out this powerful fictional account of the Danish resistance against the Nazis. Number the Stars is told from a child’s perspective and is a Newbery award-winning classic. I found this novel to be well-researched and very moving. Ages 9+.
Why should we teach kids about the Holocaust?
One way to combat this evil is through education. Incorporating inclusiveness and teaching the history of the Holocaust and respect for all into conversations with our children at home and in the classroom will help us raise kind children. These compassionate upstanders will create a better world.
May we know a day when bigotry and prejudice are a thing of the past and peace and justice prevails.
XO, Sheryl
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Explore the beauty of rhymes and language with these five engaging poetry books. Perfect for a cozy story time or lesson on poetry, these books will surely spark your children’s interest in poetry.
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Fancy Nancy: Poet Extraordinaire! by Jane O’Connor Illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser
Fancy Nancy introduces readers to a fancy use of language—poetry! Jane O’Connor crafted an engaging resource that informs readers about different styles of poetry. Readers, young and old, will be enchanted by Robin Preiss Glasser’s delightful art. Fancy Nancy: Poet Extraordinaire! is the perfect book to start a poetry unit! Ages 4+.
The Pelican Chorus: and Other Nonsense by Edward Lear Illustrated by Fred Marcellino
Enjoy this wonderfully silly picture book featuring the classic poems of Edward Lear, a nineteenth-century British poet famous for popularizing limericks and nonsense poems. The Pelican Chorus makes an excellent read-aloud in the classroom. The illustrations are full of whimsy and will surely elicit giggles. Many of these poems have been set to music; check it out to add more enjoyment to storytime. Ages 5+.
Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein
Shel Silverstein’s poems are enjoyable, funny, and classic. Please read my review of Where the Sidewalk Ends here.
The Real Dada Mother Goose: A Treasury of Complete Nonsense by Jon Scieszka, Illustrated by Julia Rothman
On a recent trip to a local bookstore, I found this treasure! Jon Scieszka, the brilliant mind behind the True Story of the Three Little Pigs and The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales, crafted this entertaining mashup of classic nursery rhymes. I enjoyed seeing the familiar poems from my childhood turn topsy-turvy. What I liked most was the explanation at the back of the book that identifies the anagrams, morse code, and other methods used to transform poems like “Humpty Dumpty” into something brand new. Fun to read for everyone, and this book would make an excellent mentor text for third-grade through high school!
Good Sports: Rhymes about Running, Jumping, Throwing, and More by by Jack Prelutsky and Illustrated by Chris Raschka
Do you know any sports lovers? This picture book contains poems about sports, including ice skating, baseball, soccer, frisbee, and more! The poems encapsulate many feelings we feel when playing sports–hope, exhilaration, and disappointment. Readers will enjoy making connections between the texts and their experiences. In addition, the illustrations are adorable and inviting, making this book a pleasure to read.
Enjoy!
I found these poetry books delightful, and I hope you do too!
XO, Sheryl