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.
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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
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
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
Mo Willems is one of my favorite contemporary authors and illustrators. I am a huge fan! His books are filled with humor, whimsical illustrations, and stories people of all ages can relate to (Waiting Is Not Easy!). I know that when I pick up a Mo Willems title for a read-aloud, my audience will be captivated.
For those not familiar, Mo Willems is an award-winning author and illustrator who has written dozens of children’s books, including the beloved Elephant & Piggie series. The Elephant & Piggie books are silly and funny easy-to-read books, perfect for emergent readers, that are about the friendship of a jubilant pig and a cautious elephant. For grown-ups, these books are reminiscent of Arnold Lobel’s Frog and Toad series or Dr. Seuss’s Cat in the Hat. The Elephant & Piggie books are popular and resonate well with modern kids.
Long Island Children’s Museum
Recently, I had the opportunity to visit the Mo Willems exhibit at the Long Island Children’s Museum. I was ecstatic! The exhibition runs from January 21, 2023 – May 14, 2023. Thank you to the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh and The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art for co-organizing.
Surrounded by beloved characters, there is so much to do! Visitors can enjoy making art inspired by Mo Willems, pretend to drive the bus (a reference to Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus), and more!
I don’t know who enjoyed the exhibit more, my five-year-old child, my father, or me! Perfect for all ages.
The exhibit was fun, immersive, hands-on, and interactive! When you walk in, there are so many activities to choose from!
In the “Pigeon Arcade,” we enjoyed catapulting hot dogs toward the Pigeon and Duckling. This activity refers to the 2004 classic, The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog. It was fun manipulating the device’s angle to get the hot dog through the red hoop.
There was even an opportunity to practice your bus driving skills!
Make Gerald dance with a pre-film animation device! So fun!!
If you get the chance, a great place to visit!
We enjoyed visiting the Long Island Children’s Museum and look forward to returning! There is so much to do while there, and it is educational too!
If you get the chance to pick up a Mo Willems book, I highly recommend it.
Which is your favorite Mo Willems book?
I would love to hear your thoughts about the show or these titles! Please post on Instagram and tag me @playgroundlibrarian or on the Playground Librarian page on Facebook!
XO, Sheryl
*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.
Introduce your kids to an inspiring lineup of influential women with this comprehensive list of the best biographies for young readers. From historical figures to trailblazing scientists, these stories will help kids explore diverse perspectives and connect meaningfully with their lives.
Me . . . Jane by Patrick McDonnell
Meet Jane, a young girl, and her beloved stuffed animal, chimpanzee Jubilee. Jane loves being outside and exploring; she dreams of growing up and helping animals. Learn about Jane Goodall’s love for chimpanzees and her continued efforts to protect them. Patrick McDonnell drew upon quotes from Jane Goodall’s autobiography to create this attractive, charming, accessible biography for young children. Ages 2+.
Yayoi Kusama Covered Everything in Dots and Wasn’t Sorry by Fausto Gilberti
Do you love polka dots? Learn about Yayoi Kusama and how she grew from a little girl in Japan who carried her sketchbook everywhere to becoming a world-famous artist. Today, one can find Ms. Kusama’s designs in books, clothing, and museums. This book is perfect for an artist’s study or a fun storytime. Age 4+.
Shark Lady: The True Story of How Eugenie Clark Became the Ocean’s Most Fearless Scientist by Jess Keating Illustrated by Marta Álvarez Miguéns
I love this book! I once had a learner who was reluctant to read and loved sharks; I can’t tell you how excited she was to read this book! As a young girl, Eugenie Clark was fascinated by sharks. She dedicated her life to studying their behavior, utilizing her research to debunk beliefs that women can not be scientists and that sharks are not merely “ugly and scary creatures.” Furthermore, Dr. Clark worked hard as a marine conservationist. This book is perfect for shark lovers. Ages 5+.
I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark by Debbie Levy and Illustrated by Elizabeth Baddeley
I Dissent is an excellent picture book biography about the life of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the second woman and first Jewish woman to serve on the United States Supreme Court. Learn about the challenges RBG faced and the obstacles she overcame fighting for justice and equality for all. In the back of the book, you can see photographs from RBG’s life and additional sources for information. Ages 5+.
Game Changers: The Story of Venus and Serena Williams by Lesa Cline-Ransome and Illustrated by James E. Ransome
This extraordinary picture book introduces young readers to two of the world’s most famous women’s tennis players, sisters Venus and Serena Williams. From a young age, the Williams sisters, two best friends, worked hard to train to be the top players in their game. Not arduous training nor racism stood in the way of Venus and Serena Williams. The husband and wife author and illustrator team created an exceptional vibrant nonfiction work that shows persistence, determination, and hard work are vital to achieving one’s dreams. Ages 5+.
Dinosaur Lady: The Daring Discoveries of Mary Anning, the First Paleontologist. Written by Linda Skeers, Illustrated by Marta Álvarez Miguéns
Meet Mary Anning, the world’s first paleontologist! Beginning as a hobby as a young girl, Anning’s understanding of fossils transformed scientists understanding of dinosaurs. Click here for more fantastic dinosaur book titles! Age 5+.
The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read by Rita Lorraine Hubbard and Illustrated by Oge Mora
Born on a southern plantation in 1848, Mary Walker worked hard her whole life. Freed at age 15 from slavery, Ms. Walker found jobs sharecropping, house cleaning, babysitting, and volunteering for her church—this entire time, harboring a deep desire to learn how to read. Finally, when Ms. Walker was 114 years old, having outlived her family, Ms. Walker found the opportunity to pursue her dream.
I found Ms. Walker’s story inspiring; her grit, work ethic, and determination to follow her dream prove you are always young enough to learn. Ms. Mora’s art is a treat for the eyes. Age 5+.
Holding Her Own: The Exceptional Life of Jackie Ormes by Traci N. Todd and Illustrated by Shannon Wright
Check out this new stunning biography on Jackie Ormes. Ms. Ormes was a trailblazer who became the first nationally syndicated black woman cartoonist. Holding Her Own: The Exceptional Life of Jackie Ormes introduces a new generation to Ms. Ormes, who used her talent to create empowering cartoons of black women. Through these cartoons, Ms. Ormes addressed political and social issues of the times. Holding Her Own is a compelling picture book for children and adults. Ages 7+.
The Chocolate Chip Cookie Queen: Ruth Wakefield and Her Yummy Invention by Carmen Bredeson
Learn about the woman behind one of America’s most beloved cookies! The Chocolate Chip Cookie Queen introduces readers to Ms. Wakefield’s creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. This book is a delectable choice for a biography project for school (maybe even scoring some “brownie” points by bringing in some cookies!) or for fun! Ages 7+.
What do all of these women have in common?
Each one of the women mentioned above worked tirelessly to pursue their dream. Each one showed grit and overcame obstacles. What is your dream? How will you follow it? Please DM me on Instagram @playgroundlibrarian; I would love to hear about it.
Happy Reading!
XO, Sheryl
With so many books available, it can be hard to choose which cat books for kids to introduce your child to. Here are ten of the top titles that combine exciting stories, educational fun, and plenty of fun to keep any young reader entertained.
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Millions of Cats by Wanda Gág
The oldest American children’s book continuously in print, Millions of Cats is a very special picture book, and it was included in Anita Silvey’s work, 100 Best Books for Children. One of a few picture books to receive the Newbery Honor (award for “most distinguished contribution to American children’s literature”) it is easy to understand why generations of children have fallen in love with this book for nearly a century. The book reads like a folktale, and readers are introduced to a lonely elderly couple. The wife desires a cat and the husband sets forth to find one. Only he finds it so difficult to just find one, and returns home with “hundreds of cats, thousands of cats, millions and billions and trillions of cats.” How can one choose just one? Ages 2+
They All Saw a Cat by Brendan Wenzel
A clever picture book about a cat walking through the world, and how it is perceived by others. The illustrations are outstanding (hence recipient of the Caldecott Honor). Each picture illustrates the cat through the eyes of the creature who sees it. For example, in the picture next to a child, the cat looks sweet and cute, whereas the same cat looks big and scary to the scared little mouse. This is an excellent book to utilize when teaching kids about point of view. Ages 2+.
Cat Problems by John Jory and Illustrated by Lane Smith
A humorous book about many of the challenges a cat encounters. This title is part of the Animal Problem series (I previously wrote about Penguin Problems here.)
Max The Brave by Ed Vere
“Max is a fearless kitten, Max is a brave kitten, Max is a kitten who chases mice. Max the Brave just needs to find out what a mouse looks like…” A sweet and funny book, Max The Brave is about an adorable kitty who is confident and brave and goes searching for a mouse to chase, which can be tough if you’ve never seen a mouse before. Ages 1+.
Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes by Eric Litwin Illustrated by James Dean
A modern classic, Pete the Cat is a beloved staple for any kid bookshelf! Pete is out enjoying his day wearing his white shoes, when he steps on a strawberry. His shoes turn red. Does he get upset? “Goodness no!” He keeps walking when suddenly he steps on blueberries. Does he get upset? “Goodness no!” Pete just keeps on going and singing his song.
This is a marvelous book about acceptance, going with the flow, and keeping a positive outlook. The cadence of the book is super appealing, there is even a downloadable song that goes along with it! Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes is the perfect book to read if you are teaching about colors, or if you just want something delightful. If you like this book, you are in luck! This is part of a series, we are also big fans of Pete the Cat’s Groovy Bake Sale by James Dean.
Kitten’s First Full Moon by Kevin Henkes
Kitten sees a full moon in the sky for the first time and thinks it is a bowl of milk! So she chases it…Follow Kitten on her adventure as she seeks her milk. I admire the determination of this kitty who despite obstacles pursues she stays focused on her goal no matter what. The black and white illustrations are fabulous, and emphasizes the nighttime story setting. I love the details in Henkes art. Kitten’s face is full of endearing expressions. Purr-fect for kid who adores kitties. Kitten’s First Full Moon won the 2005 Caldecott medal.
And a Cat From Carmel Market by Alyssa Satin Capucilli and Illustrated by Rotem Teplow
Bubbe (yiddish word for Grandmother) is getting ready for the Jewish sabbath. To prepare, Bubbe visits the local outdoor market to get challah, chicken soup, a tablecloth, potatoes, carrots, squash. When she comes home, Bubbe finds that lots of stray cats have found their way into her shopping bags! This is a sweet book that invites readers to armchair travel to Tel Aviv, Israel. Read this beautiful picture book and see the preparations that go into the weekly Shabbat celebration. Enjoy spotting the sneaky kitties as they cleverly hitch a ride with Bubbe! Ages 3+.
Dragon’s Fat Cat by Dav Pilkey
Colorful, funny, and easy-to-read, Dragon’s Fat Cat is a chapter book for emergent readers. In the book, a lovable dragon who adopts a cat. Only, Dragon does not know much about caring for a cat. Join Dragon as he learns from his mistakes about caring for a cat. Ages 4+
Bad Kitty by Nick Bruel
When Kitty runs out of her normal food and is left with asparagus, beets, cauliflower, dill, and other food in alphabetical order she doesn’t find appealing, she acts out and acts out! She ate homework, bit grandma, and clawed the curtains! When the food improves, so does her behavior. This is a humorous picture book that kids can enjoy pointing out the words in abc order, as well as discuss positive and negative choices. Ages 4+.
The Curious Cat Spy Club by Linda Joy Singleton
Three classmates serendipitously happen upon an abandoned litter of kittens in an alleyway dumpster. Upset that someone would be so cruel, the kids become friends and form the Curious Cat Spy Club to care for and solve the mystery of the abandoned kitties. Age 9+.
Love to hear YOUR thoughts!
I am always on the lookout for a great book! Please DM me on Instagram @playgroundlibrarian or Facebook at Sheryl Hoffman with recommendations!
Happy Reading!
XO, Sheryl