Spotty, Stripy, Swirly, by Jane Brocket

Brocket, J. (2012). Spotty, stripy, swirly. Minneapolis, MN: Lerner.

Great for Lessons on Patterns

Spotty, Stripy Swirly is an excellent current resource for early elementary lessons on patterns. The pictures are clear, vibrant, and easily recognizable items visible in everyday life. It is an excellent attention grabber and starting place for the lesson, then classes could walk around identifying similar patterns, then making their own.  Definitely a must buy for my early elementary library.

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A Leaf Can Be.....

Salas, L. P. (2012). A leaf can be.... Minneapolis, MN: Lerner.

Beautiful Verse Detailing the Life of a Leaf

A Leaf Can Be…. is a beautiful story of the many things that leaves do in the world.  The pictures are beautiful and the information presented in such a way that allows for learning and discussion.  The verses are restful and informative. The text is too difficult for beginning readers, but the ideas beneficial for K-2 learning.  It could also be used in classes to supplement science lessons on trees or the environment by including beautiful poetry and illustrations. 

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It's a Big World, Little Pig! by Kristi Yamaguchi

Great for Inspiration

Poppy, the little pig is a talented skater that makes it to the World Games after much hard work.  The games are far away, and Poppy is scared, but her friends and family are encourage her and give her great advice.  When she arrives at the games in France, she learns that it is fun to make friends and competitors from all over the world want to make friends, too.  She has a wonderful time meeting people and sharing with them.

Kristi Yamaguchi relies on her experiences as an international competitor to relate the fear and excitement of venturing out into the unknown.  The words are very encouraging and motivating for the young people as they attempt new experiences.  The illustrations put the story over the top, including the precious pictures of Poppy in her competition outfits and a parade of other animal competitors all set in France.  Very cute story and one parents can share with children to encourage them in new experiences. Librarians could use this read aloud to stimulate discussions of fear of new experiences such as the fist day of school, etc. 

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I'm Not Tired Yet! by Marianne Richmond

Great for Read A-loud to the Sleepless

Ralphie Mix at the age of six is up to tricks when he tries to keep from going to sleep. Much of the story is in rhyme, while Ralphie's mother tries a series of different solutions from fish kisses to caterpillar tickles. Finally, after tricking his mother with inferences to problems at school, Ralphie finally falls asleep.  The illustrations are fun, colorful and simple.  A fun read aloud book for parents to share with their children, especially those who have trouble falling asleep.  It would also work well as a read aloud for a young class, followed by acting out the different activities, and brainstorming for more.

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