Explore Children's Literature Today
Discover more than 400 children's books suitable for
infants through 8th grade!
Explore Children's Literature Today
Discover more than 400 children's books suitable for
infants through 8th grade!
welcome to "Open a book- open the world!"
Our Mission
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Our Mission
We believe in the power of reading
to transform lives. Our mission is to
assist parents and teachers in
identifying quality children's books
and recommended reading that will
inform and inspire young people.
Book Lists
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Our Mission
Our recommended reading lists feature
a variety of children's books that cater
to a range of interests and will engage children of all ages. Highlighted are
both long-time favorites and new titles, books for boys and girls, and books exploring a variety of cultures.
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Each month, we will shine the spotlight on one or more books for preschool and school-age children, providing suggestions and lesson plans for incorporating learning activities at home and in the classroom.
We also look forward to sharing your reviews and recommendations.
October spotlight
Life on the Farm
Farming has been an important part of American life since its beginning. The simple, slow life on the farm is a sharp contrast to the hectic pace most of us experience daily. We all need to be reminded of the values of hard work, family, friendship, and loyalty. This month's Spotlight books teach children (and remind adults) that there is joy in simplicity and love. Pour a mug of apple cider and enjoy these stories with your family!
Life on the Farm
Preschool
School-Age
School-Age
Otis is a special tractor. He loves his farm, his farmer, and he especially loves the little calf in the next stall. They become
great friends, but when the little calf gets stuck in Mud Pond,
Otis must find a way to save him. Loren Long has written
other Otis books, so you will want to read them all.
Available in Spanish and as a board book or picture book.
School-Age
School-Age
School-Age
Born the runt of the litter, Wilbur the pig is saved by Fern Zuckerman. Wilbur enjoys life on the Zuckerman’s farm. His only worry is that
one day he will be slaughtered as other pigs are. His friend Charlotte, the spider, promises to help him. Written in 1952, when farms were more common than today, E.B. White's second children's book won the Newberry Award for 1953. Don't miss this beautiful story of
friendship, loyalty, and the circle of life! Also available in Spanish.
September Spotlight
A Child's Best Friend
Who doesn't love a cute or a "so ugly it's cute" pet? This month, we are celebrating the joy that animals bring to our lives. If your child has a live pet or a favorite stuffed animal, this month's books will make everyone smile. Two dogs, Biscuit for the young ones and Winn-Dixie for the older children, will entertain and delight! BTW- The boy in this photo is one of my grandsons with his new puppy, Oaklee!
A Child's best friend
Preschool
School-Age
School-Age
Meet Biscuit, the most adorable golden puppy ever. Mention the name Biscuit to anyone who has read these precious books, and they will immediately smile. Pre-readers will love hearing the stories and beginning readers can easily master them. With more than 70 books in the series, choosing one to read will be the hardest part. Caldecott Honor book * Also check out the activities on the Lessons page!
School-Age
School-Age
School-Age
One summer day, 10-year-old India Opal Buloni goes to the
local supermarket (yes, Winn-Dixie) for some groceries and
comes home with a dog. Winn-Dixie helps Opal make friends
and finds the courage to ask important questions. Author Kate DiCamillo said about her book, “This book is (I hope) a hymn of
praise to dogs, friendship, and the South.” Newberry Honor book
* Also check out the lesson activities on the Lessons page!
Lynn's Reading Nook
Fall in Love with Fall
I love fall- football, falling leaves, food, and family! During this season, I tend to reflect on old-fashioned things like farms, family reunions, and all things "apple". Fall is also a great time to make new family memories. Go for a hike, play in the leaves, or visit a petting zoo. Make an apple pie, attend a state fair, or visit extended family.
Even better, visit the library and check out books that celebrate the season. Two of these, Otis and Charlotte's Web are in the Spotlight section this month. Other books you might like include The Big Red Barn by Margaret Wise Brown, The Very Busy Squirrel by Nancy Tafuri, How to Make an Apple Pie and See the World by Marjorie Priceman, The Relatives Came by Cynthia Rylant, and A Gathering of Days by Joan Blos. Grab a blanket and take your books outside to enjoy the changing season! Happy Fall, Ya'll!~ Lynn
WELCOME!
I am so excited to share this site with you. As an educator, school psychologist, and most importantly, a grandmother, I have a desire to see children develop a love for learning through engaging children's books. Books are a major source of knowledge and can help children expand their horizons. However, walking into a library or bookstore can be overwhelming, especially when searching for the best elementary reading options. The printable lists shared on this site can help guide your selections, including preschool book recommendations and toddler book lists. You may ask, 'How were books chosen?' I made an effort to include both classic and newer books, books for boys and girls, and books about various cultures. The printable lists feature additional recommended reading not highlighted on the website, along with important book information such as number of pages and reading levels.
I encourage you to use these lists throughout the year. As I have learned with my own grandchildren, they can serve as 'wish lists' for birthday and Christmas gifts. Children can mark the books they have read and those they would like to read. The lists can help children choose books for reports or for pleasure. However you use this site, I wish you and your children many hours of happy reading!
- Lynn S. Wogamon, Ed.D.
