Thursday, November 17, 2022

Classic Literature- Elementary

This page is under construction, but I'll leave it up anyway. 

 

1) Curious George 

In this book, George meets his friend, the man with the yellow hat, and begins the life of mischief and adventure so beloved by generations of readers. The inspiration for television, films, and hundreds of books, Curious George is a mainstay of children's picture books. The animated series Curious George is available to watch on Peacock, NBC Universal’s streaming platform.

2) Caps for Sale 

Children will delight in following the peddler’s efforts to outwit the monkeys and will ask to read it again and again. Caps for Sale is an excellent easy-to-read book that includes repetition, patterns, and colors, perfect for early readers.

This tale of a peddler and a band of mischievous monkeys is filled with warmth, humor, and simplicity and also teaches children about problem and resolution.

 3) Corduroy 

Corduroy is a story about a teddy bear that waits every day for someone to come into the department store and take him home. One day a little girl named Lisa wants to buy him, but her mother points out that he is missing one of the buttons on his overalls.

4) If You Give a Mouse a Cookie 

This story describes a set of events that occurs after a boy gives a mouse a cookie. Once the mouse is given the cookie, he asks for a glass of milk, which ends up leading to a series of additional requests. Each event that occurs makes the mouse want something new, creating a seemingly endless stream of demands.

 
5) Blueberries for Sal

Kuplink, kuplank, kuplunk! Sal and her mother a picking blueberries to can for the winter. But when Sal wanders to the other side of Blueberry Hill, she discovers a mama bear preparing for her own long winter.  Meanwhile Sal's mother is being followed by a small bear with a big appetite for berries! Will each mother go home with the right little one?


6) The Little Engine that Could

"I think I can, I think I can, I think I can..." Discover the inspiring story of the Little Blue Engine as she makes her way over the mountain in this beloved classic—the perfect gift to celebrate the special milestones in your life, from graduations to birthdays and more!

The kindness and determination of the Little Blue Engine have inspired millions of children around the world since the story was first published in 1930. Cherished by readers for over ninety years, The Little Engine That Could is a classic tale of the little engine that, despite her size, triumphantly pulls a train full of wonderful things to the children waiting on the other side of a mountain.

7) Floss 

Kids will flock like sheep to Floss the border collie.

Floss is a young border collie who belongs to an old man in a town and loves playing ball with the children in the park. The old man's son is a farmer and needs a new sheepdog to replace Nell, who has grown too old to work, so the old man decides to give his son Floss. Somewhere in her memory Floss knows about sheep and she soon learns how to be a sheepdog. But one day when Floss is on the hillside herding sheep, she sees the children playing with a new ball and can't resist joining in. Meanwhile the sheep escape — and the farmer is very angry. Floss is put in the doghouse, while Nell rounds up the sheep. But after this Floss becomes a very good sheepdog — although, when she has time, she still likes to play ball with the children.

Vera Williams tells of a young girl who, along with her waitress mother, saves coins in a big jar in hopes that they can someday buy a new chair for their apartment, the kind of chair her mother deserves after being on her feet all day in the Blue Tile Diner. Into the jar also goes the money Grandma saves whenever she gets a bargain at the market.

There hasn't been a comfortable place to sit in the apartment since a fire in their previous apartment burned everything to "charcoal and ashes." Friends and neighbors brought furniture to their new apartment downstairs, but no one brought anything big or soft or comfortable. Finally the jar is full, the coins are rolled, and in the book's crowning moment, mother, daughter, and Grandma search four different furniture stores, and after carefully trying several chairs, like Goldilocks, they find the chair they've been dreaming of at last.

Vera Williams enhances this story about family, community, and the power of working together toward a common goal with her signature folk art-inspired paintings.

9) Harry the Dirty Dog

Harry is a white dog with black spots who absolutely, positively hates to take a bath. After a day of adventure, Harry gets so dirty that he no longer looks like a white dog with black spots. Now he looks like a black dog with white spots!

Harry the Dirty Dog has become a classic, entertaining young readers for decades. Perfect for young fans of dogs...especially ones who also don't always want a bath!

 10) Billy and Blaze

Billy was a little boy who “loved horses more than anything else in the world.” Imagine how happy he was when he got his very own pony for his birthday! From that day on, Billy was seldom seen without his new friend, Blaze.

Riding through fields and woods, Billy and Blaze learned to trust and understand one another—and to jump over fences and fallen trees with ease. They were a great team, but were they good enough to win the gleaming silver cup at the Mason Horse Show?

11)  Bread and Jame for Frances

The classic funny I Can Read story about a stubborn little badger with very particular tastes in food.

Frances is a fussy eater. In fact, the only thing she likes is bread and jam. She won't touch her squishy soft-boiled egg. She trades away her chicken-salad sandwich at lunch. She turns up her nose at boring veal cutlets.

Unless her parents can come up with a plan, Frances just might go on eating bread and jam forever!

Join the generations of families that have laughed along as Frances sings "Jam on biscuits, jam on bread, Jam is the thing I like most, Jam is sticky, jam is sweet, Jam is tasty, jam’s a treat—raspberry, strawberry, gooseberry, I’m very FOND…OF…JAM!"

 
12) Doctor Desoto 

"Doctor De Soto, the dentist, did very good work." With the aid of his able assistant, Mrs. De Soto, he copes with the toothaches of animals large and small. His expertise is so great that his fortunate patients never feel any pain.

Since he's a mouse, Doctor De Soto refuses to treat "dangerous" animals--that is, animals who have a taste for mice. But one day a fox shows up and begs for relief from the tooth that's killing him. How can the kindhearted De Sotos turn him away? But how can they make sure that the fox doesn't give in to his baser instincts once his tooth is fixed? Those clever De Sotos will find a way. 

 
13) Frog and Toad are Friends 

From writing letters to going swimming, telling stories to finding lost buttons, Frog and Toad are always there for each other—just as best friends should be.

Frog and Toad Are Friends is a Level Two I Can Read book, geared for kids who read on their own but still need a little help. Whether shared at home or in a classroom, the engaging stories, longer sentences, and language play of Level Two books are proven to help kids take their next steps toward reading success.


14) Frog and Toad All Year

In winter, spring, summer, and fall, Frog and Toad are always together. From sledding in winter to eating ice cream on hot summer days, these two friends have fun the whole year round!

 

Madeline
Nate the Great
Miss Nelson is Missing!
The Biggest Bear
A New Coat for Anna
The Emporer’s New Clothes
Stone Soup
Mr. Putter and Tabby Pour the Tea
Henry and Mudge
Little Bear
Amelia Bedelia
Peter Rabbit
Five Chinese Brothers

Danny and the Dinosaur
Mouse Soup
My Father’s Dragon
Now We are Six
Encyclopedia Brown
The Hundred Dresses
Owls In the Family
Sarah Plain and Tall

Pinnochio
Baby Island
Winnie the Pooh
Molly Molly Mandy
Boxcar Children
Little House in the Big Woods
Little House on the Prairie


Peter Pan
Charlotte’s Web
Trumpet of the Swan
The Railway Children
Homer Price
Misty of Chincoteauge

Dangerous Journey
Rolf and the Viking Bow
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Robin Hood
Mary Poppins

Treasure Island
Heidi
Anne of Green Gables
Where the Red Fern Grows
Swiss Family Robinson
The Secret Garden


Jungle Book
Little Women
Call of the Wild
White Fang
Tom Sawyer

Authors Robert McCloskey, Virginia Lee Burton, and James Herriot (younger kids)

Robert McCloskey

1) Blueberries for Sal

2) One Morning in Maine 

3) Time of Wonder

4) Burt Dow Deep Water Man 

5) Lentil 

6) Make Way for Ducklings 

 

Virginia Lee Burton

1) Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel 

2) Katy and the Big Snow 

3) Maybelle the Cable Car 

4) The Little House 

5) Choo Choo 

6) Calico the Wonder Horse

James Herriot

1) Moses the Kitten 

2) Only One Woof 

3) The Christmas Kitten 

4) Bonny's Big Day 

5) Blossom Comes Home 

6) The Market Square Dog 

7) Oscar, Cat-About-Town 

8) Smudge, the Little Lost Lamb 

 

Authors Paul Gladone (folk tales) and Steven Kellogg (tall tales)

Paul Galdone

1) The Three Bears 

2) Three Little Kittens 

3) The Little Red Hen 

4) The Three Little Pigs 

5) Three Billy Goats Gruff 

6) Little Red Riding Hood 

7) The Gingerbread Boy

8) Jack and the Beanstalk 

9) Henny Penny 

10) The Elves and the Shoemaker 

11) The Teeny Tiny Woman 

12) Rumpelstiltsken 

13) Cat Goes Fiddle-i-Fee 

14) Puss in Boots 

15) The Owl and the Pussycat 

(I couldn't find Paul Galdone's version of that one.)


Steven Kellogg - Tall Tales

1) Paul Bunyan 

2) Pecos Bill 

3) Johnny Appelseed 

4) Sally Ann Thunder Ann Whirlwind Crocket 

5) Mike Fink 

6) I Was Born About 10,000 Years Ago 

7) The Day Jimmy's Boa Ate the Wash 


And I just feel like this needs to be added here- Stand Back! Said the Elephant I'm Going to Sneeze

Wednesday, November 16, 2022

Elementary Literature and Science

There are 181 stories. If you were to do them in a 22 week year, you would need to do about 8 a week. In a 34 week year, 5-6 a week. I don't necessarily like the verse and Bible stories I put in here, they are more like placeholders to let you know to cover them. By no means do I think you should just watch the videos- some of these books are quite lovely. I actually prefer individual Beatrix Potter books over the collection.

1) The Glory of the Garden

poem

2) Ephesians 6:1-3

3) The Tale of Peter Rabbit

4) The Sacrifice of Isaac

5) From Seed to Plant

With simple language and bright illustrations, non-fiction master Gail Gibbons introduces young readers to the processes of pollination, seed formation, and germination.  Important vocabulary is reinforced with accessible explanation and colorful, clear diagrams showing the parts of plants, the wide variety of seeds, and how they grow. 
 
The book includes instructions for a seed-growing project, and a page of interesting facts about plants, seeds, and flowers.   A nonfiction classic, and a perfect companion for early science lessons and curious young gardeners.

6) A Seed Is Sleepy *favorite

This gorgeous book from award winning artist Sylvia Long and author Dianna Hutts Aston offers children a beautiful and informative look at the intricate, complex, and often surprising world of seeds. Poetic in voice and elegant in design, the book introduces children to a fascinating array of seed and plant facts, making it perfect reading material at home or in the classroom.

7) How a Seed Grows

Once, a long time ago, the oak tree in your backyard could have fit your pocket! How can a little acorn grow so big? This book shares the secret of seeds. With the right combination of water, sun, and soil a seed will send roots down into the ground and shoot leaves up into the sunlight. Seeds can grow into flowers or vegetables or even trees. Look inside to learn the simple steps for turning a packet of seeds into a garden.

8) UP IN THE GARDEN AND DOWN IN THE DIRT *favorite

 9) The Mountain And The Squirrel

poem

10) Luke 6:31

11) The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin

12) Follow the Water from Brook to Ocean 

Water is always flowing, from a brook to a stream, to a river to the ocean. Read and find out more about how water shapes the earth and why it is important to keep our water clean in this fascinating book from author-illustrator Arthur Dorros. This book clearly explains terms like "brook," "stream," "river," and "delta," and the clear and beautiful illustrations show where water comes from, how it travels, and where it goes.

13) Where the River Begins

In this vividly drawn picture book by award-winning author, two young boys explore with their grandfather to discover where the river begins.

14) Nehemiah 

15) Tell Me, Tree

Trees shelter and surround us. Their leaves offer shade from the hot summer sun. In autumn, they dazzle us with color. In winter, they stand tall against a cold and snowy background. Trees may look solitary, but each one is teeming with life.

Tell Me, Tree is a child's guide to the wide variety of trees that surround us, including how to identify them the structure of trees, with cut-away illustrations and labels. The book also includes an explanation of photosynthesis and a special section on how to make a tree identification book of your own. Tell Me, Tree, is the perfect read for Earth Day and Arbor Day, and for nature-lovers year-round. 

16) The Busy Tree

Spectacular illustrations rendered in oil paint, and a rhyming text that describes a tree’s activities from its roots to its branches, introduce young readers to the amazing activities that go on in a tree. Acorns nibbled by chipmunks, ants scurrying across a trunk, a spider spinning a web, leaves “breathing out air for all to breathe in”—everything adds up to a “busy tree” for all to “come and see.”

17) Because of an Acorn

Because of an acorn, a tree grows, a bird nests, a seed becomes a flower. Enchanting die cuts illustrate the vital connections between the layers of an ecosystem in this magical book. Wander down the forest path to learn how every tree, flower, plant, and animal connect to one another in spiraling circles of life. An acorn is just the beginning.

18) Owls  

On silent wings a bird sweeps down in the moonlight...
 
With their striking appearance and distinctive
hoot, hoot, owls are one of the most recognizable birds in the world.  But did you know there are more than 140 types of owls living in the world?
 
Gail Gibbons'
Owls celebrates the similarities and differences in the many species of owls, from large to small, living in diverse environments and making many different kinds of nests.  The book covers basics of owl behavior, information on how they hunt, and the many factors that have led some types of owls to become endangered. 

19) Trees 

poem

20) The Tailor of Gloucester 

21) The Year at Maple Hill Farm 

 22) Around The Year by Elsa Beskow *favorite

Delightful verses and delicate, playful illustrations take young children through the special joys of each month of the year, from icy February to the green shoots of April, the red poppies of July, September's apples and the delights of December.

 23) Colossians 3:12-15 

24) The Rag Coat  

With paintings that capture all the beauty of Appalachia in authentic detail, this tender story about a resourceful mountain girl's special coat will touchreaders with its affirming message of love and friendship.

25) Weather Words and What They Mean 

A perfect introduction to how we talk and think about the weather.

Everyone talks about the weather, but what does it all mean? In clear, accessible language, Gail Gibbons introduces many common terms--like moisture, air pressure, and temperature--and their definitions.

Simple, kid-friendly text explains the origins of fog, clouds, frost, thunderstorms, snow, fronts, hurricanes, reinforcing the explanations with clear, well-labeled drawings and diagrams. Newly revised, this edition of
Weather Words and What They Mean has been vetted by an expert from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association. Best of all, the book features a fun list of weird weather facts!

 26) The Lion and The Mouse

In award-winning artist Jerry Pinkney's wordless adaptation of one of Aesop's most beloved fables, an unlikely pair learn that no act of kindness is ever wasted. After a ferocious lion spares a cowering mouse that he'd planned to eat, the mouse later comes to his rescue, freeing him from a poacher's trap. With vivid depictions of the landscape of the African Serengeti and expressively-drawn characters, Pinkney makes this a truly special retelling, and his stunning pictures speak volumes.

27) Daisy Time 

poem

28) Galatians 6:9 

29) The Tale of Benjamin Bunny 

30) A Hat for Mrs Goldman

This heartwarming winter story is perfect for those who love to knit and parents looking to teach their children about the importance of doing good for others!

Mrs. Goldman always knits hats for everyone in the neighborhood, and Sophia, who thinks knitting is too hard, helps by making the pom-poms. But now winter is here, and Mrs. Goldman herself doesn't have a hat-she's too busy making hats for everyone else! It's up to Sophia to buckle down and knit a hat for Mrs. Goldman. But try as Sophia might, the hat turns out lumpy, the stitches aren't even, and there are holes where there shouldn't be holes. Sophia is devastated until she gets an idea that will make Mrs. Goldman's hat the most wonderful of all. Readers both young and old will relate to Sophia's frustrations, as well as her delight in making something special for someone she loves.

31) Joshua and the Walls of Jericho 

32) We Are The Gardeners *favorite

In the #1 New York Times bestseller We Are the Gardeners, Joanna Gaines and the kids chronicle the adventures of starting their own family garden. From their failed endeavors, obstacles to overcome (bunnies that eat everything), and all of the knowledge they gain along the way, the Gaines family shares how they learned to grow a happy, successful garden.

 33) Home 

poem

34) Proverbs 25:28 

35) James 1:19-20  

36) The Tale of Two Bad Mice  

37) Home by Carson Ellis

Influential artist Carson Ellis makes her solo picture-book debut with a whimsical tribute to the many possibilities of home.

Home might be a house in the country, an apartment in the city, or even a shoe. Home may be on the road or the sea, in the realm of myth, or in the artist’s own studio. A meditation on the concept of home and a visual treat that invites many return visits, this loving look at the places where people live marks the picture-book debut of Carson Ellis, acclaimed illustrator of the Wildwood series and artist for the indie band the Decemberists.

 38) If You Lived Here Houses of the World 

Step into unique homes from around the world and discover the many fascinating ways in which people live and have lived. If you lived in the mountains of southern Spain, your bedroom might be carved out of a mountain. If you lived in a village in South Africa, the outside of your house might tell the story of your family. And if you lived in a floating green house in the Netherlands, you could rotate your house to watch both the sunrise and sunset.

With intricate bas-relief collages, Giles Laroche uncovers the reason why each home was constructed the way in which it was, then lets us imagine what it would be like to live in homes so different from our own. Showing the tremendous variety of dwellings worldwide—log cabins, houses on stilts, cave dwellings, boathouses, and yurts—this book addresses why each house is build the way that it is. Reasons—such as blending into the landscape, confusing invaders, being able to travel with one's home, using whatever materials are at hand—are as varied as the homes themselves. 

39) How a House is Built *favorite

Houses are built with many different materials, and in many shapes and sizes. 

Step by step, this picture book explains how homes are built—from the architect's plans through the arrival of a happy family.  The many processes of construction are explained with simple language and bright, clear illustrations, perfect for kids starting to wonder about how the world around them works.

Many different careers—including carpenters, plumbers, electricians, and landscapers—are introduced, each doing their part to bring the picture wood-frame house to life.  A great read for kids who love construction sites, or who can't get enough of
Building a House by Byron Barton. 

 40)  A Fine Dessert: Four Centuries, Four Families, One Delicious Treat  

From highly acclaimed author Jenkins and Caldecott Medal–winning illustrator Blackall comes a fascinating picture book in which four families, in four different cities, over four centuries, make the same delicious dessert: blackberry fool. This richly detailed book ingeniously shows how food, technology, and even families have changed throughout American history.

In 1710, a girl and her mother in Lyme, England, prepare a blackberry fool, picking wild blackberries and beating cream from their cow with a bundle of twigs. The same dessert is prepared by an enslaved girl and her mother in 1810 in Charleston, South Carolina; by a mother and daughter in 1910 in Boston; and finally by a boy and his father in present-day San Diego.

Kids and parents alike will delight in discovering the differences in daily life over the course of four centuries. 

41)  Roxaboxen *favorite

Marian called it Roxaboxen. There across the road, it looked like any rocky hill—nothing but sand and rocks, and some old wooden boxes. But it was a special place. And all children needed to go there was a long stick and a soaring imagination.

42) 2 Corinthians 9:6-8

43) Feeding of the 5,000 

44) The Tale of Mrs. Tiggy Winkle 

45) Prickly hedgehogs 

Who is that small and prickly creature? Visit a hedgehog mom and her babies as she teaches them to survive on their own.

When the sun has set, Hedgehog’s day has only just begun. She’s out and about, snuffling through layers of leaves and twigs as she searches for bugs and other things to eat. Young animal lovers will enjoy following Hedgehog and her little hoglets through towns and gardens, parks and woodland, as they sniff-sniff-sniff for food. The facts threaded throughout this inviting story augment the charming illustrations and will satisfy the most inquisitive of readers.

 46) Clouds  

Read and find out about how to forecast a change in weather by looking at the clouds in this colorfully illustrated nonfiction picture book.

At any given time, more than half the earth is covered with different types of clouds. Some are dark and scary rain clouds, and some are just big white puffs. What kind of cloud is in the sky above you, and what can you uexpect the weather to be? Instead of turning on the TV to find out what the weather will be, you can look out your window at the clouds.

 47) A Drop Around the World

Follow a drop of water on its natural voyage around the world, in clouds, as ice and snow, underground, in the sea, piped from a reservoir, in plants and even in an animal. The science of the water cycle and poetic verse come together and leave readers with a sense of connection to all living creatures. 

48) "The Seedling" 

poem

49) Proverbs 11:3 

50) The Wise Man and Foolish Man 

51) The Pie and the Patty-Pan 

52) The Gardener 

53) "The Reason for a Flower" 

54) Flowers are Calling  

Flowers are calling to all the animals of the forest, "Drink me!"—but it’s the pollinators who feast on their nectar.

In rhyming poetic form and with luminous artwork, this book shows us the marvel of natural cooperation between plants, animals, and insects as they each play their part in the forest's cycle of life.

 

55) Rose's Garden

A sweet fable dedicated to Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy that celebrates the spirit of community, the beauty of nature, and the power of faith and imagination — After traveling the world in her fantastic teapot, Rose is ready to put down roots. She sets about planting flower seeds in a neglected corner of a bustling city. And then she waits — through rain and cold and snow. Rose waits, never doubting that the garden she envisions will one day come to be. With a simple narration and lovely, fanciful illustrations, this luminous picture book resonates with readers of all ages. 

56) 1 Timothy 6:6-7 

57)  The Tale of Jeremy Fisher 

58) Frogs 

From tiny tadpoles to massive master jumpers, explore the lives of frogs in this detailed introduction!

How far can frogs jump? Why do their eggs look slimy? Answer these questions and many more in this illustrated introduction to amphibians, and learn about the unique role frogs play in the environment.

With her signature bright, well-labeled diagrams and simple text, Gail Gibbons introduces the habitat and life cycles of frogs, and gives a brief overview of common frog behaviors. Important vocabulary is introduced, defined, and reinforced with kid-friendly language and clear illustrations—plus a page of intriguing frog trivia.   

59) Frog and Toad All Year  

In winter, spring, summer, and fall, Frog and Toad are always together. From sledding in winter to eating ice cream on hot summer days, these two friends have fun the whole year round!

60) OVER AND UNDER THE POND *favorite

A secret underwater world brought to life: In this book, readers will discover the plants and animals that make up the rich, interconnected ecosystem of a mountain pond. Over the pond, the water is a mirror, reflecting the sky. But under the water is a hidden world of minnows darting, beavers diving, and tadpoles growing. These secrets and many others are waiting to be discovered.over and under the pond.

• An entertaining and educational look at the beauty the ecosystem has to offer. Stunning illustrations paired with an easy-to-follow storyline make this a great read for any early elementary school student
• Includes a glossary of animals that live in, near, and around the mountain pond to enrich the reading experience
• Inspires a love of nature and encourages young minds to explore the world around them

61) Pond Circle 

On a summer night by a small pond, all seems still. But a closer look reveals a world of activity—mayflies dart, beetles dive, frogs spring, skunks shuffle, and owls swoop. As a young girl watches, the circle of life unfolds. Betsy Franco’s rhythmic, cumulative text makes this a lively read-aloud, and rich, luminous paintings by Stefano Vitale capture the bold beauty of nature. Young readers will be inspired to journey into their own backyards and discover the wonder of the living, breathing world around them.

62) A Good Boy 

poem

63) Galatians 5:22-23 

64) The Story of A Fierce Bad Rabbit  

65) A Walk Through the Woods 

Listen: the forest is calling. Take a quiet walk through the woods, where shadows fall in the darkness, eyes peek out, and some animals sleep while others run and leap. Simple, poetic text and intricate papercut illustrations introduce children to a deer, black rook, fox, rabbit, and many more beautiful creatures as they wait for morning—and spring—to come.

66) Welcome Home, Bear  

Bear is tired of waking up every morning in the same green forest, so he decides to search for a new place to live. He visits the birds in the trees, a mole underground, a camel in the hot desert sand, puffins in the cold arctic snow . . . only to realize his own home is the perfect place for him after all. Welcome Home, Bear offers rich illustrations, bright colors, and a simple, spare text—all wrapped up in a beautiful, kid-friendly package. Readers meet animals in their habitats around the world—and return with Bear to the one place he is truly happy.

67) A Log's Life

An informative and creative tale about a fallen oak tree in the forest, teaching young readers about the various purposes it serves in the ecosystem during every step of its life cycle.

One stormy day a strong wind rages through the forest, causing an old oak tree to bend and sway. Lightning strikes; the tree crashes to the ground. Now it’s a giant log.
 

68) The Busy Tree    

Spectacular illustrations rendered in oil paint, and a rhyming text that describes a tree’s activities from its roots to its branches, introduce young readers to the amazing activities that go on in a tree. Acorns nibbled by chipmunks, ants scurrying across a trunk, a spider spinning a web, leaves “breathing out air for all to breathe in”—everything adds up to a “busy tree” for all to “come and see.”

69) One Small Place in a Tree 

Deep in the forest . . .

A bear sharpens her claws on a tree trunk. The scratched bark chips; a tiny hole forms. Timber beetles tunnel inside. The hole grows bigger and bigger.

In lyrical prose, Barbara Brenner reveals the fascinating happenings in one small place. She explains how, over many years, the rough hole transforms into a cozy hollow -- home to salamanders, tree frogs, a family of white-footed mice. Tom Leonard’s absorbing illustrations take you beneath the bark to a hidden world. His warm, lifelike depictions of squirrels and bluebirds, snakes and spiders show the splendor that dwells in the most unexpected places.

So stop. Observe. Explore your natural world. If you look closely enough, you will surely find . . . one small place that is home for something. 

70) Welcome to the Neighborhood *favorite

In this stunning pop-up book, meet seven animal builders and see how their unique skills help them survive—and to live together in harmony in theneighborwood.

At the edge of the forest a spider spins her web, while nearby, a hummingbird uses strands of spider silk to build her nest. These are just two of the many animals who live side by side, sharing the resources they need to construct homes, traps, or places to store food. From award-winning artist Shawn Sheehy comes an up-close look at the architectural masterpieces of the animal world, featuring an array of beautiful, lifelike pop-ups originally crafted with handmade paper. The earthy exploration culminates in a breathtaking final spread showing all the neighborwood creatures together.
 
Aesop 
Tucked away beneath a big tree on the edge of a field lies a home --- a small burrow --- for many. In every season, a different creature makes its home here and then moves on, making room for the next occupant. After a long winter's sleep, the woodchuck relocates to another burrow, but its former home is not left vacant for long. A cottontail rabbit raises her family there. After the kits have all hopped away, a salamander takes refuge in the same safe place. Through this engaging and informative introduction to woodland animals in their habitats, young readers will delight in learning about natural science as it is integrated into an inviting picture book. 
poem 
74) Luke 6:31 
75) Cat    
poem 
Bear is quite sure he doesn’t like visitors. He even has a sign. So when a mouse taps on his door one day, Bear tells him to leave. But the mouse — who keeps popping up in the most unexpected places — just won’t go away! Cheery persistence wears down the curmudgeonly Bear in a wry comedy of manners that ends in a most unlikely friendship. 
Aesop 
Aesop 
Aesop

81) All Things Bright and Beautiful 

Cecil Frances Alexander's timeless ode to nature calls everyone to celebrate the wonders of life, great and small, seen and unseen. Now Bruce Whatley offers a fresh interpretation of this classic for the whole family to enjoy. Through his lush paintings, we join a little girl's country ramble and share her appreciation of the beauty around her: a flower, the wind, a mountain view, all gives her reasons to pause and praise, and inspire us to do the same.

82) 1 John 3:18

83) The Tale of Tom Kitten

84) Ruth and Naomi 

85) Yucky Worms! 

Who would want to be friends with a wiggly, slimy worm? You can’t even tell which end is which! But there’s more to these lowly creatures than meets the eye. Kids are invited to find out where worms live, see how they move, and understand why gardeners consider them friends with the help of this humorous and informative look at an unappreciated — and fascinating — creature.

86) Wonderful Worms 

Wonderful Worms encourages an appreciation for the small creatures of the earth by explaining the vital role that earthworms play in the planet's ecosystem. The book also contains informative charts and cross-section illustrations of the worm's underground environment. Sure to be a favorite of curious children everywhere!

 87) Our Little Kinsman

poem

88) The Two Dogs

Aesop 

89) Nest Eggs

poem

90) Isaiah 41:10 

91) The Tale of Jemimah Puddle Duck 

92) Bird Builds a Nest

It’s time for Bird to build her nest! Follow her as she pulls a worm out of the ground, lifts some twigs that are just the right size, and pushesthe twigs into place. Uh-oh — one of the twigs fallsto the ground! But after a day of hard work, Bird’s nest is ready and waiting. Can you guess what it’s waiting for? Using simple, clear language and beautiful illustrations, this engaging story is the perfect introduction to physical forces for very young readers. A final spread with some simple questions promotes discussion with parents, teachers, or caregivers and encourages readers to think about the concepts introduced.

93) Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego  

94) An Egg is Quiet *favorite

 95) The Fox and the Crow 

Aesop

96) Make Way for Ducklings *favorite 

Mrs. Mallard was sure that the pond in the Boston Public Gardens would be a perfect place for her and her eight ducklings to live.  The problem was how to get them there through the busy streets of Boston.  But with a little help from the Boston police, Mrs. Mallard and Jack, Kack, Lack, Nack, Ouack, Pack, and Quack arive safely at their new home.
   This brilliantly illustrated, amusingly observed tale of Mallards on the move has won the hearts of generations of readers.  Awarded the
Caldecott Medal for the most distinguished American picture book for children in 1941, it has since become a favorite of millions.

 97) A Thousand to One 

poem

98) Philippians 4:13

99) The Parable of the Lost Sheep

100) The Tale of Samuel Whiskers or the Roly Poly Pudding  

 101) Thunder Cake

A loud clap of thunder booms, and rattles the windows of Grandma's old farmhouse. "This is Thunder Cake baking weather," calls Grandma, as she and her granddaughter hurry to gather the ingredients around the farm. A real Thunder Cake must reach the oven before the storm arrives. But the list of ingredients is long and not easy to find . . . and the storm is coming closer all the time!

Reaching once again into her rich childhood experience, Patricia Polacco tells the memorable story of how her grandma--her Babushka--helped her overcome her fear of thunder when she was a little girl. Ms. Polacco's vivid memories of her grandmother's endearing answer to a child's fear, accompanied by her bright folk-art illustrations, turn a frightening thunderstorm into an adventure and ultimately . . . a celebration!

Whether the first clap of thunder finds you buried under the bedcovers or happily anticipating the coming storm,
Thunder Cake is a story that will bring new meaning and possibility to the excitement of a thunderstorm.

 102) The Tortoise and the Hare 

Aesop

103) Romans 8:28

104) The Tale of the Flopsy Bunnies

105) The Pumpkin Book

In this cheerfully-illustrated, simply-presented book, children can learn about the growth cycle and many varieties of pumpkins, and even how to plant their own.  Award-winning author Gail Gibbons also relates the special role pumpkins played in the first Thanksgiving, the history behind carving pumpkins into jack'o'lanterns, and how pumpkins are still part of our celebrations today.


 The book features bold, clearly-labeled illustrations, directions for drying seeds, and even how to carve funny or scary faces into your pumpkin (with an adult's help), along with a fascinating section on pumpkin facts and lore. Perfect for aspiring farmers and kids who can't wait for Halloween!
  

106) Red Knit Cap Girl 

Red Knit Cap Girl is a little girl with a big dream -- to meet the Moon.

Red Knit Cap Girl lives with her animal friends in an enchanted forest. There is so much to see and do, but more than anything Red Knit Cap Girl wishes she could talk to the Moon. Join Red Knit Cap Girl and her forest friends on a journey of curiosity, imagination, and joy as they search for a way to meet the Moon. 

107) The Ant and the Grasshopper  

Aseop

108) Compost Stew 

Teach kids to compost and help them develop life-long habits to protect the Earth. From apple cores to zinnia heads, readers will discover the best ingredients for a successful compost pile in this fun picture book perfect for Earth Day!
 
Kids everywhere are seeking knowledge about the environment and climate change. Not only is composting becoming more common in households and residential gardens, but many school gardens feature compost piles, too. But how do you start a compost pile? What’s safe to include? Perfect for an Earth Day focus or year-round reference, this inviting book provides all the answers for kids and families looking for simple, child-friendly ways to help the planet.

 109) Last Night I Dreamed of Chickens

poem 

110) Proverbs 14:15

111) The Tale of Ginger and Pickles

112) Where Do Chicks Come From? 

Read and find out about eggs—and how baby chicks grow inside of them—in this colorfully illustrated nonfiction picture book.

Learn how chicks develop, how they get the food they need to grow, and how a mother hen helps keep them safe in this introduction to the life cycle of a baby chick.

 113) Chicks and Chickens 

Cheep . . .  cheep . . . cluck!  Everything you ever wanted to know about chickens and eggs—except which came first.
 
With bright watercolor illustrations and simple, clear language, nonfiction master Gail Gibbons shows young readers everything there is to know about chickens. See what different breeds of chickens look like, discover how eggs are laid and hatched, and learn how big and little farms take care of their birds. Key vocabulary words about chicken behavior and anatomy are introduced throughout
Chicks and Chickens, and new words are reinforced in accessible language for young readers.
 
Chicks and Chickens is a fun introduction to farm fowl featuring colorful diagrams, tons of facts, and a page of chicken trivia.  Perfect for curious kids wondering about baby birds, or for learning and talking about where our food comes from. 

114)  Where Do Chicks Come From? 

oops! Double!

115) The Little Red Hen

This timeless story of having your cake (and eating it, too!) comes to life with Paul Galdone's dynamic, amusing pictures. A classic storybook for all young readers--and a cautionary tale for lazy ones. Little Red Hen is a time-tested tale about how we reap what we sow.

When the Little Red Hen asks a cat, dog, and mouse for help planting some wheat, she gets no takers: "‘Not I!’ said the cat. ‘Not I!’ said the dog. ‘Not I!’ said the mouse."

They won’t water, cut, or grind the wheat... or help bake a cake with it, either. So in the end, the Little Red Hen eats the cake all by herself as well!

Paul Galdone’s delightfully detailed ink and wash illustrations—packed with charming details—add plenty of sly humor to the well-loved story that not only offers a sage message, but also shows children what it takes to make a cake from the ground up!

116 ) Bee! I'm Expecting You 
poem 

118) The Story of Joseph  

119) The Tale of Mrs. Tittlemouse 

120) The Big Book of Bugs

A beautifully illustrated, informative book for children introducing them to bugs that creep, crawl, bite, fly, and more

From moths and beetles to worms and spiders, the world is crawling with fascinating bugs. The Big Book of Bugs is the first fact-filled book for children to explore the vast array of creepy-crawlies that share our Earth.

In the first pages, children learn that bugs live nearly everywhere on the planet and gain tips on how to become a young bug spotter. As the book continues, the scenic compositions on each page are dedicated to key groups of bugs, including beetles, moths, butterflies, bees, snails, crickets, grasshoppers, worms, and spiders. Some spreads approach the world of bugs thematically, such as bugs that come out at night, baby bugs, and life cycles, how bugs hide and show off, and how some bugs love to live in your home.

 121) A Beetle is Shy *favorite

The award-winning duo of Dianna Hutts Aston and Sylvia Long team up again, this time creating a gorgeous look at the fascinating world of beetles. From flea beetles to bombardier beetles, an incredible variety of these beloved bugs are showcased here in all their splendor. Poetic in voice and elegant in design, this carefully researched and visually striking book is perfect for sparking children's imaginations in both classroom reading circles and home libraries.

122) The Life and Times of an Ant

Not mighty in size, but mighty in resourcefulness and industry, the ant has crawled the earth since prehistoric times. It has dwelt in rainforest tree trunks and acorns of oak trees, beneath logs, and under sidewalks. It has protected forests by capturing insects, cleared weeds away from acacia trees, and by growing gardens has released important nutrients into the soil. Seed lifters, dirt diggers, social beings, ants have the most advanced brain of all insects! So watch where you step, especially on a warm day: a small but mighty ant may be underfoot.

123) Bug Hotel  *favorite

Welcome to the Bug Hotel, a homemade habitat where creepy crawlies of all shapes and sizes can find a place to stay! Discover how a bug hotel can create a sustainable, safe environment for insects and mini-beasts by exploring each section, lifting the flaps and finding out facts about your favourite garden insects.

124) Spiders

Weaving webs, digging burrows, and floating on strands of silk—spiders are fascinating creatures!

From tiny baby spiderlings to large tarantulas, nonfiction master Gail Gibbons' introduction to these intriguing arachnids reminds us that even when they look scary, most spiders are harmless—and even helpful!

There are over thirty thousand kinds of spiders in the world—small and large, colorful or gray—and they live, hunt, and adapt in different ways. A number of different species and spider behaviors are highlighted in this book, accompanied by clear, labeled illustrations and important vocabulary.

This new and updated edition, vetted by an entomologist, includes revised illustrations and the latest in arachnid science. Filled with interesting trivia and information on the history of spiders, as well as an explanation of the difference between spiders and insects, this is a great introduction that takes the fear out of our eight-legged, web-spinning friends.

 125) The Itsy Bitsy Spider  

song

126)  Miss Spider's Tea Party

Wary insects do not dare stop by Miss Spider's for tea, but when a wayward moth falls into one of Miss Spider's cups, she graciously rescues it and soon finds herself surrounded by new friends.

 

127) The Very Busy Spider

Early one morning a little spider spins her web on a fence post. One by one, the animals of the nearby farm try to distract her, yet the busy little spider keeps diligently at her work. When she is done, she is able to show everyone that not only is her creation quite beautiful, it is also quite useful!

128) Bees  

One part science, one part cultural history, and countless parts fascination, Bees celebrates the important role that these intriguing insects have played in our ecosystem throughout the ages. From Athena to Alexander the Great and from Egypt to Ethiopia, Bees explores different methods of beekeeping and uncovers the debt that humans owe this vital species. With beautifully accessible illustrations depicting everything from bee anatomy to the essentials of honey making, readers will be captivated by the endless wonders of this seemingly small speck of the animal kingdom.

 

129) The Honey Makers  

Ever wondered how a jar of honey is made?

Thousands of bees visit more than one million flowers to gather the nectar that goes into a one-pound jar of honey. Every page in this picture book reveals how these remarkable insects work together to create this amazing food.

 130) Harvest Home

poem

131) Colossians 3:23  

132) Noah's Ark 

133) The Tale of Tommy Tippitoes 

134) Winter Dance

Snow is coming, and it's time to get ready! The squirrel gathers nuts, the geese soar south, and the snowshoe hare puts on its new white coat. But what should the fox do? Each animal advises the fox that its own plan is best, but the fox thinks otherwise—yet it's not until he meets a golden-eyed friend that he finds the perfect way to celebrate the snowfall.

EXTRA: Over and Under the Snow

Part of the acclaimed nature book series that includes Over and Under the Pond, Over and Under the Rainforest, and Up in the Garden and Down in the Dirt, this volume takes readers on a cross country ski trip through the winter woods to discover the secret world of animals living under the snow.

Over the snow, the world is hushed and white. But under the snow lies a secret world of squirrels and snow hares, bears and bullfrogs, and many other animals making their winter home under the snow. This beloved nonfiction picture book reveals the tunnels and caves formed beneath the snow but over the ground, where many kinds of animals live through the winter, safe and warm, awake and busy, but hidden beneath the snow. 

 135) Welcome Brown Bird 

Provides the story of the migration of the wood thrush as it travels between New England and Central America and meets two very different boys on either end of the long trip who protect the bird's nesting place until it returns. Jr Lib Guild.

136) Bear Has a Story to Tell

It was almost winter and Bear was getting sleepy.
But first, Bear had a story to tell...

Bear found his friend Mouse, but Mouse was busy gathering seeds and didn't have time to listen to a story. Then Bear saw his friend Duck, but Duck was getting ready to fly south. What about his friend Toad? He was busy looking for a warm place to sleep. By the time Bear was through helping his friends get ready for winter, would anyone still be awake to hear his story? 
 

137) Bird Songs 

The sky is quiet.

The yard is quiet.

The creek is quietly gurgling.

Then...
tat, tat, tat, tat, tat, tat, tat, tat, tat, tat! A red-capped woodpecker starts his rap for the day. Next comes nine soft coos from the mourning doves, followed by the chipping of a flurry of sparrows. And on go the birdsongs throughout the day.

Celebrate neighborhood birds in this poetic picture book, and count their sounds backward from ten to one, until all is quiet in the yard again.

 138) Caterpillar

poem

139) Deuteronomy 6:5  

140) The Tale of Mr. Tod 

-- The Tale of Mr. Tod

141) A Rock is Lively *favorite

 

142)  Mushroom in the Rain 

Caught out in the rain, an ant takes shelter under a very tiny mushroom. Soon, a wet butterfly, then a drenched mouse, a dripping sparrow, and even a rain-soaked rabbit each beg to join him under his miniature umbrella. How can the ant let the others in when there is barely room enough for one? But as the rain comes down and down, they all somehow manage to squeeze together and share the tiny shelter. And when the sun finally comes out, the ant discovers a magical secret of just what happens to mushrooms in the rain!

143) The Hen and the Fox 

Aesop

144) A Butterfly is Patient  *favorite

Part of the incredible six-book Nature Books series from the award-winning duo of Dianna Hutts Aston and Sylvia Long, A Butterfly Is Patient celebrates a dazzling variety of butterflies in all their beauty and wonder.

Turn each page to explore the amazing world of these beautiful winged insects through watercolor illustrations that bring to life garden landscapes filled with flowers, vines, leaves, and sunshine.
 

A BUTTERFLY BOOK TO TREASURE: From the tiny Western Pygmy blue butterfly to the grand Queen Alexandra’s birdwing, from the iridescent blue swallowtail to the brilliant orange monarch, curious kids will find a wealth of information and inspiration in this fascinating picture book.

145) Monarch Butterflies

Introduce young readers to the fascinating process of how catepillars become butterflies.

Follow the transformation from a tiny white egg laid on a leaf to a brilliantly colored butterfly in this kid-friendly introduction to metamorphosis.  With detailed, bright watercolors, Gail Gibbons illustrates the life cycle of the monarch butterfly, stage by stage, as it grows, changes, and takes flight.

With clear, labeled diagrams and simple text that defines and reinforces important vocabulary,
Monarch Butterfly introduces key concepts of insect anatomy and behavior.  And of course, the unique migration of the monarch-- which can range up to four thousand miles-- is covered, with descriptions of how the insects travel, and how people in their path celebrate the occasion.

This classic look at butterflies also includes directions on raising your own monarch at home, and a page of fun facts about these colorful butterflies.

  EXTRA: Jack and the Beanstalk

146) The Road Not Taken  

poem

147) Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

148) The Tale of Pigling Bland 

149) Forest Bright, Forest Night 

Learn about the animals that make the forest their home by day and at night. This creative approach of looking at animal habitats in the forest puts readers close up to deer, bear, quail, crickets, mice, foxes, and more.

Someone is always awake in the forest, and someone else is always asleep! Some animals are alert in daytime and sleep at night. Others are alert at night, and are sleepyheads during the day. Be sure to count the animals! You FLIP THIS BOOK from day to night and back―a nice hands-on way to show the same view day and night. Teachers: this book is a great way to integrate science and literature.

 150) What Makes Day and Night

Read and find out about what makes day and night in this colorfully illustrated nonfiction picture book.

This clear and appealing science book for early elementary age kids, both at home and in the classroom, uses simple, fun diagrams and a guided experiment to explain what makes day and night. This book also includes a find out more section with additional activities to track nocturnal animals and to compare different times of day around the world.

If you lived on the moon, you would have two straight weeks of daylight and then two weeks of night! On earth, we have both day and night in just twenty-four hours, thanks to the quick rotation of our planet. Read and find out more in What Makes Day and Night!

 151)  Zoo in the Sky

This award-winning book capturing the glittering light show of the constellations is now available in paperback. Take an illuminating ride through the starry night sky with National Geographic's Zoo in the Sky! Little Bear and the Great Bear in the Northern Sky; the scaly dragon winding his long tail; the Great Dog chasing the Hare in the Southern Sky; all are beautifully rendered in Christina Balit's vibrant art, studded with shiny stars, which perfectly illustrates Jacqueline Mitton's rich text.

152) The Moon Book

Shining light on all kinds of fascinating facts about our moon, this simple, introductory book includes information on how the moon affects the oceans' tides, why the same side of the moon always faces earth, why we have eclipses, and more.

This newly revised edition, available in time for the 50th anniversary of the moon landing, incorporates new, up-to-date information based on recent discoveries, and includes an updated map of the moon's surface. Thoroughly vetted by an astrophysics expert,
The Moon Book is a perfect introduction lunar phases, orbit, the history of space exploration, and more.  

 153) When the Moon is Full

A lunar guide describes the folkloric names of twelve moons according to Native American tradition and showcases their defining characteristics in short verse and beautifully detailed hand-colored woodcuts. 

154) This Little Pig 

Beatrix Potter

155)  Charlott's Web *favorite

Some Pig. Humble. Radiant. These are the words in Charlotte's Web, high up in Zuckerman's barn. Charlotte's spiderweb tells of her feelings for a little pig named Wilbur, who simply wants a friend. They also express the love of a girl named Fern, who saved Wilbur's life when he was born the runt of his litter.

E. B. White's Newbery Honor Book is a tender novel of friendship, love, life, and death that will continue to be enjoyed by generations to come. It contains illustrations by Garth Williams, the acclaimed illustrator of E. B. White's Stuart Little and Laura Ingalls Wilder's Little House series, among many other books.

 156) Pigs 

Wallow in fascinating facts about the smartest of all farm animals-- the pig.

From ancient wild boars to modern breeds, pigs are intriguing-- and often misunderstood.  They may roll in mud when it's very hot out, but prefer to be clean and tidy. And most pigs don't "eat like pigs."

With clear, simple text and bright, well-labeled watercolors, Gail Gibbons explores the truth about pigs. Digging up truffles, competing in county fairs, grunting and squealing to communicate-- these flat-snouted farm animals are complex and surprisingly talented.

Important vocabulary, information about domestic and wild breeds, and a page of fun pig facts are included.  Ideal for young readers or classroom use,
Pigs has everything you need to know-- from snout to curly tail.

 157) The Grass so Little Has to Do 

poem

158) Isaiah 26:3 

159) On Fields O'er Which the Reaper's Hand Has Passed 

poem

160) The Tale of Johnny Town Mouse 

161) Town Mouse, Country Mouse 

A story filled with suspense and humor, this classic tale of a town mouse and a country mouse takes a new twist in the imaginative and talented hands of Jan Brett. She introduces two engaging mouse couples eager to get away from their everyday lives. But when they agree to swap homes, they find unexpected adventures around every corner.

City Mouse, Country Mouse 

162) The Mouse and the Meadow 

Science and story blend seamlessly in this book about the lives of meadow mice. Learning becomes fun with beautiful illustrations and rhyming text! Readers will gain a deep appreciation for the world around us.

A curious young mouse boldly ventures into the meadow for the first time. There he is given a crash course on life―from creatures both friendly and not so friendly. He witnesses a caterpillar becoming a chrysalis. He marvels that fireflies can glow. Thoughtful encounters with a turtle and a rabbit help prepare him for danger. Science and story blend seamlessly in this entertaining coming of age tale. But do animals talk and help each other? Thoughtful back matter explores the phenomenon of animal altruism and what we are learning of animal communication, and delves deeper into the lives of meadow mice and the wonders of a meadow.

 163) The Little House *favorite

 

164) If You Lived Here: Houses 

Step into unique homes from around the world and discover the many fascinating ways in which people live and have lived. If you lived in the mountains of southern Spain, your bedroom might be carved out of a mountain. If you lived in a village in South Africa, the outside of your house might tell the story of your family. And if you lived in a floating green house in the Netherlands, you could rotate your house to watch both the sunrise and sunset.

With intricate bas-relief collages, Giles Laroche uncovers the reason why each home was constructed the way in which it was, then lets us imagine what it would be like to live in homes so different from our own. Showing the tremendous variety of dwellings worldwide—log cabins, houses on stilts, cave dwellings, boathouses, and yurts—this book addresses why each house is build the way that it is. Reasons—such as blending into the landscape, confusing invaders, being able to travel with one's home, using whatever materials are at hand—are as varied as the homes themselves. 

165) The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse 

166) We Gather Together 

What is the fall equinox?
 
The official start of the harvest season, it occurs around September 21 each year. It marks the end of summer and the beginning of longer nights and shorter days.  For many cultures around the world, the fall equinox represents a time to celebrate the harvest and begin collecting and storing crops.
 
Looking at both the science of weather and the history of how the fall equinox has been celebrated by various cultures throughout the world, this book will inspire a new understanding of autumn and the harvest season.

167) Corn 

Popcorn, tortillas, and . . . fuel for cars? Learn about all the surprising things we make from corn.  
 
Find out everything about this versatile and important grain—its history as a crop, the four main types, and how we grow and use it to make everything from food to paper to medicine!

168) Ode to the Pig: His Tail 

poem

169) Mary and Martha 

170) The Tale of Little Pig Robinson 

171) Time of Wonder

"Out on the islands that poke their rocky shores above the waters of Penobscot Bay, you can watch the time of the world go by, from minute to minute, hour to hour, from day to day . . ." So begins this classic story of one summer on a Maine island from the author of One Morning in Maine and Blueberries for Sal. The spell of rain, the gulls and a foggy morning, the excitement of sailing, the quiet of the night, the sudden terror of a hurricane, and, in the end, the peace of the island as the family packs up to leave are shown in poetic language and vibrant, evocative pictures. 

172) The Boy and the Ocean 

Just how wide, how deep, and how big is the love of God really?

See for yourself in this heart-warming story about a boy, his parents, and the wonder of creation.

From the vast reaches of the ocean to the towering heights of the mountains, Max Lucado takes us on a journey of discovery and thanksgiving as he shows us how creation expresses the unmatched love of the Creator.

Filled with beautiful illustrations, this charming tale teaches about the God whose love never ends and will remain a favorite among families for years to come.

 173) Amos and Boris 

Amos the mouse and Boris the whale: a devoted pair of friends with nothing at all in common, except good hearts and a willingness to help their fellow mammal. They meet after Amos sets out to sail the sea and finds himself in extreme need of rescue. And there will come a day, long after Boris has gone back to a life at sea and Amos has gone back to life on dry land, when the tiny mouse must find a way to rescue the great whale.

174) The Unexpected Visitor 

A stunningly beautiful and warm-hearted picture book all about the friendship between a fisherman and whale.

There was once a little fisherman. Every morning he would take his boat out into the wide sea … And wait, and wait

When the little fisherman gets an unexpected (and very large) visitor one day, they instantly become friends. They have a lot of fun exploring each other’s homes, but where have all the fishes gone?

This picture book is the perfect way to introduce the notion of sharing, sustainability and taking care of the creatures in our oceans with young children ages 3 years and up.

 175) The Little Island 

Winner of the 1947 Caldecott Medal, this beautifully moving story centers around a little island in the midst of the wide ocean, and the curious kitten who comes to visit. As the seasons pass, the island and the creatures who call it home witness an ever-changing array of sights, smells, and sounds – proving that, no matter how small, we are all an important part of the world.

176) We Have a Little Garden 

poem: Beatrix Potter

177) Ephesians 2:10 

178) Appley Dappley's Nursery Rhymes 

179) Beatrix Potter 

180) Cecily Parsley's Nursery Rhymes 

181) Beatrix Potter and Her Paint Box

All her life, Beatrix Potter loved to paint. From a young age, she painted the bunnies, mice, and other pets who populated her family home. These characters later populated her stories, which are beloved the whole world over. With beautiful scenes rich in detail, David McPhail transports us to the charming, English countryside and the wonderful world of Beatrix Potter.

 

Dawn of the Daystar

The Old Testament rises before us like a vast and ancient stage, its scenes lit by flickering torches, its characters stumbling through the ...