For the Youngest Readers (Toddlers to Kindergarten)

BRAND-NEW BABY BLUES
Written by Kathi Appelt, illustrated by Kelly Murphy (Harper)
Sibling rivalry is a common subject in a home with multiple preschoolers. Perhaps reading this book can help prepare siblings for the changes to come when a new baby arrives.

ADVENTURE ANNIE GOES TO KINDERGARTEN
Written by Toni Buzzeo, illustrated by Amy Wummer (Dial)
If you have a child about to start kindergarten this fall, here is one book worth reading before school starts. Innocence, curiosity, and humor abound as you share Annie’s first-day adventure.

NO MORE, POR FAVOR
Written by Susan Middleton Elya, illustrated by David Walker (Putnam)
Does “picky eater” sound familiar? In this adorable book, readers can learn some Spanish at the same time they solve the problem of persnickety eaters.

For Readers (Kindergarten to 2nd Grade)

ALFRED ZECTOR, BOOK COLLECTOR
Written by Kelly DiPucchio, illustrated by Macky Pamintuan (Harper)
Alfred Zector believes true satisfaction comes with owning every book in town. When he possesses them all, something is still missing—until he reads them all. Happiness, he discovers, is achieved when books are shared.

WHAT’S THE BIG IDEA, MOLLY?
Written and illustrated by Valeri Gorbachev (Philomel)
Molly Mouse finds coming up with writing ideas is not always easy, especially under pressure. Sometimes brainstorming ideas with friends can provide some possibilities. This book is a great model for beginning writers, friendships, and being creative.

HOW YOU GOT SO SMART
Written and illustrated by David Milgrim (Putnam)
Milgrim writes about growing up through well-crafted words and playful pictures. This is a wonderful book with a strong self-esteem message for all readers.

For Readers (3rd to 6th Grade)                                                          

DISASTERS: NATURAL AND MAN-MADE CATASTROPHES THROUGH THE CENTURIES
Written and illustrated by Brenda Z. Guiberson (Henry Holt)
Parasites, fires, floods, and earthquakes are but a few of the true world disasters that have occurred. Photos, illustrations, and some first-hand accounts make for a mesmerizing read for history buffs, the mildly curious, and devoted readers.

CALAMITY JACK
Written by Shannon & Dean Hale, illustrated by Nathan Hale (Bloomsbury)
Like their previous collaboration, this graphic novel version of Jack in the Beanstalk is certain to pull in reluctant and avid readers alike. Filled with adventure, witty heroes, humor, and a splash of romance, it’s a fun read. 

2010 ALMANAC FOR KIDS: FACTS, FIGURES, & STATS
By the editors at Scholastic (Scholastic)
Yep, just about every bit of trivia you want to know, and more, are included in this book. I bet you can’t pick up this book up and read just one page. I double-dare you!
 

Book reviews provided by BSU professor Stan Steiner, the Bookman. For more suggestions and reviews, visit his web page at http://education.boisestate.edu/stansteiner. Book Nook is archived at treasurevalleyfamily.com.