My book pick for April is, The Camping Trip, by Jennifer K. Mann.

Ernestine is beyond excited to go camping. She follows the packing list carefully (new sleeping bag! new flashlight! special trail mix made with Dad!) so she knows she is ready when the weekend arrives. But she quickly realizes that nothing could have prepared her for how hard it is to set up a tent, never mind fall asleep in it, or that swimming in a lake means that there will be fish — eep!

Will Ernestine be able to enjoy the wilderness, or will it prove to be a bit too far out of her comfort zone? In an energetic illustrated story about a first sleepover under the stars, acclaimed author-illustrator Jennifer K. Mann reminds us that opening your mind to new experiences, no matter how challenging, can lead to great memories (and a newfound taste for s’mores).

Link: The Camping Trip

My book pick for March is, Manners in the Lunchroom, by Amanda Doering Tourville and Illustrated by Chris Lensch.

Mr. Coleman’s class heads to the lunchroom to eat. Leah and Carlos wait patiently in line. Leah and Carlos are using good manners.

All of us play a part in creating a great school community. Using good manners is one way we can make school a pleasant place. Waiting patiently in line, welcoming others to the table, and cleaning up are just a few good manners we can use in the lunchroom. How can YOU make your school lunchroom a better place?

Link: Manners in the Lunchroom

My book pick for February is, Actions Speak Louder Than Words, by Eric Montgomery and Illustrated by Meredith Woods.

This story uses sight words, fun rhymes, and a quirky style to keep children’s interest as it tells the tale of a Jungle Race. With three main contenders; the Elephants, the Monkeys, and the Bees, children will follow along with awe. Who will win? The big Elephants? The intelligent monkeys? Or the steadfast bees?

Great for practicing reading aloud, this book teaches a valuable lesson about doing what we say we’ll do and the consequences of not working hard, as well as the dangers of ego.
Perfect for reading together or letting your child practice independent reading skills, this book makes a great gift or is suitable for any classroom. Let them discover the value of perseverance through this fun little story. Surprise and delight the child or children in your life with their copy today!

Link: Actions Speak Louder Than Words

My book pick for January is, Bloom, written by Kelly Campbell and illustrated by Taylor Barron.

When Bloom embarks on a grand adventure, she calls upon her father’s wisdom to help her find her way. A story of adventure, confidence, and courage.

The story begins with a little dandelion seed, Bloom, who’s terrified of being released from her father and sisters into the wide world outside. Despite her fears, her father encourages her that she was made for this and that she need only “lean into the unknown.” She expresses her anxiety about losing what she loves – “I don’t want to leave.” Her father listens empathetically but tells her that she can do this. 

Link: Bloom