I Want My Hat Back: Review and 4 Free Story Extensions

Inside: This is an updated post. It’s a review of I Want My Hat Back and includes suggestions for story extensions, as well as an instant download freebie. This is the first story in Jon Klassen’s Hat trilogy. It’s unusual and entertaining and I absolutely love it!  I Want My Hat Back Jon Klassen Candlewick Press (September 2011) Picture Book/Fiction … Read more

I-Go Robot: Lost in Space?

I’m excited to share a brand-new book with you called I-Go Robot by Gill McLean. This is a very sweet and thought-provoking book with gorgeous illustrations. Title: I-Go Robot Lost in Space? Author: Gill McLean Publishing: Windmill Books, August 15/22 Ages: 3-7 years Opening Lines: Deep in deepest space, there is a planet we rarely notice. I wouldn’t mention it … Read more

The Secret Life of Birds: Fabulous Non-Fiction for Kids

I have another wondrous non-fiction book to share with you this week: The Secret Life of Birds. Title: The Secret Life of Birds Author: Moira Butterfield Illustrator: Vivian Mineker Publishing: Quarto Publishing, July 4, 2022 For Ages: 4-9 Theme: Children’s Non-Fiction, Birds A big thank you NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group-Frances Lincoln Children’s Books for the advance review copy. This … Read more

Alexander von Humboldt: A Botanist and Adventurer

Have you heard of the book series Little People, BIG DREAMS? I only just learned about it and I have to say, the book I’m sharing today from this series is amazing. Little People, BIG DREAMS is a bestselling series of books and educational games that explore the lives of outstanding people, from designers and artists to scientists and activists. All of them achieved … Read more

The Path by Bob Staake: A Must Have Children’s Book

Today I’m reviewing a wonderful picture book all about forging your own path in life. It sounds like a heavy topic, but this delightful book is sure to charm all its readers. Title: The Path Author & Illustrator: Bob Staake Publishing: MinEdition US, April 2022 Ages:4-8 Opening Lines: You will walk.   Summary: This story follows a path taken by … Read more

A Very Special Book: The Night Gardener

The Night Gardener book review and activities

Years ago one of our neighbours would garden at night. He had his yard set up with powerful lights and most evenings, late into the night, you could see him out there working away. He’s long since moved, but the other night we were walking by the house and I remarked to my husband that the night gardener’s yard is … Read more

The Night Before St. Patrick’s Day: Book review and activities

Children's book for St. Patrick's Day

Inside: The Night Before St. Patrick’s Day book review and follow-up activities. This post contains affiliate links at no cost to you. The Night Before St. Patrick’s Day by Natasha Wing illustrated by Amy Wummer Grosset & Dunlap, 2009 32 pages Synopsis: As the title suggests, it’s the night before St. Patrick’s Day and nobody in the house is awake … Read more

A Fine St. Patrick’s Day: A book you don’t want to miss

St. Patrick’s Day is March 17 and even if you’re not Irish it’s a fun celebration! In the classroom I always read a collection of St. Paddy’s and leprechaun books and we’ll often do a craft or art activity. Over the next few weeks I thought I’d share some new (to me) St. Patrick’s Day books for kids. This first … Read more