Top 10 Tuesday – Favorite Books for Earth Day!

Earth Day is coming up quickly! And while I believe EVERY day is Earth Day, April 22nd is an annual celebration around that world that honors Earth’s gifts and helps raise awareness of the need to protect Earths’ natural resources for future generations. To help launch your Earth Day discussions and activities in your class this week, here is a list of some of my favorite new and “go to” Earth Day books! You will notice a letter-writing “trend” in the first several books on this list – perfect to inspire letter writing to Mother Earth!

The World is Ours to Cherish: A Letter to a Child – Mary Annaise Heglar

Starting my Earth Day book list is this new release I included in the recent spring GearPicks Pack book subscription box. This book is written as a letter from Earth encouraging readers to not only notice and appreciate the wonders all around them, but also do what they can to take care of the Earth. A perfect anchor book to inspire writing letters to the Earth for Earth Day! (Random House Books for Young Readers, 2024)

Love, the Earth – Frances Stickley

Another beautiful new Earth Day book written as a rhyming letter from Earth to all who inhabit it. Beautifully illustrated with a wonderful message that, just as there is only one of you, there is also only one earth, and we need to care for it just like it cares for us. A great book for younger readers. (Candlewick Press, 2024)

Dear Earth – Isabel Otter

Young Tessa decides to write a love letter to the Earth. She first describes the wonders of the oceans, savannahs, mountains, deserts and forests, then promises to take care of all its beauties and wonders. I love that this small act of writing a letter shows that this young child is starting to think of her role as a caregiver and activist. A great book to inspire your students to write their own letters to the Earth! (Caterpillar Books, March 2020)

If You Come to Earth – Sophie Blackall

If you could write a letter about Earth to someone who lives on another planet, what would you tell them? That is the premise of Sophie Blackall’s book, which is one of my favorites to share in preparation for Earth Day. A young child named Quinn writes a letter to a perspective alien, telling all about Earth, its place in the universe, the parts of it that make it Earth, living and non-living things – but most importantly interconnectedness. (Check out my OLLI lesson I developed and shared during Covid using this book!) Moving, gorgeous and tender! Available in French. (Scholastic, 2020)

Thank You, Earth: A Love Letter to Our Planet – April Pulley Sayre

This has been my “go to” Earth Day book ever since it was released in 2018 and I have used it to inspire many students to write Thank You letters to the Earth! Gorgeous descriptive language, this book offers an ode to the many things that our earth gives us – trees, water, air, and mountains, habitats, tiny plants, beautiful birds, unique animals. The photographs are gorgeous and the end of the book gives suggestions for how children can help our planet. (Greenwillow Books, 2018)

Doug – The Story of a Tree – Cathy Hussey

This story, written by Cathy Hussey, an accomplished BC educator from Victoria, honours and celebrates the life of a local BC Douglas Fir tree named Doug. It is a hopeful story, told over centuries, from the perspective of Doug and the other creatures living in the forest. Beautiful photographic illustrations by Simon Mendez. Highly recommend this one to add to your Earth Day collection! (Miriam Laundry Publishing, 2024)

You and the Universe – Stephen Hawking

Based on Stephen Hawking’s final Earth Day message, this book encourages young readers to ask big questions about the Universe and the Earth. Hawking poses great questions to readers and answers some of those questions in the back. While Hawking’s specialty is the stars, he urges all of us to remember the earth, too, and not to get so lost in the stars that we forget where we stand. A book that incluedes deep-thinking questions for readers? Of course it’s on my list! (Random House Books for Young Readers, 2024)

Green: The Story of Plant Life on Our Earth – Nicola Davies

I love EVERYTHING Nicola Davies writes so was thrilled to see her new book released last month. This non-fiction book focuses on the natural world and, specifically, the impact different trees have on our planet. The book includes information about how the trees produce oxygen, the process of photosynthesis, and climate change. The illustrations by Emily Sutton are large and lovely. An excellent, content-rich anchor book for building knowledge about the importance of trees and their impact on our environment. LOVE this one for both Earth Day and scientific knowledge building! (Candlewick Press, 2024)

One World: 24 Hours on Planet Earth – Nicola Davies

Because I’m a such a big Nicola Davies fan, I had to include this one on my list as well! This book is written as a dream-like journey across the world as seen through the eyes of two young girls. They observe life as it happens in just one minute of time – a glimpse of biodiversity combined with an urgent message about climate change. Fascinating, beautiful, imaginative, and inspires a LOT of curiosity! (Candlewick Press, March 2023)

Black Beach: A Community, an Oil Spill, and the Origin of Earth Day – Shaunna & John Stith

A great option for a book that outlines the origin of Earth Day. I like that the book showed how everyone tried to help with the cleanup and that the children then took up environmental activism. Includes a two page 4 year timeline laying out how Earth Day started. (Little Bee Books, Feb. 2023)

Be A Good Ancestor – Leona Prince

SO much to love about this book! It is a beautiful poetic call, through the lens of Indigenous beliefs, about generations and nature. The book is a reminder to us all of the interconnectedness & circle of life we all live, as well as the the impact of the ancestors that came before us. Gorgeous illustrations! (Orca Book Publishers, May 2022)

The Earth Gives More – Sue Fliess

Rhyming text takes readers through the seasons in a neighborhood, focusing on what nature is doing during different seasons and what people can be doing to take care of the Earth. It’s a simple celebration of all the Earth gives us and a gentle plea to do “help the Earth thrive and grow.” (Albert Whitman Company, 2019)

Kate, Who Tamed the Wind – Liz Garton Scanlon

Published in 2018, I only just discovered this little gem a few months ago but had to include it! It is a delightful, rhythmic read-aloud about a girl who solves a windy problem (wind is reaking havoc on her neighbour’s house) with an environmental solution: planting trees. This is a lovely story but it also illustrates an important scientific concept very well. A great anchor book for Earth Day but also for primary students learning about ecosystems. (Anne Shwartz Books, 2018)

Only One – Deborah Hopkinson

A young girl takes readers on a space tour – from the beginning of the universe through a vast number of stars and planets, eventually focusing on our galaxy, solar system, and the importance of caring for our planet. Lovely illustrations! An excellent anchor book for both Earth Day and building knowledge about the solar system! (Anne Schwartz Books, 2022)

My Friend Earth – Patricia MacLachlan

Such a beautiful, engaging book with unique dye-cut, “peek-through” illustations. The narrator personifies Mother Earth and describes her different acts through the seasons. Gorgeous illustrations and a great message about the importance of our friend Mother Earth. (Chronicle Books, 2020)

Thank you for stopping by! I hope you found one or two new titles you are excited to share!

Happy Earth Day, everyone!

Top 10 Tuesday – New Books for Autism Month

April is National Austism Month – a time to raise awareness about autism and promote inclusion and connectedness for people with autism. And what better way to help raise awareness and empathy in school communities than by sharing some great books with your students and launching those important classroom discussions?

There are so MANY books to choose from it was hard to narrow it down! Here are 10 (okay, 13) of my favorite new (and some older) books that offer a window into the experience of autism:

Remarkable Remy – Melanie Nathaniel

This is a warm, optimistic story that introduces an autistic character to younger readers. Remi is autisitc and her good friend shares with readers all the “remarkable” ways Remi is unique and has different ways of processing, thinking, and seeing the world. Not only does the book celebrate how great the autistic character is, but it also teaches what it is like to be a friend to someone with autism. 

Benji, The Bad Day, And Me – Sally J. Pla

Great story about two brothers, one autistic, who comfort each other after a tough day at school. Lots of empathy and understanding wrapped up in this one. After Sammy has a bad day at school, he comes home to find his brother, Benji, also having a bad day. The difference is, Benji has a special play box he can go to when he’s having a bad day, but Sammy doesn’t. Until Benji has an idea that just might help his brother. I love how the character of Benji just happens to have autism, but it’s never presented as a problem, it’s just how Benji is.

“Wiggles,” “Stomps,” And “Squeezes” – Calming My Jeeters At School – Lindsey Rowe Parker

This book is a new addition to the Wiggles, Stomps and Squeezes series. Told from a child’s persepctive, it is a story about sensory differences and how some children experience their world. Great language in this book that will help you start useful conversations about the “jitters” some kids experience at school and how to be thoughtful and compassionate and respond to them appropriately when they need to get their jitters out.

Why Johnny Doesn’t Flap NT is OK! – Clay Morton & Gail Morton

This is a great take an autism, told from an autistic character’s POV. He talks about how different his NT (neurotypical) friend is – he is rarely on time, he looks you right in the eye, and he likes hanging out in groups – but that’s okay! I really liked how the author changed the perspective of what mainstream culture considers “normal” in a respectful way.

A Day With No Words – Tiffany Hammond

A must-read for every classroom and library, this book invites readers into the life of an autism family who communicates just as the child does, without spoken language. I remember being so moved when I first read this book. There is so much love and joy in the story while it is also an important lesson in advocating for people with disabilities.

Too Sticky! – Sensory Issues with Autism – Jen Malia

Holly is worried about making slime at school. Will it be too sticky for her? How can she find a way to do the science she loves without having to touch something that makes her squirm? Based on the experieces of the author and her daughter, this story helps readers gain more understanding about sensory issues some people on the autism spectrum experience.

Looking After Louis – Lesley Ely

Louis is the new boy at the female narrator’s school. She describes with curiosity how Louis is ‘not quite like the rest of us’, commenting on his frequent repetition of other people’s words and his lack of social interaction with other students. Eventually, the other children in the class begin to form a postive connection with Louis through a game of football (soccer). I like how the author includes specific characteristics of autism without explicitly saying this was why Louis was different.  A gentle introduction to autism for younger children.

Ways To Play – Lyn Miller-Lachmann

Riley, who is neurodivergent, enjoys playing with all of his toys, stuffed animals, dolls, and bits of newspaper, but his bossy cousin says he is not playing the “right way”. This is very simple story about imaginative play that is both validating and sweet, while also touching on how it hurts to have people judge the way you play. The author AND illustrator are both autistic.

Gina Kaminski Saves The Wolf – Craig Barr-Green

This is an ADORABLE retelling of Little Red Riding Hood, featuring an autistic main character named Gina. The book is told from Gina’s POV who uses emojis to help her show her emotions. During reading time, Gina feels strongly that the story of Little Red Riding Hood is WRONG and decides to change the outcome. She clearly explains the three mistakes she sees and proceeds to correct them. Such an engaging story that showcases a great representation of a child on the autistic spectrum. LOVE this one!

Jeffrey Loves Blue – By Loretta Garbutt

Jeffrey, a child on the spectrum, LOVES the colour blue and he won’t ever stray from it. But a classmate (narrator) shares their perspective and describes him ALWAYS painting with blue paint and not sharing the color with anyone else. The story walks through Jeffrey deciding if he can be brave and paint with another color. I like how focus of the story is not about getting rid of Jeffrey’s fixation but more about widening his perspective to help a friend. Great book to help build empathy from all perspectives. Includes discussion questions at the back.

Henry And The Something New – Jenn Bailey

A touching book about Henry, who has autism, and his fears about his class field trip to the museum. This is the third book in this beginning chapter series about embracing new experiences, starring a sweet and sensitive child on the autism spectrum. Highly recommend the other two books, as well: A Friend for Henry and Henry, Like Always

My Brother Charlie – Holly Robinson Peete & Ryan Elizabeth Peete

Amazing book that explains how it feels to be the twin sister of an autistic boy. Such a great example of a family that manages life and love in a sometimes challenging situation. Lots of great points could be used in discussion with an elementary class. Colorful and touching illustrations. Recommended for grade 2 and up.

Too Much! An Overwhelming Day – Jolene Gutierrez

A reassuring rhyming picture book about sensory overload and what you can do when everything is too much. Such an engaging story that many children will connect to. EXCELLENT backnotes with extensive information for caregivers and educators exploring sensory systems, sensory processing issues, and specific strategies to support kids with when they are overstimulated.

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you have found one or two new books about autism you are excited to share with your students this month! Happy reading, everyone!

Top 10 Tuesday – Celebrate Poetry Month with

Poetry Month is HERE! So rather than squishing poetry into the last two weeks of June, NOW is the time to spread a little poetry joy in your classroom! In fact, there is no better time than to start sharing the joy poetry with your students than Poetry Month! Remember – it’s difficult for students to write poetry until they EXPERIENCE poetry – so use this month to fill them up with the rhyme, rhythm and repetition from some great children’s poets!

Here are 10 of my new favorite poetry books to help celebrate poetry month with your students:

Welcome to the Wonder House – Rebecca Kai Dotlich & Georgia Heard

From one of my all-time favourite poets for both learners and educators, Georgia Heard, this book is visually stunning and overflowing with wonder! The book is a collection of children’s poems written in the format of an allegorical house. Each room is filled with poems covering a wide variety of STEAM topics, including geology, paleontology, physics, astronomy, creative writing, and drawing. There is magic, wonder and curiosity in every poem – and a perfect book to promote “Powerful Thinking”! Such a lot you could do with this book in a classroom!

Love, the Earth – Frances Stickley

This moving poem is told from the perspective of the Earth. The book celebrates Earth and all the things it can do for us, but also focuses on how we can take care of it. This would be a great book for Earth day and for young students who are exploring ways to appreciate what the world gives us. Beautiful, vibrant illustrations.

Poetry Comics – Grant Snider

This is the first poetry graphic novel I have ever read! Such a wonderfully creative combination of poetry and comics in a fun and imaginative book. I also appreciated how the poems deal with universal human emotions and feelings such as anxiety, ambition, creativity, fears, and joy. Drawings are delighful and whimsical! A great book for grades 4 and up.

This is a Tiny Fragile Snake – Nicholas Ruddock

A delightful collection of poetry for young animal lovers! Fifteen information poems about various animals and insects, highlighting their unique characteristics but also explores close encounters with animals … and choosing to respond tenderly.

NOTE: If you are a GearPicks Pack book subscriber, this book is included in the INTERMEDIATE Spring GearPicks Box and will be arriving at your school soon!

Climbing the Volcano: A Journey in Haiku – Curtis Manley

Through haiku poems, a young boy narrates his family’s invigorating hike to the peak of Oregon’s
South Sister volcano. Not all the poems in this book follow the 5-7-5 syllable rule but an interesting note in the back about the haiku form debunks the idea that English-language haiku must follow a 5-7-5 syllable pattern! Also included in the back notes is the history and geology of the region, hiking tips, and a visual index.

NOTE: If you are a GearPicks Pack book subscriber, this book and accompanying lesson plan, is included in the INTERMEDIATE Spring GearPicks Box and will be arriving at your school soon!

A Planet is a Poem – Amanda West Lewis

A poetic exploration of the wonders of our solar system – this book is a perfect example of how poetry can be combined with scientific information! 14 original poems filled with fascinating facts about planets, each written in a different poetic structure – sonnet, acrositic, free verse, a ballad of Earth, an ode to the sun, and a villanelle for Venus. Each double page spread features a stunning space scene, a poem and a fold-out flap that includes accessible science facts and an explanation of the poetic form used and why it was matched with that object. AMAZING book!

Animals in Pants: A Poetry Picture Book – Suzy Levinson

Your students will enjoy digging into their imagination pockets and imagining just what if animals wore pants! Such a fun book to read aloud during Poetry month! From wiener dogs in yoga pants to kangaroos wearing Elvis-inspired jumpsuits (because they’re King-aroos, lol!) every poem is sure to bring out some smiles and giggles.

Octopus Acrobatics – Sue Fliess

While not exactly considered a poetry book, this information book includes playful rhyming verse and gorgeous artwork celebrating our curiosity about octopuses. Short lines of verse are accompanied by longer sentences of prose containing more information on each page. The verse works well to summarize the illustrations for younger readers, while more detail is there for the older ones. The artwork is perfect in illustrating the octopus’s camouflage abilities and ocean habitat. Back notes includes a glossary and an anatomical diagram.

I’m From – Gary R. Gray Jr

A beautiful poetic picture book that helps answer the question — where are you from? But instead of giving a geographical answer, the boy tells all the things that make him special that set him apart, that show he is loved and cherished, and has a place in the world. This one will tug on your heartstrings! A perfect book to share when exploring identity and unique character traits and great addition to your Powerful Understanding collection for SELF!

My Head Has a Bellyache: And More Nonsense for Mischievous Kids and Immature Grown-Ups – Chris Harris

If you love Shel Silverstein – you will LOVE Chris Harris the same, if not more! Hilarious, entertaining, and heartwarming and invite LOTS of connections! You will be laughing one minute and tearing up the next! SOOOO good!

At the Poles – David Elliot

Straightforward and accessible, this poetry picture book captures the wonders of nature and animals found in the Arctic and Antarctic in 15 poems. Gorgeous paper collage illustrations. A great book to use as poetry or linked to your science unit. If you like this book, David Elliott has written other poetry books including On the Farm, In the Wild, and In the Sea.

Counting in Dog Years and Other Sassy Math Poems – Betsy Franco

This book of poems is full of trickery about math and covers lots of math topics including palindromes, geometry, fractions (when talking about summer vacation), and even multiplying mice! All in clever rhyme and includes hilarious illustrations filled with creatures and kids in full action on every page!

Champion Chompers, Super Stinkers and Other Poems by Extraordinary Animals – Linda Ashman

An information poetry book introducing extreme animals through playful poems and fascinating facts. Each poem is written as a riddle to be solved from both the facts that it shares and a visual clue that is on the page. Definitely a book you could use to practice inferring (from the clues and pictures) and also one that might inspire kids to write their own riddle poems!

If you are are looking for new ways to bring poetry into your classroom, my book Powerful Poetry, is filled with practical ideas, lessons, structures, and strategies to help you get started!

Thanks for stopping by! Happy Poetry Month, everyone!

And don’t forget – April 18 is Poem in Your Pocket Day – a great day for kids to share and celebrate favorite or original poems!

Top 10 Tuesday – Ten Books to Build Excitment and Knowledge about the Solar Eclipse!

Attention all you space enthusiasts! In just over a week, the first full solar eclipse in seven years, will be visible across North America. Here in B.C., we will be able to view a partial eclipse (75%), but further east will be able to view close to a full eclipse (Click HERE to for a map that provides time viewing time frame).

Whether you will be experiencing a full or partial eclipse on April 8th, learning about this outerspace phenomonon is both fascinating and educational – and a great way to link real-life science (and safety) into your classroom!

Here are some recommendations of books to get the excitement growing and knowledge building before April 8th!

A Few Beautiful Minutes: Experiencing a Solar Eclipse – Kate Allen Fox

This is an exquisite, lyrical tribute to the solar eclipse that encourages young readers to not only discover (safely) each stage of a solar eclipse – but also encourages them to think about how this incredible phenomenon can connect us to one another.  Linking science and thinking? But OF COURSE this one is on the top of my list!!!

NOTE: If you are a GPP Book Subscriber – this is one of the books you will be recieving in your Intermediate spring box!

Totality!: An Eclipse Guide in Rhyme and Science – Jeffrey O. Bennett

Totality! explores solar eclipses, with specific focus on the total solar eclipse that will happen on April 8th. It is filled with fabulous images – some diagrams and some photographs, to help children understand eclipses. Each page includes a simple rhyme that explains the basics for younger readers and more detailed information for older children who want to understand the science behind eclipses.

Note: Printed books come with two pairs of eclipse glasses (placed in an envelope inside the front cover), and instructions on their use, that will allow readers to view the eclipse safely.

Eclipse – Andy Rash

A young boy reminices about experiencing the 2017 eclipse with his father. Simple and sweet explanation of solar eclipses, but also a sweet story of parent-child bonding. I love how each page starts with time passing, “a day ago,” “an hour ago,” “a minute ago,” etc. leading up to when the eclipse happens. “We are in the perfect place at the perfect time.” Maps of past and upcoming eclipses are on the front and back end pages.

Eclipse: Our Sky’s Most Dazzling Phenomenon – Kelsey Oseid

Filled with captivating information and vivid, colorful illustrations, readers will discover the ancient myths and fascinating science of eclipses. This is a bit of a “coffee table” type of book – really beautiful and with text definately geared for older readers. Would make a great gift for a space lover!

Total Solar Eclipse: A Stellar Friendship Story – Jayme Sandberg

I thought the author does an excellent job of weaving the facts of solar eclipses with a little fun! The Sun, Moon, and Earth are all characters telling the story to help children learn both what an eclipse is and also how to be safe while viewing one. I love that a page to document your solar eclipse memory is included in the book!

What Is A Solar Eclipse? – Dana Meachen Rau

Very manageable information book exploring solar eclipses and how to safely observe them.  A good choice for grade 3 and up.

Thank you, Moon – Melissa Stewart

Oh, this is a beautiful, lyric, and informative book by one of my favorite nonfiction children’s authors!  While not specifically about eclipses, this is such a fascinating read about how many of Earth’s inhabitants rely on the moonlight – in each of its phases – I just couldn’t resist sharing it!  Layered text makes it accessible to a variety of readers. LOVE!!! 

Sun & Moon: A Giant Love Story – Lisa Desimini

A girl giant, afraid of the light, and a boy giant, afraid of the dark, live lonely lives following only the moon or the sun until an eclipse brings them together. This folk tale style story was published in 1999 so might be hard to find – but I’m including it because it is a fantastic story about eclipses for your littlest learners, but enchanting for all ages. Gorgeous illustrations.

Sunpainters: Eclipse of the Navajo Sun – Baje Whitethorne

Another older title, but I’m including it as it’s a beautiful book about eclipses told through an Indigenous lens. A Navajo grandfather explains to his grandson how the Sunpainters bring color back to nature after an eclipse. Woven into the story are themes of reverence, patience and the wonder of nature. Gorgeous illustrations and interesting back notes.

The Night Luna’s Light Went Out: A Solar System Story for Kids about the Earth and the Moon – K.J. Field

Best friends Earth and Moon are inseparable. One day, Luna feels that Earth has everything that she never will, and when she decides to leave – catastrophe strikes. Readers learn what would happen if our moon suddenly disappeared and the different ways the Moon affects our planet. Cute illustrations and interesting elements of lunar science woven throughout.

Thank you for stopping by! I hope you found one or two titles to share with your students leading up to the April 8th eclipse!

Top 10 Tuesday – New Books for Celebrating Poetry Month!

Poetry Month is HERE! So instead of squishing poetry into the last two weeks of June (when report cards are done!) NOW is the time! In fact, there is no better time than to start sharing the joy poetry with your students than Poetry Month! Remember – it’s difficult for students to write poetry until they EXPERIENCE poetry. So use this time to fill them up with poetry every chance you get.

If you are are looking for new ways to bring poetry into your classroom, my book Powerful Poetry, is filled with practical ideas, lessons, structures, and strategies to help you get started!

Here are 10 of my new favorite poetry books for your reading sharing pleasure:

Welcome to the Wonder House – Rebecca Kai Dotlich & Georgia Heard

From one of my all-time favourite poets for both learners and educators, Georgia Heard, this book is visually stunning and overflowing with wonder! The book is a collection of children’s poems written in the format of an allegorical house. Each room is filled with poems covering a wide variety of STEAM topics, including geology, paleontology, physics, astronomy, creative writing, and drawing. There is magic, wonder and curiosity in every poem – and a perfect book to promote “Powerful Thinking”! Such a lot you could do with this book in a classroom!

Love, the Earth – Frances Stickley

This moving poem is told from the perspective of the Earth. The book celebrates Earth and all the things it can do for us, but also focus on how we can take care of it. This would be a great book for Earth day and for young students who are exploring ways to appreciate what the world gives us. Beautiful, vibrant illustrations.

Poetry Comics – Grant Snider

This is the first poetry graphic novel I have ever read! Such a wonderfully creative combination of poetry and comics in a fun and imaginative book. I also appreciated how the poems deal with universal human emotions and feelings such as anxiety, ambition, creativity, fears, and joy. Drawings are delighful and whimsical! A great book for grades 4 and up.

This is a Tiny Fragile Snake – Nicholas Ruddock

A delightful collection of poetry for young animal lovers! Fifteen information poems about various animals and insects, highlighting their unique characteristics but also explores close encounters with animals … and choosing to respond tenderly.

NOTE: If you are a GearPicks Pack book subscriber, this book is included in the INTERMEDIATE Spring GearPicks Box and will be arriving at your school soon!

Climbing the Volcano: A Journey in Haiku – Curtis Manley

Through haiku poems, a young boy narrates his family’s invigorating hike to the peak of Oregon’s
South Sister volcano. Not all the poems in this book follow the 5-7-5 syllable rule but an interesting note in the back about the haiku form debunks the idea that English-language haiku must follow a 5-7-5 syllable pattern! Also included in the back notes is the history and geology of the region, hiking tips, and a visual index.

NOTE: If you are a GearPicks Pack book subscriber, this book and accompanying lesson plan, is included in the INTERMEDIATE Spring GearPicks Box and will be arriving at your school soon!

A Planet is a Poem – Amanda West Lewis

A poetic exploration of the wonders of our solar system – this book is a perfect example of how poetry can be combined with scientific information! 14 original poems filled with fascinating facts about planets, each written in a different poetic structure – sonnet, acrositic, free verse, a ballad of Earth, an ode to the sun, and a villanelle for Venus. Each double page spread features a stunning space scene, a poem and a fold-out flap that includes accessible science facts and an explanation of the poetic form used and why it was matched with that object. AMAZING book!

Animals in Pants: A Poetry Picture Book – Suzy Levinson

Your students will enjoy digging into their imagination pockets and imagining just what if animals wore pants! Such a fun book to read aloud during Poetry month! From wiener dogs in yoga pants to kangaroos wearing Elvis-inspired jumpsuits (because they’re King-aroos, lol!) every poem is sure to bring out some smiles and giggles.

Octopus Acrobatics – Sue Fliess

While not exactly considered a poetry book, this information book includes playful rhyming verse and gorgeous artwork celebrating our curiosity about octopuses. Short lines of verse are accompanied by longer sentences of prose containing more information on each page. The verse works well to summarize the illustrations for younger readers, while more detail is there for the older ones. The artwork is perfect in describing the octopus’s camouflage abilities and ocean habitat. Back notes includes a glossary and an anatomical diagram.

I’m From – Gary R. Gray Jr

A beautiful poetic picture book that helps answer the question — where are you from? But instead of giving a geographical answer, the boy tells all the things that make him special that set him apart and that show he is loved and cherished and has a place in the world. This one will tug on your heartstrings! A perfect book to share when exploring identity and unique character traits and great addition to your Powerful Understanding collection for SELF!

My Head Has a Bellyache: And More Nonsense for Mischievous Kids and Immature Grown-Ups – Chris Harris

If you love Shel Silverstein’s poetry – you will LOVE Chris Harris’s the same, if not more! Hilarious, entertaining, and heartwarming. You will be laughing one minute and tearing up the next! SOOOO good!

At the Poles – David Elliot

Straightforward and accessible, this poetry picture book captures the wonders of nature and animals found in the Arctic and Antarctic in 15 poems. Gorgeous paper collage illustrations. A great book to use as poetry or linked to your science unit. If you like this book, David Elliott has written other poetry books including On the Farm, In the Wild, and In the Sea.

Counting in Dog Years and Other Sassy Math Poems – Betsy Franco

This book of poems is full of trickery about math and covers lots of math topics including palindromes, geometry, fractions (when talking about summer vacation), and even multiplying mice! All in clever rhyme and includes hilarious illustrations filled with creatures and kids in full action on every page!

Champion Chompers, Super Stinkers and Other Poems by Extraordinary Animals – Linda Ashman

An information poetry book introducing extreme animals through playful poems and fascinating facts. Each poem is written as a riddle to be solved from both the facts that it shares and a visual clue that is on the page. Definitely a book you could use to practice inferring (from the clues and pictures) and also one that might inspire kids to write their own riddle poems!

Thanks for stopping by! Happy Poetry Month, everyone!

And don’t forget – April 18 is Poem in Your Pocket Day – a great day for kids to share and celebrate favorite or original poems!

Top 10 Tuesday – Favourite Content-Rich Read Alouds

As many of you know, my new book Powerful Thinking : Engaging Readers, Building Knowledge, and Nudging Learning in Elementary Classrooms (currently available for Pre Order!) will be released in just a few weeks! This book is all about building knowledge and nudging thinking in all areas of your curriculum. (More information about my new book at the bottom of this post!)

One of the ways I outline how to do this in my book, is by reading aloud “content rich” texts connected to your socials and science topics to engage your students and help build their knowledge and curiosity about the world around them.

Below are TOP TEN content-rich books to share with your students. Please note that many of these titles have been included (or will soon be arriving!) in the GEARPICKS Pack book subscription service this year!

Whale Fall Exploring an Ocean-Floor Ecosystem– Melissa Stewart

Absolutely fascinating information picture book by one of my favorites nonfiction children’s authors that details the end of life for a whale, also known as a whale fall, when its body sinks to the ocean floor and becomes an energy-rich food source for organisms living in the deep sea. Filled with stunning illustrations. An excellent book for exploring whales, ecosystems and oceans.

The Glorious Forest That Fire Built – Ginny Neil

Outstanding and relevant informative nonfiction story about forest succession. Readers learn that forest fires are critical to forest health and that the end of a tree’s life provides the opportunity for new life. Back matter explains the timeline of the forest cycle in more detail. An excellent book for exploring reforestation, natural disasters, and ecosystems.

One Turtle’s Last Straw – The Real-Life Rescue That Sparked a Sea Change – Elisa Boxer

The inspiring true story of how one small turtle and kids all over the country sparked an environmental movement. An excellent reminder that even the smallest straw can hurt our ocean life! An excellent book for exploring turtles, impact of plastics, substainability, environmental conservation, activism, and social justice.

Lifetime – Amazing Numbers in Animal Lives – Lola M. Schaefer

Did you know, in one lifetime, a caribou will shed 10 sets of antlers, a woodpecker will drill 30 roosting holes, a giraffe will wear 200 spots, and a seahorse will birth 1,000 babies? So many WOW facts packed into one book, this book is one of my “go to” read-alouds. I have read this in MANY classes and the math discussions this book inspires are endless! A great book for exploring fascinating facts about animals, math, number sense, and counting.

Animal BFF’s – Even Animals Have Best Friends! – Sophie Corrigan

This is such a brilliant, fun and informative read that will appeal to your young animal lovers. The book clearly illustrates shows different pairs of animals and how they benefit themselves and each other in different ways, and how they are often the best of friends. Fun pop-up facts and adorable illustrations! A great book for exploring symbiosis and animal relationships.

Two at the Top: A Shared Dream of Everest – Uma Krishnaswami

Two boyhood friends, Tenzing Norgay and Edmund Hillary, both loved mountain climbing and dream of climbing Mt. Everest. As adults, they each tried alone, but failed. In 1953, they joined forces, faced the challenge together, and made it to the top. A remarkable true adventure story, told in a dual narrative, includes stunning illustrations and illustrated backmatter. Important to note that, for years, only Hillary was credited with the climb so good that Norgay, along with other sherpas, are recieving equal billing here. A perfect book for exploring extreme adventures, mountain climbing, perserverence, equality.

(Note: This book is a GPP Spring pick!)

Kaboom! A Volcano Erupts – Jessica Kulekjian

A quirky, funny, step-by-step story of a volcanic eruption — told from the volcano’s point of view!  The volcano’s narration is highlighted by comments from a cute, red bird who appears on every page to provide play-by-play and to introduce easily accessible volcanic facts and terms. SO cute and informative! An excellent choice for exploring earth science lessons on volcanoes, earth’s crust, minerals, rocks and erosion.

Creep, Leap, Crunch! A Food Chain Story – Jody Jensen

An introduction to the concept of the food chain for younger readers, written with a similar style as There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly or The House that Jack Built. With it’s rhythm, rhymes, and progressive patter, this is a perfect read-read aloud choice! Recommended when exploring food chains and interconnectedness of animals in nature.

Dear Ruby, Hear Our Hearts – Ruby Bridges

In 1960, 6 yr. old Ruby Bridges became the first African-American student in William Frantz Elementary School in Louisiana. In this new book, now a US national civil rights activist and icon, Ruby Bridges responds to letters from thoughtful and concerned young students from across America. It brings up very important issues and is filled with inclusivity. Powerful, hopeful and inspiring. An excellent book for exploring segratation, racism, inclusion, and civil rights.

(Note: This book is a GPP Spring pick!)

Are You Big? – Mo Willems

This playful concept book by the iconic Mo Willems explores the concept of “big” by comparing relatively big things. Humorous illustrations help give perspective to the size concepts and I loved the twist at the end! A fun new STEAM book for exploring size, shape, math, and perspective.
(Note: This book is a GPP Spring pick!)

A Few Beautiful Minutes: Experiencing a Solar Eclipse – Kate Allen Fox

This book is SOOOO beautiful and SO timely! A lyrical, exquisitely illustrated tribute to the solar eclipse. I love the concept of this book but also how the author weaves the message of how an eclipses can unite people. With the eclipse just weeks away, this is the perfect content-rich read-aloud to building knowledge and inspire engaging class discussions!

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you found a few new “content-rich” books to add to your class collection! For anyone interested in my new book – here are a couple of things you won’t want to miss!

Powerful Thinking – Coming Soon!

A reminder that you can pre-order a copy of my new book, Powerful Thinking, for a discount until March 31st. Books will be shipped in early-mid April.

Click HERE to Pre-Order your copy – hot off the press!

I will also be offering a two part Powerful Thinking webinar (April 9th and 16th) for those who might want an early launch into the book to explore some of the key concepts and lessons with me!

Click HERE for more information and to register.

Top 10 Tuesday – Favorite Books for Celebrating International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day takes place this Friday, March 8th. This day is about celebrating the achievements of women around the world in all sorts of different fields and accomplishments, as well as raise awareness against bias and advocate for women’s equality. If you are looking for some great picture books to share with your students this week, you have come to the right place!

Here are some of my favorite books to share with your students to help kick-start a discussion about this important day.

A Girl Like You – Frank Murphy

Such an inspiring, diverse, inclusive, and lovely book that empowers girls to be anything that they want to be!  A perfect book to share on International Women’s Day, it encourages girls to defy stereotypes and embrace whatever it is that makes them most happy.  LOVE this one! 

The Paper Bag Princess – Robert Munsch

Don’t forget the classic Paper Bag Princess when celebrating International Women’s Day!  This revolutionary book busted gender stereotypes when it was released in 1980.  Since then, generations of girls have fallen in love with this classic story of girl-power.  Who can forget the shock when Elizabeth finally rescues the prince, he doesn’t even say thank you, and will have nothing to do with her until she’s dressed like a ‘real princess’?  SUCH a great book for inferring and a perfect one for celebrating women power! Available in FRENCH.

Malala’s Magic Pencil – Malala Yousafzai

As the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace prize, Malala Yousafzai inspired many by her courage to fight against the Taliban for girls right to education. While a difficult subject, this story is written with younger readers in mind and does an excellent job of simplifying the concepts.  A great book for discussing global education, as many children do not realize what a privilege it is to go to school. 

The Trailblazing Life Of Viola Desmond (A Civil Rights Icon) – Rachel Kehoe

This new book tells the story of Canadian civil rights activist Viola Desmond, involved in desegregating her community long before Rosa Parks kept her bus seat for herself, thank you very much. On November 8, 1946, Viola was arrested for refusing to move from the “whites-only” section of a Nova Scotia movie theater. Her heroic act inspired community leaders across the country and made her a symbol of courage in the fight against inequality and racism across Canada.  EVERY Canadian needs to know the story of this inspirational woman! 

Our House Is On Fire (Greta Thunberg’s Call To Save The Planet) – Jeannette Winter

This story follows Swedish activist Greta Thunberg and her journey from learning about climate change in school to deciding to do something about it. An inspiring story could be linked to themes including climate change, letting your voice be heard, activism, etc.  Written by one of my favorite authors, Jeanette Winter, who is eighty years old and was so moved by Thunberg’s speech at the Geneva Climate Conference, she wrote this book.  Information page included in the back of the book.  Available in FRENCH and YouTube as a read-aloud.

Amelia Earhart (Little People Big Dreams)– Maria Isabel Sanches Vegara

I could have picked any number of women from the Little People, Big Dreams collection – an inspiring biography series for younger readers with simple, easy-to-understand language and stylish, quirky illustrations.  This book follows Amelia Earhart, whose strong will and self-belief helped her overcome gender prejudice and technical problems to become the first female flier to fly solo across the Atlantic ocean. I learned a lot when I read this book!

Autumn Petier, Water Warrior – Carole Lindstrom

A brilliant introduction to Canadian environmental and Indigenous rights activists Grandmother Josephine Mandamin and her great-niece Autumn Peltier and their work as water protectors in their community.  It’s beautifully written, with an emotional foreword from Autumn Peltier and helpful notes at the end. The art is gorgeous! 

Sisters In Science (Marie Curie, Bronia Deuska And The Atomic Power Of Sisterhood) – Linda Elovitz Marshall

A new release so I thought I would include it, this is the fascinating true story of Nobel Prize winner Marie Curie and her sister Bronia, two trailblazing women who worked together and made a legendary impact on chemistry and health care.  I really enjoyed this book and learned a lot about Marie Curie and her equally brilliant but not equally as known sister, Bronia. What these women did, and how they managed to do it! WOW! 

Lion On The Inside (How One Girl Changed Basketball) – Bilqis Abdul – Qaadir & Judith Henderson

The inspirational true story of Bilquis Abdui-Qaadir, a passionate Muslim basketball player who faced discrimination when she was told she could not wear her hijab when playing. Bilquis takes a stand – she won’t sacrifice her hijab for basketball…and bravely sits out. With the help of her teammates, Bilquis eventually changes the rules of basketball. This is such an inspirational story about staying true to yourself, your beliefs, your culture, and your dreams.   Wonderfully illustrated.

Fantastically Great Women Who Saved The Planet – Kate Pankhurst

Fantastic narrative non-fiction book, teaching children about a range of inspirational women, many of whom I had never heard of before, who have helped to save the planet. Each page is interestingly designed, with readers often having to go on a trail across the pages, following arrows and lines as they read.  A great book for slightly older learners for both Women’s Day and Earth Day.

Fierce Women Who Shaped Canada – Lisa Dalrymple

Fierce is a terrific book that shines a light on ten Canadian women who have faced incredible challenges and done amazing things, but whose stories are largely unknown. The book is well written in a narrative non-fiction style that brings each woman’s story to life in a way that middle grade readers can relate to.  Middle grade readers will engage with the women and their feats of courage and determination.  Great for reading aloud – one woman at a time.

Canadian Women Now & Then (More Than 100 Stories Of Fearless Trailblazers) – Elizabeth MacLeod & Maia Faddoul

Excellent middle grade picture book anthology of over 100 mini-biographies of fearless female Canadian trailblazers.  Well written, single page stories of inspirational women in the past and present, from doctors, to lawyers, to sports athletes, to movie and YouTube stars.  Beautifully illustrated and wonderfully inclusive!

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you found a book or two that you can add to your classroom collection.

Happy International Women’s Day, to all you amazing women out there!

Top Ten Tuesday – Favorite Books for Pink Shirt Day!

Pink Shirt Day falls on the last Wednesday of February every year – which means that it is coming up SOON! (Next Wednesday, Feb. 28th). This week is the perfect time to launch discussions in your class about the history of Pink Shirt Day and how we can all work together to create a more kind, inclusive world. And what better way to launch that discussion than by starting with a great Pink Shirt Day read-aloud?

There are MANY books that focus on some of the important themes of this day – bullying, kindness, inclusion, empathy, and staying true to what you believe in. Here are ten (okay, eleven!) of my favorites:

Penguins Don’t Wear Pink – Jeffrey Turner

Henry the penguin loves all things pink – his pink bicycle, his pink lemonade… but when the other animals start teasing him for wearing his favorite pink hat, Harry decides to wear different colous and the teasing stops. But Henry finds the strength to remain steadfast in embracing his love of pink regardless of what other penguins may say. A great read-aloud for beginning readers – simple language and colourful illustrations.

Pink is for Boys – Robb Pearlman

Pink is for boys . . . and girls . . . and everyone! A great book to help readers rethink and reframe the stereotypical blue/pink gender labels and empowers us to express themselves in every color. The simple language makes it accessible for young children as you discuss favourite colours. Could also inspire your class to create a display of what everyone loves and what makes everyone different

Pink Is For Everybody – Ella Russell

A cute, wonderfully illustrated book with a simple message: you can love what you love, wear what you want, and not be worried. Don’t like pink? That’s okay too. This is a great book for younger students about inclusivity, breaking down gender stereotypes, and being yourself.

How to Be a Lion – Ed Vere

When the other lions tease Leonard for being best friends with a duck named Marianne, he finds the courage to focus on being true to himself and his friend and not backing down to hurtful criticism. This book is gentle, funny, thoughtful, and an empowering story about choosing kindness over bullying. One of my favorites!

Everybody: You, Me, and Us– Elise Gravel

Perfect inclusion themed book by the great Elise Gravel emphasising that we are all humans and we all share the same hopes, dreams, fears & failures. Everybody needs love and everybody needs to be treated with respect. Signature Gravel-monster illustrations depict all the feels!

What Happens Next – Susan Hughes

An excellent book about bullying to share with students (recommend grade 3-5). Such a simple and powerful story depicting a scenario where a non-gender specific child is bullied and how the situation is resolved. An excellent starting point for discussing feelings and what we say vs. what we don’t say about bullying. I also appreciate that it emphasizes that we’re all people — including the bully.

Little Wolf – Teoni Spathelfer

Heartfelt storybook about a young Indigneous girl moving from her home in the country to a big city (Vancouver) and finding ways to hold onto her connection to nature and her Indigenous heritage and culture, despite facing bullies in her school. Great read for older students (Gr. 4-6).

My Secret Bully – Trudy Ludwig

Emotional bullying between friends is the theme of this important book that explores the fact that bullying isn’t always in-your-face, loud, mean, and physical. It can be verbal and quiet, but enough to hurt. Ludwig does an amazing job writing books that are important for older learners and this one is no exception.

Morris Micklewhite and the Tangerine Dress – Christine Baldacchino

Love this book about a sensitive, artistic child who is bullied for not following gender norms. Morris loves the swishy, crinkly tangerine-colored dress in the costume box at school. He wears it every chance he gets and allows the dress to fuel his imagination. But when he is teased by his peers, he decides to stay home from school. With the help of his supportive mum and his cat Moo, Morris dusts himself off and returns with new determination to be true to himself. Love this one!

A World Of Kindness – Suzanne Del Rizzo

This simple book outlines clear, concrete examples of different ways you can be kind.  From waiting your turn, to helping someone younger – this book is a great starting point for discussing “actions of kindness” that leave “heartprints” on others.  For my lesson on leaving heartprints, click HERE.

When We Are Kind – Monique Gray Smith

This is a such a lovely story about being kind by the amazing Monique Gray Smith. It tackles the wide definition of kindness and the many ways it can be shown in a way that is accessible for both young and older students. (good reminder for adults too!) The diversity featured in the book is wonderful.

For those who are interested, Monique Gray Smith will be doing a live author visit webinar on Pink Shirt Day for you and your whole class to enjoy. She will be reading from some of her books and leading an engaging converstation on kindness, empathy, and standing up against bullying. Perfect event for Grades 2-5 but all are welcome. Register now to participate in the live event or watch on your own time via the recording:

👉 REGISTER now at joyfullearningcanada.ca/psd24

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you found one or two new books to add to your Pink Shirt book collection!

Top Ten Tuesday – Inter-Connectedness of Trees and Forests.

I am obsessed with nonfiction read alouds and how they help build knowledge, vocabulary and thinking in your class! So this week, my top ten books are all about trees – their beauty, their strength, their importance, and their interconnectedness of nature – and how we need to work together to protect them. These books are filled with interesting facts but also invite readers to look and think about trees in new ways. Lots of learning, discussing, and thinking will emerge from these book gems! 

Here are my top 10 books about trees!

The Magic and Mystery of Trees – Jen Green

A mesmerizing, fact-filled book about trees, complete with stunning illustrations. A perfect read aloud that will lead to so many questions and discussions about trees. Includes engaging activities including how to plant a tree. Did I mention that the illustrations were amazing????

Sometimes I Feel Like an Oak – Danielle Daniel 

This is the latest companion book to the successful series by Indigenous author Danielle Daniel which includes Sometimes I Feel Like a Fox and Sometimes I Feel Like a River. In it, readers explore the nature and beauty of twelve different trees through twelve lyrical poems and journeys readers through the seasons, from early spring to deep winter. Gorgeous illustrations! NOTE: This book will be released on April 2nd. 

Redwoods – Jason Chin

Jason Chin is one of my favorite author/illustrators. In this book, an ordinary train ride becomes and extraordinary trip to the great ancient forests. It’s such a phenomenal picture-book that is a perfect blend of factual narrative and fantasy adventure. Your students will LOVE this book and learn a lot about ancient redwoods along the way. 

Be Thankful for Trees: A tribute to the many & surprising ways trees relate to our lives  – Harriet Ziefert

Written in lyrical rhyming couplets, this book is a tribute to the many ways trees relate to our lives, from the furniture we sit or sleep on to the musical instruments we play, to the books we read and more. Also touches on environmenatl dangers of fires, floods and deforestation on trees and ends with encouraging readers to help to protect the environment. A great read for primary students.

Stand Like a Cedar – Nicola I. Campbell

When you go for a walk in nature, who do you see? What do you hear?  A simple, yet powerful story depicting many indigenous traditions and celebrates gratitude for the land, plants, and living creatures that sustain life. Written in English but with key Salish words included. I love that the back of the book includes a translation guide with tips on how to pronounce the words.

Tree Math: See, Think and Wonder – Deanna Pecaski Mclennan

In this book, readers explore the math that exists in tree exploration using the ‘see, think, and wonder’ thinking routine. Colourful photos and accessible text invite readers to explore the fun and excitement of tree math! An effective resource to inspire math talks in your classroom or before heading outside to play and explore the living things around your school. 

The Glorious Forest That Fire Built – Ginny Neil

After the fire and evacutation so many of us experienced this past summer, this book could not have come at a better time. It is an EXCELLENT resource that gently teaches about the cycle of life that occurs after the devastation of a forest fire. The lyrical text and lovely read-aloud lines works so well with the beautiful images of animals and plants rebounding. Highly recommend this book! 

Tall, Tall Tree: A Nature Book for Kids About Forest Habitats – A Rhyming Counting Book – Anthony D. Fredericks

This beautiful counting book, wrtten in rhyme, is a perfect choice for younger readers. On the first page, a northern spotted owl welcomes everyone and invites readers into the magical world of the tall, tall Redwood tree. Readers discover how useful the Redwood tree is to all creatures and the author does a great job of raising awareness of protecting our forests. GORGEOUS illustrations!

Little Tree and the Wood Wide Web – Hannah Abbo

This book uses a sweet, fictionalized tale of a little fir tree sapling to introduce young readers to the concept of the Wood Wide Web, a way that trees can communicate and help one another through their root systems. Such an interesting way to explore all the activity that is occurring under our feet, and a beautiful way to teach young children to appreciate nature.

Listen to the Language of the Trees: A story of how forests communicate underground – Tera Kelley

Another fascinating picture book that explores the underground communication system between trees called the “Mycorrhizal networks”. The book is written in an accessible say way and helps young readers see that the natural world depends on staying connected and helping others—just like us! Interesting back notes helped build my background knowledge!

What Do You See When You Look at a Tree? – Emma Carlisle

I LOVE this book – filled with all the book joy things I like best – poetry, questions, and deep thinking! This thoughtful book invites children to think about the trees all around them in a different way. Written in the form of a poem as a series of questions, readers are invited to, instead of just thinking about trees as branches and leaves, to consider the ways in which they are unique, living beings. LOVE this one! 

The Busy Tree – Jennifer Ward

“I’m a tree, a busy tree…come and see.” If all you see when you look at a tree is leaves, branches, and bark, look again. This beautifully illustrated book shows readers how many of earth’s creatures actually benefit from trees – how tree’s roots nourish acorns and those acorns nourish chimunks. We see how ants, spiders, birds, squirrels and people benefit from the tree’s bark, branches and leaves. Such a good introduction to interconnectedness!

Thanks for stopping by!

I hope you found a new title or two that caught your eye!

Happy reading,everyone!

Top Ten Tuesday – Favorite Books for Learning About and Celebrating Lunar New Year – 2024

Lunar New Year is an important cultural holiday celebrated by many East and Southeast Asians around the world. What better way for your students to learn about the origins and traditions of this celebration than by sharing some favorite Lunar New Year picture books?

Here are my top ten Lunar New Year books for 2024! And, since this is the Year of the Dragon, I’ve included a few dragon books as well!

I Love Chinese New Year! – Eva Wong Nawa

Readers join Mai-Anne as she celebrates a new year with her family and learns about the origins of Chinese New Year and the twelve zodiac animals. Wonderful, vibrant illustrations in this one!

Playing With Lanterns – Wang Yage

A look at the 15 day lantern festival that occurs each year during the Chinese New Year in the Shaanxi province of northeast China, told through the eyes of a young girl and her three friends. Colorful and joyful!

A Sweet New Year For Ren – Michelle Sterling

Such a sweet, warm story. I love the emphasis on family togetherness (across the generations) and how preparing beloved recipes helps honor tradition and celebrate each family member’s personal favorites! The Author’s Note at the beginning helps explain her personal connection to Lunar New Year and a recipe for pineapple cakes (which Ren is finally old enough to make!) is included in the back.

Bringing in the New Year – Grace Lin

I love Grace Lin’s books! This is a simple story about a family getting ready for Chinese New Year. Love the personal connections readers can make to preparing for their own cultural celebrations. Simple and great for early readers.

Chloe’s Lunar New Year – Lily LaMotte

I love that this book is both about a Taiwanese family’s traditions and preparations for Lunar New Year but also includes honoring and remembering those who have come before us. Lovely story!

Tomorrow Is New Years Day Seollal, A Korean Celebration of Lunar New Year – Aram Kim

Colorful, joyful and cute! In this story, a young girl proudly shares Korean New Year’s traditions, food, and clothing with her classmates. A glossary of Korean terms, with pronunciation guide, is included.

This is Tet – A Rhyming Story about Lunar New Year in Vietnam – Tam Bui

Inspired by the author’s childhood memories, this book, translated from Vietnamese celebrates Vietnamese New Year through the curious eyes of a child and her family. Delightful illustrations.

Ruby’s Chinese New Year – Vickie Lee

A delightful story about young Ruby’s adventures as she travels to visit her grandmother for Chinese New Year. Along the way, Ruby encounters all twelve animals in the Chinese Zodiac along with one extra guest. Love how the story weaves both cultural traditions and the zodiac animals! 

Year of the Cat – Richard Ho

Did you know that the cat is one of the only animals NOT included in the Chinese zodiac? Why did cat get left out? This delightful book introduces young readers to both the Chinese zodiac and the importance of apologizing. 

How to Catch a Dragon – Adam Wallace

The How to Catch kids are at it again, this time trying to catch a dragon as they chase it through Chinese New Year celebrations. Set in China during Chinese New Year, the dragon has to avoid all the traps as the kids run through paper lanterns, red envelopes, and fireworks trying to catch him. Bonus Mandarin translation included in the backnotes.

Nian, the Chinese New Year Dragon – Virginia Loh-Hagan

This is such a beautiful retelling of the traditional Chinese New Year origin tale. A perfect book for sharing with slightly older students to celebrate and explain Chinese New Year.

Out Lunar New Year: Celebrating Lunar New Year in 5 Asian Communities – Yobe Qui

From dragon dances in China to firecrackers in India, this book explores different lunar festivities around the world. Readers experience how children and their families from China, Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, and India honor and celebrate Lunar New Year.

Our Moon Festival: Celebrating the Moon Festival in Asian Communities – Yobe Qiu

This book highlights different families and their traditions as they observe Moon Festivals in three different Asian countries: Zhong Qiu Jie (China), Tết Trung Thu (Vietnam), and Tsukimi (Japan) In all three stories, readers learn about celebrations of foods, traditions, dances, parades, and poetry.

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you found one or two new books to add to your Lunar New Year collection!

Gong hei fat choy!