15 picture books that teach short vowels

When children first begin reading, they need to master short vowel sounds. By learning the sounds before moving on to more complex phonics patterns, this will decrease later confusions or struggles, particularly in spelling.

It's probably been a minute since you discussed long and short vowels, so if you need a refresher, short vowel sounds are the ones you hold in one breath. Ahhh or o as in octupus (ahhhh-octupus), a as in apple, e as in elephant, i as in igloo, and u as in umbrella.

Reading these engaging books at nighttime or during a “spelling” time lets kids hear the sounds within context. This activity is more interesting and engaging than copying the sound onto worksheets or only reading decodable books.

If you are able to incorporate one of these books in your nightly read when you know your child is studying a particular vowel at school, you will see their eyes light up. “I know this sound! We just learned it in class!” You might also stop during a walk or a drive to point out the /o/ in the stop sign or /e/ for the eggs you are eating for breakfast.

Short vowel A as in apple

They All Saw A Cat by Brendan Wenzel

This book appeals to all age groups, and beginning readers and spellers will love being able to spell and repeat the word c-a-t. It’s rhythmic so kids can join in and carries a deeper message for children and adults about perspective.

Read online here.

The Stone Sat Still by Brendan Wenzel

Similar to They All Saw A Cat, this simply-worded book shares a more profound theme. Many see the stone, and each sees something different. You will need to point out the /a/ in the word sat, map, maze, haven, stage etc because it’s less repetitive. It’s a nice follow-up book to They All Saw A Cat.

Read online here.

I Want My Hat Back by Jon Klassen

Hilarious for all ages. Bear wants his hat back and goes about politely asking every animal he sees if they have seen it.

Read online here.

Short E for elephant

Egg by Kevin Henkes

This book is perfect for preschool students and beginner readers. It’s repetition is intuitive, and kids can join in and read along or easily retell it. Another classic is An Extrodinary Egg by Leo Lionni.

Read by the author here.

Nanette’s Baguette by Mo Williems

Nanette’s Baguette is silly but also relatable for all children, as the child allows temptation to get in the way of her task. Share a baguette for dinner while playing around with short /e/ words: fret, met, bet, wet, gazette, florette, forget, and so on.

Read online here.

Henny Penny by Paul Galdone

A classic, Henny Penny, will remind you of your own childhood. You can reread it to your child and simply point out the /e/ sound in Henry, Penny, Lenny, Denny. It might inspire a rhyming game or conversation!

Read online here.

If you are looking for something newer, try Henny, Penny, Lenny, Denny and Mike by Cynthia Rylant.

Short I for igloo

Ish! by Peter H. Reynolds

Ish is not only great for phonics but also for helping children deal with perfectionism and making mistakes. Emily Arrow sings a fun song to go along with it here.

Read aloud here.

Inch by Inch by Leo Lionni

Clever and beautiful, Inch by Inch tells the story of an inchworm who measures everything. Then a bird demands that he measure his song or else he will be eaten. It’s Mine by Leo Leoni is another classic that repeats the short /i/ sound and is helpful in teaching sharing.

Read online here.

Mrs. Wishy-Washy by Joy Cowley

Another classic! Teachers have used Mrs. Wishy-Washy for decades. The book is so beloved that it’s hard to track down a hardcopy these days. You might consider writing out the story on construction paper and make it into a little book, allowing your child to illustrate each page.

Read online here.

Big Red Lollipop by Rukhsana Khan

Rubina is invited to her first birthday party. She’s beyond excited to attend but her mother will only allow her to go if she takes her little sister along.

Read online here.

Odd Dog by Claudia Boldt

Peanut, the dog, enjoys eating apples instead of dog bones. It might be fun to discuss other things your child finds odd.

Rot, The Cutest in the World! by Ben Claton

Rot is a mutant potato and enters a contest to compete for the position of “cutest in the world!” He discovers the competition is stiff but has confidence. Keep your eye out on the next book, Rot, The Bravest In the World!

Read online here

Shor U for umbrella

Grumpy Monkey by Suzanne Lang

This is fun for both parents and children. It’s also a good title to include for emotional intelligence. It teaches that it’s ok to be grumpy sometimes, we all have moods. You can point out the /u/ sound like up, umbrella, grump. It also includes the short /i/ sound as Jim is the Chimp.

Read online here.

Stuck! by Oliver Jeffers

Stuck is delightful. You can point out the short u sound like umbrella, up, under, underwear. If your child is a little more progressed (or you are reading to different ages), you can also point out the -ck diagrah. The -ck diagraph only comes at the end of a word, right after a short vowel. Oh, look, short u means ck is the /c/ sound. This book is also fun for sequencing.

Read online here.

Duck! Rabbit! by Amy Krouse Rosenthal

This book is so imaginative, creative and funny! You can’t go wrong with an Amy Krouse Rosenthall book. And again, you can focus on the /u/ sounds or add the -ck spelling rule. It’s also one that young children will likely memorize and want to “read” independently.

Read online here.

Interactive Books for Kids Who Like to Move

If you have a child who would rather be moving or talking than sitting and listening to an entire book, you aren't alone. Not all kids love sitting, but most kids love a good story. Below are a few interactive books with great story lines for those kids who might feel more engaged when participating.  

ABC3D by Marion Bataille. This book has been on my shelf for probably ten years and I use it every single year. I taught one particular student who struggled with reading, and getting through our sessions was tiring for him. Looking through this book always served as a fun reward. It's a design lover's dream, and can be given as a gift to either kids or adults. If your child loves this book, they might also enjoy Scanimation picture books, which includ actual moving illustrations. 

Herve Tullet books. The author, illustrator, and artist has a way of fully captivating kids with his fun books and use of bright primary colors. He's even come out with some board games to accompany the books, Press Here Game and ZaZaZoom! A Game of Imagination: Mix. Match. Connect. Play. 

Press Here by Herve Tullet. My kids can't get enough of this book at bedtime. It asks for the reader to interact with each page through a dialogue of fun activities that will have parents and kids laughing. 

Let's Play by Herve Tullet. A game of hide and seek within in a book. What a creative idea! This book does exactly that; it plays with the reader.

Mix It Up! by Herve Tullet This fun book teaches colors and perspectives on art while also engaging readers to participate in the process. 

The Book With No Pictures by B.J. Novack - "Everything the words say, the person reading the book has to say." Both kids and parents love this one and Novack has recently come out with a new one, The Alphabet Book With No Pictures.

Huff & Puff by Claudia Rueda. In this book, the author tells the classic story of the three little pigs with a twist. In this version the reader can huff and puff through a hole in the book, acting as the big bad wolf. The pages have short and sweet sentences which appeal to young readers and learners.  

Shhh! This Book is Sleeping by Cedric Ramadier, Illustrated by Vincent Bourgeau. A funny nighttime book, this creative story asks the reader to help put the book to bed. Make sure the book has finished all of the nighttime duties like brushing its teeth and going to the restroom.  

Please Open This Book by Adam Lehrhaupt. The monkeys in this story are trapped inside, What's happened while the book was shut? This very creative story line is a sequel to Warning, Do Not Open This Book.

Poke-A-Dot books by iKids. Just as fun as playing with bubble wrap, these books contain little raised buttons that kids can push. Designed for younger children, toddlers can explore colors, animals, and transportation all through fun interactive activities.

Touch the Brightest Star by Christie Matheson. This book is charming and sentimental. Your child will touch a firefly and rub an owl's head as they say good night to the world and all its magical creatures. This is a super sweet one for nighttime and a personal favorite. Many are raving about the author's most recent book, Plant the Tiny Seed, which seems perfect for Spring. 

Now I'm Reading! Plays: by Nora Gaydos. These plays are the absolute best for brand new beginning readers and struggling readers. They are leveled and come with fun masks, though a little hard to track down. If you can find them they are worth the hunt. With classics, like Cinderella, The Three Little Pigs and Jack and the Beanstalk, children are typically familiar with the story line, which helps readers focus on the phonics and words rather than getting confused by the comprehension. 

Just remember, you aren't alone if your child doesn't want to sit down through an entire book, but that doesn't necessarily mean they will dislike books altogether. As always, feel free to email me if you have questions or need more specific suggestions.

Best Bunny Books for Easter

While Peter Rabbit and Pat the Bunny will always be sweet classics, there are many new options out there today. If you are looking for ways to modernize your child's Easter basket and remind kids about the love of family and the importance of gratitude, check out these interesting and fun books for the season. 

Wolfie the Bunny by Ame Dyckman, Illustrated by Zachariah OHora. In this book, the Bunny family takes in a baby wolf, who is left on their doorstep. Dot, the baby Bunny, is less than pleased with the family's newest member. A great one for design lovers, OHora's illustrations have appeared in the New York Times and The Atlantic.

Yoga Bunny by Brian Russo. Bunny enjoys yoga and its positive effects, though his friends are too busy and upset to participate. Bunny begins his yoga anyway and pretty soon all of his friends are participating and feeling happier. The book is a cute story that touches on self-care and mindset, while also teaching children actual yoga poses. 

Eggs Are Everywhere by Chronicle Books, Illustrated by Wednesday Kirwan. Eggs Are Everywhere is designed for babies but will also appeal to Pre-K and Kinder students who still enjoy flipping the flaps to find eggs.

Dear Bunny by Bianca Gomez. A story about friendship, this book is simple and very touching. A girl writes a letter to her bunny explaining what she loves most. This is another great book for parents who appreciate design and illustrations, as Gomez's prints also make beautiful additions to a child's room. I'm thinking of ordering this one or this one. 

Love by Emma Dodd. A baby bunny and her parent experience love all around throughout the day by simply playing and being with one another. A sweet story that will appeal to a wide range of ages with short sentences and beautiful photos. This book is part of a touching series named Love You books. Wish and Forever are two of my favorites. 

Bunny Roo, I Love You by Melissa Marr, Illustrated by Teagan White. With an Anthropologie, vintage feel to its illustrations, this story is a beautiful addition to any nursery. The book shows children in the sweetest way that their caregivers will always comfort them when they need it.

Too Many Carrots by Katy Hudson. This story is a great lesson for parents and children. Rabbit loves his carrots so much and his greed starts to take a toll on him and his friendships. Through generosity, kindness, and gratitude, Rabbit starts to see the benefits of sharing and looking out for others. 

Little White Rabbit by Kevin Henkes. A very sweet story about the love of family. The story shows an adventurous bunny who imagines what it would be to be different. He wonders what it would feel like to be green, or tall or to fly like a butterfly and eventually sees that he has so much to enjoy just as himself.

Kevin Henkes's, Egg is another great one with sight words and lots of repetition. Egg is great for children to practice early and preliteracy skills. I hope you are able to find something here you enjoy sharing with your family. 

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10 Picture Books About Girls Who Changed the World

Photo by Vanessa Blanchet

While March marks Women's History Month, I believe we all agree that there is much work to be done year-round on cultivating confidence in and opportunities for girls. Below are ten books about women who overcame obstacles at a young age and went on to make a big impact in the world.

Brave Girl: Clara and the Shirt Makers' Strike of 1909 by Michelle Markel, Illustrated by Melissa Sweet. Clara Lemlich was a Ukrainian immigrant who led the largest strike for women’s labor rights. When no one in her union proposed dramatic action to gain attention, she started the movement herself. Markel writes, "The speakers, mostly men, want everyone to be careful. Two hours pass. No one recommends a general strike….So Clara does." 

Little Melba and her Big Trombone Little Melba and Her Big Trombone by Katheryn Russell-Brown, Illustrated by Frank Morrison. Melba Doretta Liston taught herself how to play the trombone at age seven. She went on to perform with many jazz legends like Duke Ellington and utilized her talents overcoming much misogyny, sexism and racism. 

Sonia Sotomayor: A Judge Grows in the Bronx by Jonah Winter, Illustrated by Edel Rodriguez. This book tells the story of Sonia Sotomayor's upbringing in the South Bronx. It shows that it doesn't matter where you start in life, and it emphasizes the importance of not only hard work, but encouragement from family and friends. Written in both English and Spanish, the book is inspiring and hopeful for children and adults. 

The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, a Young Civil Rights Activist by Cynthia Levinson, Illustrated by Vanessa Brantley Newton. At the age of nine, Audrey became the youngest child to be arrested during a civil rights protest in 1963. She confidently and bravely stood up for civil rights. 

Malala: Activists for Girls' Education by Raphaele Frier, Illustrated by Audrelia Fronty. When she was only fifteen years old, the Taliban attempted to assassinate Malala for her activism. Yet, she was convicted to make change, acted courageously and continued fighting for the rights of young women. The book tells about Malala's life as a girl in Pakistan and how she first recognized her own inequalities. She continually refuses to accept norms and ultimately became the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize at age seventeen.

She Persisted: 13 American Women Who Changed the World by Chelsea Clinton, Illustrated by Alexandra Boiger. Chelsea Clinton shows that what you do and what you say, even at a young age, truly matters. It takes one person to change the course of history, and that one person certainly doesn’t need to be a grown-up. Clinton highlights many activists in our country who have made a big impact, including Nellie Bly, Oprah Winfrey, and Sonia Sotomayor.

Hillary Rodham Clinton: Some Girls Are Born to Lead by Michelle Markel, Illustrated by LeUyen Pham. When Hillary was a young girl she traveled with her church youth group to see Martin Luther King Jr. speak. Listening to King’s speech, Clinton was moved in that moment to become an activist and to serve others. At only 21-years-old she gave a speech for her commencement at Wellesley College. She went off-script, speaking her mind, and Life Magazine featured her for the moving remarks. 

The Story of Ruby Bridges by Robert Coles, Illustrated by George Ford. Ruby was only six-years-old when she was selected by a judge to integrate a white school during desegregation in New Orleans in 1960. In order to enter school each day, she walked passed angry mobs and attended an empty school classroom. The book shows her strength and also her forgiveness, as Ruby would pray each day for the protesters. 

I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark by Debbie Levy, Illustrated by Elizabeth Braddeley. As a young girl, Ruth was encouraged to speak her mind. When Ruth met prejudices that stood in her way, she continued to reach for her goals. The book contains many rich vocabulary words, yet appeals to young readers through vivid illustrations.

Wilma Unlimited: How Wilma Rudolph Became the World's Fastest Woman by Kathleen Krull, Illustrated by David Diaz. Wilma was born a small baby and was not expected to live beyond her first birthday. When she was five-years-old she came down with polio, which led to her left leg being paralyzed. Wilma was told she would not walk again. Yet, she learned to run and became a three-time Olympic gold medal winner. Highly regarded, Wilma used her platform to propel civil rights agendas.

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5 Lighthearted Picture Books for President's Day

If you're in need of some laughter this weekend, below are a few unexpected President's Day books.

Kid President's Guide to Being Awesome by Robby Novak and Brad Montague - We can all use a little more happiness in the news and Kid President seems to be the best at spreading love. The book has lots of little tips on ways to be kind and have fun like sharing hugs and learning new handshakes. 

President Taft Is Stuck in the Bath by Mac Bernett and Chris Van Dusen - From the author of Mercy Watson and the illustrator of Extra Yarn, this book is an all around winner. It's incredibly funny for kids and adults and has repetition, rhyming words and lots of opportunities to teach new vocabulary. 

George Washington's Birthday: A Mostly True Tale by Margaret McNamara - In a story about George Washington's seventh birthday, kids will learn the myths and facts of the first United States President. The book begins on the morning of George's birthday and gives humorous insight into the president being a typical child who must go to school and occasionally gets in trouble. 

Splat the Cat for President by Rob Scotton - When kids like a book this much, I don't ask questions– I just make sure I have all of them on my bookshelf. If you have a reluctant reader, you might want to give this series a try. The book also comes in handy when teaching the short /a/ sound. 

Lincoln Tells A Joke: How Laughter Saved the President (and the Country) by Kathleen Krull and Paul Brewer - A clever perspective on history, this book is both lighthearted and informative. It can be used to show children how humor can help during difficult times in life. 

If you are looking for at least one serious book on the subject, you can't go wrong with Maira Kalman's new book, Looking at Lincoln. I recently featured two of her brilliant books on the ABC book list. Her beautiful images accompany an engaging story as a girl sets out to learn about Abraham Lincoln. She discovers both the serious, deep truths about him as well as his simple pleasures in life. 

Do you have interesting books for President's Day?

5 Picture Books About the Statue of Liberty

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I lived in New York for twelve years and never once visited the Statue of Liberty. I rode past it several times on the ferry but never actually toured the statue. I’d like to think that makes me a true New Yorker, although now I just genuinely regret not going.

These books are both sentimental and informative for children on patriotism, freedom and immigration. 

Have you seen this movie? I watched it and read the book. It's so good!

Photo by iFiglideiFiori

I had a lot of fun making this paper doll from Etsy. Check out Paper Toys store by iFiglideiFiori.

Her Right Foot: by Dave Eggers, Illustrated by Shawn Harris. This beautiful picture book tells a difficult story in a fun and engaging manner. The nonfiction book is great for kids and can spur lots of thoughtprovoking conversations and can also act as a beautiful coffee table book.

Blue Sky White Stars by Sarvinder Naberhaus, Illustrated by Kadir Nelson. This book is a must for children with young families. It’s simple. It has few words and yet a strong and powerful message of unity. 

We Came to America By Faith Ringgold – This book is probably my favorite on the list. It’s straight to the point and doesn’t avoid the heaviness of the topic. Short and beautifully illustrated, the author of ‘Tar Beach’ uses bright, bold, captivating images to display diversity and freedom that makes up America. I can see this being very useful for first introducing immigration to young children.

Anna & Solomon by Elaine Snyder – This is a very touching and sweet love story of sacrifice and family. Solomon goes to America alone and leaves Anna behind. He works hard to send her money so that she may join him, yet, Anna sends all of her family members before her until finally the two are reunited to create a beautiful life in Brooklyn.

Emma’s Poem: The Voice of the Statue of Liberty by Linda Glaser – Emma Lazarus was a wealthy Jewish New Yorker, who recognized her privilege when she witnessed poor immigrants in the harbor. She wrote a poem from the perspective of Lady Liberty welcoming the immigrants. Her words were so moving that they are now displayed within the statue. This book is illustrated with detailed paintings that look like prints you would see in a museum.

Her Right Foot: by Dave Eggers, Illustrated by Shawn Harris. This beautiful picture book tells a difficult story in a fun and engaging manner. The nonfiction book is great for kids and can spur lots of thoughtprovoking conversations and can also act as a beautiful coffee table book.

Blue Sky White Stars by Sarvinder Naberhaus, Illustrated by Kadir Nelson. This book is a must for children with young families. It’s simple. It has few words and yet a strong and powerful message of unity. 

Do you have any books that help you introduce liberty? 

Picture Books to Inspire Social Change

Photo by Written & Bound of AlliKDesign

"Be the change." Some days I am better at applying this concept to my life than others. Now as a teacher and a mother, I feel a responsibility to help my children and students be self-aware of their role within their communities. So my husband and I are trying out small ways we make a change. Recently, I read about a family that discussed their "highs, lows, and an act of kindness" at the dinner table. Dinner in our home is pretty chaotic, a stepping stone on the way to bath and a dreaded drawn-out bedtime, so we immediately tried it out, and it’s made a huge difference not only in our dinner conversation but also our daily actions. Some days I volunteer my time or donate materials and other days I just try to send a thoughtful email to someone, smile or in general be more patient. Knowing that my family will ask me at the end of the day what I did to change someone else’s day certainly helps me follow through on the commitment. If you are looking for ways to explain social movements or protests to your children you might want to check out some of these picture books about change within America. 

Around America To Win The Vote: Two Suffragists, a Kitten, and 10,000 Miles by Mara Rockliff. This book provides a unique look of the campaigning required to make change. It tells the story of two women, Nell Richardson and Alice Burke, who drive from New York City across the country and back in a yellow car to spread their message of women's suffrage.

The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, a Young Civil Rights Activist by Cynthia Levinson. This book tells the true story of the youngest child arrested during the civil rights movement. Audrey was nine-years-old when she was arrested, and this story allows children to learn about injustice and activism from a child's perspective. 

A is for Activist by Innosanto Nagara - Nagara writes, "P Pea-Pea Peace march!" This book is one of the few that highlights several different movements throughout history. 

We March by Shane Evans. Told from the perspective of a family attending the March on Washington in 1963. Its simple words make it relatable and engaging for young readers, "The morning is quiet. The sun rises, and we prepare to march."

Brave Girl: Clara and the Shirtwaist Makers' Strike of 1909 by Michelle Markel - Clara Lemlich was a Ukrainian immigrant who led the largest strike for women's labor rights. When no one in her union proposed dramatic action to gain attention, she led the movement herself. "The speakers, mostly men, want everyone to be careful. Two hours pass. No one recommends a general strike….So Clara does." 

I am Rosa Parks by Brad Meltzer. The I am series is fitting for young children. This book begins by telling a story of Rosa's life as a child. It focuses on her self-respect and determination that led to having the courage to follow through with courageous acts. The author ends with a powerful statement: "I'm Rosa Parks. I'm not a politician, or a president or an actor, or a famous business owner. I'm just an ordinary person. But I'm also proof that there's no such thing as an ordinary person."

The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, a Young Civil Rights Activist by Cynthia Levinson. This book tells the true story of the youngest child arrested during the civil rights movement. Audrey was nine-years-old when she was arrested, and this story allows children to learn about injustice and activism from a child's perspective. 

Which books have you found most helpful in inspiring children to stand for equality?

Not-So-Spooky Halloween Picture Books

I'll admit that Halloween was my least favorite holiday before I had children. But now it's safe to say that it's one of my favorite days of the entire year.

I love how Halloween brings neighborhoods together. The children truly feel magical pretending to be someone or something different even for a short while. Here are a few favorite titles to start sparking the magical experience as you gear up for the festivities:

Vampirina Ballerina by Anne Marie Pace - I wish I could take credit for finding this book but my daughter spotted it in the bookstore in all of two seconds and needed to sit down immediately to read the entire thing. It's safe to say it's very kid friendly. 'Vampirina Ballerina' is a humorous and fun-loving story of a vampire attempting to fit in with human ballerinas. 

The Dark by Lemony Snicket - Is it just me or could this entire story be told in an Brene Brown book or very insightful self-help book for adults? I'm sure I got more out of this than my children but I hope that the feeling and lesson stays with them. Laszlo learns how to overcome his fear of the dark even when the dark continues to show up every day.

Creepy Carrots! by Aaron Reynolds - 'Creepy Carrots!' is a cleverly written Caldecott winner. It's an absolute favorite in my house and I'll be honest that I personally would not have picked this one out at first glance. Though, we were gifted this book and it's now a permanent on our nightly shelf.  My kids now crack up every time we ask if they want carrots and attempt to make spooky faces. Hey, whatever helps get vegetables on their plate, right? What I appreciate about it most is that it requires younger children to dig deeper and think about how the carrots tricked Jasper Rabbit.

Little Blue Truck's Halloween by Alice Schertle - The Little Blue truck series can truly appeal to wide age-range, infants through young elementary aged children. It's rhyme and moral themes appeal to the masses. The Halloween addition is a cute one where the characters attend a costume party.

At the Old Haunted House by Helen Ketteman - 'At the Old Haunted House' is another rhyming and counting book. The illustrations are captivating and will have your kids studying each page. It's a suspenseful book that has a happy and fun ending, perfect for a Halloween party.

Boris and Bella by Carolyn Crimi  - 'Boris and Bella' could quite possibly be written about my husband and me. Bella is very messy and Boris carries around a bleach can. Their habits annoy one another until a party brings them together. The alliteration and storyline makes this a fun read for everyone. 

Boo! Haiku by Deanna Caswell - This book is full of interactive haikus and bold, captivating images. It's perfect for 4- 7 year olds who want to play games and have fun while reading. It could be a lot of fun in a Kindergarten or first grade classroom as a read-aloud and writing prompt.

Five Picture Books About the Nobel Peace Prize

The recent announcement of this year's Nobel Peace Prize winner and the simultaneous sadness of war and destruction in Aleppo made me think about what messages of hope and peace we are sending to our children. It's very easy to appear stressed and overwhelmed, particularly while keeping up with the news and the election. I know I am guilty of responding to the news too often in front of my kids. Yet we also have the opportunity as teachers and parents to display the role as one of a change agent. I'm doing my best to focus on my own impact but it doesn't feel easy and I can get bogged down in the age of overwhelming social media.

As one way to remind myself of the good in the world, I complied a list of picture books on the topic of the peace and the Nobel Peace Prize.  I hope that you are able to share some of these stories and glimmers of hope with your children and students. What are some of your favorite books that share a message of peace?

Alfred Nobel: The Man Behind the Peace Prize Stories by Kathy-jo Wargin is an absolutely fascinating book about how the Nobel Peace Prize was founded. Like most truly moving life stories, it begins with heartbreak and how Alfred chose to turn tragedy and loss into inspiration.

The House That Jane Built: A Story About Jane Addams by Tanya Lee Stone - This book is the biography of Jane Addams, a true hero in the social work world. As a wealthy woman, Addams chose to live with the poor and founded the Hull House in Chicago. She was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1931. The book is beautifully illustrated and a great addition to any aspiring activist's bookshelf. 

Mama Miti: Wangari Maathai and the Trees of Kenya by Donna Jo Napoli - Wangari Maathai won the Peace Prize in 2004 for her environmental and political work in Africa. The book has bright, bold images that are capitivating and tells Maathai's story through poetic verse.

Of Thee I Sing: A Letter To My Daughters by Barack H. Obama - Obama won the peace prize in 2009 for his work to strengthen international diplomacy. The picture book is written in the form of a letter to his daughters and tells the story of many American leaders who have shown strength and perseverance.

Malala Yousafzai: Warrior with Words by Karen Abouraya tells Malala's ever-inspring story of bravery and strength. After suffering an attack from the Taliban, Yousafzai continues her work to advocate for girls and children's right to education.

Mother Teresa by Demi tells the story of the nun through intricate paint and gold-plated illustrations. The author of The Empty Pot shares Mother Teresa's story and biography including prayers and quotes from the nun. 

Ten picture books for an epic childhood

How many times have you said, “When I was young, I just roamed outside. I could play all alone!" We are all learning together to do our best as parents and teachers in a very busy world. Regardless of whether you live in the country or the city, life can be busy.

We might not all have time to go to the bookstore for hours on end or let our kids roam but we can certainly take advantage of small moments. We can create a magical story time at bedtime or take a fun title along for the ride. The children's author, Emilie Buchwald, once said, "Children are made readers on the laps of their parents." It seems there is so much pressure today around the age at which a child begins to read that we forget the most important piece of reading is comprehension and enjoyment. All of the work we do on teaching skills will be lost in the long term if children aren’t having fun.

Below are ten books that are sure to create a childlike spirit in any adult, remind us to slow down and help our children do the same.

Corduroy by Don Freeman - Few of us remember dressing up nicely to go shopping but this story will make you long for that time period. It will bring to mind your favorite childhood lovey or stuffed animal. It's impossible to read this story without feeling cozy and warm.

Blueberries for Sal By Robert Mccloskey – This book is a breath of fresh air for busy families. The black and white images, old car and illustrations of the countryside will make you dream of simpler times. (Anyone else addicted to ‘We Bought the Farm’ on HGTV?) I love the fact that Sal isn’t dressed in tutus but simply in play clothes, enjoying the outdoors. The sounds of “kuplink, kuplank, kuplunk,” as the blueberries drop into the pail is fun to read. Not to mention it reminds us to feel less guilty about all the work that comes along with parenting, as Sal plays and wanders while her mom works. 

All in a Day by Cynthia Rylant and Nikki McClure – McClure's illustrations are uniquely created and Rylant's words teach simplicity and gratitude. This book allows a fresh perspective to slow down. Rylant writes, "A day brings hope, and kindness, too/ A day is all its own/ You can make a wish, and start again,/  you can find your way back home."

Tell me the Day Backwards by Albert Lamb - This is simply the sweetest book in our house. Timmy Bear and his mother recount the day before falling asleep. My daughter and I loved the idea so much that we started trying the same activity at bedtime. While we aren’t recounting a hike in the country or watching each sunset, I am still able to experience my child’s days through her eyes by listening. This activity usually reminds me how small she is and how big and magical the world seems through her eyes.

Home by Caron Ellis - It doesn’t matter where our home is found or what it looks like. Having a home is special and truly a gift. This book's illustrations appeal to both adults and kids and also help children imagine a life different than their own.

The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper - Because after reading it several times your children will be chanting, “I think I can, I think I can,” when doing something new for the first time. The book is one of our first lessons in “mind over matter” and the power of “positive thinking.” But it's also a classic! Kids love the blue engine with a wide smile (perhaps the original Thomas?).

The Little House by Virginia Lee Burton - Almost every Virginia Lee Burton book looks as if it should be in an Anthropologie. They are quaint, charming and sentimental. The Little House tells the story of how the big city was built around a tiny home and how the house finds its way back to the country. It shows kids how times change but something’s will always be the same. No doubt this book will have some adults remembering a special family home. My kids and I have read it more times than I could count. 

Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats - What a magical feeling to wake up to freshly fallen snow outside of your window! This book captures that feeling and the collage images are so engaging for young kids. Ezra Jack Keats is considered revolutionary in the teaching and library (and also nerdy reading specialist) world because he created diverse characters. Considering recent research on the lack of diversity in picture books, it gives us all the more reason to add this one to our children’s library.

Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey - This book will make any child “awe” at the baby ducks trying to keep up with their mama duck. The story of how a duck family finally decides on the perfect home and then must figure out how to navigate their way there will probably resonate deeply with most young parents.

The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn - We each have memories of missing our family at school or maybe at our first sleep over. This sweet, sweet book helps parents come up with new ideas to comfort your child during these times. In the book Mrs. Racoon makes up a family secret called the Kissing Hand when Chester Racoon is nervous to go to school. 

What are the books that defined your childhood? What are your favorite titles to read to your children or students?

Happy Reading!