Kamishibai Man
This picture book is hands down my most favorite book we’ve read so far this year. I am struggling to put into words why I liked it so much.
The Prophet, the Shepherd & the Star
Grace’s Review (4th Grade): Jenny L. Cote gathers biblical information and places it into her books. I love to read it, and wish to get the whole entire series. I’m saving up my money for them. That’s how much I like them. They’re great and amazing illustrations in black, and the writing is awesome.
A Beka Language
In A Nutshell: Can’t be beat for grammar and punctuation skills, but if you value a heavy writing curriculum, it needs to be supplemented.
Daisy Comes Home
We are studying China right now, and this picture book created a relaxing end to the school day, giving the kids a visual of everyday life and scenery in rural China.
True to Jan Brett form, the illustrations are amazingly detailed and delicious.
Pet Vet Series
Grace’s Review (4th Grade): I loved reading these. I read all six books in three days. They were exciting and educational. I learned a lot about what vets do, and what an assistant would do too.
The Librarian of Basra
This was another true story made into a great picture book. The story was originally told in the New York Times in 2003 by reporter Shaila K. Dawan.
Creepy Critters
The pop ups in the book are large, detailed, and very life like! They creep all of us out. Apparently the pictures are a little too good because my kids just admitted to me they haven’t actually read the book
The Chalk Box Kid
I would have to describe this book as simple, engaging and sweet. It was well written, and for such a simple story the characterization was done just right. I was a little nervous at how the story would end, but it was very fitting.
A Beka Reading
Even I enjoy most of the stories in the readers, and the discussion questions are well thought out. Like any curriculum though, this will work well with some kids and not for others, depending on their personality and learning style.Unfortunately, A Beka is missing a key part of what I feel is a must in any reading curriculum.
Magic Tree House Series
My conclusion is that I cannot in good conscience let my children read these books – no matter how fun and how educational they are.
The Family Book List 