Farmer George Plants a Nation

Farmer George Plants a Nation by Peggy Thomas

Describes how George Washington built his farm at Mount Vernon, discussing his experiments with seeds, fertilizers, and tools and presenting related letters and diary entries.

My Thoughts - Reading this biography of George Washington gives a new appreciation for his contribution to our country beyond being a leader of the Revolutionary War and our first President. This was a facinating look at his lasting contribution to agriculture, his experiements and inventions. I think this is a must read for any student! It is also great for a read aloud for older students who already think they know all about George Washington.

*Summary taken from CIP data.

Very Hairy Bear

Very Hairy Bear by Alice Schertle

Recounts the experiences of a shaggy, "boulder-big" bear as the four seasons come to the beautiful wood which is his home.

My Thoughts - I love this book! The artwork by Matt Phelan is just gorgeous! My favorite picture is the one with Hairy Bear in the blueberries! The words also have an interesting rythym that makes this a fun story to read aloud.

*Summary taken from CIP data.

I Spy Fly Guy!

I Spy Fly Guy! by Tedd Arnold

While playing hide-and-seek with Buzz, Fly Guy is taken away by a garbage man.



My Thoughts - Another great Fly Guy story! Kids can learn a lesson in problem solving here!

*Summary taken from CIP data.

Hooray for Fly Guy!

Hooray for Fly Guy! by Tedd Arnold

Fly Guy joins Buzz's football team, despite Coach's misgivings, and hits the field for a special, secret play.

My Thoughts - Boys will go wild for Fly Guy! Everyone will identify with Fly Guy when Coach first rejects him from the team, and then they will cheer for Fly Guy when the secret play is revealed!

*Summary taken from CIP data.

Mercy Watson Thinks Like a Pig

Mercy Watson Thinks Like a Pig by Kate DiCamillo

After Mercy Watson follows the delightful scent and delicious taste of the pansies her thoughtful neighbors plant to beautify their yard, Animal Control Officer Francine Poulet is called out to handle the case, which brings unexpected results.

My Thoughts - It has been awhile since I've read the first Mercy Watson book and now I want to go back and read them all!  This story was great fun!  Beginning readers will like the repetition of the easier words and still enjoy the story and some more challenging words.  You've got to read all about Mercy!

*Summary taken from CIP data.

Babymouse Burns Rubber

Babymouse Burns Rubber by Jennifer Holm and  Matthew Holm

Babymouse's dreams of being a race car driver come true when she and her best friend Wilson enter a soap box derby.

My Thoughts - This was another fun installment in the Babymouse series, with lots of pink along the way!  If you like Babymouse, you can't miss this one!  Will Cupcake Cannon win the race?  Also, look for the next installment in Babymouse Cupcake Tycoon!

*Summary taken from CIP data.

Lunch Lady and the League of Librarians

Lunch Lady and the League of Librarians by Jarrett J. Kroscoczka

The school lunch lady, a secret crime fighter, sets out to stop a group of librarians bent on destroying a shipment of video games while a group of students known as the Breakfast Bunch provides backup.

My Thoughts - This is a funny, fast paced graphic novel that many students will enjoy.  It would be great for young, independent readers or struggling readers or for anyone who likes something funny and action packed!

*Summary taken from CIP data.

Llama Llama Misses Mama

Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney


Llama Llama experiences separation anxiety on his first day of nursery school.



My Thoughts - This is another sweet story about Llama Llama!  This would be great to read before the beginning of school or to remember the first day of school and how a child might feel on that special day.


*Summary taken from CIP data.