Benny's Pennies

by Pat Brisson

Summary: Benny sets off in the morning with five shiny new pennies to spend and eventually buys something for his mother, brother, sister, dog, and cat.

This book will be enjoyed by young children for its repetitive and predictable nature. The sweet story is great for helping children understand sharing without being didactic.

Interest Level: ages 2-4
Reading Level: grade 2

Secret River

 

 

Secret River

 by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings

Summary: Young Calpurnia takes her dog, Buggy-horse, and follows her nose to a secret river in a Florida forest. There she catches enough fresh fish to feed her hungry neighbors, even after giving some to the forest creatures she meets on the way home.

This new book contains beautiful, vivid illustrations added to a previously published story. This tale is most appropriate for older readers. The rich text can be used to discuss several life concepts. If read as a class, teachers can discuss the economy in this community and today’s economy on a basic level.

Interest Level: grade  4-6
Reading Level: grade 3