The Wizard Mouse 

by Dean Morrissey

Summary: A field mouse travels far from his home and helps restore a wizard's magic; thus, saving the kingdom of Muddmoor.

This imaginative adventure is ideal for strong readers in primary school to read to themselves. The vibrant illustrations draw the reader deep into this fantasy. The story’s message of following one’s dreams and being true to oneself is truly inspiring and will captivate any young readers’ heart. 

Interest Level: grades k-3

Reading Level: grade 4

Librarianjk recommends Fairy's Mistake

The Fairy's Mistake

by Gail Carson Levine

Summary: In this humorous retelling of a Perrault tale, the fairy Ethelinda rewards one twin sister for good behavior and punishes the other for bad, only to discover that her punishment is more pleasing than her reward.

I recommend this book to children who enjoy fairytales and are requesting a chapter book. This book is very different from many fairytales. It explores that sometimes what we think will be wonderful is not, that good intentions do not always give us the best rewards, but in the end, things seem to work out.

Interest Level: grades k-3, grades 4-6
Reading Level: grade 6

Librarianjk recommends The Secret Science Project that Almost Ate the School

The Secret Science Project that Almost Ate the School

by Judy Sierra

Summary: A boy sends off for "Professor Swami's Super Slime" to use as his science fair project and then has to cope with the funny disaster that follows.

This is an awesome, humorous book for reluctant readers. This book is a nice introduction to young students first doing science projects. The lesson is that you should create your own project and make sure you know what you are doing before you begin! During a library program, I read this book, and we made our own slime afterwards. I read a non-fiction book about real slime, as well-The Book of Slime by Ellen Jackson. I did this with younger children; the purpose was mostly to have students interested in books and enjoy time in the library. However, with older children, it is appropriate to discuss scientifically how the slime is created.

Interest Level: grades K-3
Reading Level: grade 3

Librarianjk recommends Rata-pata-scata-fata

Rata-pata-scata-fata : A Caribbean story

by Phillis Gershator

Summary: Preferring to dream away the days on his Caribbean island, little Junjun tries saying magic words to get the chores done

This book has beautiful, unique illustrations. When read to a class, it is fun to say the repetitive lines, especially “Rata-pata-scata-fata!” This book shows that sometimes wish come true, though it might not be magic!

Interest Level: Ages 2-4 and Grades K-3
Reading Level: Grade 2