Bunny’s Lessons

by Harriet Zeifert

Summary: A stuffed rabbit learns much from Charlie, his constant companion, including the meaning of the words "loud," "ouch," and "messy," but also about saying you are sorry and knowing you are loved.

This is an excellent simple examination of common childhood emotions. This book can be used to help young children with behavioral issues gain a greater understanding of their own emotions, and the emotions others feel as a result of their behavior. If I still taught children with autism, I would share this with certain students who do not have a strong grasp on their emotions and others’ emotions in general.

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

Goodnight Owl

by DwellStudio

Summary: Simple text invites the reader to look under lift-up flaps to find various creatures as they go to sleep at night in the forest.

This is an adorable bedtime story for young children. Children can be actively involved in the book by lifting the flaps and finding what is hidden beneath. The story ends with a very cute surprise.

Interest Level: birth-age 4
Reading Level: grade 1

Science Fiction Picture Books

Dino Pets Go to School

by Lynn Plourde

Summary: A boy brings various dinosaurs to school, but discovers that neither the loudest, nor the tallest, nor the smartest is suited for the classroom. Includes facts about dinosaurs.

This is a humorous book. I recommend it to anyone who likes dinosaurs. One of the last pages contains facts about real dinosaurs. This book could be used to discuss what is and is not appropriate to bring to show and tell!

Interest Level: ages 2-grade 3
Reading Level: grade 3

 

 The Wheels on the Bus 

by Jane Cabrera

Summary: In this version of the classic song, animal passengers roar, flap, and chatter while riding a bus.

 This book is fun to read aloud or sing along! A reader can engage the listeners by encouraging them to makes the sounds that the animals in the book make, or sing.

Interest Level: ages 2-grade 3

Reading Level: grade 1 

 

 

The Daily Comet: Boy Saves Earth from Giant Octopus 

by Frank Asch

Summary; Hayward likes facts. However, he does not like the fact that his father works for a sensationalistic tabloid which he believes is a big fake. This belief is changed when he joins his father on Go to Work with a Parent Day and encounters an enormous fact that he can't explain.

This is a lengthy tale that is most suited for older elementary students. The boy’s sarcastic, cynical thoughts are amusing. This book allows for much discussion on yellow journalism, yet leaves some room for believer’s imaginations.

Interest Level: grades k-3 

Reading Level: grade 5

Without You

by Geneviève Côté

Summary: Two friends, a rabbit and a pig, have a quarrel until they discover that they have more fun together than alone.

This is a sweet story about friendship. This book is great for a quick read aloud to preschool students.

Interest Level: ages 2-grade 3
Reading Level: grade 2