Ants In Your Pants, Worms In Your Plants!

by Diane deGroat

Summary: Gilbert seems to be the only one in his class who cannot think of any ideas for an Earth Day project.

I like how Gilbert’s parents encourage him to come up with his own ideas. They suggest relaxing and walking in order to clear his mind which eventually leads to an idea. This is an important lesson to overachievers with anxiety. Of course, as the title suggests, this book can be used to discuss the environment and going green.

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

A Good Knight's Rest

by Shelley Moore Thomas

Summary: The Good Knight's hard work has earned him a vacation, but his three little dragon friends come along and make the trip anything but relaxing.

This humorous book illustrates the frustrations of driving a group. The story may be used to discuss respecting adults when traveling.

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

Pirate vs. Pirate: The Terrific Tale of a

Big, Blustery Maritime Match

by Mary Quattlebaum

Summary: One pirate from the Atlantic Ocean and one from the Pacific Ocean meet and have a contest to see who is the best pirate in the world.

As mentioned in the title, this is a terrific tale. At first glance it may appear to be a story that will appeal more to a masculine crowd. However, one of these pirates is a woman, and the ending might surprise boys and girls alike. This is a lengthy tale; it is most appropriate for an older crowd.

Interest Level: grades K-6
Reading Level: grade 3

African Animal Alphabet

by Beverly Joubert

Summary: Pairs wildlife photographs of African animals with corresponding letters of the alphabet. The book includes brief information about each included animal, such as cheetahs, elephants, lions, and zebras.

This is a great book for an older child to read to a younger child. If a person reads all the details, it is quite lengthy. However, an older person and a younger person may alternate reading the more challenging and less challenging text.

Interest Level: ages 2-grade 3
Reading Level: grade 5

Jonathan and the Big Blue Boat

by Philip Christian Stead

Summary: Jonathan sets sail in the big blue boat in search of his lost stuffed bear, Frederick, and collects a ragtag assortment of friends along the way.

The illustrator’s use of collage in this book is impressive. The illustrations are extremely detailed with pieces of old stamps, travel tickets, and newspaper clippings which give the book a nostalgic feel. The story is good, but examining this book’s details and playing a “look and find” game with a child are more rewarding and may be great ways to motivate reading.

Interest Level: ages 2-4, grades K-3
Reading Level: grade 3

Catch That Baby!

by Nancy Coffelt

Everyone, from Mom to Grandpa, joins the chase when baby Rudy decides he does not want to get dressed after his bath

This is a humorous story to share with one’s family, especially if someone in the family is not a fan of wearing clothes. This book can be used to discuss dress and behavior. However, I think it is better to read this book simply for enjoyment.

Interest Level: ages 2-grade 3
Reading Level: grade 1

MORE Summer Reading Theme 2011 One World Many Stories for Grades 3-5

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