1. Miss Bindergarten Celebrates the 100th DayIntroduction
These children's picture books are all about the first 100 days of school, including the first 100 days of kindergarten and 100th day celebrations in kindergarten and elementary school. They emphasize numbers and 100th day activities and projects.
Miss Bindergarten Celebrates the 100th Day of Kindergarten
It's the day before the 100th day of kindergarten, and Miss Bindergarten reminds her students, "tomorrow all of you must bring 100 of some wonderful, one-hundred-full thing!" While the rhythm and rhyme of the text by Joseph Slate is very appealing, it is the illustrations by Ashley Wolff that make this book a winner.
While I am not always that fond of books in which all of the adults and children in a story are portrayed by animals, this one is different. Each of the characters in the story, from the teacher Miss Bindergarten, a border collie, to kindergarten student Lenny, a lion, is drawn with lots of detail and expression. In fact, every page is filled with colorful illustrations that are full of interesting details.
Each kindergartener's name begins with a different letter of the alphabet, from A to Z. With rhyming text, the story details, in alphabetical order, each child's preparations for the 100th day. Interspersed is the refrain, "Miss Bindergarten gets ready for the 100th day of kindergarten" and an illustration of Miss Binergarten busy with preparations.
The story ends with the class members sharing their 100th day projects and enjoying their 100th day celebration. At the end of the book, there's an added bonus for curious adults: a brief history of the origin of the 100 days celebration. Not surprisingly, Miss Bindergarten Celebrates the 100th Day of Kindergarten is very popular with three- to five-year-olds.
Compare prices. (Dutton Children's Books, 1998. ISBN: 0525460004)
2. Jake's 100th Day of SchoolJake is excited. His class is getting ready for the 100th day of school, and Jake is eager to share his 100th day project with his teacher, Mr. Thompson, and his classmates. He's made a book of memories with 100 family photographs in it. Jake is devastated when he inadvertently leaves his project home. When he gets to school and sees all the other kids with their projects, he feels so terrible he begins to cry. The principal, Mrs. Wadsworth, helps him to consider his options. There is no one at home who can bring him his project. His parents are at work and his Grandma Maggie isn't home because she getting ready to visit Jake's class with a "superrific surprise." After discussion and help from Mrs. Wadsworth, Jake makes a new 100th day project, a display of 100 children's books from the principal's bookshelves, and takes it to class on a book cart where he joins in the 100th day festivities.
When Jake's Grandma Maggie visits, she brings the "superrific surprise" she promised. It's her Aunt Lulu, who is 100 years old, and the boys and girls are thrilled to meet her. After a bad start, Jake has a good day, especially when he gets a great idea; he takes a picture of his grandmother and Aunt Lulu in front of his 100 books display and adds it to his book of memories. On the 101st day of school, he shares his book of memories, with 101 family photos in it, with his classmates. In this children's picture book, author Lester L. Laminack does a nice job of showing how a child handles disappointment successfully, with the help of caring adults and his own initiative. The lively and humorous illustrations by Judy Love are a delight. This would be a good read aloud in a first to third grade classroom.
Compare prices. (Peachtree Publishers, 2006. ISBN: 1561453552)
3. Emily's First 100 Days of School by Rosemary WellsEmily, one of author and illustrator Rosemary Wells' endearing bunny characters, is excited about starting school. Her teacher, Miss Cribbage, tells the children, "Every morning we will make a new number friend and write it down in our number book." Emily's First 100 Days of School is Emily's account of what happens each day of the first 100 days of school.
Each day features a large number, an illustration, and Emily's account of something that happened that is related to that number. For example, number four features Emily square dancing. According to Emily, "My partner in square dancing is Diane Duck. There are four corners to a dancing square."
On the 100th day of school, the children share something related to 100. One child bring 100 pieces of candy corn; another runs 100 yards. As for Emily, she has written a letter to her family about what she has learned and has included 100 kisses (Xs).
This is a longer book about the 100 days of school than most picture books. It also emphasizes numbers more than most. As Rosemary Wells states in the Author's Note, "In this book, all numbers are equally important and all are fun." Emily's activities are entertaining as are the illustrations. Emily's First 100 Days of School will hold the interest of three- to six-year-olds.
Compare prices. (Hyperion Books for Children, 2000. ISBN: 0786805072)
4. 100th Day WorriesIn 100 Day Worries by Margery Cuyler, a little girl who is a worrier finds comfort in the love of her family. First grader Jessica worries all the time. She is not at all looking forward to reaching the 100th day of school. Instead, she is worried about what to take to school for the 100th day of school celebration.
When she can't figure out what to do, her whole family pitches in, providing her with sets of ten things, from ribbons to rocks. Jessica rushes off to school without counting everything, only to realize that she has only 90 things. Again, her loving family saves the day because Jessica finds a note from her mother with ten kisses (Xs) on it, giving her 10 sets of 10 - 100 things for the 100th day of school. I recommend this book for five and six year olds.
Compare prices. (Simon & Schuster, 2000. ISBN: 0689829795)
5. 100 School Days100 School Days is another in Anne and Lizzy Rockwell's delightful series of picture books about Mrs. Madoff's class. From the first day, the children begin to count each day of school by putting a penny in a jar. Every 10 days, a child brings in something to share: 10 balloons on day 10, 20 Matchbox cars on day 20, until day 100 when everyone brings in "100 of something good to eat" and the 100 pennies are shared with those in need.
Anne Rockwell has written, and Lizzy Rockwell has illustrated, a number of children's picture books about special days in Mrs. Madoff's class. The books by the mother and daughter team include: Father's Day, Mother's Day, Valentine's Day, Halloween Day, Thanksgiving Day, Career Day, and Show & Tell Day. I recommend their picture books for four- to eight-year-olds.
Compare prices. (HarperCollins, 2002. ISBN: 0060291443)
Children's Books About the First 100 Days of School / Kindergarten
Children's Books About the Day of the Dead
The Day of the Dead (El Dia Los Muertos) is celebrated in Mexico and many Mexican-American communities. It is a time to remember loved ones who have died. These picture books provide a look at preparations for and the celebration of the Day of the Dead, as well as the meaning behind many of the Day of the Dead rituals.
1. Pablo Remembers: The Fiesta of the Day of the DeadPhotojournalist George Ancona does an excellent job of introducing El Dia de Los Muertos, the Day of the Dead, to 7-11 year old readers in Pablo Remembers: The Fiesta of the Day of the Dead. In their village in Mexico, Pablo and his family prepare for and celebrate the Day of the Dead. Through full-page and small color photographs, accompanied by explanatory text, Ancona tells the story of how one Mexican family honors their deceased relatives by participating in El Dia Los Muertos (the Day of the Dead) fiesta.
(Lothrop, Lee & Shepard Books, 1993. ISBN: 9780688112493)
2. A Gift for Abuelita: Celebrating the Day of the Dead / Un regalo para AbuelitaA Gift for Abuelita: Celebrating the Day of the Dead / Un regalo para Abuelita: En celebración del Dia de los Muertos is the bilingual story of a young girl's search for comfort after the death of her beloved grandmother (Abuelita). Her grandfather suggests that Rosita make her grandmother "a gift for when she visits us on the Day of the Dead." While confused about what a visit means, Rosita braids a cord as a gift, and when she take it to her grandmother's grave, she feels her grandmother's love surround her. Artist Robert Chapman used mixed media on cast paper, with the result that each illustration looks as if it is heavily embroidered. I recommend the book for 7-11 year olds.
(Luna Rising, 1998. ISBN: 9780873586887)
3. Day of the DeadDay of the Dead by Tony Johnston is a small book that tells the story of a Mexican family's elaborate preparations for the Day of the Dead. The striking acrylic paintings by Jeanette Winter are a joy. With vibrant colors, imaginative borders and fanciful folkart-style pictures, the illustrations greatly complement the story about a family's enjoyment of holiday preparations and activities. While the book will appeal to 6-9 year olds, the delightful illustrations and the joy the family finds in the celebration will appeal to all ages.
(Voyager Books, An Imprint of Harcourt, 1997. ISBN: 9780152024468)
Children's Book Top Picks
Here are your Guide's top picks for books for children, from babies to pre-teens. They include a variety of categories, including board books for babies, poetry books, and holiday books, as well as books for the ultimate Harry Potter fan.
Children's Books About the Day of the Dead
The Day of the Dead (El Dia Los Muertos) is celebrated in Mexico and many Mexican-American communities. It is a time to remember loved ones who have died. These picture books provide a look at preparations for, and the celebration of, the Day of the Dead, as well as the meaning behind many of the Day of the Dead rituals.
Children's Books About the First 100 Days of School / Kindergarten
Miss Bindergarten Celebrates the 100th Day is one of a number of children's picture books about the first 100 days of school / kindergarten and 100th day celebrations in kindergarten and in other elementary school classes. Many schools count the first 100 days of school / kindergarten, share children's books like Miss Bindergarten Celebrates the 100th Day about the 100 days, and have a 100th day of school party on the 100th day.
Thanksgiving Books
Here are four Thanksgiving books that I particularly recommend. One is humorous, two emphasize giving thanks through prayers and praise, another covers the history of the holiday, and the fifth provides a historically accurate picture of the first Thanksgiving.
Hanukkah Books
Here are five children's books that center on Hanukkah, including three picture books, a chapter book, and an anthology. Children will enjoy the stories and, at the same time, learn more about this major Jewish holiday.
Christmas Pop-up Books for Children and Adults
These Christmas pop-up books by Jan Pietnkowski and Robert Sabuda are more than just children's books. They are beautifully designed 3-D treasures that the entire family will enjoy.
5 Best Children's Christmas Picture Books
Here's a Step-By-Step Guide to the five best children's Christmas picture books of 2004 that I have found. It includes cover art and summaries of the books.
Top Children's Christmas Picture Books
These children’s Christmas picture books, all of which were published in 2005, represent some of the year’s “cream of the crop.”
Kwanzaa Books
Kwanzaa stories, descriptions, family activities, and crafts can be found in these books about the popular African-American holiday.
Children's Books about the Chinese New Year
You'll find that the symbols and activities of the Chinese New Year come to life in these children's picture books about the fifteen-day celebration of the Chinese New Year.
Children's Books for Valentine's Day
Here are summaries of four Valentine's Day books for children that I recommend: three picture books and a beginning reader.
Hi/Lo Books for Reluctant Readers
Hi/Lo books are designed for reluctant readers who are not reading on grade level and whose interests are not met with typical books at their reading level. High interest low readability books meet the needs of reluctant readers by providing books at their reading level that are also at their interest level.
Audiobooks for Children
Audio versions of many popular children's books are available. They are fun to listen to as a family or at bedtime. If you are going on a trip with your children, be sure and take some children's audiobooks with you; they'll make the car, train, or plane trip much more fun for your children, even if it's only a few hours long.
Guides to Children's Books and Reading Aloud
These guides to children's books include general guides, several guides to reading aloud, and a guide to finding children’s books to help children cope with specific issues
Irish Folktales and Fairy Tales
Here are recommended children’s books of Irish folktales and fairy tales, children's books for St. Patrick's Day or any day you are looking for children's books of tales from Ireland that are excellent read-alouds, children's books that you and your children can enjoy together, as well as enjoyable reading for independent readers.
African American Freedom Fighters
These five books about African American freedom fighters include the era of slavery in America up through the more recent civil rights movement.
Children's Books about the Political Process Elections Voting
These children's books are all related to the importance of elections, voting, and the political process.
Children's Books About Cars, Trucks, and Diggers
Most of these picture books about cars, trucks, and diggers are for children six and under, but several are for older children interested in learning more about specific types of vehicles.
Harry Potter Books for the Ultimate Fan
Here are books/book sets that the dedicated Harry Potter fan should be delighted to receive as gifts. Some are by J.K. Rowling, one is about her, and one is a reference book.
Children's Books About Dinosaurs
Dinosaur books for younger kids tend to be funny (see the last three books on this list), but there are also many excellent nonfiction books for children eager to learn more facts about dinosaurs.
Favorite Dr. Seuss Books
Dr. Seuss' books have been enjoyed by generations of children in the United States and other countries. Learn about some of the author and illustrator's imaginative, rhyming books.
Children’s Picture Books About Gardens and Gardening
Celebrate spring with these children's picture books about gardens and gardening that celebrate the joys of planting seeds and bulbs, cultivating a garden, and enjoying the flowers and vegetables that result.
Classics for Babies, Toddlers, and Preschoolers
Here are five children's classics that are available in board book versions. All have proven enormously popular with babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.
The Death of a Pet in Children's Picture Books
If you are dealing with the death of a pet, these ten children’s picture books will provide comfort to 3-12-year-old children and their families.
Children’s Books For Mother’s Day Gifts
If you are looking for a special Mother's Day gift for the mother or grandmother, here are some children’s picture books and one book of quotations from children’s books that should appeal to them. The first book is a tribute to mothers and the second celebrates mothers and grandmothers.
Crafts Books for Kids - Kids Crafts Books With Paper Crafts - Needlecrafts - Knotting - Nature Crafts and More
Children's Crafts Books - These crafts books for kids provide step-by-step directions for a variety of family crafts, including knotting crafts, needlecrafts, nature crafts. Kids crafts books can provide hours of fun for your whole family.
Children's Books About Passover
Included in these recommended children's books are Passover stories, songs, recipes, artwork, activities, and much more.
Knitting Books for Kids and Teens
If you are looking for a good knitting book to teach your child how to knit, these knitting books for kids and teens may be just what you need. Good knitting books contain step-by-step directions and illustrations, and these knitting books for kids and teens will help your child learn how to knit.
Children's Cookbooks
Here are three well designed cookbooks for children that provide information in a clear sequential manner as well as photographs for each recipe. You may be surprised at how eager your kids are to learn to cook and how helpful they can be when they have a good cookbook to follow.
Kids Cooksbooks Based on Favorite Children's Books
These children's cookbooks contain recipes based on foods mentioned in favorite children's books. These include children's cookbooks based on the "Boxcar Children" mysteries, the "Little House" series, "The Chronicles of Narnia," books by Roald Dahl, and others.
Rhymes and Fun for Little Ones
Young children particularly enjoy rhymes, especially when accompanied by engaging illustrations. Here are five books I recommend for babies through five year olds.
Poetry for Children
Here are some excellent books of poetry, ranging from classic poems to poems about nature to concrete poetry. All are enhanced by their illustrations and design. In addition, there are several books for children about writing poetry.
Children's Poetry Books With Poems for Two or More Voices
Many students gain a new appreciation for poetry and the spoken word when they read aloud the poems for two voices or more in these children's poetry books.
Children's Picture Books Adults Will Love
Don't forget children's picture books when you are looking for a special gift for an adult. Here are a several children's books that I would recommend for adults.
Recommended Books by Sharon Creech
Newbery Medal winner Sharon Creech is best known for her novels for upper elementary and middle school readers but her picture books for younger children are also popular.
Children's Potty Training Books
It takes a lot more than a children's book to get a child toilet trained, but these picture books should make potty training more fun for you and your toddler.
Bedtime Board Books for Little Ones
I recommend these three board books to ensure a pleasant bedtime for your little one.
Bill Peet Books
Award winning children's author and illustrator Bill Peet wrote 35 children's picture books and illustrated them with imaginative and clever artwork.
Laura Ingalls Wilder Biographies
Laura Ingalls Wilder's life is a fascinating subject, and Wilder historian William Anderson does it justice in these books about the popular author.
Maurice Sendak Books
Read these five picture books by Maurice Sendak, and you'll understand why so many of the books he has written and illustrated have become classics.
Student Dictionaries
Learn about the features of three top student dictionaries and about the grade/age levels for which each was designed.
Children's Dictionaries
Here are three well-designed and written children's dictionaries that I would recommend for your upper elementary or early middle school student.
Books about the Wright Brothers
Whether you are looking for a picture book to read to a younger child, an early reading chapter book for a beginning reader, or a biography of the Wright Brothers for 9-12 year olds, there's a book here for your child.
"The Hobbit"
There are so many different editions of J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Hobbit" available that it is hard to know which to select. Here are three that I recommend for children.
Halloween Books for Younger Children
Here's an assortment of children's books about Halloween, from a board book to a book for beginning readers. They include books from the Arthur and Nate the Great series.
Halloween Board Books – Very Young Children Love Halloween Board Books
These Halloween board books will appeal to very young children: toddlers and preschoolers. These children’s board books are sturdy, with colorful illustrations, and simple stories that will not scare young children. For Halloween fun, I recommend these Halloween board books.
Children's Books that Make Great Graduation Gifts
"Oh, the Places You'll Go" by Dr Seuss is one of several children's books that make excellent gifts for graduates. If you are looking for a unique graduation gift for a high school or college graduate, I recommend these children's books for their illustrations, entertainment value, wit, and wisdom.
Children's Books About Starting School
Children's books, from children's picture books to children's chapter books, can help to reassure children about starting school or going to a new school.
Christmas Picture Books
Here are ten excellent Christmas picture books. Some emphasize the birth of the Christ child; some emphasize Santa Claus.
Children’s Books for Father’s Day Gifts
These children’s picture books will not only bring enjoyment to young children, but these children’s picture books would also make good Father’s Day gifts. Honor a beloved father on Father’s Day by giving him a children’s picture book that celebrates the bond between father and child.
Easter Books, from Christian to the Easter Bunny
Here are books about Easter that I recommend for your 4-10 year old child. They include both books about the Chrisitan celebration of Easter and books about spring and the Easter Bunny.
Children's Easter Board Books
These children's Easter board books focus on Easter candy, Easter eggs, and the Easter bunny, as well as an age appropriate introduction to the biblical story of Easter.
Children's April Fool's Day Books
Here are some children's books about April Fool's Day that I recommend, including children's picture books and beginning readers.
Recommended Children's Books About Hurricanes
Yesterday We Had A Hurricane, children's books, hurricanes, children's picture book, Yesterday We Had A Hurricane, children's books, hurricanes, children's picture book.
Books that Celebrate America
These 10 books celebrate the United States of America in poetry, art, tall tales, as well as true stories about such important American symbols as the Statue of Liberty.