A little of this, a little of that

This odd smattering includes a simple picture book, another with a flashy, eye-catching cover, history in several, and a book with a DVD (watch the DVD first!) I really enjoyed each of these diverse findings, and I hope you do, too!

Melody



Night Lights by Susan Gal
Night has fallen. Mother and daughter are home from their shopping trip. It is dog's birthday. That is the setting. All of the words in the book have to do with lights that you would see at night. The first two pages read, "streetlight headlight porch light."
Let your non-reader tell you the story.
Ages 3-7 story telling, vocabulary


Muktar and the Camels by Janet Graber
Muktar is the boy who loves camels, understands camels and has no camels. As an orphan, he is no longer working with camels as he did when his family was still alive. And on day, the camel library arrives, and this visitor does not understand camels like Muktar. Set in Africa, on the border of Kenya and Somalia, this picture book gives us a glimpse into life in the region. The author has added very brief notes about what is true in this book.
Ages 6-10
Africa, Somalia, camels, and alternative libraries


One Shoe Blues by Sandra Boynton
First of all, there is a DVD with the book. Watch the DVD first. It is five minutes of calm, soothing singing by B. B. King about a missing shoe. And we, the viewers SEE his missing shoe is on his foot. Then watch all the 'making of' specials. THEN read the book.
Ages 2-102
Cuddle up with a preschooler and watch this. All ages will enjoy the music, the visuals and the sock puppets.


Child of the Civil Rights Movement by Paula Young Shelton
History, biography, and beautiful illustrations by Raul Colon - how many more reasons do you need to read this book? The author tells us that the story is based on her memories, and those of her family, and takes place when she is four years old. If you know lots about the Civil Rights Movement, or very little, this is a great kids book with which to start. The author includes biographical information in the back of the book about some of the people included in this story.

Ages 6-10

American history, 1965; Civil Rights Movement



You Never Heard of Sandy Koufax?! by Jonah Winter

The flashy cover will grab your attention - tilt the cover and see Sandy Koufax throw the ball!

Picture book biographies are so easy and fun to read, and this is no exception. Learn about Sandy Koufax - Jewish during a time where very few players were Jewish, a wild pitcher for years until one day. This is the story of personal perseverance.

Ages 6-12

Baseball, prejudice, perseverance