Christmas brings magic, warmth, and joy every year. Holiday season spirit and memories are timeless – and carry on through traditions and storytelling. Books keep us connected as time goes on. If you are looking to brighten your family’s Christmas traditions, check out these books. They do a wonderful job blending nostalgia with new, unique charm that young readers will cherish.
Book of the Day: Tia Bua Believes in Your Magic
If you’re looking for the perfect story to introduce pertinent themes of mindfulness, awareness, and fairness – then Tia Bua Believes in Your Magic is for you. Thoughtfully written through a multicultural lens, this one-of-a-kind book encourages children to move forward on their personal wellness journeys.
Illustrated Books for Families this Fall
We’re well into the heart of the Fall and classrooms everywhere have been filled for over a month. Our children are busy learning and opening their minds to new concepts and ideas – making this a great time to introduce them to new books to read. Children’s books can convey profound concepts in an approachable manner – and if you’re looking for three books that effectively do that, here are my recommendations.
Book of the Day: A Recycling Adventure to the Scrapyard!
The Scrap University Kids team is back with another instant classic children’s book! A sequel to their first book, A Recycling Adventure to the Scrapyard is a must-have resource to help kids learn more about recycling metal and caring for the planet. In this sequel story, Ellie and her friends discover that metal is being thrown into the garbage – and they take action to make a difference!
An Interview with Jessica Alexanderson from Scrap University Kids
Jessica Alexanderson, also known as Scuba Jess, is an avid Scuba Diver and an underwater photographer based in Seattle, Washington. She is part of the Scrap University Kids team - an educational initiative that teaches children all metal can be recycled, and everyday actions can make a lasting impact on the environment.
Book of the Day 4/18/23
Drone Away from Home is a wonderful book that is perfect for families and adventurous early readers. Author Michael Lee’s illustrated story shares a heartwarming journey beaming with lessons about friendship, teamwork, and determination. If you’re looking for a book that will excite and inspire your child, you’ll find it in this tale.
Book of the Day 4/4/23
The NHL regular season is coming to an end, and the New York Islanders are in a competitive battle for the postseason. It’s the most exciting time of year for hockey fans. With that in mind, check out this creative, illustrated book that shares the rich history of the New York Islanders.
Featured Author March – Nancy Whiteford
Nancy Whiteford is a long time Figure Skating and Power Skating Coach in Ontario. She is a gold medalist in Free Skate, Dance Skills, and Interpretive. Her impressive 40-plus year career in skating also led her to coach hundreds of Gold Medalists – and she was inducted into the Brampton Sports Hall of Fame in 2015. Inspired to share her story, she wrote the new children’s book – My Skating Dream. The heartwarming story shares the journey of a girl named Sassafrass and her pursuit to become the best figure skater she can be.
Bestselling Children’s Books in February
If you follow this blog, you know by now that I love children’s literature. Simple, but also profound, these stories capture your hearts with meaningful lessons. Check out these three stories, all written by Black authors, that educate, enlighten, and inspire children and adults alike.
Featured Author February – C.J. Zachary
C.J. Zachary is a bestselling children’s book author who works exclusively with her illustrator husband, Zac. The husband and wife team is from Arkansas and work in elementary education. Zac is an art teacher while CJ is a Dyslexia Interventionist. She also has taught kindergarten, first grade, second grade, and has served as a Literacy Facilitator. Their first book, The Awkward Avocado, teaches the importance of acceptance and self-love. It has been a smash hit since its release in 2022. CJ and Zac just recently released the sequel, Awkward Avocado and the Interrupting Raptor.