The Book with No Pictures by B. J. Novak (Stephanie Casolara’s Favorite)
This hilarious book shows that a book doesn’t need pictures to be entertaining! My boys laughed throughout and made me read it over and over when they were little.
Pinkalicious by Victoria Kann (Teri Richardson’s Favorite)
This is an adorable story with an excellent lesson. When I taught in the brick and mortar school, my students (even the boys!) would beg me everyday during free play to read this book to them.
Silly Sally by Audrey Wood (Teri Richardson’s Favorite)
Sally is a silly lady who makes her way to town with her friends in very silly ways. Trying to act out what she does on each trip makes the story even more fun.
Stellana by Janell Cannon (Terri Reyes’ Favorite)
Super cute book that teaches not only about some neat animal facts but also a story about acceptance and embracing differences.
ANY Piggie and Elephant Book! (My New Friend is So Fun) by Mo Willems (Mary Nieves’ Favorite)
The illustrations of Piggie and Gerald so accurately depict their emotions so that you can actually hear their voices/dialogue in your head! The stories are simple, funny, and cute, and the comic book style writing with large print is perfect for beginning readers. This particular story teaches a sweet lesson that your friends can have other friends, and still be friends with you! It’s also super fun to read all these books to see the recurring characters appear in various stories.
Beekle by Dan Santat (Lisa Barlow’s Favorite)
It’s visually beautiful and unique. But mostly because it’s about the power of imagination, and how friendship/soulmates make you brave, so you can go out and have adventures in the world.
Wilfred Gordon McDonald Partridge by Mem Fox (Ruth Woesner’s Favorite)
Stories from Leo Lionni, Eric Carle, Patricia Polacco, and Demi… too many to choose from. But this little boy, Wilfred, will steal your heart away as he tries to help his elderly neighbors find “memory!”
Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes (Yolonda Nunley’s Favorite)
This book is lovely to use with kids about their names and the significance and/or meaning behind them. The illustrations are beautiful and kids are usually eager to share meanings of their own names as well. Great discussions always follow.
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein (Logielyn Wasan’s Favorite)
It’s about giving and wanting to give of yourself in a relationship because you care about each other.
The Energy Bus for Kids by Jon Gordon (Danielle Kimbrel’s Favorite)
It is a story about staying positive and overcoming challenges, which we could all use a reminder of. It also stems from a grown up book that is really encouraging and motivational.
Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister (Danielle Kimbrel’s Favorite)
This book teaches how it really is more fun when everyone shares and I love the illustrations; it brings me instantly back to childhood