Seasons
Spring
A Forest of Stories By: Rina Singh
Illustrated by: Helen Cann
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
This unique collection of folktales, compiled by Rina Singh, encourages us to rethink our relationship with trees through the telling of fantastic tales filled with dancing palms, healing fig trees, and magical cherry blossoms. Illustrated in radiant hues by artist Helen Cann and containing notes about the individual characteristics of each species, this vibrant collection will encourage all of us, young and old alike, to appreciate the essential place of trees in our lives, and help us to translate our appreciation into the desire to protect our many endangered forests
Illustrated by: Helen Cann
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
This unique collection of folktales, compiled by Rina Singh, encourages us to rethink our relationship with trees through the telling of fantastic tales filled with dancing palms, healing fig trees, and magical cherry blossoms. Illustrated in radiant hues by artist Helen Cann and containing notes about the individual characteristics of each species, this vibrant collection will encourage all of us, young and old alike, to appreciate the essential place of trees in our lives, and help us to translate our appreciation into the desire to protect our many endangered forests
The Falling Flowers
By: Jennifer B. Reed
Illustrated by: Henry Cole
Age Level: 9-12
Reading Level: Independent Reader
Grandmother has a surprise for Mayumie — is it a visit to the zoo, a museum, or the big city? When they finally reach their destination, Mayumie understands what makes visiting a cherry blossom grove so special: the beautiful pink flowers only bloom once a year! Readers will be enchanted by the magic of the story and the illustrations that capture the stunning colors of the cherry blossom trees. An author's note provides historical details, as well as information on the cherry blossom trees in Washington, DC.
By: Jennifer B. Reed
Illustrated by: Henry Cole
Age Level: 9-12
Reading Level: Independent Reader
Grandmother has a surprise for Mayumie — is it a visit to the zoo, a museum, or the big city? When they finally reach their destination, Mayumie understands what makes visiting a cherry blossom grove so special: the beautiful pink flowers only bloom once a year! Readers will be enchanted by the magic of the story and the illustrations that capture the stunning colors of the cherry blossom trees. An author's note provides historical details, as well as information on the cherry blossom trees in Washington, DC.
Under the Cherry Blossom Tree: An Old Japanese Tale By: Allen Say
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
Spring had finally come and everyone in the village was happy, despite being poor — everyone except the miserly landlord. Mumbling and grumbling, he sat all alone eating a bowl of cherries and glaring as the villagers sang and danced in the meadow. Then, quite by accident, he swallowed a cherry pit. The pit began to sprout. Soon the landlord was the wonder of the village — a cherry tree was growing on top of his head! What happened to the cherry tree and to the wicked landlord is a favorite joke in Japan. Allen Say tells the story with wit and vitality, and his beautiful drawings complement this classic Japanese tale.
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
Spring had finally come and everyone in the village was happy, despite being poor — everyone except the miserly landlord. Mumbling and grumbling, he sat all alone eating a bowl of cherries and glaring as the villagers sang and danced in the meadow. Then, quite by accident, he swallowed a cherry pit. The pit began to sprout. Soon the landlord was the wonder of the village — a cherry tree was growing on top of his head! What happened to the cherry tree and to the wicked landlord is a favorite joke in Japan. Allen Say tells the story with wit and vitality, and his beautiful drawings complement this classic Japanese tale.
Summer
Apple Pie 4th of July
By: Janet Wong
Illustrated by: Margaret Chodos-Irvine
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
"No one wants to eat Chinese food on the Fourth of July," says a young girl to her parents who insist on keeping their Chinese restaurant open on Independence Day. An honest portrayal of the tug between traditions old and new, as well as what it really means to be American
By: Janet Wong
Illustrated by: Margaret Chodos-Irvine
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
"No one wants to eat Chinese food on the Fourth of July," says a young girl to her parents who insist on keeping their Chinese restaurant open on Independence Day. An honest portrayal of the tug between traditions old and new, as well as what it really means to be American
As Long as the Rivers Flow
By: Larry Loyie & Constance Brissenden
Illustrated by: Heather D. Holmlund
Age Level: 9-12
Reading Level: Independent Reader
Loyie shares a quiet but powerful first-person account of his last summer before he and his siblings were taken away from their family. Most of the story focuses on what was otherwise a normal seasonal routine for the Cree people of that era, with the family moving from their main cabin to their summer "camp" for a few weeks…When the children learn that they must go to the residential school or their parents will be imprisoned, and they are physically loaded onto the back of a truck by strangers, the sense of separation and loss is keenly felt. — School Library Journal
By: Larry Loyie & Constance Brissenden
Illustrated by: Heather D. Holmlund
Age Level: 9-12
Reading Level: Independent Reader
Loyie shares a quiet but powerful first-person account of his last summer before he and his siblings were taken away from their family. Most of the story focuses on what was otherwise a normal seasonal routine for the Cree people of that era, with the family moving from their main cabin to their summer "camp" for a few weeks…When the children learn that they must go to the residential school or their parents will be imprisoned, and they are physically loaded onto the back of a truck by strangers, the sense of separation and loss is keenly felt. — School Library Journal
Auntie Yang's Great Soybean Picnic
By: Ginnie Lo
Illustrated by: Beth Lo
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
While on a visit to her aunt and uncle in Illinois, the narrator and her family unexpectedly find a field of growing soybeans which begins a 40 year tradition. Based on the author's experiences, text and child-like illustrations reveal a caring, surprisingly modern family story from times past.
By: Ginnie Lo
Illustrated by: Beth Lo
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
While on a visit to her aunt and uncle in Illinois, the narrator and her family unexpectedly find a field of growing soybeans which begins a 40 year tradition. Based on the author's experiences, text and child-like illustrations reveal a caring, surprisingly modern family story from times past.
Firefly Summer
By: Pura Belpré
Age Level: 9-12
Reading Level: Independent Reader
"In this turn-of-the-century novel, seventh-grader Teresa attends school in San Juan and travels home in time to celebrate the Feast of the Cross with her extended family, friends, and plantation workers on her parents' finca…Belpré submitted Firefly Summer for publication during World War II, but it was rejected because of a paper shortage; it is available now because of a national project whose aim is to locate, identify, preserve, and make accessible the literary heritage of U.S. Hispanics." — School Library Journal
By: Pura Belpré
Age Level: 9-12
Reading Level: Independent Reader
"In this turn-of-the-century novel, seventh-grader Teresa attends school in San Juan and travels home in time to celebrate the Feast of the Cross with her extended family, friends, and plantation workers on her parents' finca…Belpré submitted Firefly Summer for publication during World War II, but it was rejected because of a paper shortage; it is available now because of a national project whose aim is to locate, identify, preserve, and make accessible the literary heritage of U.S. Hispanics." — School Library Journal
Powwow Summer: A Family Celebrates the Circle of Life
Age Level: 9-12
Reading Level: Independent Reader
Marcie Rendon follows Sharyl and Windy Downwind and their children as they travel from their home on the Red Lake Reservation in Minnesota to powwows all around the region. At ceremonies and in daily life, Windy and Sharyl celebrate Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) culture by teaching their children traditional skills, dance steps, and lifeways, all part of the circle of community and the seasons and life.
Age Level: 9-12
Reading Level: Independent Reader
Marcie Rendon follows Sharyl and Windy Downwind and their children as they travel from their home on the Red Lake Reservation in Minnesota to powwows all around the region. At ceremonies and in daily life, Windy and Sharyl celebrate Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) culture by teaching their children traditional skills, dance steps, and lifeways, all part of the circle of community and the seasons and life.
What Can You Do With a Paleta?
By: Carmen Tafolla
Illustrated by: Magaly Morales
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Pre-Reader
As she strolls through her barrio, a young girl introduces readers to the frozen, fruit-flavored treat that thrills Mexican and Mexican-American children. Create a masterpiece, make tough choices (strawberry or coconut?), or cool off on a warm summer's day — there's so much to do with a paleta!
By: Carmen Tafolla
Illustrated by: Magaly Morales
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Pre-Reader
As she strolls through her barrio, a young girl introduces readers to the frozen, fruit-flavored treat that thrills Mexican and Mexican-American children. Create a masterpiece, make tough choices (strawberry or coconut?), or cool off on a warm summer's day — there's so much to do with a paleta!
Autumn
Apple Farmer Annie (Bilingual Edition)
By: Monica Wellington
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
Ana grows and sells apples, and she makes cider and applesauce and muffins. A glossary helps kids learn the names of Ana's delicious ingredients in both languages. With tie-ins to math and science curricula and units on autumn, this book will be especially welcomed by teachers. Now available in a bilingual edition.
By: Monica Wellington
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
Ana grows and sells apples, and she makes cider and applesauce and muffins. A glossary helps kids learn the names of Ana's delicious ingredients in both languages. With tie-ins to math and science curricula and units on autumn, this book will be especially welcomed by teachers. Now available in a bilingual edition.
In the Leaves
By: Huy Voun Lee
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Independent Reader
Xiao Ming and his friends are spending an autumn day on a farm, and it is the perfect place for him to show his friends how draw different Chinese characters for words such as "grain" and "fire." The colorful, gentle illustrations, created by cut-paper collages, will appeal to young children. This book is one of a four-part series by the author about Chinese characters related to the different seasons.
By: Huy Voun Lee
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Independent Reader
Xiao Ming and his friends are spending an autumn day on a farm, and it is the perfect place for him to show his friends how draw different Chinese characters for words such as "grain" and "fire." The colorful, gentle illustrations, created by cut-paper collages, will appeal to young children. This book is one of a four-part series by the author about Chinese characters related to the different seasons.
Pumpkin (Life Cycle of a…)
By: Ron Fridell & Patricia Walsh
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
"These titles explain the life cycles of three plants in brightly illustrated narratives. From seed to seedling, vine, and finally full-grown fruit, the life cycle of the pumpkin is clearly and colorfully described. Bright and engaging full-color photographs amplify the text on each page." — School Library Journal
By: Ron Fridell & Patricia Walsh
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
"These titles explain the life cycles of three plants in brightly illustrated narratives. From seed to seedling, vine, and finally full-grown fruit, the life cycle of the pumpkin is clearly and colorfully described. Bright and engaging full-color photographs amplify the text on each page." — School Library Journal
Red Leaf, Yellow Leaf
By: Lois Ehlert
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
"This very striking book examines the life of a sugar maple tree from the point of view of a young child. Each spread is a visual masterpiece; Ehlert has added elements of collage and watercolored paper that lend sophistication and diversity to her ever-evolving style. Preschoolers will delight in naming objects found on each double-page spread, newly independent readers will appreciate the oversized type, and slightly older children will make use of the appendix explaining the various functions and parts of a tree, along with tips on selecting and planting one." — School Library Journal
By: Lois Ehlert
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
"This very striking book examines the life of a sugar maple tree from the point of view of a young child. Each spread is a visual masterpiece; Ehlert has added elements of collage and watercolored paper that lend sophistication and diversity to her ever-evolving style. Preschoolers will delight in naming objects found on each double-page spread, newly independent readers will appreciate the oversized type, and slightly older children will make use of the appendix explaining the various functions and parts of a tree, along with tips on selecting and planting one." — School Library Journal
Winter
Amadi's Snowman
By: Katia Novet Saint-lot
Illustrated by: Dimitrea Tokunbo
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
"Amadi, an Igbo boy in sun-drenched Nigeria, sees no point in learning to read, until he sees a picture of a snowman in a book and is curious to find out more. He wants to learn about the far-off country where frozen rain falls from the sky — a world so different from his own — and the chance to read about it fills him with joy. Children will enjoy reading about Amadi's life in the village, depicted in the earth-toned, intimate scenes. It's a nice reversal that young children will be able to grasp — what looks exotic and faraway to one person is a place where someone else lives." — Booklist
By: Katia Novet Saint-lot
Illustrated by: Dimitrea Tokunbo
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
"Amadi, an Igbo boy in sun-drenched Nigeria, sees no point in learning to read, until he sees a picture of a snowman in a book and is curious to find out more. He wants to learn about the far-off country where frozen rain falls from the sky — a world so different from his own — and the chance to read about it fills him with joy. Children will enjoy reading about Amadi's life in the village, depicted in the earth-toned, intimate scenes. It's a nice reversal that young children will be able to grasp — what looks exotic and faraway to one person is a place where someone else lives." — Booklist
Stranger in the Woods
By: Carl R. Sams II & Jean Stoick
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
Who is in the woods? When did he get here? The animals of the forest are wondering how this quiet stranger came to their home. Beautiful, whimsical photos and text complete this winter fantasy of what happens when a snowman arrives in the forest. Spanish version available.
By: Carl R. Sams II & Jean Stoick
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
Who is in the woods? When did he get here? The animals of the forest are wondering how this quiet stranger came to their home. Beautiful, whimsical photos and text complete this winter fantasy of what happens when a snowman arrives in the forest. Spanish version available.
The Snowy Day
By: Ezra Jack Keats
Age Level: 0-3
Reading Level: Pre-Reader
The Snowy Day is the simple tale of a boy waking up to discover that snow has fallen during the night. The little boy celebrates the snow-draped city with a day of humble adventures.
By: Ezra Jack Keats
Age Level: 0-3
Reading Level: Pre-Reader
The Snowy Day is the simple tale of a boy waking up to discover that snow has fallen during the night. The little boy celebrates the snow-draped city with a day of humble adventures.
When This World Was New
By: D.H. Figueredo
Illustrated by: Enrique O. Sanchez
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
Danilito is excited about coming to America, but he is also scared — it is so different and cold, and he doesn't speak any English. Then he experiences his first snowfall. After feeling the snowflakes on his cheek and leaving footprints in the snow, he begins to feel a little more confident in this new country. Warm illustrations bring an immigrant family's journey, and their first snowfall, to life.
By: D.H. Figueredo
Illustrated by: Enrique O. Sanchez
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
Danilito is excited about coming to America, but he is also scared — it is so different and cold, and he doesn't speak any English. Then he experiences his first snowfall. After feeling the snowflakes on his cheek and leaving footprints in the snow, he begins to feel a little more confident in this new country. Warm illustrations bring an immigrant family's journey, and their first snowfall, to life.