Helen's Favorites

Shana Tova, Happy New Year!

Here is a selection of wonderful books for children ages 2-5 years of age written by some well-known and highly admired authors. When selecting books for young children, I not only look for the important messages and lessons therein, but also for the literary value and beautiful illustrations. I hope you and the children enjoy these books as much as I have when reading them to the delight of our students.

Love,
Helen

Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes, a story about how a conflict is handled.

**Doctor De Soto by William Steig. This is a charming story about how a mouse outwits a fox.

Geraldine's Baby Brother by Holly Keller, a delightful story about dealing with a new sibling

Ella's Trip to Israel by Vivian Newman, a story that can help children see the similarities and differences between life in Israel and the US.

**Joseph had a Little Overcoat by Simms Taback, a favorite folk tale of Helen’s!

**Owen by Kevin Henkes. Owen is a story about a mouse who needs his fuzzy blanket.

Owen and Mazee: The language of Friendship, by Isabella Hatkoff, et al. A true story that follows the path of an abandoned animal and the close friendship that he forges with an unlikely tortoise. The photographs in both these books are outstanding.

**A Sick Day for Amos McGee by Philip C. Stead, a lovely tale about friendship. 

Who’s Hiding Here by Yoshi. This is a beautiful picture book with lovely language dealing with the topic of camouflage.

**Caldecott Award Books