Quackers

Author: Liz Wong

Illustrator: Liz Wong

Summary: Quackers is an unusual duck…he has whiskers and paws instead of a bill and feathers which makes him stand out when he’s with his friends. He hates getting wet, and has a hard time communicating with the other ducks. Then one day, Quackers meets a strange looking duck and follows him to his home where he meets other ducks that look just like him! Will Quackers stay where he fits in, or will he go back to standing out?

Recommended Ages: 3 to 7 years

Themes, Skills, & Concepts: This is a fun book to talk about how things are alike and different. It can also be used to talk about friendship, and accepting yourself for who you are.

Extension Activities: Check out the fun book activities for Jump Start’s Read for the Record Event! Click here!

Claymates

Author: Dev Petty

Illustrator: Lauren Eldridge

Summary: Who knew that two clumps of clay could turn into the funniest book ever?! You and your kids will sure to giggle and laugh (and maybe even point) at each turn of the page! From elephants to starfish, to peanut aliens and a Pig-e-phant…these two crazy clumps of clay will make your day and maybe even spark your imagination!

Recommended Ages: 5 to 8 years

Themes, Skills, & Concepts: This would be a great story to read to talk about using your imagination.

Extension Activities: It would be so much fun to read this book, and then let kids build their own clay figures and use StopMotion apps to create their own movies!

A Tiger Tail

Author: Mike Boldt

Illustrator: Mike Boldt

Summary: Anya wakes up on the first day of school with a terrible thing! She has grown her very own tiger’s tail! Her parents didn’t think it was so bad, so she takes it in her own hands to try and get rid of the tail. Sadly nothing works, and she ends up having to go to school but is in for a pleasant surprise! Maybe this 1st grade class wasn’t going to be so bad after all!

Recommended Ages: 4 to 8 years

Themes, Skills, & Concepts: This would be a great book to read to help kids who are nervous about the first day of school or about being different.

Hello, My Name is Octicorn

Author: Kevin Diller and Justin Lowe

Illustrator: Binny Talib

Summary: Octi is a very sweet yet unusual animal. He gets his octopus looks from his mom, and his unicorn looks from his dad. But being different can sometimes make it difficult to make friends and fit in. Will Octi find a friend?

Recommended Ages: 4 to 8 years

Themes, Skills, & Concepts: This is such a sweet book about friendship, being different, and learning to fit in.

Field Guide to the Grumpasaurus

Author: Edward Hemingway

Illustrator:

Summary: Have you ever heard of the Grumpasaurus? If not, then this book will introduce you to the most feared creature of all! It explains where these creatures can be found, how to approach them, and how to make them disappear. Sweet story that would be a great read aloud for any “grumpasauruses” you may come across!

Recommended Ages: 3 to 6 years

Themes, Skills, & Concepts: This is fun book to read to get kids talking about their feelings and grumpiness.

Extension Activities: Watch the cute book trailer before reading the book! Click here!