If I Built A School
Author: Chris Van Dusen
Illustrator: Chris Van Dusen
Summary: While on the playground with his teacher, Jack shares his ideas on how his school would be a much better design than the one in front of him. Let’s start with a welcoming zoo at the front entrance, and a cool system of transportation pods that kids could use to go from class to class. With each turn of the page, you and your kids will be amazed with the detail of Jack’s imagination. Watch out, you might be inspired to come up with your own ideas for the perfect school!
Recommended Ages: 5 to 8 years
Themes, Skills, & Concepts: This would be a fun book to read at the beginning of school to get excitement of all the new things that may happen.
Extension Activities: Check out the interview with the author. Click here!
Sticks
Author: Diane Alber
Illustrator: Diane Alber
Summary: One hot, summer day Popsicle tragically melted away and was embarrassed to be only a sad stained stick. His friend twig tries to cheer him up by introducing him to other friends who have changed too like Pencil and Paintbrush. Will they be able to convince Stick that he CAN be something much more than a sticky stained stick? You and your kids will be cheering Stick on by the end of this sweet story!
Recommended Ages: 4 to 8 years
Themes, Skills, & Concepts: This is a fabulous story to read to talk about how to deal with unexpected bad news, and how to turn it around to create something great. Don’t forget to read the author’s notes at the back of the book for additional talking points and activities!
Extension Activities: Check out this fun activity to do along with the book! Click here!
Turtle and Tortoise Are NOT Friends
Author: Mike Reiss
Illustrator: Ashley Spires
Summary: Turtle and Tortoise have been together ever since they hatched out of their eggs, but that doesn’t mean they were friends. In fact, despite looking similar, they both thought the other was horrid looking and therefore not someone they could be friends with. Will the arrival of a red ball in their pen help them become friends? Read to find out!
Recommended Ages: 4 to 8 years
Themes, Skills, & Concepts: his is a great story to use to talk about friendship and that it’s never too late to make a friend. It's also a great way to start researching Turtles.
Extension Activities: Check out the activity after you read the book. Click here!
Linus, The Little Yellow Pencil
Author: Scott Magoon
Illustrator: Scott Magoon
Summary: Linus entered his family’s art show contest for the first time, and was hoping he would win the grand prize. Unfortunately, his eraser, Ernie, wasn’t very supportive. The more Linus drew, the meaner Ernie’s comment became. But then Linus meets Smudge. Will he be able to find the courage to do his best and find a way to work with Ernie? You and your kids will be cheering them both on in this sweet story!
Recommended Ages: 4 to 7 years
Themes, Skills, & Concepts: This is a sweet story that is perfect to read to kids who are afraid to try or lack confidence in themselves.
2 Responses to “If I Built A School”
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When I click on the extension activity for Turtle and Tortoise Are NOT Friends
Author: Mike Reiss, I get a blank screen. Any suggestions?
I just checked the link and it took a second to load, but it seemed to load okay for me. Here’s the direct link to the webpage where you can find the download link. Hope this helps! 🙂 https://www.harpercollins.com/9780060740313/turtle-and-tortoise-are-not-friends/