Storybook Saturday

I've had a couple of books (well, a lot of books actually) that have been laying around, awaiting review, so I figured I'd better do something about that! This week has been prime time for blogging - the misery of cold showers (broken hot water heater, awaiting replacement parts) left me trapped inside, so I've been posting away! So, here's a couple for you!

Bloom, Suzanne.
A Splendid Friend, Indeed.
August 1, 2009 (Paperback).
Boyds Mills Press.
Guided Reading Level: F

Summary from Scholastic:

Duck and Bear are unlikely companions with little in common - but here they open their hearts to each other to become splendid friends... indeed! This story says volumes about friendship with a few select words and beautiful, bold illustrations.

This book would be a perfect gift for a set of friends, different as night and day... or even for siblings who look up (or down) to one another! It's simply written, but the message is no less present! The book is ideal for the younger sibling, as the text is very simple and perfect for beginning readers!

Bunting, Eve.
My Special Day at Third Street School.
August 1, 2009 (Paperback).
Boyds Mills Press.

Summary from Scholastic:

A clever children's story about a classroom preparing for an author's visit. The reader is drawn into the children's excitement as they discuss what questions to ask the author, and how to decorate the classroom. The playful illustrations include detailed portrayals of the teacher's desk and capture the children's concentration on the wonderful and inspiring author who eventually decides to write a children's book about her visit.

This is a great story to introduce the youngest children to the concept of writing stories! Perhaps if you use this book as a read-aloud, you could leave off the last sentence,

THIS IS IT.

and then encourage children to write their own version of My Special Day at Third Street School! Of course, if they're very young writers, you'd probably have to steer them away from just rewriting the story that's been read! But, rest assured, it can be done!

Happy Reading!

If you're interested in finding out more information about any of the books reviewed or if you'd like to purchase the books, click the cover image for a link to Amazon.com.