“I'm going to be a firefighter, too!“

I could see this book being read aloud, pointing out the firefighter's gear and actions. Discuss the importance of firefighters and their role in keeping communities safe. Encourage questions and engage in a conversation about fire safety. Let children draw or color pictures of firefighters, their equipment, or a fire truck. Role-play firefighting scenarios, using toy fire trucks and pretend gear.

Nonfiction- “I'm Going to Be a Fire Fighter“ by Edith Kunhardt follows a young girl's aspiration to become a firefighter like her father. The book introduces readers to the exciting world of firefighting, exploring the tools, equipment, and bravery required for the job. This is a perfect book for young children who are curious about fire trucks, sirens, and the courageous individuals who fight fires.

“But if people are bitten, snakes can help! Medicine is made from their poison to treat snake bites.“

I see this book used in my classroom as a read aloud story to talk about and discuss snakes. I think this book could also fit into social emotional topics because most people feel very strongly about snakes, but they actually do a lot for our environment. This could help students to see that even if there is something they dislike, it could still be beneficial to them.

Nonfiction- Jennifer Dussling's “Slinky, Scaly Snakes!“ is a fascinating look at the world of snakes. This is an informative book that explores various snake species, their unique characteristics, and their habitats. From the venomous to the harmless, readers will discover a wealth of information about these often misunderstood creatures. This book includes photographs and the text is very engaging for children.

“If carbon dioxide were a pizza, then we are expecting the Earth to eat a whole pie rather than just one slice.“

I could see this book used in a later elementary classroom where the book is read as a read aloud and then students choose a topic from the book that they want to complete a project and presentation on. That way, it is a topic they are interested in and also they can share their research with their peers.

Nonfiction- “The Down-to-Earth Guide to Global Warming“ is a kid-friendly book that explains the issue of climate change in a clear and engaging way. It explores the causes, consequences, and solutions to global warming, using humor, illustrations, and real-world examples that relate to children's lives.
The book accurately highlights the impact of human activities on the environment, such as the burning of fossil fuels in a kid friendly way

“Work on the mountain began in 1927. Almost 400 men worked on the mountain!“

I could see this book used in a young grade like kindergarten or first where the book is read aloud and then students complete an art project related to rocks. For example, they could “sculpt“ their own rocks and create someone important to them.

Nonfiction- a children's book that looks at the history of Mount Rushmore. The book introduces early readers to the four presidents honored on the monument. The book explains the process of carving the faces into the mountainside, highlighting the skill and dedication of the artists involved. It also explores the significance of these presidents in American history and their lasting impact on the nation.

“We humans love a lot of people in a lot of different ways. We love our families, our friends, and our partners. But do animals do the same? It certainly looks like it.“

One activity would be to create “Animal Portraits.“ After reading about a specific animal, such as elephants or crows, students can draw self-portraits inspired by the animal's unique characteristics. They can add animal-like features, and write a short description of how they are similar to the animal. This activity encourages creativity, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of all living things.

Nonfiction- “Humanimal“ by Christopher Lloyd is a captivating exploration of the remarkable similarities between humans and animals. Through vivid illustrations and engaging text, the book reveals how animals exhibit behaviors and emotions that mirror our own. From grief and joy to complex social structures and problem-solving abilities, “Humanimal“ challenges our perception of the animal kingdom.

This is a great book for children who are interested in insects and curious of what they look like! I will definitely feature this in my classroom for a good nonfiction selection.

This book dedicates each page to a letter of the alphabet, as well as a bug. The bugs all have a small paragraph of information and an illustration of the bug.

“We are the change that we seek.“

The book can serve as a springboard for discussions on themes of hope, community, and activism, prompting students to share their ideas for positive change in their school or community.

“Change Sings“ by Amanda Gorman is a beautifully illustrated and empowering picture book that inspires young readers to embrace their voices and take action for change. Gorman‘s lyrical prose conveys a powerful message about hope, unity, and the importance of individual contributions to a better world.

“Normal is Boring.“

I would read this book for students who are in middle school so they can relate to the different challenges the story beholds.

This story blends humor and vibrant illustrations to explore the challenges of adolescence. Through Rafe Khachaturian's journey, the book emphasizes the importance of individuality, creativity, and resilience in navigating middle school. Its engaging art style enhances the story, making it a relatable and inspiring read for young audiences.

“If my cells don't work and Beep dies. Because I will really need you. And I might not be my friend anymore.“

I would most definitely have this book in my classroom because it covers some very heavy topics in a realistic way.

Kat, the girl in the family who everyone turns to when things get difficult. Especially now, when her beloved younger brother Beep is in his second leukemia relapse, and a bone marrow transplant from Kat may be his only chance. She's worried that she may not be up to the job: She can't finish homework, not being on the soccer team, and lots of heartaches from a longing crush on her old best friend.

“You can do whatever you want if you don't care what people think.“

Ivy and Bean presents a fun and imaginative take on childhood adventures, focusing on themes of friendship, curiosity, and exploration. While it captures the essence of play and creativity, it may not fully represent the complexities and challenges of today's students.

The main character of the series, Bean, is a restless, quirky second grader who likes doing things in her own way. Ivy, a quiet bookworm, seems the opposite of Bean, but she understands her best friend better than anybody else.

“When given the choice between right or being kind, choose kind.“

Auggie Pullman is an ordinary kid with an extraordinary face. Starting middle school after being homeschooled, he struggles to be accepted but inspires other to choose kindness. This book is a good lesson to teach students about acceptance and kindness.

This book tells the story of August Pullman, a boy born with a facial difference, as he starts attending school for the first time in fifth grade. Wonder explores themes of kindness, acceptance, and the challenge of fitting in, as Auggie navigates friendships, bullying, and family dynamics.

“Nah, you wouldn‘t. You got your own problems. You don‘t wanna hear about my struggles. Right? Oh, you do? Well, I gotta warn you, it‘s a wild ride, so buckle up, champ. Let me give you some truth, and I hope it returns back to me.”

This is such a good book! I would keep this in my classroom library for any child who loves Rick Riordan books, and to have more representation for people of color within modern Fantasy stories.

Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky by Kwame Mbalia is an adventurous story that follows Tristan Strong, a boy with a family boxing legacy. After his best friend passes away, Tristan has his notebook and realizes it glows bright green, but only he can see it. He is then sent to live with his grandparents on their farm in Alabama where the adventure continues and he understands why he has this magic book.

“Educated guess?“

I would use this in a classroom learning about the government and the different types of it. This would be a great book then to have a little game for them to live out their own government afterwards.

It's Treason, By George! by Hockensmith and Kientz (2017) Graphic Novel
This book takes a look at a group of friends and they visit the National Museum of American history. They quickly realize someone is trying to turn democracy into a monarchy in America. They have to figure out how to stop the king, so they travel back in time but something in the timeline shifts.

“You know, I work too hard already“

I probably wouldn't use this within the school, just because it is a little longer of a story and there is not much of a plot, I feel like the students would enjoy reading it but maybe independently.

The Real Story of Stone Soup By Ying Chang Compestine (2007). This story talks about a folktale about stone soup. This story tells what the true story is. Through this story, 3 boys go on a day fishing, when it is time for lunch they have to figure out how to cook without the pot and they make a soup from the ground. The three boys put rocks in their soup and the older man questioned it but discovered how delicious it was

I love the expression of the lion.

Though it is just illustrations they are very moving and tell the whole story i would use this in a classroom to work on story telling

The Lion & the Mouse by Jerry Pinkney 2009. This Aesop's fable describes a friendship that emerges peculiarly. A rowdy mouse wakes up the lion from his slumber but decides to let the mouse free. Later when the lion needs a favor after being stuck in a poacher's net, the mouse is the one to set him free. This showed the simple moral that the meek can trump the mighty.

“All right, Anthony, you wanted pasta from my magic pasta pot,“ Strega Nona said, “and I want to sleep in my little bed tonight. So start eating.“

This is a cute story for all ages. Has strong theme of punishment, authority, and trust.

Folktale, published in 1975. Strega Nona is the source for potions, cures, magic, and comfort in her town. Her magical ever-full pasta pot is especially intriguing to hungry Big Anthony. Big Anthony is supposed to look after her house and tend her garden, but one day, he recites the magic verse over the pasta pot, with disastrous results.

“They could have killed every one of you!“

I would use this to show my students that literature can be used with songs. I would also use this to teach my students to fight for what is right.

Fable, published 2011. Which Side Are You On? tells the story of the classic union song that was written in 1931 by Florence Reece in a rain of bullets. It has been sung by people fighting for their rights all over the world.