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.

“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.

“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.

“Four Faces in Rock“ by Stacy Zable is a children's book that looks into 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 granite 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.

“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.

“The Down-to-Earth Guide to Global Warming“ is a kid-friendly book that explains the complex 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

“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.

“Marie's map had revealed the ocean's biggest secret.“

In my classroom, I would use this as an introduction to a geography map unit. Students could gain practice in creating maps for themselves. I think it would be meaningful to connecting it to an exploration lesson where students explore ocean life, or make their own models.

Biography- Ocean Speaks published in 2020.This biography talks about the life of Marie Tharp. It talks about her love of exploring from a young age, how she solved, problems, and pushed limits. She loved to push the limits of what girls and women were expected to be. One of her biggest accomplishments is the mapping of the mid-Atlantic ridge.

“Gyo, along with the others living on the East Coast, was told to stay where she was”

This story would be used well with students to showcase a history lesson on Japanese internment camps and the history of racism during WWII.

Biography- It Began with a Page: How Gyo Fujikawa Drew the Way by Kyo Maclear is a picture book biography about Japanese American artist Gyo Fujikawa. This story talks about Gyo‘s struggle with racism, her love or art and her time in an internment camp. This story is full beautiful illustrations that showcase Gyo‘s life.

“Her song is strong. Mama Africa will not give up! She will see her people free.“

The pictures in this book look like they were painted on the pages. The use of color shows the emotion on each page, anger, sadness, happiness, etc. There is a soft movement to the images as it paints a picture for the reader.

Biography- Mama Africa!: How Miriam Makeba Spread Hope with Her Song by Kathryn Erskine was published in 2017. This is a biography about Miriam Makeba's fight for equality. The people once called her Mama Africa as she used her voice to protest and sing.

Paper Son“ is a powerful tool for teaching about immigration, perseverance, and the power of art. Wong's story inspires revolves around on discrimination and the importance of following one's dreams. Students can analyze his artwork, write creative pieces inspired by his journey, or research Chinese American history. This book sparks empathy and encourages students to appreciate diverse perspectives.

“On sunny days, you could often find Tyrus Wong on the beach, facing the ocean he crossed so long ago, flying a large, colorful kite he'd made himself“

Biography- Paper Son is a memoir of Tyrus Wong, an artist and designer. Wong recounts his harrowing journey as a Chinese immigrant during the Great Depression, sharing his experiences of discrimination, hardship, and resilience. The book offers a powerful and intimate look into the life of a remarkable man who overcame adversity to achieve artistic success.

I would use Now & Ben to spark curiosity about history and invention. The book could be used to discuss Franklin‘s inventions, and compare them to modern technology. Encourage students to research further and even design their own inventions. This book can be used to teach history, science, and critical thinking skills.

“What if you could invent a better way to see the world? That's exactly what Benjamin Franklin did with his bifocals! Now, we have glasses with all kinds of lenses, from reading glasses to sunglasses“

Biography- Now & Ben is an informative picture book that explores the connection between Benjamin Franklin's inventions and their modern counterparts. The book features vibrant illustrations and engaging text that makes Franklin's accomplishments accessible to young readers. This book is a great choice for introducing children to American history and inspiring them to think creatively.

And now dear little children, who may this story read,
To idle, silly flattering words, I pray you ne'er give heed:
Unto an evil counsellor, close heart and ear and eye,
And take a lesson from this tale, of the Spider and the Fly.

This poem can be used during Halloween time to fit the fall and scary theme! This book can also be used to teach the moral lesson of “stranger danger“.

The Spider and the Fly is a poem that was written by Mary Howitt in 1829. This classic poem is about a spider that manipulates a fly into its trap with twisted words. At the end of the poem, the spider heeds a warning to the children who are reading to not be tricked by the words of strangers.

June 15
“you can taste the sunshine
and the buzzing
and the breeze
while eating berries off the bush
on berry hands
and berry knees“

This book can be used as an introduction to poetry for younger students as well as an investigation of the changing seasons. Science and ELA can go hand in hand with this collection of poetry.

When Green Becomes Tomatoes: Poems for All Season by Julie Fogliano was published in 2016. This is a collection of poems about the season. It touches on the tomatoes of summer, golden fall, and cozy winters. Each poem is titled with a month and a date. There are vibrate pictures with the rhythm of the words on each page.

Watching this poem being read I noticed the bright illustrations as well as a diverse set of children. With the illustrations being diverse it helps emphasize the meaning of “Change Sings“ where all are respected and valued. There were several instruments depicted as well to help incorporate the musical element.

“I don't fear change coming, and so I sing along.“

Amanda Gorman's Change Sings is a vibrant call to action for young readers. With its inspiring message and captivating illustrations, this picture book encourages children to embrace their power to create change in the world. This book is a timeless reminder that even the smallest voices can make a big difference, empowering children to use their unique talents and perspectives to shape a brighter future.

“Meet me in the park. I have that, and Dad's old flannel. still loose at my shoulders and long for my wrists. And I have the knife tucked inside my boot. Just in case“

I think the book is very interesting but not suitable for young readers in the classroom. It is more of a young adult read and the experiences in the story are too mature for elementary audience.

This is a contemporary fiction book by Mary E. Roach, published in 2024. The story revolves around Lucy Preston, a teen looking for a relaxing vacation. Things take a turn when her mother discovers a body in an abandoned amusement park. Lucy meets Audrey Nelson and together they uncover the secrets of the town's hidden past. This book is full of suspense and romance!

“Maybe what the song said was true. Maybe the best things in life were free”
(p. 133)

I would use this fun story as a read before the end of the day to calm students down and keep them engaged. I think it serves an important message of how money and materialistic items are not worth as much as things such as love, friendship, and time!

“Do you think everybody misses somebody? Like I miss my mama?” “Mmmm-hmmm,” said Gloria. She closed her eyes. “I believe, sometimes, that the whole world has an aching heart.”

I would use this book to talk to my students about emotions. While observing in my previous and current classroom placements, I have noticed emotional regulation is one of the biggest challenges I see students struggling with. I would also use this to educate students about overcoming challenges.

Contemporary Fiction- Because of Winn-Dixie is a great choice for this genre of children books. I think everyone should read this book. The main character overcomes many hardships and challenges. This book could be used to educate students about talking about emotions and common challenges one may face.

This is a Contemporary Fiction book, published in 2016. The main character, Nancy and her best friend Bree are trying to make a fortune and in the process of finding the best product to sell, they realize the challenges that come along and that sometimes the best things in life are free! This is a simple read, with chapters and occasional pictures in the beginning of each chapter to capture the reader.

“Its just good that your there that‘s all”(Moyes 144)

This story I would not use personally in my classroom in an elementary setting, however it is a beautiful read that could be incorporated in high school with a move pairing.

Me Before You written by Jojo Moyes(2012) is a contemporary realistic fiction book that is a look upon adult relationships, personal choices, and emotional complexities that can resonate with older teens or young adults. It sensitively approaches real-life issues such as independence, caregiving, and the struggle for control over one's life, which can be eye-opening for younger readers about adult life.