When I Grow Up, I Want to Be an Alien (When I Grow Up Collection) Kindle Edition

Written by Mikayla Ruvalcaba

Illustrated by Maria Burobkina

A young girl muses about her future. At first, she decides she wants to be an alien. She changes her mind when her mother reminds her that aliens might not exist.

Because she loves space, this protagonist changes her mind and outlines to her readers the advantages of being an astronaunt. Then again, she is intrigued by the idea of being an astronomer. Throughout the beautifully illustrated picture book, children learn about space, the solar system, the planets, and the life of an astronaut.

There are bonus sections that include lots of information about each planet, how life is formed, how stars are formed, and even how to pack for a trip to space.

A lovely book filled with facts and colorful illustrations for children interested in outer space or a career related to it.

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The Hedgehog Who Painted the Weather: A Heartwarming Tale of Magic, Friendship, and Nature

Written by Ingo Blum

Illustrated by Olha Taran

An adorable picture book about weather and the seasons that also teaches children the value of teamwork, problem-solving, friendship, and caring for nature.

Tom, a hedgehog, loves to paint. One day he finds several blank canvases and decides to paint them. Tom paints scenes of the weather and different seasons. He rotates hanging them on his wall. Then something strange happens. It seems that when hung, these pictures actually control the weather. Tom consults with his friends, Rudolph the squirrel and Michael, the Swallow. Together, the three friends come up with a solution to the problem.

This book includes charming characters with appealing illustrations that teach children about weather, friendship, teamwork, and taking care of nature,

Recommended for ages three through eight.

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Teaching critical thinking to children in elementary school is crucial for their overall development and future success. Here are a few reasons why it is important:

1. Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills: Critical thinking equips children with the ability to identify, analyze, and solve problems creatively. By encouraging them to think critically, we empower them to approach challenges with a logical and analytical mindset. This skill is not only beneficial during their academic years but also helps them navigate real-life situations effectively.
2. Promotes Independent Thinking: Teaching critical thinking encourages children to question information, sources, and perspectives. They learn to evaluate evidence, form their own opinions, and make informed decisions. This fosters independence of thought, empowering children to rely on their own judgment rather than simply accepting what they are told.
3. Develops Analytical Abilities: Critical thinking helps children develop strong analytical skills. They learn to break down complex problems into smaller manageable parts, analyze each part individually, and then synthesize the information to form a coherent understanding. This process of analysis develops their ability to assess situations objectively and make logical connections.
4. Encourages Curiosity and Creativity: When children are taught critical thinking, they naturally become more curious and open-minded. They learn to ask questions, explore various possibilities, and seek a deeper understanding of the world around them. This curiosity fuels their creativity and enables them to think outside the box, fostering innovation and originality.
5. Prepares for the Future: In today’s rapidly evolving world, critical thinking skills are more important than ever. As children grow up, they will encounter new challenges, diverse perspectives, and complex issues. By nurturing their critical thinking abilities from an early age, we equip them with the skills necessary to adapt, problem-solve, and thrive in an increasingly complex and dynamic society.

In conclusion, teaching critical thinking to children in elementary school is essential for their intellectual growth and overall development. It empowers them to think independently, make informed decisions, and face challenges with confidence. By fostering critical thinking skills, we prepare them for a future where adaptability, creativity, and analytical abilities are highly valued.

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It Must Be Spring (It Must Be Seasons Book 3)

Written by Michelle Wang

Illustrated by Ulianna Barabash

A lovely picture book for preschoolers and early readers.

The multicultural book can be used to teach colors and action words associated with the spring season. As each member looks out the window, that person highlights a color and steps outside in the rain to play. Readers meet the parents, grandparents, and siblings of the family.

A fun book that encourages children to be interactive as they imitate the actions of each character.

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The Wonder Of Thunder: Lessons From A Thunderstorm

Written by Sharon Purtill

Illustrated by Tamara Piper

This is a beautifully crafted rhyming picture book that is informative and entertaining.

Preschool and primary grade readers can enjoy the multicultural images while learning about the types and formation of clouds, the sounds of thunder, how lightning forms and acts, and the benefits of rain and thunderstorms.

For children who are afraid, the book allays their fears and explains the way this weather phenomenon acts on earth. The author makes sure to explain that children need to take cover until the storm passes.

I particularly enjoyed the comprehension questions and the fact sheet included so that readers may reread and absorb all the information presented.

Highly recommended for parents and teachers to place on their bookshelves.

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Oscar and Emmy Foster Kittens

Written by Terri Sabol

Illustrated by Roksana Barwinska

This picture book is valuable for many reasons. It teaches elementary school readers to be kind and compassionate toward animals, what responsibility entails, and how to be a responsible member of the community.

The protagonists are twins whose mother works at an animal shelter. They already have two cats. When Charlie and Emmy ask their mother about becoming foster parents for kittens awaiting adoption, she carefully explains the amount of work and responsibility it entails. The twins immediately agree.

The rest of the book explains the path from three days until the day when the kittens are fully independent and neutered. At that point the kittens are put up for formal adoption. Readers learn how to care for kittens and the steps of their developmental process.

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Jungle Trouble – Rory’s Rescue Plan

Wriiten by Sofia and Bibi Y. Haq

Illustrated by Ishrat Ahmed

When a rhino, elephant, and gorilla are stolen by poachers, Rory the lion calls a meeting of all residents of the jungle.

They each use their own talents to devise a plan to rescue their friends and rid the jungle of poachers forever. The author presents charming illustrations and text to teach readers about teamwork, ingenuity, and problem-solving to rid the jungle from a deadly threat.

I appreciate the glossary which allows the author to teach new vocabulary to young readers and the hidden butterfly cycle which makes the book an interactive experience.

Recommended for preschoolers and primary grade readers.

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Freddy the Fox Will Not Share His Thoughts (The Mindset School)

Written by Heather Lyn Davis

Illustrated by Corryn Webb

Freddy the Fox is clever and curious. He has one big problem. Freddy has difficulty speaking his mind. He cannot make choices or express his opinion. In school, Freddy does not answer even if he is sure of the answer.

Will Freddy gain the courage to speak out and share his convictions at home,in school, and with his friends?

This book is a good choice for young children who are shy or lack confidence in themselves.

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Kragglepus (The Dragon Library) 

Written by Carolyn Watson-Dubisch

An almost wordless picture book that invites the young reader to use imagination to interpret the story.

The protagonist is a dragon who gets lost and finds himself in a strange world inhabited by humans. Dragglepus introduces the reader to foreign creatures as well as familiar everyday objects. The author invites the reader to combine them and create an original tale.

Whimsical and colorful illustrations enhance the book. This book will be enjoyed over and over by readers ages three and older.

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The Beauty of Us All: Celebrating The Diversity of The World 

Written by Chandele Morris

Illustrated by Marissa Napolitano

A beautifully illustrated picture book to remind us of the simple beauty in objects and creatures all around us. The author reflects on the diversity and beauty of leaves, stars, fish, clouds, and the color of our skin. Each is beautiful, unique and loved.

Beautiful multicultural images enhance the message. Recommended for ages five and older.

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