Miss Betsy’s Book Nook: Picking Books for Gifts
Embracing My Identity I used to try to be one of those crafty types who gives a lovingly handmade item at a baby shower, for a young relative’s Christmas gift, or even to a young couple getting married. And then I saw the light: I know books, I love books, and now I give books. People expect…
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Leroy Ninker Saddles Up by Kate DiCamillo
Jaunty, boisterous Leroy Ninker and his horse, Maybelline, star in this first volume of the Tales of Deckawoo Drive. Leroy Ninker Saddles Up (Tales from Deckawoo Drive #1) by Kate DiCamillo and illustrated by Chris Van Dusen. Candlewick, 2014. 96 pages. Reading Level: Chapter Books (ages 4-10) Recommended For: Ages 4-10 DiCamillo consistently creates well-rounded,…
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The Chicken Squad by Doreen Cronin and illustrated by Kevin Cornell
This book is a “Best of the Best” pick from ourWinter Book Fair. CLICK HERE to see more gift ideas! The Chicken Squad: The First Misadventure by Doreen Cronin and illustrated by Kevin Cornell. Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2014. 112 pages. Meet the Chicken Squad: Dirt, Sugar, Sweetie, and Poppy, a brave (but very silly) group…
Read MoreIf You’re Reading This by Trent Reedy
If You’re Reading This, by Trent Reedy. Scholastic, 2014. 296 pages. Reading Level: Young Adults, ages 12-15 Maturity Level: 6 (ages 15-18) One-line Summary: If You’re Reading This is a moving YA novel about a father establishing a relationship with his son after the father’s death in Afghanistan. For Michael Wilson, life is an endless…
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*Waiting is Not Easy! by Mo Willems
This book is a “Best of the Best” pick from ourWinter Book Fair. CLICK HERE to see more gift ideas! *Waiting Is Not Easy! by Mo Willems. Hyperion, 2014. 64 pages. Reading Level: Easy/Leveled Readers (ages 4-8) Recommended for: Ages 0-8 **Spoiler alert** Elephant & Piggie fans will just have to take our word for it and…
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Fix This Mess! by Tedd Arnold
This book is a “Best of the Best” pick from ourWinter Book Fair. CLICK HERE to see more gift ideas! Fix This Mess! by Tedd Arnold. I LIKE TO READ series. Holiday House, 2014. 32 pages. Reading Level: Easy/Leveled Reader, ages 4-8 Recommended for: Ages 4-8 Belly laughs from kindergartners make reading sessions so much more enjoyable,…
Read More5 Ideas for Discussing Mockingjay with Teens: A Mars Hill Approach
Don’t forget to check out our Winter Book Fair with 50+ gift book recommendations for kids and teens! INTRODUCTION I recently sat down with Christian and homeschool mom Dana Cowherd and her son, Chris, for a discussion about The Hunger Games trilogy. I felt Dana had quite a bit of wisdom to share on the…
Read MoreThe Dawning of Indestructible Joy by John Piper
The Dawning of Indestructible Joy: Daily Readings for Advent by John Piper. Crossway, 2014,96 pages Reading Level: Young Adults, ages 12-15 Maturity Level: 6 (ages 15-18) and up One-line summary: This short devotional guide for teens and adults shares John Piper’s unique perspective on the coming of Christ in preparation for the Christmas season. The…
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Picture Book Biographies
Picture Book Biographies Picture book biographies are excellent choices for introducing students of all ages to a particular author or historical figure. Many times they are also good examples of research, characters who persevere in the midst of adversity, interesting historical anecdotes, and just plain good stories—true stories. The Criteria Essentially, a good picture book…
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