Joy of Reading
As the end of year holidays approach, the weather gets colder, and the days continue to shorten, curling up with a good book is a simple pleasure that we can all enjoy. Doing so with our little ones is especially delightful! This week’s books celebrate the wonder and joy of reading a good book.
Joyful Reading!
Once Upon a Book
Written by Grace Lin and Kate Messner, Illustrated by Grace Lin
In this celebration of the wonder of reading, young Alice conquers her boredom by diving into a book. The reader is invited on Alice’s journey into the new worlds and experiences that a child can have when they immerse themselves in a good story. This beautifully written story, a collaboration between award winning authors Grace Lin and Kate Messner, is reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland, as the young Alice in this story explores new worlds introduced to her through a book. Grace Lin’s rich, colorful illustrations capture the whimsy of Alice’s adventures through a variety of perspectives, as we see Alice’s hands holding the book, watch her enter the story, and eventually return to her family.
PBS Books Author Talk: Grace Lin & Kate Messner discuss the creation of Once Upon a Book.
Author/Illustrator Grace Lin’s Tedx talk on The Windows and Mirrors of Your Child's Bookshelf, reflecting on the importance of children seeing themselves in the books they read.
Book Fiesta!
Written by Pat Mora, Illustrated by Rafael López
2010 Pura Belpré Award for Illustration
In celebration of Children’s Day/Book Day (created by Pat Mora), this bilingual (English/Spanish) book is brimming with the “bookjoy” that children experience in their daily lives. Rafael López’s bright, bold, whimsical illustrations capture the many adventures that children take within the pages of the books they read, bringing Pat Mora’s joyful text to life.
Author Pat Mora discusses The Story Behind Book Fiesta.
Just Read!
Written by Lori Degman, Illustrated by Victoria Tentler-Krylov
A book about books and the joy of reading, Just Read! explores all the places and spaces in with children can enjoy a book. From the library to the back seat of a car, to the branches of tree, Victoria Tentler-Krylov’s vibrant illustrations capture the many adventures that books explore as children seize every opportunity to read a book.
Beyond the Books
As we approach the many holidays that come at the end of the year, our attention turns to the gift-giving. Below are some gift ideas for young children and readers. Please note: the links provided are to illustrate what I am describing and to give you ideas, I do not receive payment or incentives from any of these sites.
The gift of life-long reading and learning: a Library Card
My all-time favorite gift for any child is a library card and a sturdy canvas tote bag to transport books back and forth to/from the library. Most libraries allow children to have their own library cards (with a parent or guardian as the responsible party). Check with your local library on their policies on cards for children. If you do not have a card, get one for yourself as well.
Lands’ End and ShoreBags make strong, canvas bags that will hold up to loads of books. Both companies offer personalization of bags as well.
Cozy-up a reading space, or create a reading nook
A soft throw blanket and oversized pillows can transform an ordinary chair or corner of a sofa into a special reading space, add a soft rug and it can all go into a corner on the floor. 50+ BEST DIY KIDS READING NOOK IDEAS TO INSPIRE provides a wide range of ideas for creating a special reading space.
Capture reading joy
Storing books in bins, baskets, or low bookshelves so that younger children can easily access them (all too often children’s rooms are decorated to appeal to adults, and small children cannot reach their books). 15 Awesome Kids Book Storage Ideas features inspiration for any budget.
Book journals are a great way to keep track of books that have been read. This can be a simple blank journal that can be found in most office supply stores and bookstores. Give the journal along with some markers and children can draw or write a little about the books they have read.
All things reading
Sites like Etsy carry a variety of items for readers, many of which can be personalized (bookplates, bookends, tote bags, t-shirts, sweatshirts, do not disturb sign, and more). Ideal Bookshelf carries a wide range of reading gifts, including custom prints.