"My Heart Is Like a Zoo" by Michael Hall

Oh this book is awesome! The premise is simple: each page features a different animal with a short amount of text describing the scene or that animal. Even better? Each animal is made completely out of hearts. I recently read this book at my library's story time and found this is a great book to share. The kids got to act out many of the animals and by the end of the story, I can guarantee that every single one of those kids (pre-schoolers and younger) had a firm grasp on what the shape of a heart looks like.

This is the kind of book that inspires me to expand beyond the book. I desperately wish I could sew because I think that a set of stuffed animals like those in this book would be absolutely adorable (if someone makes these, let me know). I also found the Adventures of a Blonde Librarian blog where she did some fun activities with her story time group. She makes a good point because this book would also be great for Valentine's day but with the appeal for both boys and girls. Michael Hall has created a real winner with this book. Trust me, if you pick up My Heart is Like a Zoo, you won't be disappointed!

Happy Reading!

-Melly

"Hilda Must Be Dancing" by Karma Wilson, illustrated by Suzanne Watts

Oh, this book was so cute!  Karma Wilson's Hilda Must Be Dancing features a hippopotamus that keeps trying out new dances.  She loves her new hobby, but the rest of the animals aren't so crazy about it- she is just too big!  Her moves shake the jungle and just makes to much noise.  Will Hilda find a quiet hobby?

I really enjoyed this book.  Sure, the concept is pretty basic but still fun.  It's great for getting kids involved in the reading ( Hilda must be dancing! gets repeated often) and teaches children a little bit about various kinds of dance.  Young readers that are beginning dance lessons will relate to this book for sure.  This is yet another book that I think should be in everyone's kid-lit collection.  

Happy Reading!

-Melly