"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

"Press Here" by Hervé Tullet

This is the perfect children's book!  Hervé Tullet's Press Here is a picture book that completely captures the imagination of those both young and old.  It starts off with a white page that is blank except for one yellow dot and the instructions "Press here."  With the turn of each page the dot grows in number, changes color, location and even size- all with the help of the reader!  I love this book because it works great both one on one or with a big group.  I have used this book with a group of elementary students and instead of doing the reading and actions myself, I have found that it works great as an activity and let the kids "press here."  Even though this is just a book (not an iPad or other piece of technology) it still captivates the reader on an interactive level like I have never seen before.  It's also great for kids learning their colors and learning to count.  It's the kind of book that I want to own for myself and want to use every time I read books to kids.




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