I have pretty strict standards about children’s books–they should move slowly, not contain a lot of exclamation points, mostly take place outdoors in nature, be well-written, and, finally, feature adults who are worthy of emulation (except of course, the archetypal “bad” characters: evil kings, witches, mischievous trolls etc.). While this approach requires more groundwork in picking books, the pay-off is having books that support your children’s growth, are in line with your values, and promote a lifelong love of, and respect for, good literature.
I also like reading seasonally relevant books– this supports a sense of the rhythm of the year and pulling out “old friend books” as their season comes around each year is a true simple delight.
Here are some of my favorite Summer, or all-season, children’s books:
For the Very Young:
• Blueberries for Sal by Robert McCloskey
• Jamberry by Bruce Degen
• Time for Bed by Mem Fox
• Little Bear by Elsa Holmelund Minarik
• Good Dog, Carl by Alexandra Day
• Little Gorilla by Ruth Bornstein
For slightly older children:
• Auntie Yang’s Great Soybean Picnic by Ginnie Lo
• Emmett’s Pig by Mary Stolz
• Hedgie’s Surprise by Jan Brett
• Bun Bun Button by Patricia Polacco
Please share your favorites in the Comments!
Lisa Weiner is a Simplicity Parenting Coach and mother to two wonderful boys. Before she became a mother, Lisa was a women’s health nurse practitioner. From that work, Lisa discovered her love of working with people to create positive changes in their lives. That love carries through to her work with parents today.
Lisa lives in Portland, Oregon where she leads Simplicity Parenting classes and workshops, and works one-on-one with parents. Lisa’s style is friendly and warm and her work is informed by Waldorf education and her love for the home arts.
You can follow her at: http://www.handmadeparenting.com/?p=137