Children's Reads
Baby ABC
By Deborah Donenfeld
Babies love looking at other babies, and this concept board book allows them to do just that. Each page features a photograph of a baby interacting with an object that starts with the featured letter of the alphabet. It’s never too early to start teaching reading fundamentals. (Ages 1+)
Miss Little’s Gift
By Douglas Wood
Douglas is the youngest, smallest and newest student in his second-grade class, and he doesn’t like reading. This is a heartwarming ode to a special teacher whose gentle persistence changed one little boy’s life forever. (Ages 4+)
How to Teach a Slug to Read
By Susan Pearson
A little boy explains to Mama Slug how to teach Little Slug to read. David Slonim’s hilarious illustrations and Pearson’s witty text show that reading can be fun. (Ages 6+)
The Mighty Miss Malone
By Christopher Paul Curtis
Deza is the smartest girl in her class in Gary, Ind., singled out by teachers for a special path in life. But the Great Depression hits Gary hard, there are no jobs, her father leaves and her family is torn apart. The twists and turns of their story reveal the devastation of the Depression and prove that Deza truly is the Mighty Miss Malone. (Ages 9+)
Bomb: The Race to Build – and Steal – the World’s Most Dangerous Weapon
By Steve Sheinkin
In December 1938, a chemist in a German laboratory made a shocking discovery: When placed next to radioactive material, uranium atoms split in two. This is the story of the plotting, risk-taking, deceit and genius that created the world’s most formidable weapon. This 2013 Newbery Honor book is the story of the atomic bomb. (Ages 10+)
Adult Reads
How Many Ways Can You Make Five?: A Parent’s Guide to Exploring Math with Children’s Books
By Sally Anderson
Lean how to utilize the books you are reading to your child to enhance other skills such as mapping, counting and shape recognition. These techniques are a great way to introduce kids to basic math concepts and create excitement for the subject.
Your Child’s Strengths: A Guide for Parents and Teachers
By Jenifer Fox
Respected educator Fox argues that instead of “fixing” children’s weaknesses, parents and teachers should instead focus on children’s strengths in the following areas: relationship, activity and learning. The author provides specific advice to accomplish success and also includes case studies documenting how her approach can increase academic success.
Fiske Guide to Colleges
By Edward Fiske
This guide, which is updated annually, is possibly the best all-in-one college guide available. The Fiske Guide is cross-referenced by cost, academics, campus setting and social life, and includes university recommendations by major. In its 28th edition, this book should be mandatory reading for all students and parents researching colleges.
Nothing Daunted: The Unexpected Education of Two Society Girls in the West
By Dorothy Wickenden
In the summer of 1916, childhood friends and Smith College graduates Dorothy Woodruff and Rosamond Underwood leave behind their boring New York lives and head out for the wilds of northwestern Colorado to teach school. Their many letters home, describing their exciting adventures, are catalogued by New Yorker editor Dorothy Wickenden, granddaughter of one of these intrepid spirits.