My summer self-indulgence has been to read a good number of children’s books. This is a refreshing breather in my busy season and helps me keep my balance. I have read several novels by old and beloved author friends of mine, some gems of theirs I have not read before. Hilda van Stockum, of course,… Read More Summer Goody: The Bantry Bay Series
“I’d love to hear a post on reading in stressful times.” was a request of a long-time follower of Living Books Library. I understood. I have lived through some stressful times myself. Reading helps. Let me be more exact: reading is a survival technique. Through nearly 40 years of marriage, six children, aging parents, 20… Read More Reading Under Stress
My hat’s off to you! Your first book is a winner. Last year, I spent a good portion of my pleasure reading time reading through children’s fantasy fiction series to answer those who are always asking me, “what do you think about so-and-so’s series.” Frankly, fantasy fiction is not my favorite genre. I suppose I have been spoiled by… Read More Dear Mr. Smith,
In the middle of the “deep freeze month” comes the holiday for celebrating love. My husband just read my boys The Story of Valentine by W.P. Hayes. It is a simply told account of some of the true things that are known about the saint, as discovered through the lives of four boys in the days of ancient Rome’s… Read More Why Children Need Love Stories
Little Britches (and others in the series) by Ralph Moody When the family moves to Colorado in hopes of a curative effect on his father’s health, Ralph learns that he must step up to help the family survive. Through the first few books Ralph’s character is honed, and by the end of the series we… Read More Top Picks: Dealing with Adversity
Freckles by Gene Stratton-Porter This is the story of a young man who does not fit in, but whose courage, determination, and heart endear him to those around him. Set in the Limberlost Swamp, this tale is full of the wonders of the natural world. For middle-high school readers. The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson… Read More Top Picks: Nature-Themed
Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes If your children on read one book about the events leading up to the American Revolution, it should be this. Apprenticed to a silversmith, the hero of this story learns the hard and valuable lesson of humility. After enduring an incredible set-back, Johnny finds his place in the world of… Read More Top Picks: For Boys
Heidi, Johanna Spyri -the beloved story of one Swiss girl who brings joy, hope, and life to all around her (suitable for even very young children) The Chestry Oak, Kate Seredy -this is our family’s favorite book–very hard to locate, but well worth the effort and cost; a Hungarian prince lives through WW2 and learns… Read More Top Picks: Family Read-Alouds