Whenever I browse for books, I bring my list with me. The list is a compilation of my own childhood favorites and recommendations I've collected from numerous sources, and is something I'm editing all the time.
Recently, I came upon a list of "75 Books That Build Character" on the blog No Time For Flashcards. These books each teach lessons or contain positive messages. After perusing their list of 75 books, I've already added many to my own list. Here are the first ten on the list:
1. Shelia Rae, The Brave by Kevin Henkes
2. The Family Book by Todd Parr
3. Let Them Play by Margo Theis Raven
4. Something From Nothing by Phoebe Gilman
5. Ballerino Nate by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
6. Apple Pie Fourth Of July by Janet S. Wong
7. A Chair For My Mother by Vera B Williams
8. The Gardener by Sarah Stewart
9. Pinkalicious by Victoria and Elizabeth Kann
10.The Loudest Roar by Thomas Taylor
Want to see the rest? Find the full list at No Time For Flashcards.
(Image: Janie Lee)
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I'd add:
1. Bread and Jam for Frances (helps me learn to become more adventurous as a child)
2. Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney (I've even given it to adults, with flower seeds, the last couple years... it asks you to consider what your contribution to your community will be)
3. Chocolate Me by Taye Diggs
4. Is There Really A Human Race? by Jamie Lee Curtis
What age group would you say these books are appropriate for? We're always on the lookout to expand our library.
My 3 year old liked "Too Many Pumpkins" by Linda White and Megan Lloyd. Gave us topics for poverty, sharing, and community (as well as gardening).
Thanks for posting this list! There are a lot of books that are new to me. Also, looks like a great blog for discovering new books to read my son.