Chapter Books
The Core Virtues Morning Gathering is a time for the reading short quality works (mostly picture books) that inspire and pack a punch. The field of children's literature offers an abundant harvest for those purposes. For grades 4 and up, teachers may wish to introduce a slender chapter book in morning gathering instead of a picture book. But students outside reading, from at least third grade on, will mostly be chapter books. And we'd like them to be fabulous. Here are some old and new classics -- works that have and will stand the test of time.
Alcott, Louisa May. Little Women. (5 and up)
Puffin, 1988. 303 pages Faithfulness, Generosity, Courage
This classic portrays family strength at its best. Set in the time of the Civil War, the March sisters and their mother pull together while their father is off fighting. They are each distinct personalities with different gifts, and their adventures show the tensions as well as the beauty of pulling together.
Puffin, 1988. 303 pages Faithfulness, Generosity, Courage
This classic portrays family strength at its best. Set in the time of the Civil War, the March sisters and their mother pull together while their father is off fighting. They are each distinct personalities with different gifts, and their adventures show the tensions as well as the beauty of pulling together.
Applegate, Katherine. Home of the Brave.
Square Fish, 2008. (5-6) Hope, Gratitude, Courage. 272 pages
This story is not to be missed: you will laugh, cry, and shout for joy with Kek, a ten-year-old boy who, fleeing violence in his African homeland (Sudan), and has settled (with aunt and cousin) in Minnesota. Kek is an optimist, who earnestly strives to embrace his new life, and is quick to see goodness. In Minnesota, he experiences the joy and hardship of winter (moon-shaped snowballs but bone-chilling cold), of school (a chair and desk of his own, but sometimes classmates who mock him), of technology (machines that wash clothes and dishes, but do not forgive if he puts dishes in the wrong one). He is often overcome with wonder at the "honors" that come to him for free. But he is haunted by the memories of violence that took his father and brother, and the uncertainty of ever seeing his mother again. Is she even alive? Then there is the nagging question of whether America will ever be home for him. His friendships (with Hannah, a girl in foster care and Lou, an older woman who runs a farm) and ingenious schemes to better his life and the lives of those around him will win your heart. (Spoiler alert: Mom is alive and joins him at the end.) It is a book of hope, gratitude, and great courage shown on the part of one so young, as by many immigrants over the years. Despite its length, it is written in free verse with wide margins. A riveting read-aloud over 5-7 sessions for older children.
Square Fish, 2008. (5-6) Hope, Gratitude, Courage. 272 pages
This story is not to be missed: you will laugh, cry, and shout for joy with Kek, a ten-year-old boy who, fleeing violence in his African homeland (Sudan), and has settled (with aunt and cousin) in Minnesota. Kek is an optimist, who earnestly strives to embrace his new life, and is quick to see goodness. In Minnesota, he experiences the joy and hardship of winter (moon-shaped snowballs but bone-chilling cold), of school (a chair and desk of his own, but sometimes classmates who mock him), of technology (machines that wash clothes and dishes, but do not forgive if he puts dishes in the wrong one). He is often overcome with wonder at the "honors" that come to him for free. But he is haunted by the memories of violence that took his father and brother, and the uncertainty of ever seeing his mother again. Is she even alive? Then there is the nagging question of whether America will ever be home for him. His friendships (with Hannah, a girl in foster care and Lou, an older woman who runs a farm) and ingenious schemes to better his life and the lives of those around him will win your heart. (Spoiler alert: Mom is alive and joins him at the end.) It is a book of hope, gratitude, and great courage shown on the part of one so young, as by many immigrants over the years. Despite its length, it is written in free verse with wide margins. A riveting read-aloud over 5-7 sessions for older children.
Applegate, Katherine. Wishtree. Feiwel & Freir, 2019. 224 pgs. (4-6
Babbitt, Natalie. Tuck Everlasting. Squarefish, 2007. 160 pgs
Bailey, Carolyn Sherwin. Miss Hickory. Lithographs by Ruth Gannett. Puffin Books, 1977. (3-6)
Delightful and humorous tale of a hickory nut doll in an animal world full of human traits and foibles. What's a New Hampshire country doll to do when her owner goes off to school in Boston? How can she survive the north country winter? A slender chapter book of ingenuity, hope, and perseverance.
Delightful and humorous tale of a hickory nut doll in an animal world full of human traits and foibles. What's a New Hampshire country doll to do when her owner goes off to school in Boston? How can she survive the north country winter? A slender chapter book of ingenuity, hope, and perseverance.
Birney, Betty. The World According to Humphrey. Puffin Books, 2005. 124 pages (3-6) Friendship, Service, Responsibility
This is the first (slender chapter) book in the Humphreyville Series. Humphrey the Hamster moves from his very predictable life at the Pet-O-Rama to the excitement of Room 26 of The Longfellow School. Ms. Mac observes that you can learn a lot by observing another species. Humphrey shares his observations of the human species in every chapter. Each weekend he is taken home by one of the students and he gets to experience many families in action. He is always ready to help with a problem, whether it be finding a friend for his buddy Aldo, or cheering up an invalid, Humphrey is there. Helpful facts on hamster care follow every chapter.
This is the first (slender chapter) book in the Humphreyville Series. Humphrey the Hamster moves from his very predictable life at the Pet-O-Rama to the excitement of Room 26 of The Longfellow School. Ms. Mac observes that you can learn a lot by observing another species. Humphrey shares his observations of the human species in every chapter. Each weekend he is taken home by one of the students and he gets to experience many families in action. He is always ready to help with a problem, whether it be finding a friend for his buddy Aldo, or cheering up an invalid, Humphrey is there. Helpful facts on hamster care follow every chapter.
Brink, Carol Ryrie. Caddie Woodlawn. Aladdin, 2006. 288 pgs
Boston, L.M. The Children of Green Knowe. Illustrated by Peter Boston. HMH, 2002. 192 pgs. (3-7
Bruchac, Joseph.The Arrow Over the Door. Illustrated by James Watling. Dial Books, 1998. 112 pgs. (3-4) Wisdom
This slender chapter book tells the moving true story of an encounter between Quakers and Native Americans in Saratoga, New York in 1777. The Abenaki Indians have been recruited by the English to fight the Americans (or “Bostoniaks”) in the Revolution. The Quaker group these Indians first encounter are people of peace, who refuse to take up arms either against the Abenaki or the British. The Abenaki warriors visit a Quaker meeting, learn what is in the hearts of these people, and refuse to raid them. What could have been a politically correct novel for “peace at any price” is actually a profoundly moving story of two peoples who seek first to understand each other, and then choose a path based on what they know. Excellent reinforcement for the 3rd grade Native American unit.
This slender chapter book tells the moving true story of an encounter between Quakers and Native Americans in Saratoga, New York in 1777. The Abenaki Indians have been recruited by the English to fight the Americans (or “Bostoniaks”) in the Revolution. The Quaker group these Indians first encounter are people of peace, who refuse to take up arms either against the Abenaki or the British. The Abenaki warriors visit a Quaker meeting, learn what is in the hearts of these people, and refuse to raid them. What could have been a politically correct novel for “peace at any price” is actually a profoundly moving story of two peoples who seek first to understand each other, and then choose a path based on what they know. Excellent reinforcement for the 3rd grade Native American unit.
Burnett, Frances Hodgson. A Little Princess. Illustrated by Tasha Tudor. Harper Collins, 1985. 245 pgs. Courage, Compassion
Sara Crewe is brought to Miss Minchin’s London boarding school by her beloved father. He leaves his “little princess” with the security of his love and the promise that she will be provided with any material possession she desires. But fate alters her circumstances: Sara’s father dies and the child abruptly loses her privileged status at the school. She continues to be a “little princess” in spirit, however—meeting adversity with dignity, caring for those in need, and holding on to hope. This beautifully written classic depicts moral courage at its best.
Sara Crewe is brought to Miss Minchin’s London boarding school by her beloved father. He leaves his “little princess” with the security of his love and the promise that she will be provided with any material possession she desires. But fate alters her circumstances: Sara’s father dies and the child abruptly loses her privileged status at the school. She continues to be a “little princess” in spirit, however—meeting adversity with dignity, caring for those in need, and holding on to hope. This beautifully written classic depicts moral courage at its best.
Burnett, Frances Hodgson. The Secret Garden. Illustrated by Shirley Hughes. Viking, 1989. 240 pgs. Generosity, Perseverance, Faithfulness
Orphaned Mary Lennox comes from India to live with her widowed uncle on a large and lonely estate where a secret garden holds the healing power of love and vulnerability. When the novel’s young heroine finds the key to the garden, she enters a world in which she is able to create beauty and hope. As Mary transforms the garden with radiant growth, she influences the realities of those around her. Mary’s despondent Uncle Archibald and sickly son Colin are given new life as they allow themselves to feel, cry, laugh, and ultimately rejoice.
Orphaned Mary Lennox comes from India to live with her widowed uncle on a large and lonely estate where a secret garden holds the healing power of love and vulnerability. When the novel’s young heroine finds the key to the garden, she enters a world in which she is able to create beauty and hope. As Mary transforms the garden with radiant growth, she influences the realities of those around her. Mary’s despondent Uncle Archibald and sickly son Colin are given new life as they allow themselves to feel, cry, laugh, and ultimately rejoice.
Carroll, Lewis, Alice In Wonderland. Puffin Classics, 2008.
Carlin, John. Playing the Enemy: Nelson Mandela and the Game that Made a Nation. Penguin Press, 2008. 288 pgs. (Strong middle school readers and up).
This book is the riveting non-fiction account that inspired the 2009 movie Invictus (starring Morgan Freeman as Mandela and Matt Damon as the Springbok rugby coach). Strong middle and high school readers (and their teachers) will find this compelling story both inspirational and instructive. Not only is Mandela able to forgive his jailers, but he is able to transform hatred and antagonism into a source of national unity.
This book is the riveting non-fiction account that inspired the 2009 movie Invictus (starring Morgan Freeman as Mandela and Matt Damon as the Springbok rugby coach). Strong middle and high school readers (and their teachers) will find this compelling story both inspirational and instructive. Not only is Mandela able to forgive his jailers, but he is able to transform hatred and antagonism into a source of national unity.
Clements, Andrew. Frindle. Illustrated by Brian Selznick. Anthem Books, 1998. 105 pgs. Imagination, Perseverance, Wonder.
Nicholas Allen is the kind of student every teacher has a love/hate relationship with. He is clever and smart and always looking for an angle. Mrs. Granger is the kind of teacher that Nick loves to challenge. She loves the dictionary. When he tries to stall her from giving the class a homework assignment, he ends up doing an extra project on the origin of words. That give him the idea to make up his own word: frindle. It means pen and he manages to get the entire 5th grade to use frindles all year. It sets off quite a commotion between the faculty, school board and parents. The discussion continues across the country when the story is picked up by local news station and then the national news. Appealing characters who encourage a love of words and reading with a delightful ending.
Nicholas Allen is the kind of student every teacher has a love/hate relationship with. He is clever and smart and always looking for an angle. Mrs. Granger is the kind of teacher that Nick loves to challenge. She loves the dictionary. When he tries to stall her from giving the class a homework assignment, he ends up doing an extra project on the origin of words. That give him the idea to make up his own word: frindle. It means pen and he manages to get the entire 5th grade to use frindles all year. It sets off quite a commotion between the faculty, school board and parents. The discussion continues across the country when the story is picked up by local news station and then the national news. Appealing characters who encourage a love of words and reading with a delightful ending.
Cline-Ransome, Lesa. Finding Langston. Holiday House, 2018. 112 pgs. Perseverance, Compassion, Respect
When eleven-year-old Langston seeks refuge from bullies at his new school by immersing himself in the library, poetry opens a new world for him. Who is this fellow with his same name? A compelling story of an Alabama-born boy struggling to adjust to his mother’s death, to his father's move (of both of them) to Chicago, and to understand his own unique gifts. Poet Langston Hughes (whom his mother admired) reconnects young Langston to his southern roots and inspires him in his northern coming-of-age journey. Wonderful historic details of the Great Migration of African-Americans to the north in the interwar period.
When eleven-year-old Langston seeks refuge from bullies at his new school by immersing himself in the library, poetry opens a new world for him. Who is this fellow with his same name? A compelling story of an Alabama-born boy struggling to adjust to his mother’s death, to his father's move (of both of them) to Chicago, and to understand his own unique gifts. Poet Langston Hughes (whom his mother admired) reconnects young Langston to his southern roots and inspires him in his northern coming-of-age journey. Wonderful historic details of the Great Migration of African-Americans to the north in the interwar period.
Coatsworth, Elizabeth. The Cat Who Went to Heaven. Illustrated by Raoul Vitale. Aladdin, 2008. 96 pgs. Humility, Compassion
This 96 page chapter book could be read in the course of a week at morning gathering. This is the classic (1930) Newbery Award winning tale of a Japanese artist who reluctantly befriends a humble cat, whom he names Good Fortune. The cat, because of its pride and arrogance, never received Buddha's blessing, but so inspired is the artist by the patience and humility of Good Fortune, that he paints the cat into the scroll of the Buddha extending blessings. You have to read it to find out what happens next. A tear-jerker with a touching ending. (And a boon for cat lovers.) Excellent supplement to the fifth grade Core Knowledge unit on medieval Japan (with its Buddhist temples).
This 96 page chapter book could be read in the course of a week at morning gathering. This is the classic (1930) Newbery Award winning tale of a Japanese artist who reluctantly befriends a humble cat, whom he names Good Fortune. The cat, because of its pride and arrogance, never received Buddha's blessing, but so inspired is the artist by the patience and humility of Good Fortune, that he paints the cat into the scroll of the Buddha extending blessings. You have to read it to find out what happens next. A tear-jerker with a touching ending. (And a boon for cat lovers.) Excellent supplement to the fifth grade Core Knowledge unit on medieval Japan (with its Buddhist temples).
Collodi, Carlo. Pinocchio. Illustrated by Fulvio Testa. NYR Children's Collection, 2012.(3-6) Honesty, Responsibility
The unabridged nineteenth century text (not a sentimentalized Disney version) wittily translated, and enlivened with fifty full-page watercolor illustrations. It's a wild ride. Pinocchio, wooden puppet carved by Gepetto is a "rascal" and a "scalawag." He springs to life as a selfish, lazy, impetuous, fellow, whom Gepetto nonetheless loves as a son. Pinocchio longs to be a "proper" boy, and in pursuit of that has many adventures, but gravitates toward bad company and is prone to lying, which increases the length of his nose. Pinocchio is so over-the-top, self-absorbed, and hilariously wrong that older children often find themselves outraged on Gepetto's behalf. Read the book to find out how he is transformed -- coming to care for his father, stop his lying ways, devote himself to more responsible pursuits, and become a real boy. This chapter book could be read aloud in three sittings, but is very much for older children, as it may frighten younger ones. (8 and up).
The unabridged nineteenth century text (not a sentimentalized Disney version) wittily translated, and enlivened with fifty full-page watercolor illustrations. It's a wild ride. Pinocchio, wooden puppet carved by Gepetto is a "rascal" and a "scalawag." He springs to life as a selfish, lazy, impetuous, fellow, whom Gepetto nonetheless loves as a son. Pinocchio longs to be a "proper" boy, and in pursuit of that has many adventures, but gravitates toward bad company and is prone to lying, which increases the length of his nose. Pinocchio is so over-the-top, self-absorbed, and hilariously wrong that older children often find themselves outraged on Gepetto's behalf. Read the book to find out how he is transformed -- coming to care for his father, stop his lying ways, devote himself to more responsible pursuits, and become a real boy. This chapter book could be read aloud in three sittings, but is very much for older children, as it may frighten younger ones. (8 and up).
Dalgliesh, Alice. The Bears on Hemlock Mountain. Illustrated by Helen Sewell. Turtleback Books, 1992. 67pgs. (2-4) Courage
D'Aulaire, Ingri. D'Aulaires' Book of Greek Myths.Delacorte Books, 1992. 208 pgs
DeAngeli, Marguerite. The Door in the Wall. Doubleday, 1989. 128 pgs. Courage, Perseverance
Set in 14th-century England, Robin, the son of a great lord, is supposed to begin his training as a knight. But before he can set forth on his journey to the castle where he will apprentice, he is stricken by a strange illness, and crippled. Separated from his mother and father, and befriended only by Brother Luke, a wise and compassionate monk, Robin makes the long journey from London through Oxford to the Castle of Lindsay. As he deals with his own anger and bitterness at losing his ability to walk, Brother Luke tells him he must search for "the door in the wall," a means of moving past this giant obstacle. Robin cultivates new skills and learns that knighthood and battle are not the only ways to serve one’s lord. This is an inspiring, and often heart-wrenching story of a young boy having to re-make his dreams and find new meaning in the face of tragedy.
Set in 14th-century England, Robin, the son of a great lord, is supposed to begin his training as a knight. But before he can set forth on his journey to the castle where he will apprentice, he is stricken by a strange illness, and crippled. Separated from his mother and father, and befriended only by Brother Luke, a wise and compassionate monk, Robin makes the long journey from London through Oxford to the Castle of Lindsay. As he deals with his own anger and bitterness at losing his ability to walk, Brother Luke tells him he must search for "the door in the wall," a means of moving past this giant obstacle. Robin cultivates new skills and learns that knighthood and battle are not the only ways to serve one’s lord. This is an inspiring, and often heart-wrenching story of a young boy having to re-make his dreams and find new meaning in the face of tragedy.
Deedy, Carmen Agra and Randall Wright. The Cheshire Cheese Cat. A Dickens of a Tale.* Illustrated by Barry Moser. Peachtree Publishers, 2011. 229 pgs. (3-6) Friendship, Forgiveness
Skilley is an alley cat who finds an unlikely friend in a mouse (Pip) and an author (Charles Dickens). Life at the Cheshire Cheese Inn is filled with adventure, secrets and history. Skilley and Pip work through a hurtful misunderstanding and realize that their friendship is important to both of them. Delightful take on the time period and a great introduction to Charles Dickens. Wonderful pencil sketches of the action keep the reader riveted. This chapter book is an excellent supplement to the Morning Gathering read. *Available on Epic!
Skilley is an alley cat who finds an unlikely friend in a mouse (Pip) and an author (Charles Dickens). Life at the Cheshire Cheese Inn is filled with adventure, secrets and history. Skilley and Pip work through a hurtful misunderstanding and realize that their friendship is important to both of them. Delightful take on the time period and a great introduction to Charles Dickens. Wonderful pencil sketches of the action keep the reader riveted. This chapter book is an excellent supplement to the Morning Gathering read. *Available on Epic!
DeJong, Meindert. The House of Sixty Fathers. Illustrated by Maurice Sendak. Harper, 1987. 189 pgs. Courage, Compassion
This Newberry Honor novel poignantly portrays the courage and resilience of a little boy who must contend with the horrifying reality of war. Young Tien Pao is separated from his parents during the Japanese invasion of China during World War II. Clinging to his will to live and driven by his desire to be reunited with his family, he confronts danger and the ultimate uncertainty of war and death. Tien Pao’s courage is matched only by the compassion of the guerillas and American soldiers who protect the child and eventually guide him to his parents.
This Newberry Honor novel poignantly portrays the courage and resilience of a little boy who must contend with the horrifying reality of war. Young Tien Pao is separated from his parents during the Japanese invasion of China during World War II. Clinging to his will to live and driven by his desire to be reunited with his family, he confronts danger and the ultimate uncertainty of war and death. Tien Pao’s courage is matched only by the compassion of the guerillas and American soldiers who protect the child and eventually guide him to his parents.
DeJong, Meindert. The Wheel on the School. Illustrated by Maurice Sendak. Harper Collins, 1972 320 pgs. (3-6) Wonder, Perseverance
Set in Holland in the 1950s, young Lina writes an essay about storks, and notes that they no longer nest in her Dutch fishing village. Her teacher gives the children an assignment “to wonder why.” That sets into motion a series of events that energize the children, bring the town together, and bring the storks back. Delightful characters and a leisurely, lovely pace. A great after-lunch read aloud.
Set in Holland in the 1950s, young Lina writes an essay about storks, and notes that they no longer nest in her Dutch fishing village. Her teacher gives the children an assignment “to wonder why.” That sets into motion a series of events that energize the children, bring the town together, and bring the storks back. Delightful characters and a leisurely, lovely pace. A great after-lunch read aloud.
DiCamillo, Kate. Because of Winn Dixie, The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane, The Tale of Despereaux. Walker Books, 2020.
Dickens, Charles. A Christmas Carol.* Illustrated by John Leech. Tole Publishing, 2019. 122 pgs. (4-6) Generosity, Service
Miserly, self-centered Scrooge learns to look beyond himself and his own well-being, when Christmas Eve affords him the opportunity to revisit his past, present, and peek ahead to his grim future if his life is unchanged. This unabridged version of Dickens’ classic tale weaves timeless text with outstanding illustration.*Many versions Available on Epic!
Miserly, self-centered Scrooge learns to look beyond himself and his own well-being, when Christmas Eve affords him the opportunity to revisit his past, present, and peek ahead to his grim future if his life is unchanged. This unabridged version of Dickens’ classic tale weaves timeless text with outstanding illustration.*Many versions Available on Epic!
Dodge, Mary Mapes. Hans Brinker or the Silver Skates. Dell, 1990. 320 pages Loyalty, Perseverance
First published in 1858, this classic of children’s literature continues to be an effective portrayal of the hardships, joys, and challenges of family life and friendship. Hans and Gretel Brinker devote much of their childhood to helping their mother sustain the family after their father’s accident. Despite hard work, there is still time for play on the frozen canals of Broek, Holland. Hans’s character is put to the test when the skating fun culminates in an important race, which asks him to choose between friendship and fame.
First published in 1858, this classic of children’s literature continues to be an effective portrayal of the hardships, joys, and challenges of family life and friendship. Hans and Gretel Brinker devote much of their childhood to helping their mother sustain the family after their father’s accident. Despite hard work, there is still time for play on the frozen canals of Broek, Holland. Hans’s character is put to the test when the skating fun culminates in an important race, which asks him to choose between friendship and fame.
Ehrlich, Amy. Willa. The Story of Will Cather, An American Writer. Illustrated by Wendell Minor. Simon and Schuster, 2016.
72 pgs. (4-6) Lives to Learn From, Love of Country
One of America’s most beloved writers, Willa Cather, springs off the page in this slender chapter book, a felicitous blending of text and illustration. Amy Ehrlich traces young Willa’s life from Virginia to Nebraska to the East Coast and back west, describing Cather’s as “an American story of possibility and striving, self-invention and achievement.” Drawing inspiration from her childhood and awe of the land, Cather broke the mold for her times as an outstanding female journalist and editor, then writer. Best known best for her “prairie trilogy” (O Pioneers! Song of the Lark and My Antonia), Cather’s stories of immigrant families on the Nebraska frontier evoke red grasses, vast prairies, and skies bright with promise. Ehrlich shows how she consistently set human striving against a landscape that itself became a protagonist. Wendell Minor’s artistic talents complement this hauntingly lovely book. Excellent for "Love of Country" as well.
72 pgs. (4-6) Lives to Learn From, Love of Country
One of America’s most beloved writers, Willa Cather, springs off the page in this slender chapter book, a felicitous blending of text and illustration. Amy Ehrlich traces young Willa’s life from Virginia to Nebraska to the East Coast and back west, describing Cather’s as “an American story of possibility and striving, self-invention and achievement.” Drawing inspiration from her childhood and awe of the land, Cather broke the mold for her times as an outstanding female journalist and editor, then writer. Best known best for her “prairie trilogy” (O Pioneers! Song of the Lark and My Antonia), Cather’s stories of immigrant families on the Nebraska frontier evoke red grasses, vast prairies, and skies bright with promise. Ehrlich shows how she consistently set human striving against a landscape that itself became a protagonist. Wendell Minor’s artistic talents complement this hauntingly lovely book. Excellent for "Love of Country" as well.
Estes, Eleanor. The Hundred Dresses. Illustrated by Louis Slobodkin. HMH Books, 2004. 96 pgs. (1-4)
Fishman, K. Heidi. Tutti’s Promise. MB Publishing, 2017. 232 pgs. (5-8)
A superb portrayal of one family’s courage and resilience during the Holocaust: true story of the Lichtensterns, a close-knit, German-Jewish family, who move Amsterdam in the 1930s to avoid Nazi persecution in their homeland. When the Netherlands falls to the Third Reich, their lives are threatened. Little Tutti is five-years-old at the time of the German invasion. Written simply but beautifully, the novel alternates from Tutti’s point of view (Why can’t I play with my friends after curfew? Why do I have to go to an all-Jewish school and wear this star?) to her parents (How can we get a passport to escape Europe? How will we survive Westerbork Concentration camp?) The Lichtensterns endure humiliation, squalor, hunger, the death of family members. Hardships are counter-balanced by their own resourcefulness and acts of kindness from others. K. Heidi Fishman (Tutti’s daughter) presents the family overcoming grave obstacles in the context of hope. That perfectly rendered balance makes Tutti’s Promise an excellent choice on a difficult subject for middle grade students.
A superb portrayal of one family’s courage and resilience during the Holocaust: true story of the Lichtensterns, a close-knit, German-Jewish family, who move Amsterdam in the 1930s to avoid Nazi persecution in their homeland. When the Netherlands falls to the Third Reich, their lives are threatened. Little Tutti is five-years-old at the time of the German invasion. Written simply but beautifully, the novel alternates from Tutti’s point of view (Why can’t I play with my friends after curfew? Why do I have to go to an all-Jewish school and wear this star?) to her parents (How can we get a passport to escape Europe? How will we survive Westerbork Concentration camp?) The Lichtensterns endure humiliation, squalor, hunger, the death of family members. Hardships are counter-balanced by their own resourcefulness and acts of kindness from others. K. Heidi Fishman (Tutti’s daughter) presents the family overcoming grave obstacles in the context of hope. That perfectly rendered balance makes Tutti’s Promise an excellent choice on a difficult subject for middle grade students.
Forbes, Esther. Johnny Tremain. Houghton Mifflin, 1971. 256 pgs. Courage
This vivid portrayal of a boy coming of age in pre-Revolutionary Boston won the Newberry Medal in 1944 and is no less effective today. Johnny, a fatherless apprentice silversmith aspires to the smithing stature of Paul Revere. But the young boy loses his thumb in a forging accident and must rethink his profession and identity. Set against the backdrop of colonial unrest, Johnny becomes involved with the patriot’s cause and the newspaper that publishes their deeds. He forges a new identity and future for himself and his country.
This vivid portrayal of a boy coming of age in pre-Revolutionary Boston won the Newberry Medal in 1944 and is no less effective today. Johnny, a fatherless apprentice silversmith aspires to the smithing stature of Paul Revere. But the young boy loses his thumb in a forging accident and must rethink his profession and identity. Set against the backdrop of colonial unrest, Johnny becomes involved with the patriot’s cause and the newspaper that publishes their deeds. He forges a new identity and future for himself and his country.
Fritz, Jean. Alexander Hamilton: The Outsider.
Puffin, 2012. 144 pgs. (4-6) Love of Country, Perseverance, Honor
This fast-paced 144 page chapter book would take a week a read in morning gathering, but is worth the effort. Storyteller Jean Fritz grabs us from the opening sentence: "Alexander Hamilton should have been born in his grandfather's fogbound castle on the west coast of Scotland." But he wasn't. Hamilton was born in the West Indies to an unmarried couple, and endured outsider status his whole life. He did not, however, let accidents of birth stand in his way. In the American Revolution he fought tenaciously for the country he adopted; his brilliance, tenacity, and great love of the young republic shine through in this riveting read about a key American founder. Excellent Core Knowledge connections with the fourth grade American Revolution and Constitution unit.
Puffin, 2012. 144 pgs. (4-6) Love of Country, Perseverance, Honor
This fast-paced 144 page chapter book would take a week a read in morning gathering, but is worth the effort. Storyteller Jean Fritz grabs us from the opening sentence: "Alexander Hamilton should have been born in his grandfather's fogbound castle on the west coast of Scotland." But he wasn't. Hamilton was born in the West Indies to an unmarried couple, and endured outsider status his whole life. He did not, however, let accidents of birth stand in his way. In the American Revolution he fought tenaciously for the country he adopted; his brilliance, tenacity, and great love of the young republic shine through in this riveting read about a key American founder. Excellent Core Knowledge connections with the fourth grade American Revolution and Constitution unit.
Fritz, Jean. Bully for You, Teddy Roosevelt! Puffin, 1997. 128 pgs. (3-6) Lives to Learn From
An accurate and delightful chapter book portrayal of the energetic man who became the twenty-sixth American president. Crime fighter, reformer, hunter, and environmentalist, Fritz chronicles TR’s boyish love of life and eagerness to advance the life of his nation.
An accurate and delightful chapter book portrayal of the energetic man who became the twenty-sixth American president. Crime fighter, reformer, hunter, and environmentalist, Fritz chronicles TR’s boyish love of life and eagerness to advance the life of his nation.
Fritz, Jean. Traitor: The Case of Benedict Arnold.
(Unforgettable Americans) Putnam, 1997. 192 pgs. (5-6) Loyalty
The virtue of loyalty (faithfulness to duty and ideals) is sometimes best illustrated by its opposite: treason. In this fast-paced historical biography for middle school students, Jean Fritz tells the story of America’s infamous Revolutionary General-turned-traitor. Benedict Arnold’s loyalty was first, always, and exclusively to himself. We watch Arnold grow, but not change. He is the daredevil Connecticut boy whose quest to be noticed defined and marred him as an adult. His madcap bravery in battle helped win the day in the key American victory at Saratoga. In another battle, it cost him a leg, but as long as his reckless deeds won accolades, Arnold acted without regard to personal safety. When overlooked for promotion and charged with improper use of public funds, Arnold deemed Congress and the American people ungrateful. In command of the garrison at West Point, General Arnold sold detailed plans of the fort to the British. He expected his nation’s foes to take the fort, end the divisive war, and establish Benedict Arnold as a far-sighted and clear-eyed hero. Instead “Benedict Arnold” became a synonym for “traitor.” The story invites a rich discussion of what loyalty entails: of the difference between true heroism and simple fame, between honor and vainglory, and finally between principle and self-serving rationalization. (How did Arnold justify his actions to himself?) A not-to-be-missed story.
(Unforgettable Americans) Putnam, 1997. 192 pgs. (5-6) Loyalty
The virtue of loyalty (faithfulness to duty and ideals) is sometimes best illustrated by its opposite: treason. In this fast-paced historical biography for middle school students, Jean Fritz tells the story of America’s infamous Revolutionary General-turned-traitor. Benedict Arnold’s loyalty was first, always, and exclusively to himself. We watch Arnold grow, but not change. He is the daredevil Connecticut boy whose quest to be noticed defined and marred him as an adult. His madcap bravery in battle helped win the day in the key American victory at Saratoga. In another battle, it cost him a leg, but as long as his reckless deeds won accolades, Arnold acted without regard to personal safety. When overlooked for promotion and charged with improper use of public funds, Arnold deemed Congress and the American people ungrateful. In command of the garrison at West Point, General Arnold sold detailed plans of the fort to the British. He expected his nation’s foes to take the fort, end the divisive war, and establish Benedict Arnold as a far-sighted and clear-eyed hero. Instead “Benedict Arnold” became a synonym for “traitor.” The story invites a rich discussion of what loyalty entails: of the difference between true heroism and simple fame, between honor and vainglory, and finally between principle and self-serving rationalization. (How did Arnold justify his actions to himself?) A not-to-be-missed story.
Furstinger, Nancy. Mercy: The Incredible Story of Henry Bergh, Founder of the ASPCA and Friend to Animals. Illustrated by Vincent Desjardins. HMH, 2016 192 pgs. (5-6) Mercy, Compassion
This chapter book could be read in three or four sittings with older students, and it's an eye-opening journey. The book transports us to nineteenth century Manhattan, where there were "more animals than humans" and they were routinely abused - whether as workhorses, work dogs, sport dogs, roosters, sheep or cattle. Henry Bergh, a wealthy New Yorker from a prominent family, becomes their unlikely champion. His story (a man of social prominence in Europe as well as the USA) rivets. After failing as a playwright in England and America, but having been touched by the abuse of animals in the bullring in Spain, dog-fighting in Manhattan, and horses in St. Petersburg, he discovers his calling: protecting animals, and calling attention to their plight. For them, from the 1860s on, he sought mercy, and often did it in forceful ways. (He prosecuted more than 12,000 cruelty cases against animals large and small.) The graphic descriptions of the way in which animals were treated on both sides of the Atlantic at this time, make this book an acceptable choice only for older students. But Bergh's is a marvelous story of how an indifferent student, who failed at many other tasks, listened to his heart and ensured a much better future for us all. Scribener's Magazine lauded his compassion and wrote: "It may almost be said of Henry Bergh that he has invented a new type of goodness, since invention is only the perception and application of truths that are eternal."
This chapter book could be read in three or four sittings with older students, and it's an eye-opening journey. The book transports us to nineteenth century Manhattan, where there were "more animals than humans" and they were routinely abused - whether as workhorses, work dogs, sport dogs, roosters, sheep or cattle. Henry Bergh, a wealthy New Yorker from a prominent family, becomes their unlikely champion. His story (a man of social prominence in Europe as well as the USA) rivets. After failing as a playwright in England and America, but having been touched by the abuse of animals in the bullring in Spain, dog-fighting in Manhattan, and horses in St. Petersburg, he discovers his calling: protecting animals, and calling attention to their plight. For them, from the 1860s on, he sought mercy, and often did it in forceful ways. (He prosecuted more than 12,000 cruelty cases against animals large and small.) The graphic descriptions of the way in which animals were treated on both sides of the Atlantic at this time, make this book an acceptable choice only for older students. But Bergh's is a marvelous story of how an indifferent student, who failed at many other tasks, listened to his heart and ensured a much better future for us all. Scribener's Magazine lauded his compassion and wrote: "It may almost be said of Henry Bergh that he has invented a new type of goodness, since invention is only the perception and application of truths that are eternal."
George, Jean Craighead. My Side of the Mountain. Puffin Books, 2001, 208 pages (3-8) Self-Reliance, Courage, Wonder.
Jean Craighead George has a knack for bringing the wonders of nature to life, and in this classic coming-of-age story, twelve-year-old Sam Gribley escapes tumultuous and cramped life in a New York City apartment to fashion a home for himself in the Catskill Mountains (his grandfather's farm). He may not have heard of On Walden Pond, but he re-enacts it. Dad gives his blessing for his son to try his hand at wilderness survival with only a pocket knife, a ball of string, an axe, some flint and steel, and forty dollars. First published in the 1959, it evokes an era when children had more freedom and independence, but it also speaks to timeless coming-of-age themes --finding a way through the wilderness of life (with a pet falcon), surviving against all odds and meeting those with courage, establishing independence, and in the end, finding the balance between solitude and community.
Jean Craighead George has a knack for bringing the wonders of nature to life, and in this classic coming-of-age story, twelve-year-old Sam Gribley escapes tumultuous and cramped life in a New York City apartment to fashion a home for himself in the Catskill Mountains (his grandfather's farm). He may not have heard of On Walden Pond, but he re-enacts it. Dad gives his blessing for his son to try his hand at wilderness survival with only a pocket knife, a ball of string, an axe, some flint and steel, and forty dollars. First published in the 1959, it evokes an era when children had more freedom and independence, but it also speaks to timeless coming-of-age themes --finding a way through the wilderness of life (with a pet falcon), surviving against all odds and meeting those with courage, establishing independence, and in the end, finding the balance between solitude and community.
Gilbreth, Frank. Cheaper By the Dozen. Harper Torch, 2005. 224 pgs
Giff, Patricia Reilly. Lily’s Crossing. Yearling, 1999 208 pgs. (4-6) Honesty, Hope
The year is 1944. Fifth grader Lily spends her summers at Rockaway Beach with her friend Margaret, but with World War II raging, Margaret’s family is moving to a manufacturing job in Detroit and Lily’s Dad is on his way to Europe with the Army Corps of Engineers. The only one left to play with now is Albert, a Hungarian refugee her age, who has escaped the Nazis in his homeland and is staying with his aunt. They both have secrets and they both tell lies. Lily tells a lie that may cost Albert his life, but learns from it and changes her ways. As they work through their loss and depression together, scheming how to get to Europe to find Albert’s sister and Lily’s Dad, they become good friends. A haunting portrayal of life on the home front in World War II and the anxiety that plagued those left behind.
The year is 1944. Fifth grader Lily spends her summers at Rockaway Beach with her friend Margaret, but with World War II raging, Margaret’s family is moving to a manufacturing job in Detroit and Lily’s Dad is on his way to Europe with the Army Corps of Engineers. The only one left to play with now is Albert, a Hungarian refugee her age, who has escaped the Nazis in his homeland and is staying with his aunt. They both have secrets and they both tell lies. Lily tells a lie that may cost Albert his life, but learns from it and changes her ways. As they work through their loss and depression together, scheming how to get to Europe to find Albert’s sister and Lily’s Dad, they become good friends. A haunting portrayal of life on the home front in World War II and the anxiety that plagued those left behind.
Grahame, Kenneth. The Wind in the Willows. Createspace, 2015. 104 pgs
Gratz, Alan. Refugee. Scholastic Press, 2017 (5-6)Perseverance, Compassion. 352 pgs.
This historical fiction follows three families as they flee from their homes in times of war and oppression. In 1939, Josef and his family try to escape the Nazis. In 1994, Isabel and her family leave the oppression of Castro in Cuba on a shaky raft, bound for Miami. In 2015 Mahmoud and his family leave the terror of the civil war in Syria, trying to find safety in Germany. Told from the viewpoint of the children, their stories open our minds and hearts to what it must be like to lose everything and yet struggle on for family and freedom. Separated by years and miles, their stories have a touching connection. A tough but important read.
This historical fiction follows three families as they flee from their homes in times of war and oppression. In 1939, Josef and his family try to escape the Nazis. In 1994, Isabel and her family leave the oppression of Castro in Cuba on a shaky raft, bound for Miami. In 2015 Mahmoud and his family leave the terror of the civil war in Syria, trying to find safety in Germany. Told from the viewpoint of the children, their stories open our minds and hearts to what it must be like to lose everything and yet struggle on for family and freedom. Separated by years and miles, their stories have a touching connection. A tough but important read.
Gray, Elizabeth. Adam of the Road. Illustrated by Robert Lawson. Puffin, 1987. 317 pgs. Perseverance, Courage, Respect, Loyalty
Winner of the 1943 Newbery Medal, Adam of the Road takes on epic proportions when young Adam becomes separated from his minstrel father, Roger, while the two are traveling in medieval England. As Adam searches for his father, he learns about injustice and deceit, yet meets his trials with courage and conviction. Adam’s story is one of adventure and ultimately, success.
Winner of the 1943 Newbery Medal, Adam of the Road takes on epic proportions when young Adam becomes separated from his minstrel father, Roger, while the two are traveling in medieval England. As Adam searches for his father, he learns about injustice and deceit, yet meets his trials with courage and conviction. Adam’s story is one of adventure and ultimately, success.
Hart, Alison. Darling. Mercy Dog of World War I. Illustrated by Michael Montgomery. Peachtree Publishers, 2017 163 pgs. Mercy, Responsibility (6)
In World War I, the British tapped all their resources, including canines. Darling, the beloved pet of children Katherine and Robert, is sent off to help the war effort and train as a “mercy dog,” who will find wounded soldiers on the battlefield and bring them help. Darling herself narrates, and the book pulls no punches about how dangerous her mission was. The border collie travels with her handler to Belgium and proves herself a great asset to the squad, but her own life is ultimately endangered. Will she make it home to Katherine and Robert? Helpful appendices in the back with follow-up information on dogs in the military, WWI, Dog Heroes, and other resources. An eye-opening perspective on a little known aspect of World War I. Good accompaniment for the sixth grade Core Knowledge unit on the Great War.
In World War I, the British tapped all their resources, including canines. Darling, the beloved pet of children Katherine and Robert, is sent off to help the war effort and train as a “mercy dog,” who will find wounded soldiers on the battlefield and bring them help. Darling herself narrates, and the book pulls no punches about how dangerous her mission was. The border collie travels with her handler to Belgium and proves herself a great asset to the squad, but her own life is ultimately endangered. Will she make it home to Katherine and Robert? Helpful appendices in the back with follow-up information on dogs in the military, WWI, Dog Heroes, and other resources. An eye-opening perspective on a little known aspect of World War I. Good accompaniment for the sixth grade Core Knowledge unit on the Great War.
Hearth, Amy Hill. Streetcar To Justice. Greenwillow Books, 2018. 160 pgs. (4-6) Justice, Courage, Lives to Learn From
A compelling historical account of Elizabeth Jennings, who in 1854, was denied a ride on the city streetcar. Elizabeth and her family sue the streetcar company and win not only compensation, but also desegregation for all the streetcars in NYC (nearly 100 years before Rosa Parks). This story is well researched and gives great historical details of what life was like for free blacks in the north at that time.
A compelling historical account of Elizabeth Jennings, who in 1854, was denied a ride on the city streetcar. Elizabeth and her family sue the streetcar company and win not only compensation, but also desegregation for all the streetcars in NYC (nearly 100 years before Rosa Parks). This story is well researched and gives great historical details of what life was like for free blacks in the north at that time.
Herriot, James. All Creatures Great and Small. St. Martin's Griffin, 2014. 448 pgs.
Hunt, Irene. Across Five Aprils. Berkley Books, 2002. 224 pgs
Jonell, Lynne. Emmy and the Incredible Shrinking Rat. Art by Jonathon Bean. Henry Holt & Co. 2007. (4-6) 346 pgs. Friendship
Emmy often feels that she is invisible. Her teacher can’t remember her name, even though she is an A student. Her parents are often traveling out of the country. The kids in her class don’t even pay any attention to her. But curiously, she can talk to and understand the rat who is the class pet. She helps him escape from his cage and he helps her unravel the mystery of her nasty nanny, Miss Barmy and her missing parents. Suspend your disbelief that rats can talk and shrink humans to rat size and enjoy this engaging fantasy.
Emmy often feels that she is invisible. Her teacher can’t remember her name, even though she is an A student. Her parents are often traveling out of the country. The kids in her class don’t even pay any attention to her. But curiously, she can talk to and understand the rat who is the class pet. She helps him escape from his cage and he helps her unravel the mystery of her nasty nanny, Miss Barmy and her missing parents. Suspend your disbelief that rats can talk and shrink humans to rat size and enjoy this engaging fantasy.
Juster, Norton. The Phantom Tollbooth. Bullseye Books, 1988. 272 pgs
Kadohata, Cynthia. A Place to Belong. Illustrated by Julia Kuo. Antheneum, 2019. 416 pgs. (5-6) Courage, Compassion
A touching story of 12 year-old Haniko and her family, who after being imprisoned in internment camps in the US during WWII, accept a U.S. government expatriation offer and return to Japan. They go to Hiroshima where Haniko’s grandparents live. Shocked by the damage the city sustained by the bomb, the family finds life is desperately poor there and it is hard to get enough to eat. However the joy at being reunited with family is great and compensates for much. Haniko loves her family and tries so hard to be a good person, sharing what little they have. She is remarkably open to the differences in culture between the US and Japan – trying to embrace the best of both. Good afterword with historical details.
A touching story of 12 year-old Haniko and her family, who after being imprisoned in internment camps in the US during WWII, accept a U.S. government expatriation offer and return to Japan. They go to Hiroshima where Haniko’s grandparents live. Shocked by the damage the city sustained by the bomb, the family finds life is desperately poor there and it is hard to get enough to eat. However the joy at being reunited with family is great and compensates for much. Haniko loves her family and tries so hard to be a good person, sharing what little they have. She is remarkably open to the differences in culture between the US and Japan – trying to embrace the best of both. Good afterword with historical details.
Knight, Eric. Lassie Come Home. Henry Holt & Co, 2015, 256 pgs. (3-6) Loyalty, Faithfulness, Hope
A true classic originally published in 1940 - it still rings true to any dog lover. Lassie faithfully meets her owner Joe, at school every day. When Joe’s father loses his job, the family must sell Lassie to be able to survive. Lassie knows she belongs at Joe’s side and escapes her kennel 3 times until at last, her new owner sends her a thousand miles away to the farthest reaches of Scotland. It doesn’t occur to Lassie that she shouldn’t be able to walk that far, she just knows that she must be at the school, waiting for Joe. And so her adventures begin. May be slightly difficult to understand some of the Scottish dialect.
Koller, Jackie French. Nothing to Fear. HMH Books for Young Readers, 1993. (5-8) 288 pgs. Courage, Perseverance, Hope
Set in the 1930s, eleven-year-old Daniel Garvey barely notices the Great Depression at first, but his neighbors' and his own family's circumstances grow more dire with each day. When Danny's father loses his job and needs to move to seek a new one, the son must look out for his pregnant mother and sister. He is a wary young man, who takes on each challenge not without trepidation, but with conviction, gaining courage as he goes. An inspiring and hopeful coming of age story. This is a novel, and an excellent read-aloud for fifth to eighth grades.
Kudlinski, Kathleen V. Earthquake! A Story of the San Francisco Earthquake.
Puffin, 1995. (4-6) 64 pgs. Courage
On April 19, 1906 San Francisco shuddered, then burst into flames. Twelve year-old Philip and his father stand to lose everything - their horses, their livery, their bicycle repair shop. Philip is in his family's stables when the heaving earth knocks the horses to the ground. This slender chapter book brings the quake of 1906 to life, but also chronicles the courage and heroism of a young man determined to save his family's livelihood.
L'Engle, Madeleine. Meet the Austins Squarefish, 2008. 240 pgs.
Lewis, C.S. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Harper Collins, 2010. 208 pgs. Courage, Loyalty, Faithfulness, Service
First in the Narnia series, this classic work stands alone as an exemplar of moral journey in a land of good and evil. Young Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter step through a wardrobe and find themselves transported to the enchanted kingdom of Narnia; the brothers and sisters are called to its rescue by Aslan, the golden lion. The White Witch has cast a spell over the kingdom, where it is now "always winter, but never Christmas." Their efforts (partnering with forest friends and with the mighty Aslan) to help redeem the lost kingdom speak to ageless themes of loyalty, treachery, courage, and at times self-sacrifice. The first in a seven-volume series for all ages.
Lewis, Gill. A Story Like the Wind.
Illustrated by Jo Weaver. Eerdmans Books for the Young Reader, 2017.
80 pgs. (4-6) Compassion, Hope
Seven refugees in a boat, adrift in the Mediterranean Sea share food and stories. Fourteen-year-old Rami has nothing to share, but the story that his violin can tell. What a story it is! A spell binding tale that helps everyone forget the precarious position they are in and live for a moment in the hills and valleys of Mongolia with a white stallion who runs like the wind. Beautifully written and illustrated, at 80 pages, this could be read over several days. This is a story that will stay with you for a long time.
Lowry, Lois. The Giver HMH Books, 1993. 240 pgs.
This Newbery award winner is a good introduction to the genre of dystopian literature for younger middle school students. Jonas, aged 11, has never known a life outside The Community—a society where family units are built and dissolved by the state, and where every person is assigned a job when they turn twelve. Jonas is assigned the job of The Receiver. What will he receive? The collective memory of an entire society—and in the process, he will discover the dark side of this utopian world.
Lowry, Lois.Gooney Bird and the Room Mother. Illustrated by Middy Thomas. Houghton Mifflin, 2005. 75 pgs. (2-4) Thanksgiving, Friendship
Second grader Gooney Bird Greene likes to be smack in the middle of everything. With her irrepressible enthusiasm for fashion, storytelling and vocabulary, she keeps the second grade on their toes. ("Get out your dictionaries, class.") The second grade is participating in the school Thanksgiving pageant and Gooney Bird is desperate to land the role of Squanto. That honor will go to the person who finds a room mother for the second grade. When her own mother is too busy, Gooney Bird gets resourceful. Delightful and funny with a touching ending, this story is a winner.
Lowry, Lois. Number the Stars.
Houghton Mifflin, 1989. 160 pgs. Courage, Compassion
Lowry’s 1990 Newberry Medal winner asks us to reflect on the ties that bind and what it means to be human. Set in Denmark during World War II, Annemarie is determined to protect her Jewish friend Ellen from the Nazis who occupy the country. This beautifully written story asks the reader to move beyond dividing lines of religion and culture to the bonds we all share as human beings. Strong reinforcement of respect for individuals, regardless of culture or religion.
Mass, Wendy & Rebecca Stead. Bob
Fiewel and Friends, 2018 (3-6) 208 pgs. Loyalty, Friendship
A delightful story about 11 year old Livy, visiting her grandmother in Australia after an absence of 5 years. She rediscovers Bob, a green, not-zombie creature waiting for her in her closet. Is he her imaginary friend or something else? This is a perfect book for middle graders caught between childhood fantasies and the desire to act grown up.
MacDonald, George. The Princess and The Goblin 2019. 256 pgs. (3-6) Courage, Honor
This may be the original children’s fantasy book. Originally published in 1872, it is available today in many formats and illustrations. Scottish author MacDonald was a friend of Lewis Carroll, and mentor to JRR Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. He weaves a beautifully written story of family and magic together with the fast-paced adventure of the goblins who want to steal the princess.
McCaughrean, Geraldine. El Cid.
Illustrated by Victor G. Ambrus. Oxford University Press, 1989. (5-6)
The first children’s version of El Cid, this is a very substantive, poetic retelling (126 pages). Set in 12th-century Spain, Don Rodrigo Diaz de Vivar is banished from his native Castile, separated from his wife and daughters, and exiled among Moors. Through many adventures and obstacles, Don Rodrigo is courteous and honorable to all. He assembles an army of men of merit without regard for their color. He is recognized as “El Cid,” the Lord by those who follow him. Available on www.archive.org.
Montgomery, Lucy Maude. Anne of Green Gables. (series) Puffin, 2014 (first published 1908). 428 pgs. (3-7)
Beloved by generations, this six volume classic is the tale of orphan Anne Shirley ("Anne with an 'e'"), who at age 11 is sent to Prince Edward Island to live with elderly Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert (siblings) on a farm. The Cuthberts had hoped to adopt a boy to help them on the farm, and high-spirited Anne is sent from the orphanage in error. She is so fanciful and dramatic that they almost send her back to the orphanage. But stern Marilla and kind Matthew warm to her and she to them This is a coming of age story with depth, freshness, and timeless characters. The six volumes follow her from childhood to womanhood with lessons about imagination, friendship, constancy, sacrifice, and the meaning of life well lived.
Nannestad, Katrina. When Mischief Came to Town. Young Readers Paperback, 2018. 179 pgs.
Told in a light-hearted and unpretentious first person voice that transcends her circumstance, this is the story of ten-year-old Inge Marie whose mother has died. The young girl must move from her home in Copenhagen to a secluded Danish island to live with her stern, always-dressed-in-black grandmother. Inge Marie has no desire to feel sorry for herself and is prone to emphasize the positive, but she is desperate to coax some sign of life and love from the stolid grandmother. The child has an infectious joy that brings life to the island. Grandmother and granddaughter come to know and love each other sharing their joys and sorrows. A wonderful story and delightful read.
Newman, Leslea. Hachiko Waits: Based on a True Story. Illustrated by Machiyo Kodaira. 96 pgs. (4-6) Faithfulness, Perseverance, Hope
The classic true story of the Japanese dog, who was so devoted to his master (Professor Ueno) that he waited for him at the Shibuya Train station in Tokyo daily, and continued to do so for ten years after his sudden and unexpected death. This beautifully told chapter book version could be read aloud over a week at morning gathering. Dogs are the embodiment of fidelity in art, and Hachiko shows us why. In Tokyo, Newman tells us, "young couples often pledge their loyalty to each other in front of Hachiko's statue." The book is both touchingly sad and hopeful. Lovely black and white illustrations.
Nesbit, Edith. The Book of Dragons. CreateSpace, 2016. 136 pgs.
O'Dell, Scott. Island of the Blue Dolphins. Houghton Mifflin, 2000. 181 pgs.
Palacio, R.J. Wonder Knopf Books, 2012. 320 pgs. (3-7)
Park, Linda Sue. A Single Shard. Clarion, 2001 (5-6) Honesty, Courage, Loyalty
A Single Shard (a chapter book), is a rich tapestry of human behavior and an exemplar of many virtues. Set in twelfth century Korea, young Tree-ear and his guardian Crane- man are poor but industrious and believe “work gives a man dignity; stealing takes it away.” Tree-ear longs to become a potter and much admires the work of Min, an old master of ceramics who scowls at him. When Tree-ear accidentally breaks one of the artist’s pots, the boy becomes his servant to pay his debt. He stays on as an apprentice and learns from the crotchety perfectionist. This is a journey from ambition to selflessness. It teaches lessons of self-sacrifice, courage, honesty and loyalty in a rich panorama of characters. This 160 page chapter book may be read with older students over the course of a week.
Parks, Rosa. Rosa Parks, My Story. Puffin, 1999. 192 pgs. (3-7)
Paulsen, Gary. Hatchet. Simon & Schuster, 2006. 192 pgs.
Pennypacker, Sara. Waylon! One Awesome Thing.
Illustrated by Marla Frazee. Hyperion, 2016. (3-6) 198 pgs. Compassion, Wonder
Waylon is a lovable 4th grade science whiz. He is delighted to tackle tough problems like controlling gravity, but the social problems of the gangs (really cliques) in his class are harder. And then there is his older sister who used to be his friend before she started wearing all black and being weird. Whether making new friends or sciencing, Waylon is always on the lookout for One Awesome Thing and usually finds it. A delightful read.
Perkins,Lynne Rae. Secret Sisters of the Salty Sea
Greenwillow Books, 2018 (3-6) 240 pgs. Friendship
Alix and Jools are sisters on their way to their first family vacation to the ocean. Reminiscent of the style of the Little House books, it is lovely to read of kids experiencing real life, not super heroes or aliens. Alix fully appreciates the good and bad situations that new experiences bring and we enjoy them along with her. Delightful illustrations keep the chapters lively.
Potok, Chiam. The Chosen Fawcett, 1987. 304 pgs.
Pyle, Howard. The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood 2020, 178 pgs.
Bobbie Pyron. Stay. Katherine Tegan Books, 2020. (5-8) 299 pgs. Compassion, Respect, Perseverance, Gratitude, Hope
This is a heartrending, but redemptive story for middle schoolers. Twelve-year-old Piper and her family (father, mother, younger brother) struggle to make ends meet, leave their former home behind, and find themselves in an Emergency Shelter in their new town. The gut-wrenching shift (from home to shelter) takes its toll on Piper, who is labeled "the homeless girl" in her school, but makes new friends at the Firefly Girls Troop at the Hope House family shelter. With their motto, "let your light shine," the girls band together to help someone in greater need than themselves. Piper works to ensure that Jewel, an elderly homeless woman who lives in the park with her dog, gets the help she needs, and remains united with her faithful dog, Baby. Written in unsentimental (and often ungrammatical) prose, the chapters alternate point of view between fifth grader Piper and the dog, Baby. The shift works well. This book shines a light on the plight of nearly half a million Americans who experience homelessness. It calls us to compassion and respect for those who needing a permanent home. Because of the subject matter (homelessness, mental illness) we recommend this work for fifth grade and up.
Ransome, Arthur. Swallows and Amazons David R. Godine, 2010. 352 pgs.
Rawls, Wilson. Summer of the Monkeys Yearling, 2010. 290 pgs.
Rawls, Wilson. Where the Redfern Grows. Laurel Leaf, 1997. 304 pgs.
Saeed, Aisha. Amal Unbound.
Puffin Books, 2020. 240 pgs. Courage, Honesty, Hope
In modern day Pakistan, twelve-year-old Amal’s family lives in a poor village, governed by the rich Khan family. One day in the market, Amal unintentionally insults the son of this family. He calls in the family’s debt and because they are unable to pay, Amal is sent to their estate as an indentured servant. Amal learns to work at many jobs within the household and even begins to teach some of the other servants to read. Her courage is tested when she overhears the son admitting to killing one of the villagers. Amal is a terrific heroine – hopeful, helpful, and hard-working, and children will learn that indentured servitude is NOT a thing of the past in many parts of the world.
Seredy, Kate. The Good Master.
Puffin, 1986. 210 pgs. Respect, Responsibility
The ethos of family love and support characterize Seredy’s novel about spoiled Cousin Kate from Budapest. Motherless Kate is sent to the Hungarian countryside by her father to benefit from the routine and responsibility of farm life. As Kate becomes part of her Uncle Marton’s family, she is befriended by ten-year-old cousin Janesi and learns the importance of hard work and unselfish attitudes. When her father, Sandor, leaves his teaching position in the city to spend Christmas with Kate, he finds that his formerly self-centered daughter has become a thoughtful young girl who can weave, prepare food, and ride horses. Seredy comments profoundly on the strength of family loyalty and the things of greatest importance in life.
Seredy, Kate. The Singing Tree.
Puffin, 1990. 247 pgs. Honesty, Loyalty
Set in Hungary during World War I, this sequel to The Good Master dramatically contrasts the devastation
of war with the triumph of the human spirit. The war years require Hungarian youths Jancsi and Kate to grow up quickly as they accept responsibility for running the family farm. The two cousins care for relatives, treat Russian soldiers, and shelter German war orphans in the turbulent period. Seredy’s characters learn the meaning of true commitment to others and the ability to look beyond nationality and religion.
Seidler,Tor The Wainscott Weasel.
Illustrated by Fred Marcellino. Atheneum, 2014. (3-6) Friendship, Loyalty
"Not since spider Charlotte saved a pig named Wilbur has there been a more tender tale of interspecies love and devotion," writes the NYT book reviewer. This 206 page chapter book of a weasel's devotion to an endangered goldfish delights. The illustrations by Fred Marcellino sing. An imaginative triumph and a great third to sixth grade read aloud or read-alone.
Sewell, Anna. Black Beauty.
CreateSpace, 2018. 210 pgs. Perseverance, Loyalty
Sewall’s poignant novel about the horse, Black Beauty, has much to say about kindness and cruelty, compassion, and contempt. Black Beauty is traded from owner to owner, often experiencing harsh treatment from thoughtless, self-centered masters. His unfailing perseverance wins him heroic stature in the hearts of children.
Sidman, Joyce. The Girl Who Drew Butterflies. How Maria Merian’s Art Changed Science. Clarion Books, 2018. 160 pgs. (5-6) Wonder, Diligence
Stunning visual biography of a little known scientist, and an excellent resource for general knowledge or a book report. Growing up in seventeenth century Germany in a family of artists and printers, Maria loved to draw and paint. She was quite taken with the insects that gathered in her garden. She didn’t just draw them though, she carefully observed them through their life cycle and made meticulous notes. Her work fused science and art, and taught the world a great deal about butterflies (which were once thought to evolve into birds!). This gorgeously illustrated and inspiring book shows her unusual career making biological discoveries and her journeys around the world in her pursuit of knowledge. Less a morning-read aloud than an excellent student read.
Speare, Elizabeth. The Sign of the Beaver.
Houghton Mifflin, 1983. 135 pgs. Honesty, Loyalty
The Sign of the Beaver is the poignant story of two boys coming of age in the Maine wilderness in
pre-Revolutionary America. Speare depicts the slowly developing friendship between the son of a settler and a Native American youth. When thirteen-year-old Matt Hollowell’s father leaves to bring his mother and sister to their new home in Maine, young Matt is left to protect his family’s homestead. Matt has much to learn about the ways of the forest and is taught valuable lessons from the Indian boy, Attean. In the course of their adventures, Matt grows in respect for the wisdom and intelligence of Maine’s Indian people, but multicultural themes take a backseat to the theme of friendship and the universality of the human experience.
Speare, Elizabeth. The Witch of Blackbird Pond HMH, 2011. 131 pgs.
Speare, Elizabeth. The Bronze Bow. HMH Books, 1997. 254 pgs.
Sperry, Armstrong. Call It Courage Simon & Schuster, 1990. 128 pgs.
Stevenson, Robert Louis. Kidnapped Seawolf Press, 2018. 248 pgs.
Stevenson, Robert Louis. Treasure Island Seawolf Press, 2018. 256 pgs.
Sutcliff, Rosemary. Black Ships Before Troy: The Story of the Iliad.
Random House Children's Books, 1993. Courage, Perseverance, Grit 151 pgs.(5-8)
- The Wanderings of Odysseus. The Story of the Odyssey. Random House Children's Books, 2005. 160 pgs. Courage, Perseverance, Grit (5-8)
Taylor, Mildred D. Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry. Pearson Education Ltd, 2001.
Taylor, Sydney. All-of-a Kind-Family. Illustrated by Helen John. Dell, 1979. 189 pgs.
Loyalty, Generosity, Self-Discipline, Responsibility
Set in New York’s Lower East Side at the turn of the century, Taylor’s novel portrays the daily life of a gracious Jewish family. Dressed in similar clothing, sisters Ella, Henny, Sally, Charlotte, and Gertie are an “all-of-a-kind family,” who experience the adventures of childhood rich with Jewish tradition. Guided by the loving support of their parents the five girls learn valuable lessons about responsibility and family loyalty. Other titles in Taylor’s series include More All-of-a-Kind Family, All-of-a-Kind Family Downtown and Ella of All-of-a-Kind.
Ten Boom,Corrie with Elizabeth and John Sherrill. The Hiding Place.
Chosen Books, 2006. 272 pages. (5-8) Forgiveness, Courage
The thirty-fifth anniversary edition of this classic, which is now widely regarded as a holocaust must-read for Middle School. Corrie and her family are Dutch watchmakers and Resistance members, who hide Jewish families during the Nazi occupation of their country. They are discovered and sent to concentration camps. Only Corrie survives to tell the tale, and comes to believe that she is called to forgiveness of her captors. She is able to do this until the day one of her guards confronts her at a book signing with his hand extended in peace. She freezes. An extraordinary story of courage and eliminating the toxin of hatred through forgiveness. This is easily a two week read-aloud if used at older grades.
Tolkien, J.R.R. The Hobbit. Houghton Mifflin, 2007. 320 pgs.
Travers, P.L. Mary Poppins. Illustrated by Julia Sarda. HMH Books, 2018 (4-6)
Kindness, Wonder, Courtesy
The first original story of the magical nanny. P. L. Travers wrote 8 Mary Poppins books, so for sequel lovers, this is a find. Mary is not so sweet as in the Disney movie version, but she is so mysterious and intriguing, every one wants to be with her. Her adventures with the children still delight after all these years.
Twain, Mark. The Prince and the Pauper. Seawolf Press, 2018. 318 pgs. (3-6) Wisdom
What is it like to walk a mile in the shoes of another? In this lively retelling of Mark Twain’s classic tale, young beggar Tom Canty and Prince Edward VI discover their uncanny physical resemblance and decide to change places. Each comes away with an enriched understanding and new appreciation for their former state.
Vande Velde, Vivian. 8 Class Pets + 1 Squirrel ÷ 1 dog = Chaos. Illustrated by Steve Bjorkman. Holiday House, 2011. 68 pgs. (1-5) Humor.
This slender chapter book is laugh-out-loud funny. Twitch, the squirrel, lives at an elementary school playground. One evening, as he is being chased by an owl, Twitch runs across the nose of the dog (Cuddles) who lives next to the school. The dog begins to chase him and Twitch runs into the school’s open door with the dog close behind. As Twitch races from classroom to classroom, he meets all the class pets and enlists their aid in helping him get away from the dog. The point-of-view narration changes (with hilarious effect) with each pet introduced, and each of the animals uses their special talents to help. As more pets become involved the chaos grows (wait till the Macaw calls 911!) A very funny story that would be great for the beginning or end of the year.
Van Leeuwen, Jean. Bound for Oregon.
Puffin, 1996. 164 pgs. (3-6) Hope, Perseverance
This slender historical novel shows the power of hope and determination in one of the most trying adventures of the mid-nineteenth century – the 2000 mile trek across the Oregon Trail. A pioneer’s story told from the vantage point of a nine-year old girl, Mary Ellen Todd. Well researched and hugely reaffirming of the human spirit.
Weeks, Sarah and Gita Varadrajan. Save Me a Seat.
Scholastic, 2016. 256 pgs. (4-6) Friendship, Respect, Courage
This 240 page chapter book takes place in a single week, is a fast-read, and a funny story with an important theme. It is narrated by two students in the fifth grade at Albert Einstein Middle School: Ravi, a newly arrived immigrant from India whose father works in technology and who’s finding his new American life challenging; and Joe, a local and longtime student, whose best friends have recently moved away, and who’s being bullied. The two discover friendship and a common mission: claiming control over their own lives. Wonderful humor and a great springboard for discussion about friendship, respect, diverse backgrounds, and much else.
Weintraub, Robert. No Better Friend. Young Reader's Edition: A Man, A Dog, and Their Incredible True Story of Friendship and Survival in World War II. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers (2018) 304 pgs. (6-8) Faithfulness, Friendship, Courage
This is the true story of Judy, a purebred pointer, who was the mascot of several British ships in the Pacific prior to World War II. Judy was captured by the Japanese in 1942 and taken to a prison camp. There she met Airman Frank Williams, who shared his small portion of rice with her. Judy raised morale in the POW camp, and also barked when poisonous snakes, crocodiles or even tigers approached the prisoners. When the prisoners were shipped back to Singapore, she was smuggled out in a rice sack, never whimpering or betraying her presence to the guards. The next day, that ship was torpedoed. Williams pushed Judy out of a porthole in an attempt to save her life, even though there was a 15-foot drop to the sea. The airman made his own escape from the ship, but was then recaptured and sent to a new POW camp. He didn't know if Judy had survived, but began hearing stories about a dog helping drowning men reach pieces of debris after the shipwreck. When Williams arrived at the new camp, he said: "I couldn’t believe my eyes! As I walked through the gate, a scraggly dog hit me square between the shoulders and knocked me over. I’d never been so glad to see the old girl!" They spent a year together at that camp in Sumatra. "Judy saved my life in so many ways," said Williams. "But the greatest of all was giving me a reason to live. All I had to do was look into those weary, bloodshot eyes and ask myself: 'What would happen to her if I died?' I had to keep going." We won't tell the whole story, but "keep going," those two certainly did. An astonishing story of super-human faithfulness. After the war, Judy was awarded the Dickin Medal (the "Victoria Cross" for animals). Her citation reads: "For magnificent courage and endurance in Japanese prison camps, which helped to maintain morale among her fellow prisoners, and also for saving many lives through her intelligence and watchfulness". This is a 304 page book, and not optimal for Morning Gathering, but as supplementary reading for the month, it is unbeatable. Sixth to eighth graders will be moved by it.
White, E.B.Charlotte’s Web. Illustrated by Garth Williams and Rosemary Wells. Harper Collins, 2012. 192 pgs.(3-6) Hope, Wonder
Beloved by generations, Charlotte’s Web is the story of a runt-of-the-litter pig named Wilbur, adopted by a farm girl named Fern, and befriended by a spider named Charlotte. In this magical barn kingdom, Wilbur can talk to both Fern and all the farm animals. When Fern learns that her adorable pet pig is to be fattened for someone’s dinner, she is devastated, but Wilbur even more so. Charlotte, the wise, enterprising and resourceful spider, weaves a pattern in her web that ensures his survival. The pure joy, delight, and wonder of this book, with its extraordinary characters and very right ending have made it a classic for generations.
White, E.B., Stuart Little. Harper and Row, 1973 131pgs.
White, E.B. Trumpet of the Swan.
Harper Collins, 2001. 252 pgs. Diligence, Faithfulness
Louis is a trumpeter swan born without a voice. The little swan’s diligent efforts to make up for his defect are heartwarming, humorous, and often touching. Louis is not only diligent and resourceful, but often scared; he has to deal with disappointment, and come up with new strategies for success. Wonderful characters and superb writing.
Wilder, Laura Ingalls. The Little House in the Big Woods.
Illustrated by Garth Williams. Harper Collins, 1971. 238 pages Respect, Diligence, Perseverance
Every child can experience the richness and challenge of American pioneer life in Wilder’s Little House series. This volume begins the chronicle of the Ingalls family as they search for land to call their own. Pa, Ma, Mary, Laura, and Baby Carrie struggle through Minnesota’s long winters and exhausting harvests. The children are working partners in the never-ending cycle of frontier life. They find delight in small things—their father’s fiddling, a corn cob doll, sugar for Christmas, a shiny penny, but find ultimate strength in the security of family love and support. The Little House series includes: Little House on the Prairie, Farmer Boy, The Long Winter, On the Banks of Plum Creek, By the Shores of Silver Lake, Little Town on the Prairie, and These Happy Golden Years.
Woodson, Jacqueline. Brown Girl Dreaming. Puffin, 2016. 368 pages. (6-8)
Lives to Learn From, Courage, Wonder, Hope, Empathy/Compassion,
A slightly fictionalized memoir, this book is a treasure for adults as well. Written in free verse, it is the poetic memoir of an African-American girl growing up in Ohio, South Carolina, and New York in the 1960s and '70s. Rich and unexpected, this poignant tale recounts a life lived between north and south and poses the question of: what is home? (Woodson's family began life in Ohio, moved to Greenville, SC, then her mother settled the family in Brooklyn, but they returned to South Carolina in summers.) Jacqueline's story is a window into race on a personal level and civil rights struggles as lived by a child. The book's power is one of empathy. From the first page, the reader is inspired by the poetry of Langston Hughes (and then that of Jacqueline Woodson), but this work is not solely about race; it is the story of an open-hearted, searching girl, finding her voice and purpose, and the message is ultimately one of hope. Would-be writers will love it! Because of family situations and historical background, it is a late middle school work.
Yep, Laurence. When the Circus Came to Town.
Illustrated by Suling Wang. Harper Collins, 2004. (3-5)
This slender novel is set in early twentieth century Montana, where young Ursula helps with the family stagecoach business, plays at pirate games, and revels in the life around her. When she contracts smallpox, though, she retreats within. Her face deeply pitted and scarred, Ursula considers herself a monster, and cannot be coaxed from her self-hatred and gloom, till the Chinese cook, Ah-Sam invites his cousins to entertain her. They stage a circus and she (who has been dismissive toward the family’s Chinese help) learns that it’s not a how a person looks that matters, but what’s inside them. Ursula learns to think beyond herself and help others too. An often humorous, heart-warming novel, well researched. The artwork is a wonderful complement.