Recommended Reading For First Grade

Amanda Pig, School Girl by Jean Van Leeuwen JR V

Amanda has been waiting all her life to go to school.

Animal Music by Harriet Ziefert JP ZIE

Animals playing various instruments to make different kinds of music.

Apple Pie Tree by Zoe Hall JP HAL

An apple tree in winter, spring, summer, and fall.

Arthur's Nose by Marc Brown JP BRO

Unhappy with his nose, Arthur visits the doctor to get a new one.

Bears Are Curious by Joyce Milton JR M

Facts about bears.

Big Red Barn by Margaret Wise Brown by JP BRO

A day in the barnyard

Biscuit Wants to Play by Alyssa Capucilli JR C

The puppy Biscuit makes friends with two kittens.

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Book! Book! Book! by Deborah Bruss JP BRU

When the children go back to school, the farm animals are bored and decide to go to the library.

Bug for Lunch by Margery Facklam JP FAC

Rhyming text introduces bug-eating animals.

The Case of the Hungry Stranger by Crosby Bonsall JR B

Four detectives try to find out who ate Mrs.Meech's blueberry pie.

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin JP MAR

A lively alphabet rhyme.

Click, Clack, Moo: Cows That Type by Doreen Cronin JP CRO

The cows find an old typewriter in the barn, and they type messages to the Farmer about their home.

Dinosaur's Day by Ruth Thomson JR T

A gentle Triceratops forgets to stay with the herd and has to use his sharp horns to fight a Tyrannosaurus.

Fat Cat Sat on the Mat by Nurit Karlin JP KAR

Rat tries to get the fat cat off the mat and back to his usual resting place in the vat.

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Froggy Goes to Bed by Jonathan London JP LON

Froggy finds many ways to delay bedtime.

From Seed to Plant by Gail Gibbons J 582 G

Find out how plants grow from seeds.

Go Away Dog by Joan L. Nodset JR N

An old dog's friendly persistence slowly convinces a young boy to take him home.

Guss and Button by Saxton Freymann JP FRE

Gus and his dog, Button, explore a forest and discover color.

Hoot and Holler by Alan Brown JP BRO

Two owls play together.

I Love Trucks by Philemon Sturges JP STU

A child names many of his favorite trucks.

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Jamela's Dress by Niki Daly JP DAL

Jamela gets in trouble when she does not listen to her mother.

Joseph Had a Little Overcoat by Simms Taback JP TAB

A very old overcoat is recycled lots of times into a variety of garments.

A Kiss for Little Bear by Else Lomelund Minarik JR M

Grandmother sends Little Bear a kiss via several animals.

Little Red Riding Hood by Harriet Ziefert JR Z

A little girl meets a hungry wolf in the forest while on her way to visit her grandma.

Max Cleans Up by Rosemary Wells JP WEL

Max's big sister, Ruby, tries to help her brother clean up his messy room.

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Mother for Choco by Keiko Kasza JP KAS

Choco, a lonely little bird, searches for a mother.

Mouse Tales by Arnold Lobel JR L

Papa Mouse promises to tell each of his sons one story if they promise to go to bed afterwards.

No Matter What by Debi Gliori JP GLI

Small, a very little fox, needs some reassurance from Large in unconditional love.

Officer Buckle and Gloria by Peggy Rathmann JP RAT

Officer Buckle takes his police dog, Gloria, to Napville Elementary School.

Old Woman Who Loved to Read by John Winch JP WIN

An old woman moves to the country to have a peaceful life with lots of time to read.

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Pizza That We Made by Joan Holub JR H

Three young cooks have fun making their own pizza.

Poppleton in Winter by Cynthia Rylant JR R

Poppleton the pig makes a new friend.

The Pumpkin Book by Gail Gibbons J 635.6 G

Describes how pumpkins come in different shapes and sizes and what they need to grow.

Sammy and the Dinosaurs by Ian Whybrow JP WHY

Sammy finds toy dinosaurs in the attic that come to life when he names each one.

Sheep Out to Eat by Nancy Shaw JR S

Five hungry sheep discover that a tea shop may not be the best place for them to eat.

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Sleep Tight Ginger by Adele Geras JP GER

Ginger is a kitten who goes in search of a place to nap.

Sleepy Bears by Mem Fox JP FOX

Mother bear reads to her six little cubs for their long winter snooze.

Surprise Garden by Zoe Hall JP HAL

After sowing unmarked seeds, three youngsters wait for their mystery garden to grow.

Tortoise And the Hare by Betty Miles JR M

Who wins the running race?

The Very Clumsy Click Beetle by Eric Carle JP CAR

A clumsy young click beetle learns to land on its feet with encouragement from various animals.

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Waiting for Wings by Lois Ehlert JP EHL

How butterflies are born.

Wake up House! Rooms Full of Poems by Dee Lillegard JP LIL

A collection of thirty four poems.

We Just Moved by Stephen Krensky JR K

When a boy moves with his family to a bigger castle, he finds that some things about life in the new place are different.

We're Going on a Lion Hunt by David Axtell JP AXT

Two girls set out bravely in search of a lion.

Whatever the Weather by Karen Wallace JR W

A boy looks out the window and learns about different kinds of weather.

 Recommended Reading for Second Grade

Arthur's Mystery Envelope by Marc Brown JFIC BRO

The first volume of a series of chapter books featuring Arthur, the PBS television star.

A Big Cheese for the White House by Candace Fleming JFIC FLE

In 1801, in Cheshire, Massachusetts, Elder John Leland organizes his fellow townspeople to make a big cheese for President Jefferson, who up until that time had been forced to eat inferior cheeses.

Buffalo Bill and the Pony Express by Eleanor Coerr JR C

Sixteen-year-old Bill Cody finds adventure when he becomes a Pony Express rider.

Chomp! A book About Sharks by Melvin Berger J 597.3B

A simple explanation, with lots of pictures, of what sharks look like, how they hunt, what they eat, and how they are born.

Cottonmouths by Sherie Bargar J 597.96B

All you ever wanted to know about snakes in this volume of the snake discovery library.

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Doris's Dinosaur by Rosemary Wells JR W

When Mrs. Jenkins proposes the class paint dinosaurs, Doris' unusual artistic talent is not recognized until the class visits a modern art museum.

Emily by Michael Bedard JFIC BED

When a mother and child visit their reclusive neighbor Emily, who stays at home writing poetry all the time, there is an exchange of gifts.

The Fire Cat by Esther Averill JR A

The story of a brave cat and how he found a home in the firehouse.

Flower Girl by Gail Herman JR H

A young girl's lucky ring helps her be the perfect flower girl in her sister's wedding.

Froggy Eats Out by Jonathan London JP LON

After Froggy misbehaves at a fancy restaurant, his parents take him to a fast flies restaurant to celebrate their anniversary. Try other Froggy books by London, as well.

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Guys From Space by Daniel Pinkwater JSF PIN

A boy visits another planet where he discovers amazing things like talking rocks and root beer with ice cream.

Halmoni's Day by Edna Coe Bercaw JFIC BER

Jennifer, a Korean American, is worried that her grandmother, visiting from Korea, will embarrass her on her school's Grandparents Day, but the event brings her understanding and acceptance.

Hattie and the Wild Waves by Barbara Cooney JFIC COO

A young girl enjoys her summers at the beach where she can paint and listen to the wild waves.

Henry and Mudge in the Green Time by Cynthia Rylant JR R

Henry shares a summer picnic with his lovable dog Mudge. Cynthia Rylant has written about lots of Henry and Modge adventures, try some others.

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Horrible Harry and the Ant Invasion by Suzy Kline JFIC KLI

Harry cuts back on his mischievous pranks after falling for Song Lee. Try more Horrible Harry books by Suzy Kline as well.

Jalapeño Bagels by Natasha Wing JP W

A boy brings something that reflects both the cultures of his parents to a school international day.

The Josefina Story Quilt by Eleanor Coerr JR C

While traveling west with her family, a young girl makes a patchwork quilt about her experiences on the journey.

Junie B. Jones is a Graduation Girl by Barbara Park JFIC PAR

Junie B. Jones has just turned six and is looking forward to her kindergarten graduation, but when grape juice stains the white gown she couldn't resist trying on, she is affraid graduation is ruined. Also try others in this funny series by Barbara Park.

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Lila's Little Dinosaur by Wolfram Hanel JP H

When a girl goes to a dinosaur exhibit, a little dinosaur becomes so fond of her that he follows her home.

Lionel in the Fall by Stephen Krensky JR K

For Lionel, fall means starting the school year, raking leaves, and dressing up for Halloween.

Little Red Riding Hood: A Newfangled Prairie Tale by Lisa Cambell Ernst JP ERN.

An updated version, set on the prairie, of the familiar story about a little girl, her grandmother, and a not-so-clever wolf.

Little Sister, Big Sister by Pat Brisson JR B.

Hester and her younger sister, Edna, play queen and her maid, pretend to be mermaids, eat chocolate, and experience a thunderstorm.

Livingstone Mouse by Pamela Duncan Edwards JP E

An explorer mouse in search of China discovers that he must be very careful in choosing a new home.

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The Long Way Westward by Joan Sandin JR S

A family of Swedish immigrants journeys overland from New York to their new home in Minnesota.

Lunch Bunnies by Kathryn Lasky JP LAS.

Clyde the rabbit is ready to start school, but after talking with his brother, he is worried about what will happen at lunchtime.

Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey JPM

A mother duck disrupts everything when she moves ducklings from the park to the Boston Public Garden.

Market! by Ted Lewin J 381.18L

From Fulton Fish Market in New York to Rissani Market in Morocco, people go shopping around the world.

Mr. Putter and Tabby Pour the Tea by Cynthia Rylant JR R

Lonely Mr. Putter gets an old cat to share his life with him. See more Mr. Putter and Tabby adventures by this author.

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Mud Flat Olympics by James Stevenson JFIC STE

At the Mud Flat Olympics, if the animals don't win the Deepest Hole Contest, the All-Snail High Hurdles, or the River-Cross Freestyle they can still come to the picnic after the games and have ice cream for dessert.

My Brother, Ant by Betsy Byars JR B

Four stories about Ant and his older brother.

Nate the Great and the Pillowcase by Marjorie Sharmat JR S

Nate investigates the disappearance of a homemade pillowcase belonging to Rosamond's cat. Try more Nate adventures by Majorie Sharmat.

Nine for California by Sonia Levitin JFIC LEV

Amanda, her mother, and her family travel by stagecoach to California to join her father.

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Pinky and Rex and the New Neighbors by James Howe JFIC HOW

Pinky and Rex are upset to find out that their friend and neighbor, Mrs. Morgan, is moving. Also try other Pinky and Rexs books by James Howe.

Pirates: Robbers of the High Seas by Gail Gibbons J 910.45G

A description of pirates' lives, the ships they sailed, and the treasure they stole.

Play Ball, Amelia Bedelia by Peggy Parish JR P

Even though she doesn't understand baseball, Amelia Bedelia bakes the best cookies in the world. Look for more Amelia Bedelia books by Peggy Parish.

Porcupine's Pajama Party by Terry Webb Harshman JR H

Porcupine bakes cookies, watches a monster movie, and gets scared in the dark when his two best friends sleep over.

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Sam's Wild West Show by Nancy Antle JR A

Sam and his Wild West Show entertain the townsfolk and catch two bank robbers before moving on to the next town.

Splish, Splash, Splosh! by Mick Manning and Brita Granstrom J 551.48M

Illustrations and simple text discuss water, where it comes from, and how it is treated so that we can use it for drinking, washing and playing.

Stan the Hot Dog Man by Leonard Kessler JR K

After he retires, Stan becomes a hot dog man and makes lots of new friends.

Swamp Angel by Anne Isaacs JP I

Angelica Longrider, also known as Swamp Angel, wrestles with a huge bear to save the winter supplies of the settlers in Tennessee.

Tales of Oliver the Pig by Jean Van Leeuwen JR V

Five adventures with Oliver Pig and his family.

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The Treasure Hunt by Bill Cosby JR C

One rainy day while his father lisstens to old records, his mother polishes a silver platter, and his brother enjoys his baseball card collection, Little Bill discovers his own treasure, a talent for storytelling. Also try others in the Little Bill series.

Tut's Mummy Lost and Found by Judy Donnelly JR D

Describes the burial of the Pharoah Tutankhamen and the discovery of his long-lost tomb.

Watch Out, Ronald Morgan! by Patricia Reilly Giff JFIC GIF

Ronald has a lot of humorous mishaps until he gets a pair of new eyeglasses. Don't miss more Ronald Morgan books by Patricia Reilly Giff.

Where Are My Puffins, Whales, and Seals? by Ron Hirschi J 591.529H

A description of how sea life is endangered by marine pollution.

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Wizard and Wart by Janice Smith JR S

When Wizard and his dog Wart advertise their magic business, they have problems with their customers. Look for their other adventures by Janice Smith.

You Bet Your Britches, Claude by Joan Lowery Nixon JFIC NIX

Shirley and Claude lead a quiet life with their adopted son Tom, until Shirley goes to town to pick up Tom's sister.

Zinnia and Dot by Lisa Campbell Ernst JP E

Two vain hens run afoul of a weasel's trickery and prove, indeed, that pride goeth before a fall.

 Recommended Reading For Third Grade

Antarctic Ants: A Book of Penguin Poems by Judy Sierra J 811 S

A humorous and enjoyable introduction to penguins and Antarctica is presented through extravagant rhymes and goofball lyrics.

Babe, the Gallant Pig by Dave King-Smith JFIC KIN

A pig destined for the dinner table reveals a talent for sheep herding. Can a pig be a sheep-dog? Can a "sheeppig" win the Grand Challenge Sheepdog Trials?

Bing Bang Bong by Douglas Florian J 811 F

How do ghosts get their sheets clean? Verses with a twist.

Black Cat by Christopher Myers J 811 S

A black cat wanders through the streets of a city.

Book of Slime by Ellen Jackson J 574.14 J

What do you get when you cross a bucket of oozing sludge with a library book? A book of ooshy, gooshy messes to read about.

Cam Jansen and the Barking Treasure Mystery by David A. Adler JMYS ADL

In her latest case, Cam Jansen, the sleuth with the photographic memory, finds her sharp ears are as important as her sharp eyes in nabbing a dog collar thief.

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Chocolate Touch by Patrick Skene Catling JFIC CAT

John Midas trades a funny old coin for a box of chocolates and soon learns everything he touches turns to chocolate, including his mother.

Cody Unplugged by Betsy Duffy JFIC DUF

Concerned that his television and video habits have gotten out of hand, Cody's parents send him to Camp Bear where he learns to experience real life rather than virtual reality.

The Courage of Sarah Noble by Alice Dalgleish JFIC DAL

A girl goes alone with her father to build a new home in the Connecticut wilderness and stays with the Indians. Her father goes back to bring the rest of the family.

Diary of a Monster's Son by Ellen Conford JFIC CON

Bradley Fentriss keeps an account of life with his loving, if somewhat unusual, father.

Dinosaur Bones by Aliki J567.9 A

An easy-to-read look at how scientists, studying fossil remains, provide information on how dinosaurs lived millions of years ago.

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Dinosaur Ghosts: The Mystery of Coelophysis by J. Lynett Gillette J 567.9 G

It is said that dinosaur fossils come out to play after dark at Ghost Ranch, where thousands of dinosaur bones have been discovered.

The Dog That Stole Home by Matthew F. Christopher JFIC CHR

When his telepathic dog Harry is grounded for nipping another dog, Mike wonders how he'll ever make it through the baseball game without his advice and encouragement.

Encyclopedia Brown and the Case of the Slippery Salamander by Donald Sobol JMYS SOB

Encyclopedia Brown, the super sleuth in sneakers, continues his war on crime in ten new cases.

Fantastic Mr. Fox by Roald Dahl JFIC DAH

Three mean farmers will do anything to get Mr. Fox. Unfortunately for the farmers, Mr. Fox and his fine family have other plans.

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Finding Providence by Avi JB Williams

After being forced to leave Massachusetts Bay Colony, Roger Williams travels south and founds Providence, Rhode Island with the help of the Narragansett Indians.

Goin' Someplace Special by Patricia McKissick JFIC MCK

In segregated 1950s Nashville, a young African American girl braves a series of indignities and obstacles to get to one of the few integrated places in town: the public library.

The Great Bicycle Race Mystery (#76) by Gertrude Chandler Warner JMYS WAR

The Aldens participate in a three-day bicycle ride and soon find that someone seems to be intent on keeping others from completing the event.

Horrible Harry and the Purple People by Suzy Kline JFIC KLI

Horrible Harry, the class clown of Room 2B, returns to the spotlight with the Purple People, mysterious beings that only he can see.

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How We Crossed the West: The Adventures of Lewis and Clark by Rosalyn Schamzer J 978 S

When Thomas Jefferson was president of the 17 United States, the beautiful and untamed wilderness west of the Mississippi was explored by Lewis, Clark and young Sacajawea.

I, Amber Brown by Paula Danzinger JFIC DAN

Because her divorced parents share joint custody of her, nine-year-old Amber suffers from lack of self-esteem and feels that she is a piece of jointly-owned property.

In the Time of the Drums by Kim Siegelson JFIC SIE

Mentu, an American-born slave boy, watches his beloved grandmother, Twi, lead the insurrection at Teakettle Creek of Ibo people arriving from Africa on a slave ship.

Ink Drinker by Eric Sanvoisin JFIC SAN

A boy who hates books discovers an ink-drinking vampire in his father's bookshop and follows him to his underground vault.

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Jackie Robinson: He Was the First by David A. Adler JB ROBINSON

Jackie Robinson, a star athlete, helped the Brooklyn Dodgers win six pennants and a World Series.

Judy Moody by Megan McDonald JFIC MCD

Third grader Judy Moody is in a first day of school bad mood until she gets an assignment to create a collage all about herself and begins creating her masterpiece, the Me collage.

Julian's Glorious Summer by Ann Cameron JFIC CAM

It was Julian's seventh summer and he really wanted a bike.

Just Like Mike by Gail Herman JFIC HER

When Michael Brown's mother remarries and Michael's last name changes to Jordan, the kids at his new school expect him to be like his namesake on the basketball court but, unfortunately, this Michael is terrible at sports.

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Justin and the Best Biscuits in the World by Mildred P. Walter JFIC WAL

As a boy in a family full of females, Justin thinks keeping house is women's work, until he spends time on his grandfather's ranch.

Kate Shelley, Bound for Legend by Robert D. San Souci JB Shelley

The biography of an Iowa teenager who helped rescue survivors of a train wreck and became a national heroine.

Llama in the Family by Johanna Hurwitz JFIC HUR

A boy who hopes his family will surprise him with a new bike gets a pet llama instead.

Lizzie Logan, Second Banana by Eileen Spinelli JFIC SPI

When Lizzie's mother announces that she is going to have a baby, best friend Heather helps Lizzie deal with her fears that her stepfather will love the new baby more than he loves her.

Marven of the Great North Woods by Kathryn Lasky JFIC LAS

When his Jewish parents send him to a Minnesota logging camp to escape the influenza epidemic of 1918, ten-year-old Marven finds a special friend.

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Me Tarzan by Betsy Byars JFIC BYA

When Dorothy gets the part of Tarzan in the class play, her tremendous yell attracts the attention of increasingly larger and wilder animals.

Muggie Maggie by Beverly Cleary JFIC CLE

Maggie refuses to learn how to read and write cursive. Her teacher has a secret plan to help Maggie.

Piggins by Jane Yolen JMYS YOL

Piggins, the butler, discovers the theft of Mrs. Reynard's diamond necklace during a dinner party.

Ragweed by Avi JFIC AVI

Ragweed, a young country mouse, leaves his family and travels to the big city, where he finds excitement and danger and sees cats for the first time.

Red-Eyed Tree Frog by Joy Cowley J 597.87 C

In this photo-illustrated book, a plucky red-eyed tree frog searches for something to eat--and avoids the many dangers of the rain forest.

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Sarah, Plain and Tall by Patricia MacLachlan JFIC MAC

Sarah, a mail-order bride, comes to live with Caleb, Anna and their father on the prairie.

Skirt by Gary Soto JFIC SOT

When a girl leaves the skirt she is to wear in a dance performance on the school bus, she needs all her wits to get it back before her parents find out she has lost something yet again.

So You Want to be President by Judith St. George J 923 S 2000

The reader is led through the good points of the presidency (big house with its own bowling alley and movie theater) and bad points (lots of homework) and finally into presidential history with humorous comparisons and contrasts.

26 Fairmount Avenue by Thomas DePaola JB DE PAOLA 1999

The popular illustrator recounts the events that surrounded his family's move to the address of the title, in Meriden, Connecticut, when he was five years old.

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Tallchief, America's Prima Ballerina by Maria Tallchief JB TALLCHIEF

Tallchief's story begins with her childhood on an Osage Indian reservation in Oklahoma, where she took her first piano and dance lessons. After moving to Los Angeles her parents found excellent teachers for the young dancer who worked hard to fulfill her aspiration to dance with the best, the Ballet Russes de Monte Carlo.

The Truth about Great White Sharks by Mary Cerullo J 597.3 C 2000

Cerullo examines what is known about sharks, using many photos and trendy graphics. Topics covered include physical characteristics, behaviors, feeding habits, the difficulties of studying sharks, and the potential to provide medical benefits for humans.

Tut Tut by John Scieszka JFIC SCI

The intrepid Time Warp Trio is back and up to hieroglyphic high-jinks in the land of the pyramids.

Recommended Reading For Fourth Grade

26 Fairmount Avenue by Tomie De Paola JB PAOLA

An autobiography of the popular children's author Tomie De Paola. He describes the year before his family moved from an apartment into their new home on Fairmount Avenue. The book gives glimpses into his childhood and connects with his picture books.

Abel's Island by William Steig JFIC STE

When Abel tries to rescue Amanda's scarf, he is swept away into a torrent of water and finally lands on an island. Here the lazy and pampered Abel must take care of himself and find a way home.

Ace the Very Important Pig by Dick King-Smith JFIC KIN

Farmer Tubb's amazing pig, Ace, winds up on television for his cleverness.

Afternoon of the Elves by Janet Taylor Lisle JFIC LIS

Hillary doesn't believe the mean things she hears about Sara-Kate, she leaves her comfortable surroundings to live and explore the elves' village in Sara-Kate's back yard.

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All About Sam by Lois Lowry JFIC LOW

Anastasia Krupnik's little brother Sam gets a chance to tell his own story about life in the Krupnik family.

Amber Brown Wants Extra Credit by Paula Danziger JFIC DAN

Amber Brown is in 4th grade. Her parents get a divorce, her best friend Justin moves away, and she gets in trouble in school.

Beetles, Lightly Toasted by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor JFIC NAY

A boy competes with his know-it-all cousin by creating recipes from unusual food sources and testing them on unaware friends and family.

Beezus and Ramona by Beverly Cleary JFIC CLE

Nine-year-old Beezus Quimby has her hands full with her little sister, Ramona. Sure, other people have little sisters who bother them sometimes, but are there any in the world like Ramona?

Best School Year Ever by Barbara Robinson JFIC ROB

The six horrible Herdmans, the worst kids in the history of the world, cause mayhem throughout the school year. Sequel to Best Christmas Pageant Ever.

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Bill Peet: An Autobiography by Bill Peet JB PEET

In words and pixyish pictures, the children's book writer who animated major Disney films remembers his childhood and career.

The Boy Who Owned the School by Gary Paulsen JFIC PAU

A funny book — it is about a shy boy who doesn't like to talk to anyone or be noticed. He's flunking English and has to work on the set of the school play to get extra credit.

Catch That Pass by Matt Christopher JFIC CHR

One of a long series of books about football, baseball, hockey, and other sports.

Chocolate Touch by Patrick Skene Catling JFIC CAT

The story tells of the two days after John acquired the chocolate touch — the magic that turned everything he touches into chocolate.

Christina's Ghost by Betty Wright JMYS WRI

When Christina has to spend the summer with grumpy Uncle Ralph in his Victorian mansion, she is dismayed to find a ghost in the house.

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Coffin on a Case by Eve Bunting JMYS BON

Twelve-year-old Henry Coffin, son of a private investigator, helps a gorgeous high school girl in a dangerous attempt to find her kidnapped mother.

Coyotes in the Crosswalk by Diane Swanson J 591.5268 S

Learn how all sorts of unique and wily wild creatures have made themselves at home in the cracks and crannies of our cities and towns.

Dead Letter by Betsy Byars JMYS BYA

Herculeah Jones and her best friend Meat set out to crack the case of a mysterious note which she finds in the lining of a second-hand coat.

Dolphin Treasure by Wayne Grove J 599.53 G

In this sequel to Dolphin Adventure, a man searching for buried treasure off the Florida coast is cast adrift by a storm until a dolphin comes to his aid.

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Encyclopedia Brown and the Case Of Pablo's Nose by Donald Sobol JMYS SOB

America's "Sherlock Holmes in sneakers" continues his war on crime in 10 more cases, the solutions to which appear in the back of the book.

Falling Up by Shel Silverstein J 811 S

Poems and drawings by the author of Where the Sidewalk Ends.

Fat Fanny, Beanpole Bertha, and the Boys by Barbara Ann Porte JFIC POR

To raise money, Bertha and Fanny decide to teach Fanny's triplet brothers to tap dance.

The Fighting Ground by Avi JFIC AVI

Jonathan learns about war the hard way when he runs away to join the American Revolution.

Ginger Pye Eleanor Estes JFIC EST

Jerry and Rachel are very proud of the dog they purchased for $1, and are puzzled and upset when they must solve the mystery of who stole Ginger on Thanksgiving Day.

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Great Brain by John D. Fitzgerald JFIC FIT

The exploits of the Great Brain of Adenville, Utah are described by his younger brother, the frequent victim of the Great Brain's schemes.

Guide Dog Puppy Grows Up by Caroline Arnold J 636.73 A

Follows the career of a guide dog from its days as a puppy, through the training process, until it is placed with a blind person.

Hannah on Her Way by Claudia Mills JFIC MIL

Quiet, introspective Hannah is surprised when she is befriended by a very popular girl at her school.

Harvey's Horrible Snake Disaster by Eth Clifford JFIC CLI

Harvey tries to hide the fact that he is petrified of snakes.

Hey, New Kid by Betsy Duffey JFIC DUF

When his family moves in the middle of the school year, third-grader Cody decides to start fresh; instead of being ordinary Cody, he's going to be Super Cody.

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Homer Price by Robert McCloskey JFIC McC

Classic story of an all-American boy growing up in a small midwestern town. Continued in Centerburg Tales.

Hot and Cold Summer by Johanna Hurwitz JFIC HUR

Two inseparable 10-year-old boys discover there is room in their friendship for another person, and it really doesn't matter if she is a girl.

How to Eat Fried Worms by Thomas Rockwell JFIC ROC

Two boys set out to prove that worms can make a delicious meal.

Hurricanes: Earth's Mightiest Storms by Patricia Lauber J 551.55 L

Tells how hurricanes form, how scientists study them, and how they have affected people and the environment.

In the Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson by Betty Bao Lord JFIC LOR

A Chinese girl moves to Brooklyn where she makes new friends, discovers baseball, and becomes a Brooklyn Dodgers fan.

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Indian in the Cupboard by Lynn Reid Banks JFIC BAN

A nine-year old boy receives a plastic Indian, a cupboard, and a key for his birthday, and finds himself involved in adventure when the Indian comes to life.

Jim Ugly by Sid Fleischman JFIC FLE

The adventures of Jake and Jim Ugly, Jake's part-mongrel, part-wolf dog, as they travel through the Old West trying to find out what really happened to Jake's father.

Just Like Mike by Gail Herman JFIC HER

Michael's mother is remarrying, and soon Michael will have a new family, a new home, and a new dad. Worst of all, though, he's going to have a new name; Michael Brown will be Michael Jordan.

Knights of the Kitchen Table by Jon Scieszka JFIC SCI

Three friends meet up with dragons, giants, and wizards when they are sent back in time by a magic book.

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Lily's Crossing by Patricia Reilly Giff JFIC GIF

During a summer spent at Rockaway Beach in 1944, a girl's friendship with a young Hungarian refugee causes her to see the war and her own world differently.

Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder JFIC WIL

The first volume in the well-known series of books about a pioneer family's struggle to survive in the wilderness.

Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder JFIC WIL

Laura and her family travel for many days in their covered wagon from Wisconsin to Kansas, until they find the best spot to build their little house on the prairie.

Little Ships: The Heroic Rescue at Dunkirk in World War II by Louise Borden JFIC BOR

An English girl and her father take their sturdy fishing boat and join scores of other civilian vessels crossing the English Channel to rescue Allied troops.

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Lost in the Devil's Desert by Gloria Skurzynski JFIC SKU

An 11-year-old boy suddenly finds himself alone and lost in the Utah desert, with only his wits to help him survive.

Matilda by Roald Dahl JFIC DAH

Super-bright first-grader Matilda is upset when the evil school principal Miss Trunchbutt goes after the teacher, Miss Honey.

Maxie, Rosie and Earl: Partners in Grime by Barbara Park JFIC PAR

Humorous story about three misfits who meet in the principal's office and end up hiding in the school dumpster.

Miracles on Maple Hill by Virginia Sorenson JFIC SOR

Marly and her brother experience new adventures and friends when they move to the country, including helping to get in a neighbor's maple sugar crop.

Misty of Chincoteague by Marguerite Henry JFIC HEN

Paul and Maureen work together to bring Phantom and her new foal, Misty, to Chincoteague.

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Mrs. Piggle Wiggle by Betty MacDonald JFIC

Mrs. Piggle Wiggle is a smart and caring lady who helps out the neighborhood kids by curing them of "bad habits" such as quarreling, not picking up toys, and every not-so-nice trait, that's been attributed to children.

The Noonday Friends byMary Stolz JFIC STO

Frannie Davis and her best friend quarrel because Frannie is kept too busy helping her Family after school, and they can only spend time together at school lunch .

Off and Running by Gary Soto JFIC SOT

When they learn that Rudy and Alex, two fifth grade class clowns, plan to run against them in the school elections, Miata and Ana know that they face a difficult race.

Paper Airplane Book by Seymour Simon J 629.133 S

An explanation of how things fly, plus directions for making your own paper airplanes.

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Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren JFIC LIN

Fantastic adventures of a red-headed Swedish girl with extraordinary power, who has a monkey and a horse for companions.

Poppy by Avi JFIC AVI

Mr. Ocax the owl rules the territory where Poppy, a young deer mouse, lives with her large, extended family. The mice have agreed to obey Mr. Ocax and, in exchange, he has promised to protect them from danger.

Rabbit Hill by Robert Lawson JFIC LAW

The animals on Rabbit Hill are full of anticipation about the new family about to move into the big house .

Ramona Forever by Beverly Cleary JFIC CLE

Ramona copes with a wedding, a new arrival in her family, a death, and her father's new job.

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Shiloh by Phyllis Naylor JFIC NAY

Eleven-year-old Marty Preston finds a mistreated beagle pup in his hometown of Friendly, West Virginia. The dog was abused by his owner. What should Marty do about it?

Shooting Star by Sheila Klass JFIC KLA

Annie Oakley, a girl who prefers hunting over sewing, breaks free from conventional behavior for girls and becomes a sharpshooter and entertainer.

Sounder by William Armstrong JFIC ARM

A poor sharecropper's family suffers when the father is unjustly imprisoned, and is kept growing by courage and love.

Soup in Love by Robert Newton Peck JFIC PEC

As Valentine's Day approaches, Soup and Rob learn that there are several different kinds of love.

Stinker From Space by Pamela Service JSF SER

An agent of the Sylon Confederacy fleeing from enemy ships crash-lands on earth and transfers his mind to the body of a skunk.

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Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume JFIC BLU

Fourth grader Peter must deal with his two-year-old brother, Fudge, with his disgusting cuteness and propensity for complicating Peter's life.

Tallchief: America's Prima Ballerina by Maria Tallchief JB TALLCHIEF

Maria Tallchief describes her childhood on an Osage reservation in Oklahoma, her development of her love of ballet, and her departure to New York where she rose to success.

Time Cat by Lloyd Alexander JFIC ALE

Jason's amazing cat, Gareth, takes him on exciting adventures through time and space.

Twin in the Tavern by Barbara Brooks Wallace JFIC WAL

A young orphan, afraid of being sent to the workhouse, finds himself at the mercy of the unsavory owner of a tavern in Alexandria, Virginia.

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Wanted ... Mud Blossom by Betsy Byars JFIC BYA

A side-splitting trial ensues after Pap's dog, Mud, is accused of eating the class hamster.

Whipping Boy by Sid Fleischman JFIC FLE

Prince Brat has a whipping boy named Jemmy who takes the blame for all the bad things the prince does.

Who Knew There'd Be Ghosts? by Bill Brittain JFIC BRI

Tommy tells how he discovers ghosts Essie and Horace and how they help him solve a mystery.

Windcatcher by Avi JMYS AVI

While learning to sail, a boy hears rumors about sunken treasure and starts following a couple who are acting mysteriously.

Wringer by Jerry Spinelli JFIC SPI

As Palmer nears his birthday, he finds himself dreading the town's annual Pigeon Day, when the new 10-year-olds must participate in a dreadful way.

Recommended Reading For Fifth Grade

Afternoon of the Elves by Janet Lisle. JFIC LIS

Hilary and the girl next door want to believe in the elfland of their back yard, and their friendship leads to startling discoveries.

Anastasia's Album by Hugh Brewster. JB ANASTASIA

Thanks to the albums and letters of Anastasia, the daughter of Tsar Nicholas II, we can step behind the palace gates and see what life was like for the last ruling family of Russia.

The Barn by Avi. JFIC AVI

To fulfill their dying father's last request, 9-year-old Ben and his brother and sister construct a barn on their land in the Oregon Territory.

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Bat 6 by Virginia Wolff. JFIC WOL

In a post-World WarII Oregon town, 21 6th grade girls tell the story of an annual softball game, when one girl's bigotry comes to the surface

Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate Di Camillo. JFIC DIC

10-year-old India Opal Buloni describes her first summer in the town of Naomi, Florida, and all the good things that happen to her because of her big ugly dog Winn-Dixie.

Bigger by Patricia Calvert. JFIC CAL

When his father disappears at the end of the Civil War, a boy decides to go after him and bring him home.

The Boggart by Susan Cooper. JFIC COO

After visiting a Scottish castle, a girl finds that she has accidentally brought a boggart back home with her.

Bud, not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis. JFIC CUR

10-year-old Bud, an orphan living in Flint, Michigan, during the Great Depression, escapes a bad foster home and searches for the man he believes is his father—a renowned bandleader, H.E. Calloway of Grand Rapids.

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Castle by David Macaulay. J 728.8 M

The text and detailed drawings follow the planning and construction of a typical castle and adjoining town in 13th century Wales. See also City, Cathedral, Pyramid, Underground and other books by this author.

The Castle in the Attic by Elizabeth Winthrop. JFIC WIN

The gift of a model castle sets a young boy off on a magical quest to challenge the evil Wizard Alastar and save the valiant Sir Simon.

The Cay by Theodore Taylor. JFIC TAY

Philip and an old black man are shipwrecked on a deserted island after being torpedoed by a Nazi ship during World War II.

Dear Mr. Henshaw by Beverly Cleary. JFIC CLE

In letters to his favorite author, 10-year-old Leigh reveals his problems in coping with his parents' divorce, being the new boy in school, and finding his place in the world.

Earthquake Terror by Peg Kehret. JFIC KEH

When an earthquake hits the island where his family is camping, a boy must keep himself, his sister, and his dog alive.

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Exploring the Titanic by Robert Ballard. J 910.453 B

A dramatic telling of the sinking of this liner in 1912 and the exploration of the wreckage. Spectacular pictures.

From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by Elaine L.Konigsburg. JFIC KON

A boy and girl run away from home and hide for a time in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

The Ghost of Fossil Glen by Cynthia C. DeFelice. JMYS DEF

Allie knows it's not her imagination when she hears a voice and sees in her mind's eye the face of a girl who seems to be seeking Allie's help.

Gone-Away Lake by Elizabeth Enright. JFIC ENR

Portia and her cousin discover adventure and new friends in a colony of forgotten summer cottages on a swampy lake.

The Great Fire by Jim Murphy. 977.311 K

The Chicago Fire of 1871 is described by eyewitnesses through its three horror-filled days of destruction.

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Half Magic by Edward McMaken Eager. JFIC EAG

When four bored siblings find a coin that grants them wishes — but only half the wish — their summer becomes considerably more interesting.

Harriet the Spy by Louise Fitzhugh. JFIC FIT

Independent-minded Harriet works hard at becoming a spy, keeping careful observations in a secret notebook, and is horrified and troubled when her classmates confiscate her notes to read aloud.

Honus and Me by Dan Gutman. JFIC GUT

Joey, who loves baseball but is not very good at it, finds a valuable 1909 Honus Wagner card and travels back in time to meet Honus.

In the Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson by Bette Lord. JFIC LOR

A young Chinese girl immigrates to Brooklyn during the 1940s and in adjusting to the U.S., discovers the Brooklyn Dodgers.

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Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell. JFIC ODE

An Indian girl learns to survive alone on an isolated island off the California coast.

Jeremy Thatcher Dragon Hatcher by Bruce Coville. JFIC COV

Small for his age but artistically talented, twelve-year-old Jeremy Thatcher unknowingly buys a dragon's egg.

Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key by Jack Gantos. JFIC GAN

To the constant disappointment of his mother and his teachers, Joey has trouble paying attention or controlling his mood swings when his prescription meds wear off and he starts getting worked up and acting wired.

Journal of Joshua Loper by Walter Myers. JFIC MYE

In 1871 Joshua Loper, a 16-year-old black cowboy, records in his journal his experiences while making his first cattle drive under an unsympathetic trail boss.

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The Long Road to Gettysburg by Jim Murphy. J 973.734 M

Describes the events of the Battle of Gettysburg as seen through the eyes of two actual participants, 19 year-old Confederate lieutenant John Dooley and 17-year-old Union soldier Thomas Galway.

The Man Who Was Poe by Avi. JFIC AVI

A boy searching for his missing mother encounters Edgar Allan Poe in disguise as the detective Auguste Dupin.

Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli. JFIC SPI

Jeffrey Magee's astonishing athletic skills earn him the nickname "Maniac." But it is his innocent friendships on both sides of a segregated town that earn him legendary fame.

Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH by Robert C. OBrien. JFIC OBR

Having no one to help her with her problems, a widowed mouse visits a group of rats whose former imprisonment in a laboratory made them wise.

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My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George. JFIC GEO

Young Sam Gribley, tired of the crowded city, runs away to the Catskill Mountains where he learns to survive in the wild with the help of a falcon named Frightful.

No More Dead Dogs by Gordon Korman. JFIC KOR

8th-grade football hero Wallace Wallace is sentenced to detention attending rehearsals of the school play and, in spite of himself, he becomes wrapped up in the production and suggests changes that improve the play and his life.

Park's Quest by Katherine Paterson. JFIC PAT

Eleven year-old Park makes some startling discoveries when he travels to his grandfather's farm in Virginia to learn about his father who died in the Vietnam war.

Redwall by Brian Jacques. JFIC JAC

The peaceful life of Redwall Abbey is shattered by the arrival of the evil rat Cluny and his villainous hordes. The first volume of the Redwall series.

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Riding Freedom by Pam Munoz Ryan. JFIC RYA

A fictionalized account of Charley (Charlotte) Parkhurst who ran away from an orphanage, posed as a boy, moved to California, and fooled everyone by her appearance.

Running Out of Time by Margaret Peterson Haddix. JFIC HAD

When a diphtheria epidemic hits her 1840 village, 13-year-old Jessie discovers it is actually a 1996 tourist site under observation by heartless scientists. Jessie has to escape the village and save the dying children.

Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes by Eleanor Coerr. JFIC COE

Moving story of a young Japanese girl who dies of Leukemia that developed from the bombing of Hiroshima.

The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett. JFIC BUR

Beloved children's classic about a lonely orphaned girl who moves to England and discovers a walled garden which changes her life.

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Shiloh by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor. JFIC NAY

A boy tries to hide a dog in the woods in an effort to save the dog from his mean-spirited owner.

Something Big Has Been Here by Jack Prelutsky. J 811 P

A wealth of funny verse from a favorite poet with vivid words, rhythmic cadences and infectious humor.

The Trading Game by Alfred Slote. JFIC SLO

Andy's baseball talent is combined with a consuming interest in collecting cards, a pastime that his grandfather scorns. Their conflict comes to a head in a game which Grandpa must coach.

Time for Andrew: A Ghost Story by Mary Downing Hahn. JFIC HAH

When he spends the summer with his great aunt in the family's old house, a boy is drawn to the past.

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Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt. JFIC BAB

Winnie Foster stumbles upon the Tuck family's secret of eternal life. But she is followed by an evil stranger who wants to use the secret for profit.

When the Circus Came to Town by Polly Horvath. JFIC HOR

Not everyone welcomes Elvira the Snake Lady and The Flying Gambinis to the neighborhood.

Williwaw! by Tom Bodett. JFIC BOD

13-year-old September and her younger brother Ivan disobey their father by taking the boat out on their Alaska bay, where they are caught in a terrifying storm called a williwaw.

The Wright Brothers: How They Invented the Airplane by Russell Freedman. JB WRIGHT

Describes the lives of Wilbur and Orville Wright and provides details on how they developed the first airplane.

Yang the Youngest and His Terrible Ear by Linsey Namioka. JFIC NAM

A musically untalented boy is faced with giving a violin performance when he would rather be playing baseball.

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Recommended Reading For Middle School

Anne Frank, Beyond the Diary: A Photographic Memoir by Ruud Van der Rol JB FRANK

Photographs, illustrations, and maps accompany historical essays, diary excerpts, and interviews, providing insight to Anne Frank and the massive upheaval which tore her world apart.

The Beauty of the Beast J 808.81 B

An illustrated collection of poems selected by Jack Prelutsky celebrating the animal kingdom, from the lowly earthworm to the majestic whale.

Betsy Zane, the Rose of Fort Henry by Lynda Durrant JFIC DUR

In 1781 twelve-year-old Elizabeth Zane, great-great-aunt of novelist Zane Grey, leaves Philadelphia to return to her brothers' homestead near Fort Henry in what is now West Virginia, where she plays an important role in the final battle of the American Revolution.

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Blizzard! : The Storm that Changed America by Jim Murphy J 974 M 2000

Presents a history, based on personal accounts and newspaper articles, of the massive snow storm that hit the North-east in 1888, focusing on the events in New York City.

Captain Kate by Carolyn Reeder JFIC REE

Determined to take her father's coal-carrying barge on the C & O Canal from Cumberland, Maryland, to Georgetown in D.C., twelve-year-old Kate learns hurtful truths about herself.

The Chicken Doesn't Skate by Gordon Korman JFIC KOR

Wild things happen at South Middle School when a student science project, Henrietta the chicken, becomes the hockey team's mascot.

Darkness Over Denmark: The Danish Resistance and the rescue of the Jews by Ellen Levine J 940.5318 L

Dealing With Dragons by Patricia Wrede JFIC WRE

Bored with traditional palace life a princess goes off to live with a group of dragons. Book One of the Enchanted Forest Chronicles.

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Franklin Delano Roosevelt by Russell Freedman JB Roosevelt.

One of the most loved and hated of America's presidents, he led us through the depression and World War II.

The Gentleman Outlaw and Me Eli: A Tale of the West by Mar Downing Hahn JFIC HAH

A twelve-year-old girl disguised as a boy travels to Colorado to search for her missing father on the way, she falls in with an outlaw and joins him in his illegal schemes.

A Girl from Yamhill: A Memoir by Beverly Cleary JB CLEARY

The popular children's author remembers her childhood years in Oregon, highlighting her family life and her growing interest in writing.

The Great American Goldrush by Rhoda Blumber J 979.4 B

Describes the emigration of people from all over California to pursue the dream of discovering gold.

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Homeless Bird by Gloria Whelan JFIC WHE

When thirteen-year-old Koly enters into an ill-fated arranged marriage, she must either suffer a destiny dictated by India's tradition or find the courage to oppose it.

The House With a Clock in its Walls by John Bellairs JFIC BEL

A boy goes to live with his magician uncle in a mansion that has a clock hidden in the walls which is ticking off the minutes until doomsday.

The Illyrian Adventure by Lloyd Alexander JFIC ALE

On a visit to a remote European kingdom in 1872, a fearless sixteen-year-old orphan and her guardian research an ancient legend and become enmeshed in a dangerous rebellion.

Just Ella by Margaret Peterson Haddix JFIC HAD

In this continuation of the Cinderella story fifteen-year-old Ella finds that accepting Prince Charming's proposal ensnares her in a suffocating tangle of palace rules and royal etiquette, so she plots to escape.

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Lyddie by Katherine Paterson JFIC PAT

An impoverished Vermont farm girl is determined to gain her independence by becoming a factory worker in Lowell, Massachusetts in the 1840's.

Over Sea, Under Stone by Susan Cooper JFIC COO

Three contemporary children enter the World of King Arthur.

Predator! by Bruce Brooks J 591.53 B

Lions, tigers, spiders, and even plants kill for a living, but they are a very important part of the environment.

Ribbons by Laurence Yep JFIC YEP

When her Chinese grandmother emigrates from Hong Kong to America, a promising young ballet student finds that her parents can no longer afford to let her continue her lessons. The Cook's Family is the sequel to this book.

The Righteous Revenge of Artmis Bonner by Walter Dean Myers JFIC MYE

When his uncle is gunned down, Artemis goes west to avenge his cold-blooded murder. But he doesn't own a gun and can't shoot.

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Shakespeare's Scribe by Gary Blackwood JFIC BLA

In plague-ridden 1602 England, a fifteen-year-old orphan boy, who has become an apprentice actor, goes on the road with Shakespeare's troupe, and finds out more about his parents along the way.

Silver Days by Sonia Levitin JFIC LEV

After the escape from Nazi Germany, the Platt family comes to the U.S. Lisa expects America to be like the movies. It isn't.

Sixth Grade Secrets by Louis Sachar JFIC SAC

When Laura starts a club called Pig City she almost starts a war among her classmates.

Small Steps: The Year I Got Polio by Peg Kehret JB KEHRET

The author describes her battle against Polio and her efforts to overcome its debilitating effects.

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The Stowaway by Nancy Rue JFIC RUE

Spending the summer in Salem Town as the guest of a wealthy ship owner, a ten-year-old boy asks God for help in dealing with a blackmailing bully.

Strange Attractors by William Sleator JSF SLE

A boy travels through time using a device several people would kill to possess.

There's a Girl in my Hammerlock by Jerry Spinelli JFIC SPI

Thirteen-year-old Maisie joins her school's formerly all-male wrestling team and tries to last through the season, despite opposition from other students, her best friend, and her own teammates.

Trout Summer by Jane Conly JFIC CON

A sister and a brother spend a largely unsupervised summer in a cabin near a river, where they befriend an elderly man who teaches them a great deal.

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View From the Cherry Tree by Willo Davis Roberts JFIC ROB

A boy unintentionally witnesses the murder of his next door neighbor, but no one believes him - except the murderer.

Virtual War by Gloria Skurzynski JSF SKU

In a future world where global contamination has necessitated limited human contact, three young people with unique genetically-engineered abilities are teamed up to wage war in virtual reality.

The White Dove by Lois Thompson Bartholomew JFIC BAR

Having escaped from the compound where she was imprisoned by the usurper of her dead father's throne, Tasha fights to survive while planning how to join those working to turn the kingdom into a democracy.

Wish Me Luck by James Heneghan JFIC HEN

While on an ocean voyage to Canada to escape the air raids in his Liverpool home, a twelve-year-old boy must face danger again when his ship is torpedoed by a U-boat.

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