One More Sheep by Mij Kelly & Illustrated by Russell Ayto

Another great bedtime book. Sam the shepherd must make sure his sheep all are safe, but when he starts counting, he falls asleep. The sheep are offended, but have to come up with a quick solution because a wolf in sheep's clothing is at the door, and Sam's about to let him in. The sheep decided to intervene and peform a Conga line with numbers. This is a great hilarious book for kids of all ages, not only for bedtime, but also, for learning how to count.
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Creepy Monsters, Sleepy Monsters: a Lullaby by Jane Yolen & Illustrated by Kelly Murphy

This is a cute lullaby about monster children who spend the day playing, eating and then are put to bed. This is a great bedtime book to read to toddlers. The monsters are sweet and playful, and not scary at all. Reserve Creepy Monsters, Sleepy Monsters today.

Importance of Summer Reading Programs

Summer is almost here and the Chidren's Department is ready to launch our Dream Big Summer Reading Program.  Summer Reading programs are not only a fantastic way to relax and have fun, but are essential for children's learning skills and continued development, preventing what researchers term Summer Slide.  In our program children set their own goals and are encouraged to read books that interest them.  It is so wonderful to see even the smallest child seek out books on favorite subjects, whether it is Monster Trucks, Cats, Sports Teams or Ancient Egypt.  The New York State Library has this to say on the topic.

The Importance of Successful Reading Experiences

In their studies of children’s reading development, McGill-Franzen and Allington (2003), cite the importance of extensive, successful reading experiences in the development of reading proficiency.  If children have the opportunity to listen to, discuss, and read books on topics that they select, they will develop extensive background information which can serve as a platform from which to engage in their own independent reading.  Additional studies by Guthrie and Anderson (1999), found that “A history of less-successful reading experiences produces a lessened interest in voluntary reading than a history of successful reading experiences.”  According to Cunningham and Stanovich (1998), the key predictors of positive reading development are success when learning to read and numerous opportunities and experiences with reading.  Children who enjoy reading will read more and become proficient at the same time.  A report from the National Institute of Education (1988) concluded that, “…the amount of reading done out of school is consistently related to gains in reading achievement.”

The Impact of Innovative Summer Reading Programs

Public library summer reading programs are one solution to the “summer slide.” In an analysis of summer learning programs by Miller (2007), it was found that children can benefit from “hybrid” programs which combine elements of youth development principles with academic enrichment.  Summer reading programs in libraries exemplify this kind of hybrid program.  Barbara Heyn (1978) found that “More than any other public institution, including the schools, the public library contributed to the intellectual growth of children during the summer.”  Drs. Celano and Neumann  (2001), in a study prepared for the Pennsylvania Library Association, monitored differences between children participating in public library summer reading programs and those involved in local recreational summer programs.  They concluded that, in addition to literacy related activities, children in library programs benefited academically from story hours, arts and crafts, and other special events designed to enhance the reading experience.

http://www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/summer/research.htm

So join us this summer for a guilt-free and fun way to help your child excel.

Jake Gander, Storyville Detective by George McClements

Jake Gander, a cop in Storyville, has been asked by Red R. Hood who thinks someone is impersonating her granny. Can he solve the case or will he need some help? I really enjoyed all the references to other fairy tales sprinkled throughout the book. I also enjoyed the book's pace which is  reminiscent  of 1930's hard boiled detectives stories, and while the illustrations are in bright, vivid colors, Jake is in black, white, and gray colors. Great for ages 8 and up.
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Detective Little Boy Blue by Steve Metzger & Illustrated by Tedd Arnold

This great picture book takes a funny, clever twist on an old nursey rhyme. Little Boy Blue is all grown up and has traded in his shepherd's crook and horn for a treachcoat and a fedora. This detectve is on the case of tracking down the missing Miss Muffett. I really enjoyed all the references to other nursery rhymes. My favorite one was Detective Blue nabbing Mary's Little Lamb trying to sneak into school. This book is great for ages four and up.
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Emma's Turtle by Eve Bunting & Illustrated by Marsha Winborn

Turtle is Emma's pet and lives in a backyard pen. He loves to listen to Emma tell him stories about faraway places, such as China, Africa, and India. One day Turtle escapes and explores the world beyond his pen. This beautifully illustrated book is great for preschoolers as it is a gentle, but engaging story.
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The Tortoise and the Jackrabbit by Susan Lowell & Illustrated by Jim Harris

This Aesop fable about the great race between the tortoise and the hare is wonderfully retold in a southwestern setting. Children will learn about the various animals who live in the southwest through the delighful illustrations. The book also has correct pronounciations of various words a child may not know. This book is great for ages 6 and older.
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