Children’s books by current writers which are both well-written and captivating. We use 1975 as the cut off date for calling something ‘contemporary’ or classic; however, contemporary generally means today’s kids can identify with the characters.
Published: 2019 Theme: Fairness Best for: 5 to 8 "Even if there is no trophy involved, I love winning. I am not a sore winner, no matter what Anna the Annoying says. I am the opposite of sore. I am a feel-great winner." A fun second-grade excursion into alphabetic order, fairness, envy, and creativity.
Published: 2019 Theme: Speaking Up Best for: 9 to 12 "Different isn't wrong," Pixit said with such utter certainty that Mina couldn't help but believe him...Mina said, "I just need to find a different way, a way that works for me." To get to the point, this is a must-read, about the power of children to change the world, finding their own voice along the way. Very inspiring fantasy that's not so fantastical in the end!
Published: 2006 Theme: A Children's Birth Best for: 4 to 6 "Little Angel said to Great Angel, "Oh I want to go to Bountiful Earth." "And so you shall, Little Angel, so you shall." A Waldorf birthday story, beautifully illustrated and retold.
Published: 2011 Theme: Friends Best for: 8 to 11 "Ms. Snoops's memory, whispered the angel, was like the lacy antimacassars on the organ and green striped sofa's arms. Ms. Snoops's memory had little holes in it, here and there..." A simple and easy to read story about friendships, generations, and healing the past.
Published: 2018 Theme: Knights Best for: ages 9 and up "Mel wavered. She was feeling beaten. The flying lizards were too large. Too fast. Too attentive. It was hopeless. But I mustn't give up, she thought." A very fun and entertaining book great for all genders and middle-school age kids.
Published: 2019 Theme: Holocaust and Family Memories Best for: 9 and up "When Charlie asked how many of the people in the photo album had survived the Holocaust, Mom simply looked away." A down-to-earth children's book about the importance of sharing and remembering the past.
Published: 2013 Theme: Easy Reader Best for: 5 to 8 Mole took up the oars. "Just this once, I'll try," he said, and he began to row. An easy reader version of the classic Wind in the Willows, done with care and beauty. What a great idea.
Published: 2019 Theme: Making a Difference Best for: 5 to 8 "If you see someone lonely, say something by just being there for them." In another wonderful children's book from Peter Reynolds, children learn they too can be a positive change in the world, very simply.
Published: 2018 Theme: Fantasy; Courage Best for: Girls age 11 and up "I've been looking for a way to find out more about my powers, about my destiny. This is the sign I've been waiting for, I'm sure of it. This is where I need to go." She pointed at her rough drawing of the shrine..." A sequel to Sisters of Glass, and every bit as dramatic and compelling. Fantasy genre.
Published: 2000 Theme: Power of Love Best for: 9 to 12 "I put my hand beneath his should to steady him. I felt something there, something held in my his jacket. I reached across his back and felt something beneath his other shoulder as well. Like thin arms, folded up." Children have the ability to see the miraculous, and to hope... and this book brings it home in a well-told story.
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