Category Archives: children’s books

Dolly Parton – R.I.P.

Posted on August 26, 2026 by Jennie

I grew up in West Virginia, and Dolly Parton grew up not far away in Tennessee.  Country music was big for both of us where we grew up.  Dolly’s songs and voice will forever make me smile. But there is … Continue reading →

Posted in books, children's books, Community, Early Education, Giving, Imagination, Inspiration, Library, literacy, picture books, reading | Tagged , , , , , , | 43 Comments

My Summer Books

Posted on August 24, 2026 by Jennie

I delight in discovering new and wonderful picture books every summer.  Many I find at the Eric Carle Museum’s bookstore, as they’re often the one to have the best books.  Some I discovered through a fellow book lover.  We share … Continue reading →

Posted in art, Book Review, children's books, Eric Carle Museum, Library, literacy, museums, picture books, reading, reading aloud, The Arts | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 51 Comments

Jerry Pinkney – His Art and Fairy Tales

Posted on August 18, 2026 by Jennie

I was fortunate to see the current Jerry Pinkney exhibition at the Eric Carle Museum.  His art is extraordinary both in color and detail. Some years ago Jerry was a presenter at the museum.  I was there!  I got to … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, children's books, Expressing words and feelings, Imagination, Inspiration, literacy, picture books, reading aloud, The Arts | Tagged , , , , , , | 61 Comments

Visiting the Eric Carle Museum – The Best!

Posted on August 10, 2026 by Jennie

Every visit to the Eric Carle Museum is a new and exciting adventure.  I always discover something wonderful.  Yes, it’s that good. When I arrived I headed to the Art Studio.  I wish every elementary school teacher could visit and … Continue reading →

Posted in art, Book Review, children's books, Eric Carle, Eric Carle Museum, Imagination, Inspiration, literacy, museums, picture books | Tagged , , , , | 64 Comments

Milly the Quilter Story – Part 5

Posted on July 6, 2026 by Jennie

In Part 4 the Peace Quilt became part of the permanent collection at the National Liberty Museum in Philadelphia, and Milly became an important part of my classroom.  Children adored her.  She loved singing, and Milly’s favorite song was our favorite … Continue reading →

Posted in America, art, children's books, Inspiration, literacy, museums, patriotism | Tagged , , | 43 Comments

Remembering Jane Yolen

Posted on June 19, 2026 by Jennie

Children’s book author Jane Yolen has passed away.  She was a gifted author, and her books are well known.  She made a huge difference in the lives of children – and me.  I want to honor Jane with my memories … Continue reading →

Posted in books, children's books, Death and dying, Early Education, Eric Carle Museum, Giving thanks, Heart, Inspiration, joy, literacy, picture books, preschool, reading, reading aloud, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , | 65 Comments

Our Wish Tree at the Library

Posted on June 13, 2026 by Jennie

After reading Wishtree to my library group, I knew I had to do more.  When a really good book sticks with children, and they’re not ready to let go, it’s up to me to make something meaningful happen.  I can’t leave … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, books, chapter reading, children's books, Community, Expressing words and feelings, Heart, Inspiration, Library, literacy, Teaching young children, wonder, Writing | Tagged , , , | 82 Comments

Not All Days Are Good Days

Posted on May 26, 2026 by Jennie

Today was a tough day.  Nothing seemed to go right.  If you know the classic book, Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day, you know what I mean. It started with drop-offs.  Children who never cry cried.  For … Continue reading →

Posted in behavior, children's books, Expressing words and feelings, Mindfulness, picture books, preschool, reading aloud, School, Teaching young children | Tagged , | 50 Comments

A Memorial Day Remembrance

Posted on May 24, 2026 by Jennie

Every year at school we have a Memorial Day Remembrance.  It’s important for children, well…for everybody.  Making it meaningful for young children is not easy, but Retired Master Sergeant Michael Kennedy does a remarkable job. He asks children, “Who likes … Continue reading →

Posted in America, American flag, children's books, Community, Death and dying, history, military, patriotism, picture books, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , | 36 Comments

Wishtree, by Kathrine Applegate – Then and Now

Posted on May 9, 2026 by Jennie

When I visit with the grandchildren, a beloved ritual is reading a story before bedtime. The musicality of words floating into the ear and going into the mind becomes an arrow that pierces the heart.  It always happens that way. … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, chapter reading, children's books, Community, Diversity, Expressing words and feelings, Heart, Imagination, Inspiration, Library, literacy, reading, reading aloud | Tagged , , | 85 Comments