Story Tags

Why So Series-ous?

Stories so long they need to be split up

Some stories are long. Real long. But often times, authors take pity on us and break the stories up in to chunks. And that's how a series is born. Here are some of my favorite series for kids. The first book of the series is discussed along with other series like it. The Giver By Lois Lowry

Halloween Tales!

Not-so-spooky chapter books for kids

Halloween is my favorite time of year. I spend the month of October reading spooky stories to get ready for the season. But spooky books aren't just for adults. There have been some excellent ones written for children. Here are some that are just the right level of scary for your young reader.

Books to Spur Your Child’s Imagination

School has begun, but the summer spirit of adventure doesn’t have to end. Now is as great a time as any for a good book. This list of classic fantasies, both new and old, will keep your child dreaming even as they get settled into a new school year.

A Quest is Afoot!

Middle grade novels about journeys and adventure

I have always found the idea of a quest kind of fascinating. Setting off with a purpose with your friends by your side and excitement before you has always appealed to me. Of course real life isn't always filled with noble steads waiting for your command and kings in need of a brave volunteer to set out on a daring mission. So instead I read. There are too many great quest books to cover in just one list but what follows are some of my favorites.

Interactive Picture Books

You can do more than just read along with your picture books!

One day, a dog will need your help convincing a dinosaur not to steal his ice cream! Or farm animals will want you to jump on a poor chicken's sofa! Or the zoo might send you mystery animals in the mail! Don't believe me? Well it's possible, with interactive picture books! Tap the Magic Tree by Christie Matheson

Tough Topics Read Feed: Peace and Conflict

When reflecting on the 2017 Summer Reading theme “Build a Better World" in the context of current events, the tough topics of “Peace” and "Conflict" come to mind. Why does it seem so difficult to grasp, embody and maintain? Ideally the books from this display will prompt family discussions about peace and the ways in which you can help to nurture and share it.

School Rules!

Titles to help get your student ready for school

Summer is coming to an end, which means a new school year is right around the corner. This time of year can cause anxiety in those moving to a new classroom. These titles remind us that we can all conquer the dreaded first day. First Day Jitters By: Julie Danneburg

A Catalog of Disturbing Dolls

In case you needed more nightmares.

Glass eyes, rag dresses, and yarn curls. There's nothing like a haunted doll to make even the bravest readers shiver. Forget that old Stephen King X-Files episode and read on for some thrilling tales that will leave you frightened, but not in pieces. Older Children Grades 3-6 Doll Bones by Holly Black

Build a Better World: Upper Elementary (4th-8th Grade) Children's Summer Reading List

In partnership with National Building Museum

This summer, DC Public Library has teamed up with the National Building Museum to create reading lists that connect our summer reading theme, "Build a Better World", to their mission to advance the quality of the built environment by educating people about its impact on their lives.