Books That Make a Difference

I have read, studied, and critiqued over two-hundred and fifty children’s books in the past two and a half years as I pursued my Master in Fine Arts in Writing for Children. Most are worthwhile reads. The ones I have listed here are high on my list of great books for kids.

Debbie’s Daily Dose of Food for Thought

You don’t have to go far to enrich your children’s lives. Reading together as a family strengthens bonds, creates shared memories and opens the door to dialogue about many things. So, why not read a book together? And, think about this quote by Jacqueline Kennedy: “There are many little ways to enlarge your child’s world. Love of books is the best of all.”

The Boxcar Children by Gertrude Chandler Warner

Who wouldn’t love the experience of living in a boxcar and having adventures with your brothers and sisters? Gertrude Chandler Warner wrote and re-wrote this book until it appealed to all children regardless of their reading abilities. Everyone should read this book! And when you have, plan a trip to the Gertrude Chandler Warner Boxcar Children Museum in Putnam, CT (Warner’s hometown). It’s so cool!

A Nest for Celeste by Henry Cole

Meet John James Audubon through the eyes of his assistant, Joseph and his mouse friend Celeste. This is a beautiful book with many incredible black and white illustrations that add depth to the story.

The Ship That Flew by Hilda Lewis

Peter buys a magic ship and travels with his siblings back and forth through time and history on fantastic, memorable journeys. This classis was first published in Great Britain in 1939. It was published here in 1958, then again in 1989. It’s one of my favorites of all time!

The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt

This is a coming-of-age story about seventh-grade Holling, a boy living on Long Island in 1967. It is funny, touching and I believe most children will relate to and understand Holling on so many levels. If he lived in Branford, I believe he might even be nominated as a .