Summer's nearly here, bringing the hope of more leisure time to dive
into stories that inspire and delight. We asked Lori Mitchell of Island
Books on Mercer Island for her top picks for summer reading; her list
includes some classics -- and some wonderful new favorites -- to read
aloud or alone.
AGES 0-2
Mr. Gumpy's Outing
by John Burningham. A boat ride on the river with Mr. Gumpy, and
everyone wants to come along! There's an underlying theme of
unconditional acceptance. A good choice for parents itching to add a
few"moo's" and"baa's" to the telling.
This Little Piggy and Other Rhymes
by Jane Yolen (includes accompanying CD). An anthology of lap songs,
clapping games and action rhymes. Warmly illustrated by Will
Hillenbrand.
AGES 3-5
Earth Mother by Ellen Jackson. "All of creation, in its own way, is perfect." Illustrated by Leo and Diane Dillon.
I Love Tools
by Philemon Sturges. Follow the making of a birdhouse on a summer day
in this rhyming paean to tools. With illustrations by Shari Halpern.
AGES 6-10
Wildfire by Taylor Morrison. The people, the tools and the techniques of subduing blazing wildfires.
BFG by Roald Dahl. The "Big Friendly Giant" has kidnapped Sophie! Great to read aloud or alone.
AGES 11-14
Gemini Summer
by Iain Lawrence. The winner of the Pacific Northwest Booksellers
Award. Danny is convinced that a bedraggled stray dog is his brother
come back to life.
The 131/2 Lives of Captain Bluebear
by Walter Moers. A whimsical and intelligent adventure narrated by the
unique voice of Captain Bluebear and set in the imaginative land of
Zamonia. Perfect for any age.
AGES 15-18
The World According to Dog: Poems and Teen Voices by Joyce Sidman. An homage to canines in a handsome photo-illustrated edition.
Across the Nightingale Floor: Tales of the Otori, Book 1 by Lian Hearn. Set in feudal pseudo-Japan, this compelling fantasy features mystical powers, martial arts, heroes and romance.
ALSO...
Chew on This: Everything You Don't Want to Know About Fast Food by Eric Schlosser and Charles Wilson (ages 11-16). Fast Food Nation for the younger generation.
