Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus by Mo Willems

What it's about: The bus driver has to leave his bus for a bit and enlists the help of the reader to keep the pigeon from driving his bus. That pigeon sure is persistant.

Why I like it: The pigeon uses every type of persuasion, many of which are quite familiar to what a parent hears from their child ("I'll be your best friend!"). I also love the facial expressions captured in the simple illustrations. This book is just plain entertainment. I haven't met a kid who doesn't laugh hysterically when they read it.

What it teaches: This book is more on the silly side and not as educational (which is lots of fun sometimes). However, it is WONDERFUL for teaching voice and expression.

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Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney

What it's about: It's time for little llama to go to bed. Mama kisses him and tucks him in bed, but when she leaves plenty of llama drama ensues. Little llama wants his mama, but she's busy and can't come right away. Llama cries and screams and finally mama comes rushing back and tells him not to worry, she is always near.

Why I like it: Just looking at the cover makes me snicker a bit. The illustrator truly captures the emotion llama feels when left alone in his room, and for added giggles llama's stuffed toy always displays facial expressions identical to llama's.

What it teaches: A very helpful book for children who have trouble going to bed at night, and it's great for teaching kids to read with expression. I also use it to show children how to draw characters with lots of detail and emotion.

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Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson

What it's about: A witch and her cat take a ride on her broomstick, but she keeps losing things and has to land to search for each item. She has trouble finding her things, but other animals search them out and then ask if there is "room on the broom" for each of them. At the end, the witch gets caught by a dragon and her new friends come to the rescue.

Why I like it: Because of the different voices of the animals, it's fun to read this book with lots of expression. I also love the friendly personality of the witch and how her good deeds come back to her when she needs help.

Skills it teaches: This book teaches a lesson on the benefits of friendship. It is also great for teaching expression and rhyming skills. (I know...another rhyming book!)

Interested?
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