"Junie B. Jones Is A Beauty Shop Guy!"

Junie B. Jones Is A Beauty Shop Guy!
Author: Barbara Park
Illustrator: Barbara Park
Genre: Chapter Book
Subgenre: Fiction, Humor
Theme: Future Goals, Asking for Help
Primary/Secondary Characters: Junie B. Jones, Daddy, Maxine, Mrs. (Junie's Teacher)
Date of Publication: Year 1998
Publishing Company: Random House Books for Young Readers

Summary: Junie B. Jones tags along with her father to the beauty shop to get his hair cut, by Maxine, the beautician. Junie B. is fascinated by the spinny chair and all the cool tools that the "beauty shop guy" gets to use. Junie B. then decides that she wants to be a beautician when she grows up, and that that will be her goal in life. Junie B. decides she needs practice, so she cuts the hair of her elephant, Phillip Bob, trims her bunny slippers, and then decides to cut her own hair. Junie B. fails miserably, and has to go to school the next day with a hat on, covering her awful mistake. Junie B. is afraid to tell anybody what happened, and eventually realizes that she msut ask her teacher, who she refers to as "Mrs." for help. Mrs. helps Junie B. and her father takes her to Maxine. She quickly fixes her hair, and Junie B. loves her new hair. She then realizes if it wasn’t for her cutting her own hair, this new haircut wouldn’t have happened, so all her hopes and dreams of being a beauty shop guy aren’t crushed after all, and she reaches into her drawer and pulls out an extra pair of scissors. She learns to never do things she knows nothing about, and to always ask for help in a time of need. Children in the classroom can greatly benefit from this book as they learn to never do something they are to not do, especially when their parents tell them otherwise. Junie B.'s use of inappropriate grammar and foolish acts teaches students what not to do, and how to make better decisions, which is crucial at a young age. Keeping this book in the classroom for pleasure reading is also a great idea, as these books spark students' interest and keep them wanting to read more.

"Amelia Bedelia Goes Camping!"

Amelia Bedelia Goes Camping
Author: Peggy Parish
Illustrator: Lynn Sweat
Genre: Chapter Book
Subgenre: Humor, Children's Fiction
Theme: Camping, Literal Thinking
Primary/Secondary Characters: Amelia Bedelia, Mr. Rogers
Date of Publication: Year 2003
Publishing Company: Harper Collins Publishers

Summary: Amelia Bedelia, everyone's favorite maid, goes on a camping trip with her employers. Mr. Rogers decides to teach Amelia everything he knows about the great outdoors, but Amelia takes everything with her literal mind. For example, Mr. Rogers tells Amelia to "pitch the tent" and she throws it into the bushes, because that is what she thought he wanted her to do. Mr. Rogers told Amelia they had to "hit the road", so Amelia took a stick and began to hit it on the road, as that is what made sense to her. She eventually gets the hang of the whole camping thing, and learns how to fish, and how to survive in the outdoors. But she is not hesitant to get back to her regular life, and her humor and entertaining acts keep the reader tuned in. This could be used in a classroom for a fun and easy read for students. Students can learn a thing or two about camping, and practice their reading skills as Amelia practices life skills that she is not familiar with. The books are in a series, so students can be hooked on these books and further their reading abilities with Amelia Bedelia.

"Junie B. Jones Is A Party Animal"

Junie B. Jones Is A Party Animal
Author: Barbara Park
Illustrator: Barbara Park
Genre: Chapter Book
Subgenre: Fiction, Children's Humor
Theme: Elegance, Fancy Fun, Crazy Girls
Primary/Secondary Characters: Junie B. Jones, Grace, Lucille, Lucille's Grandmother, Junie B.'s Grandmother
Date of Publication: Year 1997
Publishing Company: Random House Books for Young Readers

Summary: Junie B. Jones and her friend Grace are invited over to Lucille's grandmother's house for a sleepover. The three girls are in the same class together, and Lucille has a bit more fancy lifestyle than the rest of the class. Junie B. notices that everything at the grandmother's house is very elegant, even the glasses they drink from at supper. Junie B. accidentally breaks an expensive glass, as she is clumsy and not used to this lifestyle. While there, Junie B. and Grace help Lucille beg her "richie nana" for a poodle, as her grandmother had the money to easily pay for one. Junie B. decides she wants to live like this someday, but she would rather "party" and drink from her own grandmother's plastic cups now, as that is where she feels at home. This book can be used in the classroom, as this book is part of a large and intriguing series to young readers. Young students, especially young girls, admire Junie B. and find her humor entertaining, as she deals with life situations at home, and very frequently at school. Students will face the same challenges Junie B. faces, and the lessons in each book will provide knowledge and insight to just how to deal with them.

"Through My Eyes"

Through My Eyes
Author: Ruby Bridges
Illustrator: None
Genre: Chapter Book
Subgenre: Biography, Racism
Theme: Acceptance, Discrimination
Primary/Secondary Characters: Ruby Bridges, Mrs. King, Dr. Coles
Date of Publication: Year 1999
Publishing Company: Scholastic Press
Award: Orbis Pictus Award Winner

Summary: Ruby Bridges was a six year old black girl who just wanted an education, just like any other child. Ruby was protected in school by four U.S federal marshalls, as they made sure she was not harmed by the angry racist mobs and protestors. White parents of students in Ruby's class complained that there was a colored girl in the class with their child, and eventually all the children were taken out of the school to protest. ruby was the only student left in the classroom, and her dedicated teacher, Mrs. King decided to still teach Ruby, as she believed every student deserved an education. The year after, Ruby got another teacher by the name of Mrs. Henry, who she admired and became very attached to. Segregation at this time was at a high, and Ruby even had a psychiatrist by the name of Dr. Coles who talked to her about her issues and concerns. When the school was filled back up with students, Ruby felt different from all the other children, and although it was integrated, her life was changed forever. This book can be used in the classroom when teaching about racism and discrimination. Ruby was denied an education by the public because of her color, but because of one dedicated teacher, Ruby pushed on. Children can be inspired by Ruby as they learn that even if someone tells them that they cannot do something, that they can accomplish anything they put their mind to. Teaching children about discrimination is extremely important, especially when it still exists, in parts, today.

Summary:

"Let It Shine"

Let It Shine
Author: Ashley Bryan
Illustrator: Ashley Bryan
Genre: Picture Book
Subgenre: Spiritual Songbook
Theme: Religion, Cultural Diversity
Date of Publication: Year 2007
Publishing Company: Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing Division
Award: Coretta Scott King Award Winner (Picture Book)

Summary: This book is a mix of three different Spiritual songs that children learn at young ages. The three songs include, "This Little Light of Mine", "When the Saints Go Marching In" and "He's Got The Whole World In His Hands." The beautiful illustrations and colors on the pages of the book really give the songs character, and they show the world from different perspectives. The last few pages of the book are the songs with the sheet music, with more plentiful illustrations. This could be used in the classroom as it provides religious insight, and would be a great addition to a personal classroom library. Students will be attracted to the pretty colors and be able to relate to these words that many had possibly learned at a young age.

"Emma's Poem"

Emma's Poem: The Voice of the Statue of Liberty
Author: Linda Glaser
Illustrator: Claire A. Nivola
Genre: Poem Picture Book
Subgenre: Immigration
Theme: Statue of Liberty, Nationalism
Primary/Secondary Characters: Emma, Immigrants
Date of Publication: 2010
Publishing Company: Houghton Mifflin Books for Children
Poetry Book

Summary: Emma was a young girl growing up in New York city in a nice house, with nice belongings. Emma grew up and became a writer and visited NY Harbor, where she saw a bunch of immigrants looked tired and sad, just wanting a place to call home. Emma made friends with many of the immigrants, and had heard about France sending a statue to the United States, as a gift of friendship. To raise money to get the statue to the country, Emma created a poem, which was sold to many, and in 1886 Emma passed away. The statue was then brought over to this country, and students in classrooms all over the country continued to read Emma's work, and saw what one person can do for the entire country. This book can be used in the classroom as it teaches of the Statue of Liberty, and why our country received it. It discusses the topic of immigration, and this book could be used in either a poetry unit, or a history lesson, as well. Students can be inspired by Emma as her writing inspired many others, and it impacted the world.

"The Life and Death of Adolf Hitler"

The Life and Death of Adolf Hitler
Author: James Cross Giblin
Illustrator: None
Genre: Chapter Book
Subgenre: History, Biography
Theme: Holocaust, Life of a Villian
Primary/Secondary Characters: Adolf Hitler
Date of Publication: Year 2002
Publishing Company: Clarion Books, Houghton Mifflin
Award: Robert F. Sibert Award Winner

Summary: This books discusses the rise and fall of the most dangerous and destructive twentieth-century dictator, Adolf Hitler. The story begins with Hitler's birth and growth in Austria, and follows his years as a WWI soldier and his abilities as a political orator. The book discusses Hitler's gradual rise to power, as well as his associations with the Nazi Party. and his current political and economic conditions at the time. It outlines Hitler's life and career, and at times focuses on his commitment to Lebensraum (what is described as the additional "living space" for Germany) which triggered the series of invasions that pushed the world into another war, WWII. Hitler was a gifted individual that did not put his talents to proper use, and ended up ruining the lives of many. Hitlers actions had forever impacted the world, as his cruelty and inhumane acts were unfathomable by many, if not all. This could be used in the classroom when teaching history, especially the Holocaust. This early twentieth century happening has impacted the world forever, and children are to know about this important, yet horribly cruel event in their history. No child under the age of about seventh grade should be exposed to this book, as its gruesome details `and truthful acts would scare a young student. Many projects and papers could be based off this Bibliography and students could use its strong content in many ways.

"Over A Thousand Hills I Walk with You"

Over a Thousand Hills I Walk With You
Author: Hanna Jansen
Illustrator: Elizabeth D. Crawford
Genre:  Chapter BookNonfiction
Subgenre: Nonfiction, Real World Issues, History
Theme: Rwandan Genocide
Primary/Secondary Characters: Jeanne, Adoptive mother, Hutus, Tutsis
Date of Publication: Year 2006
Publishing Company: Carolrhoda Books
Award: Mildred L. Batchelor Award Winner

Summary: This nonfiction book is based on the true story of Jeanne, who is caught in a war of ethnicities in Rwanda. She was only eight when the Genocide occurred. Jeanne experiences the deaths of her mother and brother in the Genocide, and is forced to take on life by herself. The main reason for the Rwandan genocide is ethnic violence ­between the Tutsis and Hutus, and Jeanne is thrown into the middle of it, all by herself. The Tutsis were hunted down and betrayed by their neighbors and friends, the Hutus. Jeanne is not sure who she can trust, and has nobody there to stand by her side. Jeanne becomes wise as a young girl, and knows how to keep herself alive. The story is told by Jeanne’s adoptive mother, who becomes her guardian and mother figure, since her mother had passed away.Jeanne deserved a positive future, just like every other girl her age, and the Genocide was something that scarred her life forever. It tells of the detailed acts of Genocide happening in Rwanda in 1994, and the emotional, italicized dialogue from her real mother speaking to her tell of the feelings during this time. This novel can be used in the classroom when teaching about the Rwandan Genocide, but definitely not in a younger classroom. The gruesome details and truth to the event are descriptive, and would frighten young children. The thoughts felt and the actual historical truths in this book would teach children about this important fraction of history, and enable them to put themselves in the shoes of the characters.

"Dory Story"

Dory Story
Author: Jerry Pallotta
Illustrator: David Biedrzycki
Genre: Picture Book
Subgenre: Realistic Fiction, Adventure
Theme: Food Web, Sea Life, Imagination
Primary/Secondary Characters: Danny, Sea Life, Mom
Date of Publication: Year 2000
Publishing Company: Charlesbridge Publishing

Summary: Young Danny decided he wanted to learn more about the life of plankton in the sea, so he rowed his dory out into the middle of the ocean to find them. His mother always told him not to go out alone, but he figured he would be alright. Soon, the animals started a chain reaction and demonstrated the food web, as the sand eels were eating the shrimp, the mackerels eating the sand eel, and the bluefish eating the mackerel. Killer and humpback whales were in the food web, as well, and they knocked the dory right over, and Danny had to swim to safety. He made it on top of a huge rock, away from all the danger, when he heard his mother's voice. Danny had been using his imagination the whole time, and in reality, was playing with his toys in the bathtub. This story could be used in a classroom as it teaches about the food web in a fun and adventurous way. Children will learn what eats what, and just how the web functions. This could be used in an ocean and animal unit, and also keeps students attention with the action and twist at the end of the book.

"Where's My Teddy?"

Where's My Teddy?
Author: Jez Alborough
Illustrator: Jez Alborough
Genre: Picture Book
Subgenre: Fiction
Theme: Comfort, Child's Toys
Primary/Secondary Characters: Eddie, Freddie, Big Bear, Small/Large Teddy
Date of Publication: Year 1992
Publishing Company: Candlewick Press

Summary: Eddie loses his teddy bear Freddie somewhere in the woods. As he searches to find Freddie, he comes across a huge teddy bear, that just could not be his teddy bear. He hears a loud crying, to realize it is a big live bear holding a tiny teddy bear, wondering why his teddy bear got so small. He sees Eddie holding the huge teddy bear, and realize that they have each others' bears! They each swap teddy bears, and go to the homes to cuddle with their rediscovered teddy bears. This could be used in the classroom as the rhythmic words can be easily understood and paid attention to by young readers. Children will learn to love this book, and the fast paced action really keeps children's interest.

"White Socks Only"

White Socks Only
Author: Evelyn Coleman
Illustrator: Tyrone Geter
Genre: Picture Book
Subgenre: Realistic Nonfiction
Theme: Discrimination and Racism
Primary/Secondary Characters: Grandma, Young Girl, Chicken Man, Big White Man
Date of Publication: Year 1996
Publishing Company: Albert Whitman and Company

Summary: A young girl asked her Grandmother is she could go into town by herself, when in turn her grandmother told her a story from her childhood. She had gone into town alone, with 2 eggs in her pocket. She had passed the house of the well-known "Chicken Man" who was known to do great things, and nobody ever dared to mess around with him. She made it into town, and decided to test to see if eggs could really fry on the hot pavement, and they did. She was ever so hot, and decided to take a drink of water at the drinking fountain, yet it had a sign on it that read "whites only." Not knowing any better, she took off her black shes and exposed her white socks, and began to drink. A big white man came over and shoved her off and began to beat her, when more black people approached and started drinking from the fountain. More white people showed up and the big white man began beating the black people with his belt. At this time. the Chicken Man pushed through the crowd and drank from the water fountain, and all of the uproar grew silent and everyone left. He helped her back up, gave her a chicken feather from his hat, and took her back to her house. The sign on the fountain was then removed, and never appeared ever again. This book can be used in a classroom when teaching students about racism and discrimination. Children need to learn about how strong discrimination was in the past, and how some still exists today. They will become more familiar with how blacks felt at that time, as the viewpoint of the story is told by an elder black lady with a loving granddaughter.

"The Ugly Duckling"

The Ugly Duckling
Author: Hans Christian Anderson, Adapted by Jerry Pinkney
Illustrator: Jerry Pinkney
Genre: Picture Book
Subgenre: Fiction, Acceptance
Theme: Not fitting in, Judgement
Primary/Secondary Characters: Mother Duck, 4 Ducklings, the Ugly duckling, Old Woman, Hen and Cat, Good man and his Family, Swans
Date of Publication: Year 1999
Publishing Company:  Harper Collins Publishing
Award: Caldecott Honor Book


Summary: Mother duck had hatched 4 beautiful ducklings, and came to realize that the fifth egg would not hatch.
When it did eventually hatch, the duckling was not beautiful, but a brown ugly duckling that did not look like the rest. Every animal at the pond made fun of the Ugly Duckling, even his brothers and sisters. A hunter attempted to shoot the flock, and everyone flew away, but the Ugly Duckling could not fly. He hid in the brush and was discovered by a hunting dog, who thought him too ugly to pay any attention. The Ugly Duckling was very sad, and found a cottage where an old woman and a hen and cat resided, and those animals made fun of the duckling, as well. The duckling stayed there 3 weeks, and was actually welcomed, but all he wanted to do was swim, so he fled from the cottage into the real world. A good man and his family found the Ugly Duckling stuck in ice in the pond, and rescued him and brought him back to his family. His family took care of the Ugly Duckling, who came to realize he was not ugly anymore, but a beautiful, flying swan. This novel can be used greatly in the classroom when teaching acceptance and the impact of negative words on others. Students can see how hateful words effected the Ugly Duckling, and see how they can adapt their attitudes towards their fellow classmates. They can also realize that looks are not everything, and that everyone is a beautiful human being.

"Nobody Likes Me!"

Nobody Likes Me
Author: Raoul Krischanitz
Illustrator: Raoul Krischanitz
Genre: Picture Book
Subgenre: Fiction, Animals
Theme: Friendship and Loneliness
Primary/Secondary Characters: Buddy the dog, Rabbits, Mousey, Sheep, Cats, Fox
Date of Publication: Year 1999
Publishing Company: North-South Books

Summary: Buddy the dog is sad that nobody wants to be his friend. He asked Mousey to play with him, and Mousey ran back inside his hole. He asked the rabbits, sheep, and cats to play with him, and they all ran away from him. Buddy cried and cried because he thought that nobody liked him, until the Fox came along and asked Buddy why he was crying. Buddy told him that nobody liked him and that everyone ran away from him, and the Fox asked Buddy if he had asked the animals why they all ran away. Buddy and the Fox went and talked to all the animals, and the animals stated that they were all afraid of him, and that they actually wanted to be friends. All the animals were happy, and Mousey had run away because he was making a cake for everyone to enjoy, together. This book can be used in a classroom as it teaches of loneliness and how people feel if others ignore them, or run away form them. Children can relate as they are worried about what others may think of them, when they are just wanting to make friends. It teaches children of acceptance, and being a friend to everyone that they encounter.

"Mufaro's Beautiful Daughters"

Mufaro's Beautiful Daughters, An African Tale
Author: John Steptoe
Illustrator: John Steptoe
Genre: Picture Book
Subgenre: Folktale, Culture
Theme: Greed, Sibling Rivalry, Marriage
Primary/Secondary Characters: Mufaro, Manyaya, Nyasha, Nyoka
Date of Publication: 1988
Publishing Company: Scholastic Inc.
Award Winner: Caldecott Honor Book

Summary: Mufaro was the father of two daughters, Manyara and Nyasha in Africa. His goal was to find a man to be the King of the Empire, and one of his daughters to be the queen, Manyara was very greedy, and wanted the Kingdom all to herself, and felt as though she needed to be the queen. Nyasha was very humble, and knew what would happen would happen for the best. Nyasha tended to her garden and cared for the snake within it, fed the hungry children, and cared for the elders. At the same time, Manyara ignored the hungry children, did not have her own garden, and was so certain she would be the queen that she told everyone to bow down to her. As Nyasha was admiring the Kingdom and it's beauty one day, the snake from her garden, Nyoka, approached her, and told her that he was the King in disguise, and that he had seen all her good deeds, and she deserved to be the queen. Manyara became the servant and Nyasha rose as the Kingdom's queen. This book can be used in a classroom in many ways, as books of culture are not abundant in the curriculum. When learning about different cultures, this book could be used to set the scenery and demonstrate the qualities of other cultures, as well as provide entertainment at the same time. Children could learn from this book and the cultural value that comes along with it.

"Lunchtime for a Purple Snake"

Lunchtime for a Purple Snake
Author: Harriet Ziefert
Illustrator: Todd McKie
Genre: Picture Book
Subgenre: Realistic Fiction,Art
Theme: Creativity, Learning from Elders
Primary/Secondary Characters: Grandpa, Jessica
Date of Publication: Year 2003
Publishing Company: Houghton Mifflin Company

Summary: Jessica is a young girl who visits her grandfather, who is a painter. Her grandfather instructs her how to paint, and just how to make the perfect picture. He teaches Jessica what colors mix together to make other colors, and what colors mix together to make a not so pretty color. He teaches Jessica how to not ruin her pictures by adding too much paint, and then tells her to create her own masterpiece. She creates a picture of a snake, and her grandfather adds his own personal creativity to it, and then tells her to title her own picture. She names it "Lunchtime for Purple Snake", as it is a photo of a snake in the garden, eating a big green insect. This book can be used in the classroom, especially in an art setting where students are learning colors and what mixes together. It can be used alongside an art project, as its concepts easily relate. It also teaches students how their elders can teach them life lessons, and talents that they possess, as well. Students can identify easily with this book, and it's concepts should be addressed in the classroom.

"Hoot"

Hoot
Author: Carl Hiaasen
No Illustrator
Genre: Chapter Book
Subgenre: Realistic Fiction, Mystery
Theme: Crime and Vandalism, Bullying, Suspense
Primary/Secondary Characters: Curly,Officer Delinko, Roy Eberhart, Mr. & Mrs. Eberhart, Dana Matherson, Beatrice, Mullet Fingers
Date of Publication: Year 2002
Publishing Company: Random House Children's Books
Award: Newbery Honor Award Winner 

Summary: Officer Delinko was a police officer in Florida and got a call that the site for the future home of "Mother Paula's All-American Pancake House" had been vandalized, by a local man named Curly. Delinko checked out the site and Curly had informed him that there were owls living there, and their home was about to be destroyed. The next day, alligators has been found in the port-a-john and it was apparent that someone was trying to hurt the workers and protect the owls. In the meantime, Young Roy Eberhart recently had moved to Florida from Montana, and absolutely hated it. She did not like his school, Trace Middle School, and constantly got bullied on the school bus by a fellow classmate, Dana Matherson. One day,  Roy spotted a boy with no shoes sprinting down the sidewalk, and it appeared he had no destination in mind. Roy grew curious and he saw it the next day, and decided to follow the boy. As he went to exit the schoolbus to follow the running boy, the bully Dana began to choke Roy, and Roy bunched him and broke his nose, then sprinted after the boy. Later in the story, Roy met the boy, and he eventually found out he was the individual attempting to save the owls. Roy decided to help him and petition, with a few of his classmates: Soccer player and bully Beatrice, Dana, and the boy, who was named "Mullet Fingers". The group was successful, saved the owls, and Roy grew to love Florida and look at the positive side of things.
This is a great novel to use in the classroom. It teaches children determination, and to fight for what they believe in. It also teaches them about conservation, and saving the homes that animals reside in, not building and destroying natural habitats. It also touches upon bullying, and how to deal with it, as Roy wrote and letter and apologized to Dana in person for the violent act he put on him. This novel could be used when teaching about animal conservation, especially with older elementary-aged students. The mystery within the novel will keep children wanting to read more, and the happy outcome in the end results in an overall great evaluation for this book.

"Saran, Plain and Tall"

Sarah, Plain and Tall
Author: Patricia MacLachlan
No Illustrator
Genre: Chapter Book
Subgenre: Young Adult, Historical Fiction
Theme: Family Loss, Hope for a new future
Primary/Secondary Characters: Anna, Caleb, Papa (Jacob), Sarah
Date of Publishing: Year 1985
Publishing Company: Harper Collins Publishers
Awards: Newbery Award Winner & Scott O'Dell Historical Fiction Award Winner

Summary: The mother of young Anna and Caleb died when Caleb was born. The two children were left to grow up motherless, with a single father who had an entire farm to care for in itself. Papa is lonely as he tries to take care of the two children, but a mother figure was definitely needed in the household. Their neighbors are far away, and the farm seems lonely and isolated, so there are no women for papa to potentially meet. Caleb always asks Anna what life was like when Mama was around, and she wish he had gotten to know her, just as she had. Papa puts an ad in the newspaper for a potential wife, and gets a response from a woman from Kansas, named Sarah. Sarah writes the family letters, as they ask her questions; Anna even asks Sarah if she can braid hair! Sarah is a lanky woman who considers herself "plain" and fairly simple. Sarah moves to the farm with the family, but grows homesick. She returns to Kansas for a short trip and the children are worried she will never return, as they had grown close to Sarah as she treated the children as their own. Papa ends up marrying Sarah and the children have a woman figure to love and care for them, even if she is just "plain and tall".
This novel could be used in the classroom in a variety of ways. I, personally, was motherless as a child and know what it is like. Many children experience the loss of a parent, and are left with an empty void that only a mother figure can fill. This book allows children to relate, as Anna and Caleb are young like many other children, and feel the same feelings many children may be feeling. As this book takes place in the early 1900's, some history shows through, which can be informative to the young reader, as well. This short chapter book is an easy read, and many children will be able to relate to the circumstances present.

"The Pumpkin Runner"

The Pumpkin Runner
Author: Marsha Diane Arnold
Illustrator: Brad Sneed
Genre: Picture Book
Subgenre: Realistic Fiction, Generosity
Theme: Being humble and generous, Determination
Primary/Secondary Characters: Joshua Summerhayes, Yellow Dog, Aunt Millie, Damien
Date of Publication: Year 1998
Publishing Company: Dial Books for Young Readers

Summary: Joshua Summerhayes always ran through his fields with his best pal, Yellow Dog. He has been running for fifty years straight, powered by eating his own pumpkins that he had been harvesting for years. Just a slice of pumpkin would enable Joshua and Yellow Dog to run for miles. The pair registered for the Koala-K race in Sydney, Australia and nobody believed that Joshua could participate, as he was 61 years old. His opponent, Damien, had cheated and hired a hot air balloon to help him get ahead of Joshua and win the race. Aunt Millie drove a jeep Joshua had borrowed and gave him pumpkins along the way, and he ended up winning the race. He split the prize of $10,000 with all the other runners, even Damien, and kept only enough to buy himself a new pair of boots and overalls.
This should be used in a classroom as it teaches determination to accomplish goals, no matter what is standing in the way. It shows children not to cheat to get what they want, because it will not work out in their favor. Joshua is an admirable character as he is humble about his win and splits the winnings with all the other runners, even though they treated him poorly. It teaches children to be kind to everyone that they meet, and to set an example with their actions. The use of pumpkins in this story would make the story great to read to a class during the fall.

"Stellaluna"

Stellaluna
Author: Janell Cannon
Illustrator: Janell Cannon
Genre: Picture Book
Subgenre: Informative, Animals
Theme: Differences between bats and birds
Primary/Secondary Characters: Mother Bat, Stellaluna, Flap, Flitter, Pip, Mother Bird
Date of Publication: Year 1993
Publishing Company: Harcourt, Inc.

Summary: Stellaluna, a young bat flies with Mother Bat one night when an owl attacks them and they are separated. Stellaluna still does not know how to fly, and falls into a nest of birds: Flip, Flitter and Pip. The birds teach Stellaluna their ways, and Mother Bird makes Stellaluna eat bugs, sleep right side up, and fly during the day. Stellaluna teaches the birds her ways, as the birds learn how to hang upside down but cannot do the rest of what bats can do, such as flying at night. Stellaluna is reunited with her mother, and introduces the bird family to Mother Bat. Mother Bat teaches Stellaluna to eat fruit, not bugs, and to perform the ways all bats do, and Stellaluna is a very happy being a bat.
This should be taught in a classroom, as it teaches the differences of birds and bats in a creative way. Many children may be under the assumption that since birds and bats both fly, that they live the same ways, which is not true. This clears up the confusion and students are able to identify each animal as being different in many ways, and similar in some.This could be used in a classroom, and have students fill out a venn diagram of the similarities and differences. There are also bat facts in the back to the book that could be useful in teaching students, as well.

"Stone Soup"

Stone Soup
Author: Marcia Brown
Illustrator: Marcia Brown
Genre: Picture Book
Subgenre: Folktale
Theme: Soldiers from War, Village Bonding
Primary/Secondary Characters: Three Soldiers, Village Peasants
Date of Publication: Year 1975
Publishing Company: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division
Award: Caldecott Honor Book

Summary: Three soldiers returning from war approached a village very hungry and tired. they stopped at the houses of three different peasant families, asking if anyone had any food to spare. The peasants all hid their food and apologized saying that they did not. One day in the center of the village, the three soldiers announced that they were about to make soup from three single rocks. They kept asking for different ingredients, and the peasants hurried to get them from their houses to experience this magic happen. Little did they know that the soldiers were outsmarting them and knew that they had been lying to the soldiers. All three were humble as they shared the soup and had a feast with all the village people. The village people then offered them each a bed to sleep in, and they woke up in the morning and continued on their journey.
This can be used in a classroom as it shows children to share what they have, whether or not the receiving person is less fortunate or not. It shows them to always tell the truth and to be humble when an issue arises. the three soldiers are role models as they shared and cared for the village peasants that did not care for them in the first place. This can be taught to any aged child, as this folktale is enjoyable for all.

"Bad Dog, Marley!"

Bad Dog, Marley!
Author: John Grogan
Illustrator: Richard Cowdrey
Genre: Picture Book
Subgenre: Picture Book
Theme: Misbehaving Pets, Dogs
Primary/Secondary Characters: Marley, Mommy and Daddy, Cassie, Baby Louie
Date of Publication: Year 2007
Publishing Company: Harper Collins Publishers

Summary: The family had all different kinds of pets, but did not have a dog. Cassie and Baby Louie begged and begged until one day their Daddy came home with a yellow lab named Marley. Marley got into everything and tore up everything in the house, and the family always scolded her saying, "Bad dog Marley!" After Marley tore up the whole couch, Mommy and Daddy had had enough, and put an ad in the newspaper trying to sell Marley. One day, Marley was barking and wouldn't stop, and Mommy came to see what all the noise was about. Baby Louie had gotten on top of the refrigerator to get the cookies and Marley climbed up and saved Baby Louie. The parents then realized that Marley was part of the family, and had to stay.
This could be used in a classroom as many children have experiences with misbehaving pets. It shows them to always scold a dog when it is wrong so that it learns from it's mistakes. It also shows children what great things pets can do, and that they really are a part of the family. The colorful pictures and action within the story are sure to provide a good read for a student of any elementary age.

"In The Small, Small Pond"

In The Small, Small Pond
Author: Denise Fleming
Illustrator: Denise Fleming
Genre: Picture Book
Subgenre: Informative, Animals
Theme: Introduction to pond life, What different animals do
Primary/Secondary Characters: All Pond Animals
Date of Publication: Year 1993
Publishing Company: Henry Holt and Company
Award: Caldecott Honor Book

Summary: This story tells of the activities of animals living in and around a pond. The rhyming text and colorful pictures adds to the depth of the story. It tells what moves and sounds each animal makes, and has their picture with the text.
This book can be used in a classroom of young children as it teaches them of the different animals in and around a pond in the environment. This book shows them pictures of each animal so they will be able to identify a name with the animal. In just a few words, the actions and activities of the animals are told, which keeps children's attention and keeps them interested.

"The Princess Knight"

The Princess Knight
Author: Cornelia Funke
Illustrator: Kerstin Meyer
Genre: Picture Book
Subgenre: Fairytale, Fiction
Theme: Gender differences, Determination
Primary/Secondary Characters: Princess Violetta, The Brothers, King Wilfred
Date of Publication: Year 2001
Publishing Company: Scholastic Inc., The Chicken House

Summary: Princess Violetta was teased by her brothers ever since she was a small girl that she would always be little and girlie to them. They always bullied her saying they would always be stronger, and that she could never joust as well as they could. When Violetta turned 16, her father, King Wilfred, held a competition to see who could win the jousting event, and whomever did was to take her hand in marriage. Violetta did not like this idea, and dressed up as one of the men in the competition and ended up winning it all. Her father gave her a beautiful black horse for her accomplishment, and she ended up marrying the rose gardener's son.
This could be useful in a classroom as many girls are told that they are inferior to boys, and that they cannot do the things that boys can. It will aid them in knowing that they have someone to relate to, as Princess Violetta overcame this stereotype. This will also inform boys that girls can do the things that they can, and that bullying them saying that they are inferior is hurtful. Violetta was determined to be better than her brothers, and practiced and practiced until she accomplished her goal. This book teaches determination, and to fight for something you believe in, not just to believe stereotypes.

"The Web Files"

The Web Files
Author: Margie Palatini
Illustrator: Richard Egielski
Genre: Picture Book
Subgenre: Young Children's Mystery, Fiction
Theme: Robbery, Hygiene, Doing the right thing
Primary/Secondary Characters: Ducktective Web, Bill, Hen, Sheep, Horse, The Dirty Rat
Date of Publication: Year 2001
Publishing Company: Hyperion Books For Children

Summary: Ducktective Web and his partner, Bill, got a call that the Hen had a problem on the farm. They visited the farm and the Hen had told them that her perfectly picked peppers had been stolen. The Horse also had his tomatoes stolen, and the Sheep had her lettuce stolen. The clues led to the fact that someone had stolen all these from the farm to make a salad. Ducktective Web and Bill went to their most Dirty suspect, the Dirty Rat, and found him guilty of committing the crime. The Dirty Rat had lettuce under his chin, and it was clear that he was the burglar. The Dirty Rat got convicted of stealing, poor hygiene, no manners, and not cleaning under his chin after he ate.
This comical story can be used in an elementary classroom, as it provides mystery and comedy to the ready. Ducktective Web and Bill had admirable determination for solving the crime, and when they did, they found the suspect guilty. Children can look to this to remember to always do the right thing, and not touch others' belongings. The Dirty Rat was also convicted of poor hygiene, as this was how he was convicted of the crime. It hints to the child to always have good hygiene and good manners, as Ducktective Web always said "yes ma'am" and was courteous in his actions.

"If You Give A Mouse A Cookie"

If You Give A Mouse A Cookie
Author: Laura Joffe Numeroff
Illustrator: Felicia Bond
Genre: Picture Book, Young Children's Literature
Subgenre: Comical Children's Novel, Fiction
Theme: Being Needy, Greed, Asking for more
Primary/Secondary Characters: The Mouse, The Boy
Date of Publication: Year 1985
Publishing Company: Harper Collins Publishers

Summary: A mouse asks for a cookie from his owner, a young boy, and the boy gives him a cookie. He then asks for a glass of milk, then keeps asking for more and more after that. The mouse never seems satisfied, and the boy keeps getting him what he asks for. The mouse cleans the floors, trims his hairs, draws pictures, and in the end just ends up getting another cookie.
This can be used in a classroom full of young students, as it teaches them not to be needy, and that being greedy is not nice. They are able to put themselves in the young boys shoes, and see how they would feel if someone was never satisfied and kept asking for more. Students would enjoy the colorful pictures, and look forward to what the mouse would ask for next. When children go to ask for something more, they would reflect back on this novel and second guess their next request.

"Junie B., First Grader. Boo...And I Mean It!"

Junie B., First Grader. Boo...And I Mean It!
Author: Barbara Park
Illustrator: Denise Brunkus
Genre: Chapter Book
Subgenre: Young Adolescent Chapter Book, Fiction
Theme: Halloween, Dressing Up, Being Scared
Primary/Secondary Characters: Junie B. Jones, Mother, Daddy, Ollie, Grandma & Grandpa Miller
Date of Publication: Year 2004
Publishing Company: Scholastic Inc.

Summary: Junie B. Jones is afraid of Halloween and all the costumes that children will wear that night. She does not want to dress up and just wants to stay home all night and play by herself. One of her classmates told her five scary secrets about Halloween, and told Junie B. that if she told those secrets, her head would turn into a giant wart. Junie B. finally tells her Grandma Miller those secrets, and got reassurance that they were not true. Junie B. got the great idea to be Squirty the clown, so she could scare the other kids on Halloween and they could not scare her. She went costume shopping with her mother and found clown parts to make her costume. Halloween night Junie B. named herself "Screamy the Clown" and tried to scare all of the kids around the block, but nobody was afraid of her. That night, she went home upset and went straight to bed, as she had not scared a single soul. Her father had been on a business trip and came home to Junie B.'s dark room and saw her with all her makeup on in the dark, and she scared him "right out of his pants." Junie B. accomplished her mission, and had a great Halloween after all.
This would be useful in the classroom in the fall, right before Halloween. It ensures students that there is nothing to be afraid of, as costumes are just fake and supposed to be fun. It gets children in the Halloween spirit as it talks about the costumes, candy, and fun. As Junie B. talks back to her mother and to adults in her life, she is quickly corrected. This could be useful to children as well, as they learn not to talk back and listen to their elders.

"Junie B., First Grader (At Last!)"

Junie B., First Grader (At Last!)
Author: Barbara Park
Illustrator: Denise Brunkus
Genre: Chapter Book
Subgenre: Young Adolescent Book, Fiction
Theme: Fitting In, Elementary School Friends
Primary/Secondary Characters: Junie B. Jones, Mr. Scary, Herb & May
Date of Publication: Year 2001
Publishing Company: Scholastic Inc.

Summary: June B. Jones is finally a first grader, she has been waiting for this day for a very long time. As she is shy at first, she enters her class and sees fellow students she had in her kindergarten class. Unfortunately, all the students have made other friends and want nothing to do with June B. Jones. Junie B. struggles with having no friends, until she meets a boy named Herb on the school bus who talks with her and becomes her friend. Her fellow classmate, May, always makes fun of Junie B. in class and always tells her that she is better than her, which makes Junie B. mad and upset. Mr. Scary, her first grade teacher, notices one day that Junie B. cannot see the board in class and brings her to the nurse. Junie B. ends up getting glasses, and is nervous that everyone in class will make fun of her. When she brings them to class for show and tell, May makes fun of Junie B., but Herb defends her and the rest of the class side with Herb. This makes Junie B. feel accepted and she then enjoys first grade.
This can be used in a classroom in many ways. Many children have trouble fitting in, and want something or someone to relate to. Having a character from a novel will aid children with their personal issues of fitting in or being "popular" and help them cope with those issues. The comedy in this book is great, and every child will grow to love Junie B. Jones. As this novel is part of a large series, children will want to follow Junie B. in all of her adventures.

"Holes"

Holes
Author: Louis Sachar
Illustrator: Adam McCauley
Genre: Chapter Book
Subgenre: Fiction, Mystery
Theme: Punishment and suffering for your actions, Humor and Friendship
Primary/Secondary Characters: Stanley Yelnats/Zero & the Warden
Date of Publication: Year 2001
Publishing Company: Random House Children's Books

Summary: Stanley Yelnats, a teenage boy, is sent to Camp Green Lake, a detention facility, as he was accused of stealing a famous baseball players shoes from a charity auction. At the camp, he is with other teenage boys who have misbehaved and were sent to the camp as well. At the camp, the boys must dig 5 foot by 5 foot holes in the hot sun, with a scarce amount of water. The boys believe they are digging for punishment, when in actuality, they were digging to find the lost loot of Kissin' Kate Barlow, a wild west outlaw. The boys are tortured and catch on to why they are digging the holes, and one day, Stanley actually finds a lipstick tube from Kissin Kate, and the warden confiscates it immediately. The story tells the struggles of the boys, the friendships they make, and at the end, Stanley is released, has a suitcase full of family bonds in it, and with that he makes a new famous product, called "Sploosh", a foot odor blocker. The warden had to sell Camp Green Lake, and it was then taken over by a group of Girl Scouts. This book provides humor to young teens, and shows them consequences that come from misbehaving actions. It is a great book to introduce mystery and thrill, and also a teenage read.

"Bridge to Terabithia"

Bridge To Terabithia
Author: Katherine Paterson
Illustrator: Donna Diamond
Genre: Chapter Book
Subgenre:Young Adult, Fiction
Theme: Discovery, Children's Imagination, Struggle with Death & Overcoming It
Primary/Secondary Characters: Jess Aarons & Leslie Burke/Gary Fulcher, Janice Avery
Date of Publication: Year 1977
Publishing Company: Fitzhenry & Whiteside Limited, Toronto
Awards: Newbery Award Winner

Summary: Jess Aarons was a young boy in elementary school, who was very active and thought himself to be the best and fastest runner at school. In his neighborhood, a young girl named Leslie Burke moved in with her family, whom Jess became close friends with. Leslie's family was quite odd, as they didn't own the technology that Jess's family had, but their house was full of books. Leslie had quite the imagination, and created the imaginary land of Terabithia, where she and Jess could play and have fun away from any pesky classmates or siblings. The two had a close bond that was unexplainable, and were best friends. One day, while trying to reach Terabithia during a storm, Leslie drowns and dies. Jess is on a field trip at the museum, and after finding out, he blames himself for Leslie's death. After a harsh time of coping, Jess decides to build a bridge to Terabithia, and invites his younger sister, May Belle, to accompany him, as he had always denied May Belle access into the imaginary land. Terabithia prospers, and the friendship Jess had with Leslie was a great memory Jess never dismissed. This book is great for young teenage readers who want a book with drama, friendship, and tragedy. It is a great free read book, and teaches children many lessons on friendship, and should be provided in every classroom.

"Bud, Not Buddy"

Bud, Not Buddy
Author: Christopher Paul Curtis
Illustrator: N/A
Genre: Chapter Book
Subgenre: Young Adult, Historical Fiction
Theme: Diversity, Struggles and Triumphs
Primary/Secondary Characters: Bud Caldwell, Todd Collins & Herman E. Calloway
Date of Publication: Year 2004
Publishing Company: Random House Children's Books
Awards: Newbery  Honor & Coretta Scott King Award

Summary: During the Great Depression, Bud Caldwell, a ten year old boy, resides in an orphanage in Flint, Michigan. His mother died when he was young, so he knew orphanages and foster homes too well. He lived with the Collins family for quite some time, and the youngest child, Todd Collins, abused Bud and in turn, Bud ran away. The only remnants Bud had from his mother's life were a bag of stones and a photograph of her when she was a young girl, which he brought with him, as he was determined to find his father, Herman E. Calloway. With him, Bud has a flyer from his fathers old jazz band that is his only clue in finding him. Bud locates the jazz band, and Herman E. Calloway, and finds out that Calloway is not his father, but his grandfather. Bud's mother was Calloway's daughter, who had run away a long time ago. The relationship between the two begins at this point, as they have a bond that was formed at sight. This is a great book for young teenagers, as it teaches them perseverance and some about history and music. This is great for both girls and boys, and could be taught during a diversity, music, or history lesson.

"Catalyst"

Catalyst
Author: Laurie Halse Anderson
Illustrator: None
Genre: Chapter Book
Subgenre: Mature Young Adult
Theme: High School/Drama
Primary/Secondary Characters: Kate Malone/Teri Litch & Mitch
Date of Publication: Year 2002
Publishing Company: Viking, Penguin Books

Summary: Teenage Kate Malone is the preachers daughter, a good girl gone bad. She lives her life day to day praying she gets into MIT, the college her mother who passed away, went to. Her neighbor next door, Teri Litch is out to get Kate, and ends up having to move in with the Malone family after her house burns down. Mitch, Kate's boyfriend, is the only positive thing in her life it seems. Kate finally gets the letter from MIT, to realize she was rejected. Everything in her life spirals downward, and she can't seem to get a hold on life. This book is a mature read, but would spark the interest of teenagers, as it presents situations they could relate to. This would be a great free choice read for a high school aged teen, as some language and mature situations are present.

"Wild About Books"

Wild About Books
Author: Judy Sierra
Illustrator: Marc Brown
Genre: Picture Book
Subgenre: Realistic Fiction
Theme: Reading is fun and beneficial
Primary/Secondary Character: Molly McGrew/Zoo Animals
Date of Publication: Year 2004
Publishing Company: Alfred A. Knopf, Random House Children's Books

Summary: Librarian Molly McGrew drives her bookmobile into a zoo on accident, and begins to read aloud. The zoo animals begin to listen and become interested, and take books for themselves to read. Some begin to write books themselves, and read to each other. The joys of reading are shown through this book, as the zoo animals are reading for enjoyment.

"My Kindergarten"

My Kindergarten
Author: Rosemary Wells
Illustrator: Rosemary Wells
Genre: Picture Book
Subgenre: Realistic Fiction/Informational
Theme: Teaching, The School Year of Kindergarteners
Primary/Secondary Characters: Protagonist (Emily Rabbit)/Miss Cribbage & Classmates
Date of Publication: Year 2004
Publishing Company: Hyperion Books for Children

Summary: Emily Rabbit, the main character, is beginning her first day of school, in kindergarten. The book takes the reader through the year, through certain lessons, holidays, occasions, and life skills learned. It tells of the friends Emily makes, and the bonds she forms with her teacher. The students learn about measurement, money, weather, and other important things about life. This great book needs to find it's way into every kindergarten classroom, as it covers many basics taught in kindergarten.

"The Boy Who Was Raised By Librarians"

The Boy Who Was Raised By Librarians
Author: Carla Morris
Illustrator: Brad Sneed
Genre: Picture Book
Subgenre: Realistic Fiction
Theme: Education, Librarians
Primary/Secondary Characters: Melvin/Librarians: Marge, Leeola, Betty
Date of Publication: Year 2007
Publishing Company: Peachtree Publishers

Summary: Melvin, a young boy, spends all his time in the library reading up on whatever he feels like that way. He forms a close relationship with the three librarians: Marge, Betty and Leeola, and they are always so happy to see him. Melvin grows more and more every year, and is more successful with every passing year. The three ladies stay close to Melvin, and they even go to his high school graduation. One day, a small boy named Sterling enters the library, questioning the species of bugs he has with him, and the person to help him was Melvin. Melvin became a librarian because he was so inspired by the three ladies who had helped him all through his childhood and adolescent years. This teaches children the worth of librarians, and how they can be of such help and inspiration to them. This also teaches children that they can be successful in whatever they do if they apply themselves.

"David Goes To School"

David Goes To School
Author: David Shannon
Illustrator: David Shannon
Genre: Picture Book
Subgenre: Realistic Fiction
Theme: Bad Behavior/Discipline, Praising for good work
Primary/Secondary Characters: David/David's Teacher
Date of Publication: Year 1999
Publishing Company: The Blue Sky Press, Scholastic

Summary: David, a student in elementary school, is always misbehaving in the classroom. His teacher always yells for him to behave, and tells him when he is wrong. One day, David draws all over his school desk, and his teacher just had it with him, and made him stay after and wash all the desks. After he had finished, his teacher praised him for doing such a great job, and David got to go home. This teaches children the unacceptable acts performed in the classroom setting, but when they obey, they will get praised.

"Tommy the Timid Turtle"

Tommy the Timid Turtle
Author: Neva Swartz
Illustrated By: Larry Steinbauer
Genre: Picture Book
Subgenre: Folktale
Theme: Being Shy, Friendship and Perseverance
Primary/Secondary Characters: Tommy the Turtle/Forest friends of Tommy
Date of Publication: Year 2004
Publishing Company: Mayhaven Publishing

Summary: Tommy the turtle was very shy, and hid in his shell all day. He did not want to come out and play with his friends that wanted to spend time with him. He was too shy, worried, alarmed, fearful, insecure, and had other negative feelings. Sammy the sun shone one day, and Tommy stayed in his shell. But Sammy did not give up on Tommy, and shone everyday until Tommy grew the courage to come out of his shell. This teaches children that there is no need to be shy and lack courage, and that no matter what the sun will always shine.

"A Fine, Fine School"

A Fine, Fine School
Author: Sharon Creech
Illustrator: Harry Bliss
Genre: Picture Book
Subgenre: Realistic Fiction
Theme: Developing, Learning in a school environment
Primary/Secondary Characters: Tillie & Mr. Keene/Classmates & Brother
Date of Publication: Year 2001
Publishing Company: Harper Collins Publishers

Summary: Tillie, a young girl in elementary school goes to school every week, Monday through Friday. Her principal, Mr. Keene, takes pride in their school and pushes for school Monday-Friday, as well as the weekends. This makes Tillie happy at first, but her brother and dog Beans are not happy having to play and learn to skip and play on their own. Mr. Keene then pushes for school on holidays, and during the summer, and all the children grow upset. Tillie speaks with Mr. Keene and tells him that not everyone is learning, as she is unable to teach her brother to skip or swing or play outside. Mr. Keene realizes this, and makes school return to just Monday-Friday yet once again, and everyone is thrilled. This teaches children it is important to go to school, but learning outside of school is also significant, as well. Children can easily relate to Tillie, and her hobbies outside of the classroom.

"Giraffes Can't Dance"

Giraffes Can't Dance
Author: Giles Andreae
Illustrator: Guy Parker-Rees
Genre: Picture Book
Subgenre: Folktale
Theme: Self satisfaction, trying your best
Primary/Secondary Characters: Gerald the giraffe/the jungle animals
Date of Publication: Year 1999
Publishing Company: Orchard Books, Scholastic

Summary: Gerald the giraffe had no talent for dancing. No matter how hard he tried, he could not dance like the other jungle animals. One day, while alone and sad, a grasshopper told him that if he tried and found music he liked, he could dance to his own beat. He listened to the sounds in the night, and the grasshopper played his violin for Gerald, and he began to dance. The jungle animals were astonished that Gerald could actually dance, and he told the animals that "we can all dance when we find music that we love". Children would enjoy this book as Gerald the giraffe is a lovable character, and he shows them that they can do whatever they want if they set their mind to it.

"Click, Clack, Moo: Cow's That Type"

Click, Clack, Moo: Cows That Type
Written By: Doreen Cronin
Illustrated By: Betsy Lewin
Genre: Picture Book
Subgenre: Folktale
Theme: Compromising and Humor
Primary/Secondary Characters: Cows and Hens/Ducks
Date of Publication: Year 2000
Publishing Company: Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing Division

Summary: A group of cows on a farm get a hold of Farmer Brown's typewriter, and begin to leave the farmer notes about how the barn is too cold, and they would like some electric blankets. The Farmer says no, so the cows decide not to produce any milk. The hens decide that the want electric blankets, so they decide not to produce any eggs. The Farmer then got out another typewriter and wrote the animals a note, saying he would not stand for any of this, and gave it to the duck to deliver.The cows decided to compromise, giving Farmer Brown the typewriter back in exchange for the blankets. This teaches children that issues can be solved with simple compromise, and provides humor to them, as well.

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