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05.29.08, 06:40 AM New York City
167 replies
Book Mom here: Need any ideas for your kids? age/gender/reading level/interests help me to help you [ Reply | Watch | Flag ]
New York City 05.29.08, 06:40 AM Flag
 

Dear UrbanBaby community,

Thank you so much for being a valued member of the UrbanBaby community. We wanted to inform you that we are shutting down the site on July 6th. We are grateful for your participation and support that has helped make UrbanBaby such an important resource to parents for many years.

If you have any questions or concerns, you can email us at urbanbaby-support@cbsinteractive.com.

Thanks so much,

UrbanBaby Support

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Gift - 4yo girl - she is a girly girl. Don't know her well. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 06:43 AM Flag
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Purplicious or Pinkalicious and Poodlena and Fancy Nancy are the more obvious choices. I like Princesses are Not Quitters, The Princess Knight, The Paper Bag Princess as better "princess" options. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 06:45 AM Flag
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General Topics 05.29.08, 06:46 AM Flag
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OP: one of my fave books...gave it as party favors when dds were at the age to request princess bday parties. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 06:49 AM Flag
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love the princess knight. also love falling for repunzel. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 11:57 AM Flag
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2 year old girl (just turned 2). She likes vacuuming and making tea. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 09:11 AM Flag
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OP: Lol. Not Another Tea Party, Alice the Fairy, How Do Dinosaurs Clean Their Rooms by Jane Yolen, Maisy Cleans Up [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 09:17 AM Flag
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Thanks! LOL. And she also likes the AMNH Dinosaurs. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 09:17 AM Flag
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General Topics 05.29.08, 09:19 AM Flag
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Thanks, I just bought the go to sleep one, because that's when we read and my DH will like those (vs. the Princess ones). She really does have a bear that she serves cereal and tea so the tea party one is great too. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 09:31 AM Flag
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enjoy and let me know what you/she think if you see a Book Mom post [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 09:33 AM Flag
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8 yo DD: can't stop reading and re-reading the harry potter series, series of unfortunate events, gaia girls, narnia series. reading level way above her age, but emotionally she's still very young. need suggestions for reading-level appropriate/age appropriate material. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 09:20 AM Flag
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Spiderwick, Sisters Grimm, Molly Moon, Emily Windsnap, Mrs Frisby and the Rats of Nimh, Eddie Eager's Half Magis, etc, Eva Ibbotson''s Which Witch (and all her others). Has she read these...I have more ideas..... [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 09:22 AM Flag
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^^few more Last of the Really Great Whangdoodles, any thing by Nesbitt (inspired JK Rowling), A Little Princess, Tale of Desperaux [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 09:24 AM Flag
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General Topics 06.02.08, 09:30 AM Flag
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can you believe it was written by Julie Andrews? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.02.08, 06:52 PM Flag
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nooo! it was my favorite book as a child; and i am not a huge fan of j.a. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.03.08, 09:05 AM Flag
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General Topics 05.29.08, 09:24 AM Flag
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Wrinkle In Time, Inheart and Inkspell and Dragon Rider and Theif Lord all by C. Funke (love her books), The King's Equal, [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 09:32 AM Flag
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aand afew more: Choose Your Own Adventure Books, anything by Margaret Mahy, Indian in the Cupboard (and more by Lynn Reid Banks) [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 09:40 AM Flag
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thank you. truly the first useful information i've ever gotten from UB! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 10:02 AM Flag
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General Topics 05.29.08, 10:08 AM Flag
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Dont' forget all of the fantastic Roald Dahl books -- Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The BFG, and James and the Giant Peach for starters [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.31.08, 06:32 PM Flag
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Not book mom - but would reccomend "Half Magic" books (7 in series) really wonderful! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 10:36 AM Flag
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General Topics 05.29.08, 10:44 AM Flag
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not book mom: I would also say the Dark is Rising Sequence by Susan Cooper [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 06:54 PM Flag
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General Topics 05.29.08, 08:24 PM Flag
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np - LOVE those [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.30.08, 12:19 PM Flag
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5yo, girl, 3rd grade level, anything princess/fairies/girly stuff [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 09:40 AM Flag
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I have to downgrade her reading level. She is more 2nd grade, I think. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 09:42 AM Flag
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The obvious books are all of the Rainbow Magic Fairy books.....if she's read them all, you can "get ahead" by buying those not released in the US from ebay.uk. Others I like All of a Kind Family, Lady Lollipop by Dick King-Smith.....are any of these around her level? There I also like "better" bicture boosk for this age like William Steig (Brave Irene) and Rumpelstiltskin by Paul Zelinsky, for example). A few others for thought: A to Z Mysteries, Mary Poppins by Travers, The Best Loved Doll [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 09:47 AM Flag
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General Topics 05.29.08, 09:49 AM Flag
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these should be around her level, then. enjoy. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 09:56 AM Flag
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Another idea from Book Mom: Dragonslayer's Academy series is fun, too. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 10:45 AM Flag
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19 mo db. /girl/animals,music [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 09:42 AM Flag
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Noisy City Days and Noisy City Nights, Giraffes Can't Dance, One Yellow Lion, The Kiss That Missed, Simms Taback's version of I Know an Old lady Wo Swallowed a Fly. A few older books that may be worth searching for: Animal Music by Zieffert, Hi Pizza Man by Virginia Walter, Puff Puff Chugga Chugga by Wormell ( good choice sif she has lots of books already), Make Way for Ducklings and Caps for Sale (classics) [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 09:55 AM Flag
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Thank you! Bookish 5 year old boy, advanced comprehension, looking for relatively simple "starter" chapter books. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 09:57 AM Flag
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Nate the Great, Cam Jansen (especially Young Cam Jansen), Mercy Watson, [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 10:01 AM Flag
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^^op: are you familiar with these? Do these seem about his level? What is he reading now? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 10:07 AM Flag
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Was just checking them out online. They seem great. We've done all kinds of "early reader" books, also Charlotte Webs etc. But I would like something that is just fun and not too demanding, while keeping his interest. He's smart but it still seems ridiculous to read books to him that third-graders usually read. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 10:14 AM Flag
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As a mom of an advanced reader, I found that it was better to read more interesting books to dc, and have dc read a paragraph (that I picked) or dialogue. I even had one DC 5 yo read bits of Harry Potter this way. Builds confidence and keeps them excited about reading. Other series that are a step up, but with easy bits..The Boxcar Children, Magic Tree House, My Father's Dragon [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 10:19 AM Flag
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Thanks book mom! That's great advice. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 10:20 AM Flag
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You are welcome....let me know how it works out and give me feedback! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 10:22 AM Flag
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Almost five year old boy. Likes having chapter books read to him. We've done all the Beverly Cleary books and he likes the Eddie books by Carolyn Haywood. Nothing too sad and nothing about orphans or where there is no mother (the Saturdays are out 'till he's older). [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 10:21 AM Flag
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Lady Lollipop, Farmer Boy (and other Little House Books), Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle, My Father's Dragon (if you haven't yet), Magic Tree House. Also some "better" more complex picture books with good stories: The Reluctant Dragon by San Souci, Widow's Broom by van Allsburg, [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 10:33 AM Flag
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Mrs. Piggle Wiggle was a big hit. I will try My Father's Dragon and Magic Tree House. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 10:55 AM Flag
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also try Mr Popper's Penguin's [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 11:11 AM Flag
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Yep. That was another hit. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 12:57 PM Flag
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Book Mom, I always enjoy your posts and have to thank you for raising my daughter's interest in books. She is thrilled to be "reading" chapter books. A Dolls' House was the first. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 10:53 AM Flag
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You are welcome! Any other hits/misses for me to put in my bag of tricks. And please give ideas to others.....many of us are book moms at heart. (But I picked the name first on UB..lol) [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 11:13 AM Flag
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Any good children's books that you would recommend for adults? I need something to read that is fun, but not chic lit. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 11:36 AM Flag
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Harry Potter aside (and I'm a big fan, but will assume you have read it) I have two fairly recent series (that weren't around when we were kids)that I thought were great. The Shadow Children Series by Haddix explores a society were third children are forbidden. Quick moving, appropriate for some 9 and 10 yos, but very hard to put down, Each book is a quick read. I also really like the Rick Riordan series based on Greek Mythology. Main character finds out that the reason he is add and dyslexic is because he is the Half-Blood Child of a Greek God. Lots of mythological creatures...my dd wanted to read up on her Greek myths gladly after reading them. The First is called the Lightening Thief. I think it is the Percy Jackson series. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 11:46 AM Flag
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General Topics 05.29.08, 11:52 AM Flag
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General Topics 05.29.08, 11:52 AM Flag
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8 yr old boy, very into WWII military planes. Is reading TinTin series now. Loves nonfiction (Eyewitness books, Cool Stuff, Do Not Open, Dangerous Book for Boys, etc.). In the past, read Goosebumps, Boxcar series for fiction, but now is mostly graphic novels. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 12:14 PM Flag
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doing some research....I haven't forgotten you! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 12:31 PM Flag
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A few shorter historical fiction/semi nonfiction ideas(books that aren't too long, but intersting): Snow Treasure about kids who sneak gold out their country under the noses of Nazi soldiers, and When the Soldiers were Gone (a post Holocaust story, but age appropriate if you are comfortable discussing this) Some other fiction ideas that may captivate him: Chocolate Fever, Spiderwick Chronicles (promise him the movie if he reads the book), The Choose Your Own Adventure Books, Third Grade Detectives: The Clueof the Left Handed Envelope. some non fiction: Harry Houdini (Photographic Story of a Life DK Series). I like the Einstein from this series as well. There is a really cool Story of Flight Series. Each paper back is about $9 and cover such topics as helicopters or wwi aircraft. Lots of photos. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 12:56 PM Flag
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^^^btw, my guess is that DS's interests outstrip his stamina for long reading, which si why he prefers text interrupted by pictures. I tried to pick shorter books. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 12:58 PM Flag
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4 yr old girl (almost 5). Loves Pinkalicious, Purplelicious, Jellybeans. Is into ballet, princesses, cooking, baseball, gardening. Would like to start her on some pre-reading rhyming books like Scholastic Word Family Tales. Thanks! (BTW we didn't like Paper Bag Princess as much as we thought we would.) [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 12:16 PM Flag
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There are some easy to read beginning readers ...two that I like are Good Knight, Good Knight and The Princess and the Pea by Zieffert. I've never used the Scholastic books you mentioned. Does DD know all of her letter sounds yet? I may hoave some ideas if she either does or doesn't. PBP might be too glib ...I can understand. Have you read Poodleena, Willa the Wonderful, and Lily's Plastic Purse...good girly picture books. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 12:28 PM Flag
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Book mom - are you still here? I'm a np but my dd is 3.5yo and is fascinated with letters and sounds and how they form words. We just got "Good Night, Good Knight" from the library today and she loves it. She's not a girly girl and thinks Fancy Nancy is beyond boring. Any other ideas? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 06:04 PM Flag
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I'm here..I'll get to you..... [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 06:15 PM Flag
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Thanks. I appreciate it. I'll watch post. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 06:39 PM Flag
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sorry about not getting back right away.....a few ideas that are in that range of reading: Harriet Ziefert's Princess and the Pea, The Witch Who Was Afraid of Witches (an I can Read Picture Book, maybe a bit tougher, but you could work on it together..often a bargain book at B&N), any of the Amelia Bedelia books... [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.30.08, 11:57 AM Flag
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3yo bi-lingual ds (Russian/English) - just starting on English but baby books are not interesting to him. What can you suggest? He is a very active boy, likes to challenge and misbehave on purpose. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 12:18 PM Flag
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Fun rhyming books with good action and pictures might be right for him: Where's My Teddy and Other Stories, Duck on a Truck come to mind. For kind of "naughty" behavior (one dc liked this nour house) try the Rotten Ralph books about a cat whose owner loves him , even when he acts up. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 12:30 PM Flag
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6 yr old boy who can read but doesn't want to read out loud to us. Also resists chapter books since he wants to finish a story before bed. Only wants to be read to but will read baby books to little brother. Loves fantasy, castles and knights, likes ricky ricotta, (which he could probably read by himself but who knows), the mister men. I refuse to buy captain underpants. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 12:52 PM Flag
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How about short story collections that you can read to him? I love the Barefoot Book Collections. Try the Barefoot Book of Knights, Pirates by Richard Walker and Magic Hoofbeats: Horsetales from every Land. These collections are international and well-written and will give you more complex stories to read to him, but still finish at night. Mrs Piggle Wiggle ...each chapter finishes a little story. For an easy book for rhim to read to his brother: Good Night, Good Knight. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 01:05 PM Flag
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6mo [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 01:24 PM Flag
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Spot Board Books, When Mama Come Home Tonight (if You Work), If You Were My Bunny (cute fun animal words to lullabies...fun if you sing), Curious George ABC Board Book, Head to Toe [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 01:41 PM Flag
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Ds is 15 months and loves book. He's in to real pictures and asks over and over again "dat?". He likes dogs, so is enjoying a Clifford book that I had around. He's become bored with touch and feel and too simple baby books but isn't in to too much verbage. What else would you recommend? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 01:29 PM Flag
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good time for rhyming books..I'll repeat a few rec from above: Noisy City Days, Noisyu City Nights. If you work, When Mama Comes Home Tonight...lots of cute things you can do with the pictures. Eric Carle's Very Hungry Caterpillar and Polar Bear, Polar Bear [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 01:38 PM Flag
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^^^ also, Head to Toe, and Each Peach, Pear Plum and Peek A- Book (by the same author [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 01:43 PM Flag
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Thanks for answering. I haven't had much luck with the Eric Carle books- I try them when we go to the bookstore. Noisy City Days he loves because he can pick out things he knows like the birds and airplanes. Any other suggestions? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 01:43 PM Flag
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I thought he might like the caterpillar one so he point at food....lol! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 01:49 PM Flag
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^^ can you watch this post..I need to do some cooking. I'll reposnd later tonight after I look through some of our books. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 01:50 PM Flag
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will do. thanks!!!! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 01:51 PM Flag
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for some reason, he just likes real pictures so much better than drawings [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 01:51 PM Flag
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Hi!! I'm back! I remembered the name of the photographer auther you shoud look into: Arlene Alda. I really like her 123 book (it may be out of print, but worth buying..super cute and clever) as well as her ABC book and her ZZZZZs sleeping animal book. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 05:38 PM Flag
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You might want to try Go Away Big Green Monster and the No David Books, too [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 05:44 PM Flag
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3 y/o boy - likes trains, trucks, food, adventure. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 01:45 PM Flag
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Can you watch this post... I promise I will answer your request and anyone else's tonight by 11 pm, but I need to decorate 6 dozen cupcakes...don't ask! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 01:51 PM Flag
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Yes, I can watch! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 02:13 PM Flag
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How about a 4 year old boy reading at 2nd grade level? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 02:56 PM Flag
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Can you tell me what you mean by 2nd grade level? What books does he read right now? I can be more helpful for you! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 05:39 PM Flag
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General Topics 05.29.08, 05:42 PM Flag
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Thank you! We'll give these a try. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 06:10 PM Flag
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Let me know how he likes them...I like feedback [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 06:22 PM Flag
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5 yr old boy, with great word recognition, reading on the 2nd to 3rd grade level, but not always with comprehension (explaining "embarrassed" to him is hard). Loves outer space, animals, the ocean, etc. Have done many non-fiction DK Eyewitness books, but looking for more chapter books. Have read to him Charlotte's Web, Stuart Little, etc. Anything incredibly sad or a mean character troubles him. Thanks! Will watch post. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 03:05 PM Flag
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^^also loves maps, travel, trains, pirates, cooking. LOVES to cook! Thanks so much. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 03:07 PM Flag
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^^although, getting back to the mean character issue (ds doesn't understand why some people are mean if they know they shouldn't be), a mean character who gets what's coming to him, might be helpful! Thanks again. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 03:10 PM Flag
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another Book Mom idea. How about Aesops's Fables? I like Tom Lynch's version. He shoudl be able toread the stories on his own, with some vocab or discussion about the message. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.30.08, 12:04 PM Flag
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Have You read him My Father's Dragon Series ? I rec this alot, but it is a classic that stands the test of time. And, as I rec's above, I think Farmer Boy by Laura Ingalls Wilder (about her husband growing up on a farm)is a great early chapter book, too. And one more repeat...The Barefoot Book called "Pirates" I have not rad every story in it, so I can't guarantee no meanness. The Barefoot Book of Animal stories is very Aesop-esque and international so it. I also like good picture books fo rhtis age: Blueberries for the Queen, The Dragon Machine....about "nice" boys. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 05:52 PM Flag
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Almost 5 yo girl: has gone through major girly/princess stage, now interested in "smart" girls, but not overly clever. One movie that she loved is Akeelah and the Bee about a girl who prepares for a spelling bee. It inspired her. Are there books like that? She's not yet reading but likes short chapter books read to her. (One series that she loves is the Franny K Stein books, about a little girl who is a mad scientist. I'm not a fan but she loves them.) Thanks, Book Mom! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 04:54 PM Flag
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Smart girls: I love the really great short stories in "Not One Damsel In Distress" This is a collection of folktales about strong girls. You could also read her some of the American Girl books. Maybe start with Samantha? She may be ready for The BFG by Dahl if she has attention span and doesn't mind a little excitement. Fun book to read with "voices" for the giant. Each chapter is enjoyable. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 06:14 PM Flag
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Thanks so much! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.30.08, 10:43 AM Flag
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You are welcome, and I thought of a few more. A very long picture book with a great story: The Moon Lady by Amy Tan and a shorter picture book, but another great sory (and a *true* one at that: The Girl on The High Diving Horse by Linda Oatman High. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.30.08, 12:01 PM Flag
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THANK YOU for this! Almost 3 yo boy (3 months away from b'day) - likes long books, doesn't need pictures. Loves the old Winnie the Pooh stories, Lyle the Crocodile, The Little House, Corduroy, Zen Shorts and Zen Ties, will even sit for Eloise, etc. Very interested in books about feelings and relationships/friendships. Bless you! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 05:46 PM Flag
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How about Daisy Comes Home by Jan Brett, Bartholomew and the Oobleck, Chyrsanthemum, Lilly's Plastic Purse, ...have you read any of these? thoughts? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 06:20 PM Flag
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8 yo girl who is NOT a girly girl at all. In fact she just bought the Daring book for Boys. She loves adventure/mystery books and has read all of the A to Z mysteries. Has read Harry Potter. But she also loves A Little Princess....and the American diaries ( I think that's what they are called...basically fictional books in the form of diaries set in the last century) [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 05:49 PM Flag
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I'm going to repeat myself a little bit as there was an 8 yo girl up above....but I'll tailor to you as well. Has she read the American Girl Books? Kaya, the American Indian, in particular is a great read....interesting an dmore challenging than some of the others. Not girly. They also have greatr mystery stories related to the various characters. For "quick" reads (a step up from A to Z) try Dragon Slayer's Academy. Def. the Eddie Eager books beginning with Half Magic, Don't forget Encyclopedia Brown for fun! And the choose your Own Adventure Books. And try The Wolves of Willoughby Chase (perhaps you read it as a kid?). And The Thief Lord. Has she read any of these yet? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 06:00 PM Flag
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Thanks. No...she hasn't. I'll look these up. And I'm always up for more ideas...:) [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 06:06 PM Flag
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Look up at the books above..some may be a little tougher for her, but she will adore many of them...Oh, don't forget Spiderwick Chronicles! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 06:16 PM Flag
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3.5 yo ds who likes space and cooking and gardening. He prefers books with a lot of words. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 06:40 PM Flag
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Stone Soup, Pancakes for Supper, Pancakes, Pancakes by Eric Carle, Good Enough to Eat (a book about nutrition for kids...he might like it), The Gardener, Diary of a Worm. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 06:59 PM Flag
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I am the one who posted about 4-1/2 year old ds reading at 2nd grade level. He has been reading for a few years and I never focussed on the level until we had him tested and was told this. It then occureed to me that all the books we have are so babyish. He loves the magic school bus series, all the differnet levels. He has told me point blank that he does not want chapter books becasue the have no pictures. He loves space, science, human body, e al. Any suggestions? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 06:41 PM Flag
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You need some good picture books for him. William Steig's books like Sylvester and the Magic Pebble have complex plot lines and better vocabulary. The "I Wonder Why Series is perfect for him!!!! Covers lots of topics like space, human body, flight, spiders, sea creatures, inventions etc. Owen and Mizzie, a true story about interspecies friendship (photographs) is an interesting story in picture book form. How do these sound? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 06:51 PM Flag
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5yo boy whom I would say is beyond early reader, decoding phonetically -- starting to read 2-syllable words. Loves trains, building, adventure, travel. Any recs on books that he and I can read together: he the simpler words? Would like something longer than picture books, with some plot. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 06:58 PM Flag
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Ato Z mysteries (yes there ar 26) and Magic Tree House (start with a set of the first four) right in this area. You can have him read certrain paragraphs. Secrets of Droon is a little harder, but not too much...more plot, science fiction-ish. Let me do a little research for more..... [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 07:06 PM Flag
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Thanks, Book Mom! BTW, for searching purposes, I think you should call yourself BookMom. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.29.08, 08:21 PM Flag
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NP Great suggestion [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.30.08, 08:41 AM Flag
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I'll try that...but I'll try to use the word "book" on my post as well so it can be search that way, too. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.30.08, 10:29 AM Flag
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Yes, but we'd have to wade through all the other "book" posts to find yours. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.31.08, 06:44 PM Flag
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Can you answer one more, BookMom? 22 mo DS, really loves Good Night Gorilla, Ten Nine Eight, Cowboy Small, Goodnight Moon, Peter's Chair (and any Ezra Jack Keats book), Eric Carle. In other words, good stories. He also likes "daddy" books. Not so much into boy "fact" books yet (trucks, cars, toolboxes). I'm looking for some not-so-obvious "boy story" picture books he would enjoy. Maybe some old classics like Cowboy Small. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.30.08, 09:01 AM Flag
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BookMom: The Father Who Had Ten Children (search around, very cute and good for a Father's Day gift, it is about 8 years old, not sure if B&N or Amazon still carry it) and Climbing the Daddy Mountain by JUles Pfeiffer, Mike Mulliigan and the Steam Shovel, Curious George could be really good for him (classic, right?) [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.30.08, 10:25 AM Flag
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Great ideas! Thanks again. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.30.08, 10:43 AM Flag
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You are welcome. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.30.08, 10:54 AM Flag
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4.5yo girl, reading fluently at about a 2nd or 3rd grade level. She's beyond early readers but doesn't really have the attention span for longer chapter books. She'll pick them up and read a chapter but doesn't really want to read them from beginning to end, and prefers full-color pictures. Can you recommend some challenging picture books? She's a girly girl but loves reading all kinds of books. Funny characters are a plus. Thanks! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.30.08, 09:42 AM Flag
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BookMom: a few good challenging picture books for you. Adelita by Tomie dePaola ( a Mexican version of Cinderella), Brave Irene, Shrek and others by William Steig, Probuditi and the Widow's Broom (and others) by Chris vanAllsburg, The 500 Hats of Bartholemew Cubbins and Horton Hears a Who by Suess, Lily's Big Day (and others) by Henke. Good Luck [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.30.08, 10:22 AM Flag
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Thanks, BookMom! She loves the Henkes books and we've read Horton. We've read some Steig (Sylvester, Dr. deSoto) but I forgot about Shrek. Will look into the others. I also wanted to thank you for recommending Poppleton to her awhile back--that series was a hit. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.30.08, 11:12 AM Flag
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You are welcome. If you watch for another hour, I will have a few more suggestions..... [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.30.08, 11:29 AM Flag
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Everything I KNow about Monster by Tom LIchtenfeld, Sleeping Bobby, Kate and the Beanstalk and The Brave Little Seamstress all by Mary Pope Osborne, The Princess Knight by Cornelia Funke, The Spider and The Fly illustrated by DiTerlizzi, The Girl on the High Diving Horse by Linda Oatman High (great story with good illustration about old-time Atlantic City..something a little different [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.30.08, 11:51 AM Flag
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i have a nine year old girl who is barely reading at 9 year old level. if UB is only for G and T parents, im' going elsewhere [ Reply | More
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General Topics 05.31.08, 07:04 PM Flag
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Book Mom: I have ideas for you, too. What are her interests? I'll be around on Monday and have some ideas for you...out to enjoy the beach! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.01.08, 11:56 AM Flag
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BookMom: a few starter ideas. Diary of Melanie Martin (and others), Chocolate Fever, and look for books that may interest her by Johanna Hurwitz. Again, if you tell me what she likes reading write now, or what she enjoys doing, I may have more ideas. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.01.08, 06:04 PM Flag
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4yo NON girly girl DD. Loves the Knuffle Bunny series and Oliver Jeffers. She really gets upset she can't read yet. Yesterday, DH and I were reading and she was besides herself that she can't read on her own. (she just turned 4). Any suggestions on learning to read books? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.01.08, 12:41 PM Flag
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OR- I guess I am looking for early reader suggestions. DD knows her letters and phonics. Knows some words. Basic readers to give her confidence. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.01.08, 03:13 PM Flag
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I highly recommend th New Way series out of the UK. You will need to order them online from England form Nelson Publishing. Start with the white and pink series. (Skip the white without words). Have her sound out a page a night (or more if she can) and read the same book with you for a week. Phonics based, and much much funnier and more intersting than the Bob books (we've used both at home). They are not cheap though. We've used them through the yellow level with great success. If you travel for business/pleasure to London, certain bookstores have them two (one on Canary Wharf, I know of) [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.01.08, 06:10 PM Flag
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THANKS! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.01.08, 06:37 PM Flag
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Welcome...let me know how it goes. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.01.08, 06:47 PM Flag
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Just ordered. The weak dollar hurts. I'll let you know, Book Mom. Do you work in publishing? Teacher? Librarian? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.01.08, 07:25 PM Flag
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Avid reader myself with avid readers for kids who has purchased dar too many books! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.02.08, 04:15 AM Flag
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ok..thanks [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.17.08, 06:35 PM Flag
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Hi Book Mom. A while back you gave me some great suggestions for my 8 yr old son who is a good reader. I was reading some of your answers here and found some of his favorites -- especially the Percy Jackson series and Sisters Grimm. He goes through books like chocolate, and has read most of your suggestions here, but if you think of any others, bring them on. He also likes the Dave Barry Peter Pan series (so do I!) and Eragon, but not too fond of Inkheart. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.01.08, 01:04 PM Flag
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how about some older books: Black and Blue Magic by Zilpha Keatley Snyder, (and others by ZKS: The Egypt Game, The Headless Cupid, THe Changeling come to mind). Has he read Gregor the Overlander (series, contemporary)? And try the books by ES Nesbitt... she inspired JK Rowling. Another contemporary series: Ulysess Moore. And he may like an actual book of mytholgy D'Aulaire's has Greek and Norse myths. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.01.08, 06:01 PM Flag
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^^ I may have already suggested this one to you: Lion Boy series. And What about Treasure Island and Robinson Crusoe..and look for the Cogno books (not on B&N, only amazon, last I checked) [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.01.08, 06:34 PM Flag
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Thanks! He did read Black and Blue Magic and Headless Cupid -- liked the former alot. The Changeling is one of my favorite books from childhood, although I think of it more as a girls' book (although shame on me for the gender stereotypes). Actually, I was wondering why you didn't suggest ZKS for the 8 yr old girl above? I remember that a child is murdered in The Egypt Game so I've been avoiding it as well, although it's another one of my favorites from childhood. I'm going to try some of your other suggestions -- thanks very much. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.02.08, 07:17 AM Flag
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I had so many obvious thngs come to mind, that I didn't need to get creative...but figured I'd get there sooner or later, when she came back! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.02.08, 09:24 AM Flag
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I need a book for my 4 year old who will be getting a new sib in a few months. Any books to prep him? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.01.08, 06:39 PM Flag
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One funny suggestion comes to mind: Melissa Shannon wrote How I Became a Pirate and Pirates Do Not Change Diapers (I think, name maybe similar). In the second book, the young protagonist is looking after his baby sister. There have been many newer books written since my first had a sib, so my experience is rusty. I liked the Dr. Sears book (an illustrated one) since it mentioned Bfing (if you plan to do so) and wasn't super AP, just nice. Any book moms out there with more recent experience at this? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.01.08, 06:46 PM Flag
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thanks - this is good info to start with [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.01.08, 06:59 PM Flag
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If you search on Dr Sears and new siblings on B&N, see what other books those who purchased *his* book bought! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.01.08, 07:04 PM Flag
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The other book I mention below would be good for you too....My Big Brother by Valerie Fisher [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.02.08, 04:17 AM Flag
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3.5 yo boy, but I don't like enforcing gender stereotypes too much. I was thinking to start with chapter books. Any ideas? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.01.08, 06:39 PM Flag
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^^^some more info: I am expecting another boy (something good to recommend for big brother?), ds likes to ask and understand how things works (airplanes, planets, anything - he always asks why and how) - any non-fiction suggestions? (I also want fiction ones, we both love them!). Doesn't read on his own. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.01.08, 06:48 PM Flag
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I would wait on Chapter Books just yet and stay with really interesting picture books. When he turns four, my fave starter Chapter Book series : My Father's Dragon. For non fiction: I mentioned these above, but I really like the "I Wonder Why Series." Lots of tehm on differetn topics. Anothere series are the "Me and..." The name I'm certain of (and dd loved at that age) is Me on the Map. I also like the Usborne Encyclopdias of..... whatever. And, Magic School Bus books. Pancakes, Pancakes by Eric Carle explores where food comes from and he has a great fish book about how father's in the fish world care for their offspring. We had a great photographic book called Big Sister Little Sister that my dds loved (3 years apart). I'm wondering if there is a brother version! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.01.08, 06:56 PM Flag
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thanks!!! thought you were gone (and your response was cut off). I dont know any of the books you recommended, so I will certainly check them out, thanks! (I am not american, actually read to ds in Hebrew, but my dh reads to him in English). [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.01.08, 06:59 PM Flag
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If you click on the reponse, you can see the whole thing! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.01.08, 07:03 PM Flag
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The photo book is called My Big Brother by Valerie Fisher....good to read to the little one as well as the big boy. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.02.08, 04:14 AM Flag
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^^^ just read you answers to people above, some of which are relevant for us-- thank you! (and I am watching post in case you come back :) [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.01.08, 06:57 PM Flag
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would love 2 1/2 yr old boy suggestions ..he loves planes trains trucks but id love other things .. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.02.08, 06:50 AM Flag
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Bookmom: just saw your post: A few ideas for you: this is an age where stories and rhymes and wonderful! Where's My Teddy and other stories by Jez Alborough is still a favorite of mine and my dds...about a boy, his teddy bear and a bear in the woods. The Kiss that Missed...not a schlocky as it sounds...a knigth and a dragon go off and find a father's kiss that went astray, The Rain Came Down by David Shannnon has a good repettive end to each "paragraph" as well as great pictures with lots of detail (including trucks and transport!), Mike Mulligan and the Steam shovel and the H A Rey Curious George are wonderful stories ...CG is simpler...as a start. And How I Became A Pirate is a fave of mine for this age, as well. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.02.08, 06:26 PM Flag
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6 yo ds, captain underpants fanatic. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.02.08, 06:55 PM Flag
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Bookmom: LOL! are you trying to break the habit or stay within that reading level, etc? And is this for read aloud or hi own reading? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.02.08, 06:56 PM Flag
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this is on his own reading, and this is the first thing that he's read nonstop, wanting to read, instead of watching tv, pokemon, etc. what will i do when he's done with those books?! is there something similar to it? help, bookmom! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.02.08, 07:14 PM Flag
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not Book Mom, but have you tried Time Warp Trio? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.02.08, 07:21 PM Flag
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thanks, i'll give it a shot. he wasn't interested a few months ago, but i'll try again [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.02.08, 07:23 PM Flag
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well, they are pretty unique, but I can offer suggestions and you can see what grabs him: goosebumps series, My Weird Schools series, Franny K Stein, Jigsaw Jones Mysteries, Ricky Ricotta (by the same author as CU, maybe a little easier) , Ready Freddy series and DragonSlayer's Academy. Maybe you could show hime these on B&N and see what interests him? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.02.08, 07:24 PM Flag
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thanks for the suggestions, we'll check it out! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.02.08, 07:25 PM Flag
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let me know....and if you see a post about a kid with these intersts, please join in! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.02.08, 07:27 PM Flag
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4 year old boy - need ideas!! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.02.08, 07:03 PM Flag
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You can looka the 4.5 yo girl suggestion above for some longer books and good authors....but tell me more about ds. What are his fave books right now? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.02.08, 07:10 PM Flag
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2 year old boy. Not interested in books at all. Loves trucks, fire trucks, police cars and construction vehicles [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.04.08, 06:56 AM Flag
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Not every kid is ready to sit still at the same age. I think though, you could include on book at a time for him at bedtime so it becomes a nice routine for both of you ....and he may be less active then. I would suggest reading books in which he can actively participate: That's Not My Train, the Spot books with lift the flap options....these are simple, quick books that allow you to start a reading habit. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.05.08, 02:35 PM Flag
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^^ a few other ideas would be the pair of books: Noisy City Days and Noisy City Nights. he may like Taxi Dog, too. And there are lots of vehicle books. A few ideas Touch and Feel Fire Truck (again, basic, but a good start. the Woods have a Rescue Vehicle abc book called Alphabet Rescue. And there is Tonka series (paperbacks) that have names that start with "If I Could Drive..." Anyway, I hope you are still around and apologize to everyone for bringing this long thread back to life, but I like answering everyone if I can. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.05.08, 02:44 PM Flag
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2.5 yo girl, doesn't like to be read to very much. Not interested in looking at Eric Carle books, seems to prefer more realistic images. No patience! Likes animals, counting, letters. Big fan of Dore and Diego, has a very good memory. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.04.08, 07:31 AM Flag
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I like David Shannon's No David Books (more realistic looking than Eric Carle and quick and funny) as well as Arlene Alda's real photos (123 and abcs). See above re: setting a reading time aside every night at bed time. And why not capitalize on her interest in Dora? I'm not a nig fan of buying TV character books, but if they get her into a good habit, that is wonderful. And try the series which starts with "Bear Snores On" Good animal pictures with repitition and a fun ending. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 06.05.08, 06:19 PM Flag
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