Mrs. Marek Recommends "Commotion in the Ocean" by Giles Andreae
Kindergarten Teacher
"This book features some of the more unique sea creatures for each letter of the alphabet in a very fun and engaging manner. Your kids will want to read it again and again!"
Mrs. Torre Recommends "Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes" by James Dean
Kindergarten Teacher
"I think this is a great book to start the year off in kindergarten. It features colors/color words and it also sets a tone to not let things get you down... Did Pete Get Upset? GOODNESS NO!"
Ms. Boyd Recommends "The Smart Cookie" by Jory John & Pete Oswald
First Grade Teacher
"I read this story to my class. They really enjoyed it, and wanted to look for more books by this author."
Mrs. McCarty Recommends "The Sandcastle Contest" by Robert Munsch
First Grade Teacher
"This book makes me smile because it reminds me of lazy summer days camping with my kids when they were young."
Ms. Cascio Recommends "Only One You" by Linda Kranz
Second Grade Teacher
"This beautifully, colorful illustrated book sends a powerful message for children (and even adults) about being unique and offering a positive and new perspective on life! This is one of my absolute favorite books!"
Ms. Cascio also recommends:
Frindle by Andrew Clements (Ages 8+)
"This is another favorite! This is both a funny and inspiring story that teaches the value of words, creativity and how a small idea can become a big one, and even change rules!"
Mrs. Dillon Recommends "Shiloh" by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor (Ages 9+)
Third Grade Teacher
"Shiloh is an enjoyable book to read about a boy and his dog."
Mrs. Vogel Recommends "The Great Gilly Hopkins" by Katherine Paterson (Ages 9+)
Fifth Grade Teacher
"This classic novel has strong messages on family and friendship."
Mrs. Droll Recommends "Ten on a Twig" by Lo Cole
Reading Teacher
"Ten on a Twig" is a wonderful counting story-full of repetition that is ideal for new readers to share with adults and read aloud."
Mrs. Droll also recommends:
Sheep in a Jeep by Nancy Shaw (Grade 1)- "A group of sheep decide to see if they can all fit into a jeep. Then they think of all sorts of unlikely places they can drive to, and nothing goes to plan. This book is ideal for reluctant readers."
Dear Max by Sally Grindley (Grade 2)- "When Max receives a book for Christmas, he starts to write to the author, embarking on a voyage of imaginative adventure. Great for encouraging your child to write their own stories."
The Magic Thief by Sarah Prineas (Ages 9+)- "Set in a fantasy world of spells and wizards, Conn finds himself thrown into adventures and solving mysteries. This book is exciting and fast-paced."
The Wild Bot by Peter Brown (Grade 4)- "When Roz the robot finds herself unexpectedly marooned on an island, she knows that she needs to learn how to survive -fast- in this fast-paced thriller. A more advanced book for grade four children."
The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate (Grade 5)- A fascinating story told from the point of view of Ivan, a captive gorilla. One day, after years in a cave, Ivan sees things differently when a baby Elephant arrives at the zoo. A great story about friendship.
Ms. Vitacco Recommends "Donut Feed the Squirrels" by Mika Song
Literacy Teacher
"Some of the books are funny and some of the books are realistic. The students will enjoy them!"
Ms. Vitacco-Boyle also recommends:
The Big Fat Cow that Goes Kapow by Andy Griffiths (Kindergarten)
Baloney and Friends: Going Up! by Greg Pizzoli (Grade 2)
Wallace the Brave by Will Henry (Grade 3)
Restart by Gordon Korman (Grade 4+)
Alone by Megan E. Freeman (Grade 5+)
Ms. Ahern Recommends "The One and Only Ivan" by Katherine Applegate (Ages 8+)
Support Staff
"The One and Only Ivan is a beautiful story about a gorilla named Ivan who lived in a shopping mall! You may be surprised to learn that Ivan was a real gorilla! His story is a tale of friendship, love, and compassion. I think you will enjoy getting to know the wonderful characters in this book!"
Ms. Gribetz Recommends "Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch" by Paul Yalowitz (K-3)
School Social Worker
"I used to read these books to my son. They are heartwarming reads that will make you smile!"
Ms. Gribetz also recommends:
The Monster Who Lost His Mean by Tiffany Strelitz Haber (K-1)
Z is for Moose by Kelly Bingham (K-2)
Mrs. Matos Recommends "The Hundred Dresses" by Eleanor Estes (Ages 7+)
Special Education Teacher
"I really love the lessons learned in this story. There is a beautiful lesson that the characters in the book learn that I feel is important for everyone to reflect upon. This book is a short read but makes a huge impact in the short amount of pages read. The story helps us to remember that in a world where you can be anything, be kind. :) "