English Books Recommendation

The Day the Crayons Came Home

Author: Drew Daywalt 

Publisher:  Philomel Books 

Classification no.: P

Teacher: Mr Wong Sun Ming

Content:

Duncan and his crayons are happily colouring in one day when a mysterious pile of postcards arrives in the mail. The messages are from Duncan's abandoned, lost and forgotten crayons. They are all complaining about Duncan's carelessness. Have you ever treated your crayons or stationery like this?

Reason(s) for recommendation:

Crayons are writing on postcards while they are travelling around the world? You'll laugh out loud at the messages from maroon crayon (broken in half), neon red crayon (left behind on a family vacation), turquoise crayon (melted onto a sock after getting put into the dryer) and the irrepressible pea green crayon (now known as Esteban the Magnificent).  Enjoy this book with lovely illustrations. I also recommend another book in the school library called 'The Day the Crayons Quit' which is also written by Drew Daywalt.

Goldilocks and Just the One Bear

Author: Leigh Hodgkinson 

Publisher: Nosy Crow  

Classification no.: P

Teacher: Ms Ma Hei Lam

Content:

“Goldilocks and Just One Bear" is a captivating children's story that takes a twist on the classic tale of Goldilocks and the Three Bears. In this delightful adaptation, Goldilocks stumbles upon a cottage cozy in the woods, but to her surprise, there is only one bear living inside. This endearing bear, who loves peace and solitude, finds the world turned upside down as Goldilocks unknowingly disrupts his daily routine. With vibrant illustrations and a heartwarming message, this charming book teaches children about empathy, friendship, and the importance of respecting others' personal space.

Reason(s) for recommendation:

I suggest the book Goldilocks and Just the One Bear to primary school students for several reasons. Firstly, it is a classic fairy tale that most children are familiar with, making it engaging and relatable for them. Secondly, the story teaches important lessons about respecting others' property and boundaries. Kids can learn about the of consequences invading someone's home without permission. Additionally the book provides opportunities for vocabulary building and understanding different emotions. Through the charming illustrations and simple text, children also learn about sequencing and retelling a story. Overall, Goldilocks and Just the One Bear is an enjoyable educational read and students young.

Elmer

Author: David McKee

Publisher:  Walker Books Ltd.  

Classification no.: P

Teacher: Ms Wong Siu Fong

Content:

‘Elmer’ is a heartwarming children’s book written by David McKee. It is about an elephant named Elmer who looks different from the other elephants because he is a muticoloured patchwork elephant. Elmer wants to fit in, so he tries to disguise himself as a regular elephant. He wants to be like the other elephants. However, he soon realizes that it is more important to be himself. Elmer learns that being different is something to be proud of, as his friends miss his colourful presence. The book has beautiful pictures that children can enjoy, and it teaches us to accept ourselves and others just the way we are.

Reason(s) for recommendation:

I highly recommend the book ‘Elmer’ for children. Elmer is a very popular and well-known series of children's books that many children love to read. It has sold more than 10 million copies all around the world. The colourful pictures by David McKee are amazing and attractive. The story teaches an important lesson about being true to yourself and accepting others who are different. It is easy to understand and can make children feel good about themselves. The book shows that it is great to be unique and that we should celebrate our differences. It can make children smile and learn about kindness and friendship. Spread the message of Elmer for who do not know about him.


the baby that roared

Author: Simon Puttock

Publisher:  GARDNERS VI BOOKS    

Classification no.: P

Teacher: Ms Lam Tsz Ching

Content:

Mr and Mrs Deer long for a baby of their own. Imagine their delight when- a dear little baby arrives unexpectedly on their doorstep. But the baby won’t stop roaring! They call their friends for help but, one by one, they keep disappearing… it’s all very peculiar!

Reason(s) for recommendation:

If you are looking for a delightful and heart-warming storybook that will leave you smiling from ear to ear, then look no further than "The Baby That Roared" by Simon Puttock. It tells the story of a small village that is suddenly startled by the arrival of a baby. But this is no ordinary baby; it has a unique ability to roar like a lion! The villagers are initially frightened by the loud roars echoing through the streets, but soon they discover that this special baby has a gentle and kind heart. This charming tale is a perfect choice for children and adults alike, as it combines humour, creativity, and a touch of magic.



the berenstain bears and the missing dinosaur bone

Author: Stan Berenstain & Jan Berenstain

Publisher:  Random House     

Classification no.: P

Teacher: Mr Tsang Wai Lun

Content:

Get ready for an amazing adventure with "The Bernstein Bears and the Missing Dinosaur Bone"! Join the friendly Bernstein Bears on a thrilling quest to solve a puzzling mystery. Brother and Sister Bear use their detective skills to follow clues, meet new friends, and uncover surprising secrets. With colorful pictures that bring the story to life and simple words that are easy to understand. This book will take you on a joyful journey of excitement and discovery. You will learn important lessons about working together, solving problems, and exploring the world around you. Get ready for a thrilling adventure with the Bernstein Bears!

Reason(s) for recommendation:

It's an awesome book that will make your imagination soar. I recommend this storybook to you for several reasons. The pictures are super colorful and the words are easy to read, so you will enjoy reading the story a lot. Besides, You will also learn how to be a great team player, solve puzzles and discover new things throughout the story. Lastly, I love the twist at the end of the story and I hope you will love it too. So don't miss out on this exciting adventure that will make you love reading even more! Let's find out the ending of the story together with me.

the king cat

Author: Marta Altes

Publisher: Macmillan      

Classification no.: P

Teacher: Miss Leung Kwan Heng

Content:

"The King Cat" is a cute book that tells the story of a cat who believes he is the king of the house. The cat is loved and taken care of by his owners. However, a new dog arrives and everything is different! The dog makes the house messy and noisy. People seem to forget about the cat. The cat is very upset because he thinks there is not enough love for everyone. He tells the dog he doesn't want him here and the dog really leaves the house. At this moment, the cat started to feel lonely... Will the dog come back?


Reason(s) for recommodation:

"The King Cat" by Marta Altes is an enchanting picture book that teaches children about sharing.  acceptance, and the importance of embracing new additions to the family. This book's delightful illustrations and its cat theme can capture children's attention. It is especially suitable for children experiencing change or expecting a new sibling in their family.

The Crocodile Who Didn't Like Water

Author: Gemma Merino

Publisher: NorthSouth Books       

Classification no.: P

Teacher: Mr Chau Ka Pang

Content:

Everybody knows that crocodiles love water, but this little crocodile is different. He doesn't like water at all. In fact, he prefers climbing trees! But it can be lonely when you're the odd one out, so the little crocodile tries his best to change. But

being wet isn't for everyone. A shiver soon becomes a cold and the cold becomes a sneeze, a very hot sneeze... Could it be that this little crocodile isn't a crocodile at all? He might just be a...

Reason(s) for recommendation:

I highly recommend "The Crocodile Who Didn't Like Water" by Gemma Merino for you. This delightful book tells the story of a crocodile who has a unique aversion to water. Through beautiful illustrations and engaging storytelling, you will follow on his journey of self-discovery and friendship.

In this colourful book, you will learn the important values of self-acceptance and embracing one's differences. It is okay to be different and that true happiness comes from being true to oneself. The story also encourages empathy and understanding towards others who may be different.

Daisy and the trouble with Kitten

Author: Keys Gray

Publisher: Red Fox        

Classification no.: F

Teacher: Miss Mak Kam Ming

Content:

"Daisy and the Trouble with Kitten" is a delightful children's book written by Kes Gray and illustrated by Nick Sharratt. The story revolves around Daisy, a young girl who finds herself facing a new challenge. She went on to trip with her friends and her family. During the trip, she saw some kittens that were adorable so she decided to feed them with some hotel tunas. But her mum and the hotel manager found it, so she was punished by them and they didn't let the kittens back to the hotel again. At night, she went out and found the kittens with her friend so they still care about the kittens.

Reason(s) for recommendation:

"Daisy and the Trouble with Kitten" is a heartwarming story. It teaches valuable lessons about the responsibilities that come with pet ownership and the importance of understanding and accepting the quirks of our furry friends.

I recommend this book to P.3-4 students.

The humorous situations and lively illustrations make it an enjoyable read. The language used is accessible, and the themes explored, such as responsibility and patience, are relevant to children in this age group. The story emphasizes the responsibilities that come with having a pet. It can help children understand the importance of taking care of animals.

Mystery in the Moonlight

Author: Abigail LaMarine

Publisher: Raz-plus        

Classification no.: /

Teacher: Miss Wong Sin Yan

Content:

The book consists of four chapters and revolves around the story of Nico and Isabel, who are twins. They have recently noticed that their new neighbors always keep their blinds and drapes closed, adding to the air of mystery surrounding them. This piques the kids' curiosity, leading them to wonder if their neighbors could be vampires or werewolves, as they are never seen during daylight hours. However, one night, they finally get the chance to meet the family and realize that their new neighbors are just as normal as anyone else. This raises the question of why the neighbors choose to "hide" themselves during the daytime.

Driven by their curiosity, Nico and Isabel decide to investigate further. During their investigation, they uncover a different reason for their neighbors' peculiar living situation. It turns out that Andrew, a child in the household, has a condition called XP (Xeroderma Pigmentosum), which makes him extremely sensitive to sunlight. This explains why the family avoids daylight and prefers to stay indoors. Upon making this discovery, Nico and Isabel take it upon themselves to find ways to include Andrew in activities that can be enjoyed under the moonlight, allowing him to have fun with other friends in the neighborhood.

Reason(s) for recommendation:

This book falls under the horror genre, which I personally enjoy. While browsing through the books on Raz-plus, the cover of this particular book caught my attention. It depicted a vampire with sharp fangs and blood-red eyes, set against the backdrop of a silent night.