Interactive Books

Dandelion Magic

Author: Darren Farrell

Illustrator: Maya Tatsukawa

Publisher Info: Published by Dial Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Penguin Random House, in 2021

Description: This story details Jonah’s experience as he wishes for certain things from a magical dandelion, finding himself going on all sorts of adventures and encountering dangers along the way. The reader is encouraged to blow the dandelion and create wishes with Jonah to get him out of sticky situations.

Evaluation: This story is an excellent way to get readers immersed in the story. By breaking the third wall and addressing the reader as “you” throughout, this story asks for participation. In addition, the short sentences and detailed illustrations create an easy-to-read story.

Usage: This story would be well used for K-1 grade, as each illustration and paired text creates a logical flow without a complex plot. This would be a great story to use to get students to learn what point of view means in a story.

Mix It Up!

Author: Hervé Tullet

Publisher Info: Chronicle Books, 2021

Description: In this interactive tale, readers will be challenged to "mix it up" as they are instructed to tap, shake, and press to make colorful transformations. The story begins with a small dot that students need to press that invites all of the colors to come join in on the fun! 

Evaluation: This story provides examples of how students can use primary colors (yellow, red, and blue) to create other colors through interactions. Students will also learn that using black and white can change how dark or light a color is when painting. These wonderful interactive features makes learning about colors fun for young readers. 

Usage: This resource would be best for preschool and kindergarten students (ages 3-6) who are exploring the concept of primary colors. This story can easily spark creativity within students who are making an art project using red, yellow, blue, black, and white.