Picture books for Preschoolers
Ready for the Day! and Ready for Bed!
by Stacey R. Kaye, illustrated by Elizabeth O. Dulemba (Free Spirit Publishing, hardcover $12.95 each, 32 pages)
These “Parent Smart Kid Happy” books are for reading together and include pages of tips in the back for fostering positive communication between parents and kids.

Fiction for Grades 1-3
Leo: A Baby Lion’s Story
by Kathleen Duey
(Smart Kids Publishing, hardcover + DVD, $12.99, 32 pages)
Part of the My Animal Family series, the beautifully-illustrated story is just the beginning; also included are a DVD with more information and a membership to the My Animal Family website, where kids can play age-appropriate games in a safe environment.

Fiction for Grades 4-6
The Field Guide to Safari Animals
by Paul Beck (Silver Dolphin Books, hardcover $15.95, 36 pages)
An interactive guide to animals formatted like a true safari field guide with photos, maps, and notes throughout. Includes paper models of featured animals and removable diorama so kids can create their own version of a safari.

Fiction for Grades 5 and up
Enchanted Thyme
by Ariane Smith (Big Word Press, hardcover $17.95, 123 pages)
A fun and challenging read for kids who are interested in fantasy books and cooking. Each chapter includes a healthful recipe with easy-to-follow directions so children can create the food with the help of an adult. A glossary at the back of the book offers easy-to-understand definitions of sometimes hard-to-understand big words.