Book Review

One of my favorite activities to do with my kids is cuddling up and reading a story. I love to feel their soft little bodies snuggle against me, I love to rest my cheek on the top of their heads, I love to hear them giggle with delight or recite the lines along with me because we've read the book so many times.
Reading with your kids is important to their development, both intellectually and emotionally. They grow to understand how books work, that stories are fun, and see letters working together to convey thoughts. Emotionally they feel of your love as you take time each day to hold them close and share something special. I read at least one book to each of my girls individually before I put them down for naps/quiet time. Yes, it cuts into my "me" time, but it's worth it. I love reading!
Here are a few of my favorite books. I'm sure you can find them at your library.

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Charlotte's Web by E.B White

I know I mentioned the other day how I love this book, and really I do. I love White's style: beautiful descriptions that are simple enough for a child to understand, simple setting and plot, and a poignant message. I love Charlotte, I love Wilbur. I love that friendship can flourish between two who don't have much in common. Love it.

The Two Princesses of Bamarre by Gail Carson Levine

This is a great story about two sisters who are princesses. One is brave, the other is timid. But when her sister's life is on the line, Addie is able to face her fears and discovers a well of strength inside her. I love the message of sisters' loyalty to one another and the Girl Power message as well. My girls aren't quite old enough to read it yet, but I've told them the story a few times and they love it.

Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney

This is a cute rhyming book about a little llama who has a hard time going to sleep and keeps calling out for his mama. A favorite line from this book that you can often hear at our house is "Please stop all this llama drama!"

Mr. Brown Can Moo Can You? by Dr. Seuss

This rhyming book is full of fun sounds for your children to mimic. My almost 2 year old loves it.

No Matter What by Debi Gliori

This is such a cute story about Large (the mommy) and Small (the kid). No matter what kind of mischief Small gets into, Large is always full of love for him. We call our toddler Small because of this book.

Thankful Together by Holly Davis

This is a cute rhyming book about a regular day and how the mommy shows her love to her little one all day long. It has fun illustrations and the prose is so precious.

Time for Bed by Mem Fox

My best friend brought this book to me when I was in the hospital after having my first baby. It's been a favorite ever since. I love the illustrations; my kids always love to point out which animal is the mommy and which one is the baby. I love thinking of mothers of animals everywhere loving their babies as much as we love ours. (Yes, I know it's probably not true that snakes tuck their babies in at night, but it's a nice thought)

Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak

This is such a classic! Poor, misunderstood Max gets sent to his room after being naughty and his imagination goes wild as he dreams of being King of the Wild Things. But then, "from far away across the world, he smelled good things to eat and wanted to be where someone loved him best of all." He wanted his mommy back! I love that even naughty kids love their mommies.

What are your favorites to read with your kids?