Wemberly Worried

Hi, readers!  Well, it's just around the corner.  That's right, school starts next week.  So if your child is overcome with the jitters, I have a few books to ease the nerves.

Today we'll start with Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes (c. 2000):

"You worry too much," said her mother.
"When you worry, I worry," said her father.
"Worry, worry, worry," said her grandmother.
"Too much worry."

And the start of school issues a whole new mound of worries for Wemberly.  Discover how this reserved mouse copes with that first day.  Once again, Henkes illustrations deliver charm as well as comfort.

Little White Rabbit

I'll always recommend books that encourage early exploration of imagination, and Kevin Henkes' newly published story arrived in time just for that - while enjoying his enchanting spring landscapes.  Little White Rabbit (c. 2011) presents a story perfect for the youngest in your family.  In fact, it's as if Henkes wiggled his way into the imagination of a 2-4 year old as he wrote and illustrated Little White Rabbit, where a young rabbit wonders what it would be like to . . .

Kevin Henkes wrap-up:

During the past week, I've shared many Kevin Henkes titles.  Be sure to check out Henkes webpage while you're reading his books: http://www.kevinhenkes.com/  In review, this week's featured titles include (click on image to read recommendation):

Others we check out and re-check out:

Old Bear (c. 2008)

Birds (c. 2009)

Finally . . . the winner of Lillly's Purple Plastic Purse by Kevin Henkes is Jenny Stevning!  Congratulations, Jenny!  If you get a chance, hop on over to Jenny's blog http://jennystevning.blogspot.com/ to check out her art!  And remember, I'll be hosting another give away shortly.

Kitten's First Full Moon

Henkes received the Caldecott Medal in 2005 for Kitten's First Full Moon (c. 2004).  With several repetitive lines sprinkled throughout, here's a story the kids love to read along with me -- filling in those anticipated lines.  Henkes presents a humorous story of kitten who eagerly attempts to lick from a bowl of milk . . . which he perceives the moon to be.  And somehow, unlimited by his black and white drawings, Henkes captures the moon's illuminate reflections.  This precious gem of a book best suits those kindergarten ages and younger.

Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse

I've been thinking that I should offer a give-away.  So during the whole month of March, I will be hosting book give-aways.  We'll just call it March Madness.

This week, I'm giving away a copy of Kevin Henkes' Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse (c. 1996).  To enter the give-away: post a comment answering: what has been your family's favorite book recommended by Read Me A Story.  Post your comments by Tuesday noon in order to be eligible to win.  I will announce the winner (pulled at random) on Wednesday.  Best wishes!

And now for Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse by Kevin Henkes: even though Henkes communicates Lilly's emotions from her point-of-view, children wince at the fickle unkindness Lilly exhibits when she criticizes her beloved teacher and adored role-model, Mr. Slinger.  Watch how Henkes signature watercolor and ink drawings extend the story beyond the written word (in true Henkes style).

Chrysanthemum

The kids' three all-time-favorite Kevin Henkes' picture books are Chrysanthemum, Wemberly Worried, and Kitten's First Full Moon.

Chrysanthemum relishes her parents' hand-picked name for her . . . that is . . . until the first day of kindergarten.  Let's face it: children relate to stories empathizing with their problems!  So who hasn't been teased before . . . name-called . . . possibly with a variation of one's given name?  Show of hands.  Oh, just about everyone.  Right.  Enter Chrysanthemum where Kevin Henkes massages these childhood vulnerabilities into a bright ending that kids just relish.  What else I like about Chrysanthemum (c. 1996), suggested for ages 4-8:

• Kevin Henkes' signature watercolor and ink drawings
• the close knit family providing comfort and stability
• the moral: be yourself / it's okay to be unique

And as for Wemberly Worried, well you'll just have to wait for that recommendation until August, right before school starts.  Trust me, it will be more timely then.  However, stick around this week for more Kevin Henkes book recommendations and a drawing to receive a free book.