Some February Reading Suggestions for Children

Here is variety of books for reading for January and February.

The Paper Bag Princess by Robert Munsch art by Michael Martchenko, published by Annick Press LTd. Toronto, Canada. This wonderful fairytale is about a strong willed princess whose dreams and goals far surpass an ordinary prince. It's a girl power story that is a real charmer.

Miss Smith's Incredible Storybook by Michael Garland, published by Scholastic. This story about a new teacher shows kids how exciting fun reading can be when the characters is her storybook come alive in the classroom. Lots of fun to be had here.

I Go with My Family to Grandma's by Riki Levinson, illustrated by Diane Goode, published by Puffin Unicorn, Penguin Pub, USA. This book takes readers back to New York City long ago. It shows kids low life was back then and how families got together. They will make comparisons of the clothing worn then and now and hopefully ask questions about other changes that have taken place. This is a great book to share with older members of the family.

Today I Feel Silly and Other Moods That Make My Day, by Jamie Lee Curtis, illustrated by Laura Cornell, published by Joanna Cotler Books, Harper Collins NY
This fun book describes the many moods and emotions one might go through in a day. It helps kids see that this is normal and adults have mood changes too. The last page has a face with a wheel to change the features to match different moods. Kids will enjoy playing with it.

February 14th is not only Valentines Day but also Chinese New Year. Here are two books about Chinese children to enjoy

The City of Dragons by Laurence Yep, illustrated by Jean and Mou-sien Tseng, published by Scholastic, New York. This beautiful book tells about a boy from southern China, with a sad face, who joins a group of Giants on a tour. It can be the stepping off point to a conversation about true beauty. The illustrations are wonderful

Daisy Comes Home,by Jan Brett, published by G.P.Putman Sons, New York, NY. This is another one of Jan's beautifully illustrated books. It tells the tale of Daisy a little bitty hen living in China, who embarks upon an unexpected journey. Follow along for a entertaining time.


For a fun activity for Valentine's Day, how about making soap! Here's the easy recipe:
Put two cups of soap flakes (like Ivory) into a mixing bowl
Squeeze a few drops of red food coloring into 1/4 cup of water.
Mix all together until the soap flakes are evenly colored.
Add more soap or more water to adjust until it sticks together but isn't too sticky.
Take out small amount each time and press onto a clean counter.
Using cookie cutters, cut out heart or flower shapes.
Put the soap cakes onto a plate and let them dry for two days.
You can place a small sticker on top if you wish.
Wrap the up in pink cellophane, and tie with ribbon.
These make great gifts if you are looking for something other than candy.