There are lots, maybe too many, books published annually. The Denver Post recently suggested that last year 16,000 new children’s books were published.

How can adults – teachers and parents – distinguish what’s good and what’s not with such an overwhelming number of books to choose from?

You may want to start with the “canon of children’s literature” suggested by Anita Silvey. . And take a look at recommendations from the American Library Association.

One of the things I miss most in a lot of new books for younger children is a good story, one in which the message doesn’t overpower the pleasure. Maybe that’s why I responded so warmly to Library Lion (Candlewick). Preschool and primary grade children will certainly catch the gentle humor as they respond to the equally gentle conflict in this handsomely illustrated story with an old-fashioned feel.

And I always recommend talking to your local librarian – often a library lion – who knows lots of children’s books that may be just right for the young readers in your life.

About the Author

Maria Salvadore is Reading Rockets’ consultant for children’s literature and literacy. Maria curates our themed booklists and writes the blog, Page by Page, which explores the best ways to use kids’ books both inside and outside of the classroom. She leads parent workshops for Ready To Learn (RTL) at WETA Public Broadcasting in Washington, D.C. She has also taught children’s literature at the University of Maryland, reviewed books for School Library Journal, and has served on various book award committees, including the Boston Globe/Horn Book Awards, Golden Kite, and the Caldecott Committee.

Publication Date
March 28, 2007
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