Each week I will share a book with you that we love in our home! Some may be seasonal, some will be classics, and some are those I grew up with and have passed onto my own kids! Be sure to check back each week to see what is added!

June 2026-Week 1
John Ronald’s Dragons by Caroline McAlister

John Ronald’s Dragons: The Story of J. R. R. Tolkien

 

Step into the imagination of a young J.R.R. Tolkien in this beautifully illustrated picture book. When little John Ronald becomes fascinated with dragons, his imagination begins to soar. Filled with adventure, creativity, and wonder, this charming story celebrates the power of storytelling and the experiences that helped shape one of the world’s most beloved fantasy authors.  You’ll find this book inside our Hobbit novel study.

May 2026-Week 4
Bubbles…Up! by Jacqueline Davis

Bubbles . . . UP!: A Celebratory Picture Book About Pool Day Fun and Sibling Bravery for Kids (Ages 4-8)

 

This energetic and imaginative read-aloud will get your children ready for a day of swimming. From dunking and diving with friends to somersaults and handstands underwater, the story captures the joy and freedom of play beneath the surface. When a sudden thunderstorm rolls in and a little brother drifts too close to danger, the story shifts into a moment of courage and quick action that children will feel in their hearts. With dynamic illustrations and lyrical text, the pages truly feel alive. Learn more about Jacqueline Davis in Rabbit Trails through Writing: Fall Volume 4.

May 2026-Week 3
Redwoods by Jason Chin

Redwoods

 

The Redwoods in California are absolutely breathtaking. Jason Chin did an amazing job showcasing them in this book. It gently weaves together imagination and real scientific facts in a way that captivates both children and adults. A perfect reminder to slow down, look up, and be amazed at the world around us. Learn more about Jason Chin’s writing style in Rabbit Trails with Writing: Spring Volume 4.

May 2026-Week 2
Extra Yarn by Mac Barnett

Extra Yarn: A Magical Story About Color and Generosity for Children (Ages 4–8)

 

I absolutely love Mac Barnett’s books. They are so fun to read. This book is about Annabelle who discovers a magical box of endless yarn. As she knits, she brings warmth, color, and joy to everything around her. This story is a wonderful reminder of creativity, generosity, and the impact one small act can have. Learn more about Mac Barnett in Rabbit Trails through Writing: Spring Volume 1.

May 2026-Week 1
When I Was Young in the Mountains by Cynthia Rylant

When I Was Young in the Mountains (Reading Rainbow Books)

 

This is a beautiful story that captures the warmth of family life and the joy found in simple, everyday moments. Through peaceful scenes of growing up in the mountains, it invites children to slow down and appreciate the world around them. It may spark meaningful conversations about gratitude, family traditions, and finding beauty in the ordinary. You can learn more about Cynthia Rylant in Rabbit Trails through Writing: Fall Volume 1.

April 2026-Week 4
What Do You Do With A Tail Like This? By Steve Jenkins

What Do You Do with a Tail Like This?

 

We absolutely love this book! I remember when I stumbled upon it while I was working on our very first unit: Rabbit Trails through Literature Volume 1. It is an engaging non-fiction picture book that explores how different animals use their unique body parts to survive. The cause and effect pages are sure to grasp your child’s interest!

April 2026-Week 3
The Runaway Bunny by Margaret Wise Brown

The Runaway Bunny

 

This is such a sweet, comforting story about a little bunny who imagines running away and a mother who lovingly promises she will always find him. This beautiful book pairs perfectly with our lesson on syllables in Rabbit Trails through Literature: Kindergarten. The repetitive text makes it easy for young learners to hear and break apart words, while our bunny-themed Rabbit Trail adds an extra layer of fun as children learn more about these adorable animals. Make sure to check it out.

April 2026-Week 2
Clothesline Clues to Jobs People Do by Kathryn Heling

Clothesline Clues to Jobs People Do

 

Clothesline Clues to Jobs People Do is a playful, interactive picture book that invites children to guess different community helper jobs based on clues from clothing and tools hanging on a clothesline. With each turn of the page, kids get to solve the riddle and discover the person behind the job! This engaging book is one of the main books in our new Community Helpers Preschool unit releasing on Wednesday, April 15. My son absolutely LOVES this book. It was the perfect one to start our adventure through learning about different jobs in our community.

April 2026-Week 1
The Z Was Zapped by Chris Van Allsburg

The Z Was Zapped: A Play in Twenty-Six Acts – The Three-Time Caldecott Medalist’s Mysterious Alphabet Picture Book

 

The Z Was Zapped by Chris Van Allsburg turns the alphabet into a series of funny, dramatic scenes, with each letter shown in an unexpected situation. The black and white illustrations also add to the dramatic part of this book. It is a perfect fit for our lesson on adverbs in Rabbit Trails through Literature: Volume 3 lesson. The author uses adverbs to show how each letter is acting. And we love using great literature to teach concepts. It also made a terrific connection to the rich, descriptive language we see in Shakespeare, which turned into a fun Rabbit Trail.

March 2026-Week 4
What’s Inside a Flower? by Rachel Ignotofsky

What’s Inside A Flower?: And Other Questions About Science & Nature

 

What’s Inside a Flower? is a beautifully illustrated book. It’s a wonderful introduction to the fascinating world of flowers and plant science for young readers. This colorful nonfiction picture book takes children on a journey inside a flower, explaining how its different parts work together to help plants grow, reproduce, and thrive. From petals and pollen to pollinators and seeds, the book breaks down big scientific ideas into simple, easy-to-understand language. With vibrant diagrams and playful artwork, Rachel Ignotofsky makes learning about botany exciting and accessible. The book encourages curiosity about nature and helps kids see the important role flowers play in our ecosystems and everyday lives. You can learn more about flowers in our Botany unit.

March 2026-Week 3
The Boy Who Drew Birds by Jacqueline Davies

The Boy Who Drew Birds: A Story of John James Audubon (Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K-12)

 

The Boy Who Drew Birds tells the inspiring true story of a curious young boy who grew up to become the world-famous naturalist and artist John James Audubon.

As a child, John James loved exploring the woods, observing birds, and carefully drawing what he saw. When he noticed that birds seemed to disappear in winter and return in spring, he asked a bold question: Do the same birds come back each year? Determined to find the answer, he conducted one of the first bird-banding experiments. This book celebrates curiosity, observation, and the power of asking questions about the natural world. It is featured in our Rabbit Trails through Science: Birds unit.

March 2026-Week 2
On a Beam of Light by Jennifer Berne

On a Beam of Light: A Story of Albert Einstein (Illustrated Biographies by Chronicle Books)

 

Albert Einstein’s birthday is March 14! This book will introduce your children to the life and imagination of Albert Einstein. It starts with a curious young Albert who loves daydreaming instead of sitting in school. We get to see just how this daydreaming leads him to become the famous scientist we know today. You can learn more about Albert Einstein in several of our Science units.

March 2026-Week 1
The Perfect Place by Matt de la Peña

The Perfect Place

 

We just started learning about Matt de la Peña in our Journey Down the Rabbit Trail lesson and we are loving it. In this story, Lucas experiences a perfect life when at school. But when he comes home, his life is far from perfect. His mom works long hours, his dad’s truck doesn’t run, AND he has to share his room with his younger sister. He dreams of living in a perfect world and loves it at first, but he slowly starts to realize that maybe a perfect life isn’t what he really wants. Make sure to check this book out.

February 2026-Week 4
How Do You Spell Unfair? by Carole Boston Weatherford

How Do You Spell Unfair?: MacNolia Cox and the National Spelling Bee: (A Picture Book Biography of an African American Girl in the Era of Segregation – For Kids Ages 7-10 in Grades 2-5)

 

We can’t let Black History Month end without including one book in our Book of the Week lineup. When I saw this book and the author’s name, I knew it would be a great book. We learned all about Carole Boston Weatherford in a long ago Journey Down the Rabbit Trail membership lesson. With thoughtful text, this picture book opens the door to important conversations about resilience, fairness, and racism. Definitely check it out.

February 2026-Week 3
Tea Party in the Woods by Akiko Miyakoshi

The Tea Party in the Woods

 

Step into this book and discover a magical surprise hidden in the woods. In Tea Party in the Woods, a young girl tries to deliver a pie to her grandmother. Along the way, she finds an unforgettable tea party with…ANIMALS! Akiko Miyakoshi’s soft illustrations and dreamlike storytelling create a cozy, almost magical atmosphere that invites readers to slow down and savor the moment.

February 2026-Week 2
Love from The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

Love from The Very Hungry Caterpillar (The World of Eric Carle)

 

Y’all know I love Eric Carle! When I found this adorable Valentine’s Day book with the Very Hungry Caterpillar, I just had to share. Enjoy Eric Carle’s amazing artwork as you make your way through this book. If you’re looking for a fun, hands-on Valentine’s Day lesson, check out ours. Your children will love it!

February 2026-Week 1
Groundhog’s Dilemma by Kristen Ramenar

Groundhog’s Dilemma

 

What would you do if everyone expected you to predict the future? Well, that’s exactly what happens to Groundhog. He is facing the pressure of tradition, expectations, and making the “right” choice. This charming picture book blends humor and heart while gently exploring themes of anxiety, self-confidence, and being true to yourself. Also, hop on over to our website and get a copy of our Groundhog Day holiday lesson!

January 2026-Week 4
The Musician of Auschwitz by Kathy Kacer

The Magician of Auschwitz

 

This is such a powerful short story that invites readers to remember the Holocaust through the lens of one man’s experience inside a Nazi concentration camp. Forced to play music for camp officials, Werner survives because of his talent. Music, once a source of beauty and meaning, becomes tied to survival, obedience, and moral conflict. Holocaust Remembrance Day is tomorrow, January 27. This is an excellent book to read with your children to learn more about that horrific time in history. Also, check out our lesson on the Holocaust in our Modern America: Part 1 unit.

January 2026-Week 3
Snowmen at Night by Caralyn Buehner

Snowmen at Night

 

Do you wanna build a snowman? My kiddos love to build snowman after snowman. We have gotten plenty of snow already, so they have been busy. But what do snowmen do while we sleep? You’ll have to read this adorable book to find out. Make sure to check out our freebie lesson: Rabbit Trails through Science: Let It Snow for more snow fun!

January 2026-Week 2
Brave Irene by William Steig

Brave Irene: A Picture Book

 

This month in Journey Down the Rabbit Trail, we’re bundling up with Brave Irene by William Steig! When Irene’s mama is sick, this brave girl heads straight into a wild snowstorm to deliver a fancy dress—all by herself. The wind howls, the snow piles up, and everything seems to go wrong… but Irene refuses to give up. Will she make it?

January 2026-Week 1
The Year at the Maple Hill Farm by Alice and Martin Provensen

The Year At Maple Hill Farm

 

I absolutely love reading books about farms. As some of you know, we have found our own little farm. When I found this book, I just had to share it. It goes through all the seasons and what the animals do during those different times of year. It’s a great book to start the year with. I hope you enjoy it as much as we did.

December 2025-Week 5
The Night Before New Year’s by Natasha Wing

The Night Before New Year’s

 

It’s almost 2026! How is that even possible!?! The family is getting ready for New Year’s Eve. They get all the party supplies, decorate, and have yummy food. Will they make it to midnight? You’ll have to read to find out. Another way to celebrate New Years is to check out our New Years holiday lesson.

December 2025-Week 4
The Twelve Days of Christmas by Greg Pizzoli

The 12 Days of Christmas

 

We are having a blast learning about Greg Pizzoli this month with our Journey Down the Rabbit Trail membership. In The 12 Days of Christmas, his illustrations help tell the story of the frustration of having to fit all the gifts from the 12 Days of Christmas song. Once you’ve read this one, check out some of his other books.

December 2025-Week 3
The Bill of Rights by Norman Pearl

The Bill of Rights (American Symbols)

 

The first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution was ratified on December 15, 1791. This book is a great way to teach your children about them and why they are so important. When you have finished this book, check out our America’s Founders history unit to learn more about the Founding Fathers and Mothers.

December 2025-Week 2
Betty Bunny Wants Everything by Michael B. Kaplan

Betty Bunny Wants Everything

 

It’s that time of year. The children sit around and look at all the Christmas catalogs and make their Christmas list. Well, Betty Bunny is struggling with wanting everything. She fills a shopping cart with all the things that look fun, even if she isn’t sure what they are. Her parents try to teach her a lesson, but does it work?

December 2025-Week 1
The Light of Christmas by Richard Paul Evans

The Light of Christmas

 

December 1st is National Christmas Lights Day! To celebrate, we chose a book about a different type of Christmas light… The Light of Christmas is a beautiful reminder of kindness, generosity, and the true meaning behind the season. In this heartwarming story, a young boy named Alexander discovers that real Christmas light comes not from dazzling displays, but from a heart willing to give. Its gentle message and stunning illustrations make it a perfect read-aloud for the holidays—and a lovely way to inspire meaningful conversations and learning as you explore it in your homeschool this week.

November 2025-Week 4
Cranberry Thanksgiving by Wende and Harry Devlin

Cranberry Thanksgiving

 

I just love this book! Grandmother makes the most delicious cranberry bread, but doesn’t want anyone to get her recipe. She is convinced that Mr. Whiskers, whose real name is Uriah Peabody, is going to steal it. Every Thanksgiving, Grandmother and Maggie each invite one person to join them for dinner. Grandmother chooses a nice looking and clean fellow named Mr. Horace. Maggie invites Mr. Whiskers. You definitely want to check this out to see what happens at dinner and if Grandmother’s recipe is safe. Don’t forget to also get our Thanksgiving lesson!

November 2025-Week 3
It’s Milking Time by Phyllis Alsdurf

It’s Milking Time

 

Phyllis Alsdurf’s first book was all about living on a dairy farm, just like she did as a child. She shares about all the work that needs to be done to care for the cows. The illustrations in this book look so real that you will think they are actually photographs. We have been enjoying learning all about Phyllis Alsdurf in our Journey Down the Rabbit Trail lesson this month.

November 2025-Week 2
The Impossible Patriotism Project by Linda Skeers

The Impossible Patriotism Project (Rise and Shine)

 

Caleb’s teacher assigns a patriotism project. All of his classmates have great ideas, but Caleb is stumped on how to show patriotism. In the end, he ends up talking about his dad who is serving as a soldier. This book is a wonderful reminder of what patriotism is and the sacrifices made by military families. That’s why we chose it for the main book of our new Veteran’s Day lesson. Make sure to thank our veterans tomorrow and every day!

November 2025-Week 1
Today on Election Day by Catherine Stier

Today on Election Day

 

It’s not a Presidential election year, but we may still be voting for important people in our state, county, or town. This book covers it all. It covers where people might vote in your town, about the two main political parties, what campaigns are, the history of voting rights, and why we vote. It’s a great book to help with discussions about why it’s so important for all Americans to vote. Make sure to also download our Election Day freebie lesson!

October 2025-Week 4
The Barber Who Wanted to Pray by R.C. Sproul

The Barber Who Wanted to Pray

 

This is a wonderful book to read to celebrate Reformation Day (October 31). It’s based on a true story. Mr. McFarland was leading his family’s devotions one evening when his daughter asked him how to pray. Then he shares a story about a barber and Martin Luther. The barber, Master Peter, decides to ask Martin Luther how to pray. Martin Luther responds by writing him a letter, which later became the book, A Simple Way to Pray. This is a beautifully illustrated story and a great book to help teach your children about praying. Make sure to check out our Reformation Day lesson.

October 2025-Week 3
The Great Smoky Mountains Salamander Ball by Lisa Hortsman

The Great Smoky Mountains Salamander Ball

 

Who has been to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park? It is absolutely beautiful there. We loved hiking the trails and just spending time in nature. This National Park is also the salamander capital of the world. One summer night, Sara discovers the salamander ball and is fascinated by it. Crawl on over to your library and find out what happens. Make sure to check out our Rabbit Trails through the Parks lessons.

October 2025-Week 2
Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault

Chicka Chicka ABC (Chicka Chicka Book, A)

 

This is one of my favorite books. It’s such a fun story and a great way to work on your child’s alphabet recognition. This book is also illustrated by our Journey Down the Rabbit Trail author, Lois Ehlert. Her collage illustrations are so fun to look at. AND…we also have a preschool freebie lesson using this book. Definitely check out the book and free lesson!

October 2025-Week 1
Yellow Time by Lauren Stringer

Yellow Time

 

This book is filled with the joy of fall!! I love this time of year, and books like Yellow Time really help me pass on that joy to my children. Squirrels prepare, crows rejoice, and the children anticipate the trees turning yellow and blanketing the earth during autumn.

September 2025-Week 5
The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams Bianco

The Velveteen Rabbit: The Classic Children’s Book

 

Oh, I love this classic story. It’s a great book to read for National Bunny Day. It was actually on September 27, but in our house, it’s always Bunny Day! The Velveteen Rabbit comes to life through the love of a little boy. If you haven’t read this to your children yet, hop to it!

September 2025-Week 4
Goodnight Hobbiton by Steven Giesbrecht

Goodnight Hobbiton

 

I love reading and rereading Goodnight Moon to my children. When I was working on The Hobbit novel study, I found this fun parody book. Definitely check it out along with our novel study!

September 2025-Week 3
A More Perfect Union: The Story of the Constitution by Betsy Maestro

A More Perfect Union: The Story of Our Constitution

 

Constitution Day is coming up on September 17. This book is a great book to help your children learn why we have a Constitution. It also explains how the Constitution was created. I love that she included a section in the back with maps, important dates, and summaries of the Articles of the Constitution. Also, check out our America’s Founders unit to learn more about the beginning of the United States.

September 2025-Week 2
Crickwing by Janell Cannon

Crickwing

 

Our Journey Down the Rabbit Trail author for September is Janell Cannon. She hasn’t written many books, but all of them have gorgeous illustrations. Crickwing is a cockroach who liked to make sculptures out of his food. Before he could eat his sculptures, giant predators would come and steal it away. Will Crickwing ever get to eat his masterpieces? Crickwing becomes angry and turns his anger on the ants. Check it out to find out what happens. Now is the time to join our monthly writing membership, Journey Down the Rabbit Trail. It’s open through September 15.

September 2025-Week 1
Grandparents’ Day by Pamela Traynor

Grandparents’ Day

 

Grandparents’ Day is coming up on September 7. Do you celebrate it? This book would be a great book for your children to read to those special grandparents in their lives. The watercolor illustrations are wonderful. The story will bring smiles to everyone’s faces, maybe even a few tears.

August 2025-Week 4
You Are Home: An Ode to National Parks by Evan Turk

 

August 25th is the National Parks Service Founders Day! The stunning illustrations will draw you into this story and make you feel like you are in a National Park. My family always enjoyed visiting National Parks and hope to visit more in the years to come. If you want to ‘travel’ to National Parks, you can do that with our National Parks lessons.

August 2025-Week 3
Harry by the Sea by Gene Zion

 

Gene Zion’s Harry books are so fun to read this month with our Journey Down the Rabbit Trails lesson. In this story, Harry gets lost at the beach. While he’s trying to find his family, he gets covered in seaweed. Go check out this book to see what happens after that. Also, hurry on over to our website and get on the wait list for our Journey Down the Rabbit Trails membership.

August 2025-Week 2
The Crayon Man: The True Story of the Invention of the Crayola Crayons by Natascha Biebow

 

School is starting (or in our case, already has). Getting new school supplies is the best part of starting the school year. You can learn how one of those school supplies was invented in The Crayon Man. You can also find this book inside our brand new Chemistry unit.

August 2025-Week 1
Wild About Books by Judy Sierra

 

This is an adorable book and a great book to read on National Book Lovers Day on August 9. The librarian ends up at the zoo. Oh, what will happen to the books? Turns out the animals absolutely loved books. While reading, see if your children can pick out the titles of books hidden in the story.

July 2025-Week 4
The Rattlebang Picnic by Margaret Mahy

 

Since it’s National Picnic Month, you will want to check out this fun book. A newlywed couple make the decision to buy “an old rattlebang” car so they can afford to have a large family. Now with 7 children in tow, the family decides to go for a picnic on the top of Mt. Fogg, which erupts, threatening to spoil the family’s adventure. Full of tall tales with exaggeration and lively humor, the story of the McTavishes teaches about the importance of spending time as a family over material possessions.

July 2025-Week 3
The House Takes a Vacation by Jacqueline Davis

 

What does your house do while you are gone? Maybe it just stays there, waiting for you to return. But what if it really went on vacation. The house in this story wants to go on vacation when its family leaves. Unfortunately all the different parts struggle to decide where to travel. We have been enjoying Jacqueline Davis’s books this month as part of our Journey Down the Rabbit Trail writing membership.

July 2025-Week 2
Perkin’s Perfect Purple by Tami Lewis Brown and Debbie Loren Dunn

 

Can you imagine a world without the color purple? Well, at one time the color purple was very complicated to make and was only available for the very wealthy. Thanks to a failed experiment on a cure for malaria, we now have a purple that is not complicated to make. This is not only a great book to read when studying Chemistry (psst…we just released a Chemistry unit this week!), but also a great example of how sometimes mistakes turn into great things.

July 2025-Week 1
Electrical Wizard: How Nikola Tesla Lit Up the World by Elizabeth Rusch

 

July 10 is Nikola Tesla’s birthday. In honor of his birthday, check out this great picture book about his life. You’ll find out how he became interested in electricity at a young age and prophesied to harness Niagara Falls to electrify New York City. You can learn more about Nikola and other inventors in our Rabbit Trails through History: Inventors unit.

June 2025-Week 5
My Fourth of July by Jerry Spinelli

 

Newberry award-winning author Jerry Spinelli and award-winning illustrator Larry Day celebrate small town America in this nostalgic classic. This story celebrates patriotic traditions that many Americans associate with the holiday, reminding us the value of both one’s family & country. Get our Rabbit Trails through Independence Day lesson to add more fun to the holiday.

June 2025-Week 4
Paul Bunyan by Steven Kellogg

 

You can’t study tall tales without hearing the name Paul Bunyan, the legendary carver of the Grand Canyon, excavator of the Great Lakes and more. This hilarious retelling, written and illustrated by Steven Kellogg, provides the perfect read aloud for storytime with minimal but humorous narrative and engrossing artwork on every page. This book also serves as our central text for the Tall Tales section in Rabbit Trails Through Literature: Volume 4!

June 2025-Week 3
A Perfect Day by Lane Smith

 

A Perfect Day was written by Lane Smith based on a real day in his life. It’s a perfect book for the week of the first day of summer. You will meet one silly animal that changes the other animals’ perfect day. We are learning about Lane Smith’s writing style in Journey Down the Rabbit Trail membership. His illustrations help bring the story to life. Definitely check out his books!

June 2025-Week 2
The Hundred-Year Barn by Patricia MacLachlan

 

This may be one of my favorite books we used in the Rabbit Trails through Literature volumes. Not only are the illustrations beautiful, the story is also. A little boy watched his father build a barn that became a refuge and home to him, friends, and animals. Make sure to check this out this week to get you ready for our release of Charlotte’s Web novel study. It’s also one of the main books in our Rabbit Trails through Literature: Volume 3.

June 2025-Week 1
The Tiny Seed by Eric Carle

 

I absolutely love Eric Carle’s books! The illustrations are so much fun. Tiny Seed is a great book to read as you’re planting and waiting for your plants to grow in your garden. Planting seeds takes lots of patience, waiting for the plant to grow. Patience is exactly what the focus was for our Preschool lesson with this book. We also went on many rabbit trails with flowers. Go check out this book AND Rabbit Trails through Literature: Preschool.

May 2025-Week 4
A Day for Remembering by Leah Henderson

 

Do you know what happened on the very first Memorial Day? Leah Henderson does a great job sharing the story. Floyd Cooper’s illustrations add so much to each page. Make sure to take time today to share what Memorial Day is all about. Also, check out our Memorial Day lesson.

May 2025-Week 3
The Library by Sarah Stewart

 

This is such a cute story. Sarah Stewart loves reading so why not write a book about the library. We have been learning about Sarah Stewart this month in our Journey Down the Rabbit Trail. Do you have a bookworm at home? Definitely check out this cute book.

May 2025-Week 2
Eyes That Kiss in the Corners by Joanna Ho

 

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Check out this book to help your kiddos see the differences in their friends as unique opportunities to learn more about their culture. The young girl learns to love her differences, which is an important lesson for all of us.

May 2025-Week 1
Cinco de Mayo Fiesta by Valentina Mariosh

 

Emma’s teacher has planned a special performance. This means Emma must learn a new dance. She will learn more about her culture and family traditions as she embarks on this journey. This will be a great book for your kiddos to learn more about Cinco de Mayo and Mexican culture.

April 2025-Week 4
We Are the Gardeners by Joanna Gaines

 

In her first children’s book, Joanna Gaines retells the story of their family’s first plant…a young fern, and how they learned through trial and error to care for plants. We are the Gardeners brings a message of hope and lessons learned through failure, as well as teaches how to start the beginning stages of a garden. This book is also featured in the free Rabbit Trails through Science: Spring lesson. We also have a science unit on Botany to really dive into the plant world.

April 2025-Week 3
Zonia’s Rain Forest by Juana Martinez-Neal

 

Caldecott Winning author, Juana Martinez-Neal, brings the unique story of Zonia, an Asháninka girl of the Amazon Rainforest. This beautifully illustrated book, whose unique pages are printed on banana bark, tells how Zonia answers the call of the Amazon. If you’re looking for a book for Earth Day, check this one out. Also, get our Rabbit Trails through Earth Day lesson for more fun.

April 2025-Week 2
The Longest Night by Laurel Snyder

 

This book is a beautiful poem that takes you through the 10 plagues of Egypt. The story is told through the eyes of a young slave girl. This is a great book to read this week of Passover as we remember the Exodus of the Israelites. You can also learn more about Passover with our Rabbit Trails through the Spring Feasts: Passover, Unleavened Bread, and First Fruits lesson.

April 2025-Week 1
Water is Water by Miranda Paul

 

Water is water, unless… it takes on another form of liquid, solid, or gas from the water cycle! This book is a really sweet take on teaching kids about the water cycle. The pictures by Caldecott winner Jason Chin are of course beautiful- that’s why we’ve featured him this month inside of our writing membership, Journey Down the Rabbit Trail. Pick up this book for a fun science lesson, then join our waitlist for the writing membership so you can learn more about authors and illustrators in your home, too!

March 2025-Week 5
Grace Hopper: Queen of Computer Code by Laurie Wallmark

 

It’s Women’s History Month. Let’s celebrate it by reading about Grace Hopper. You may be wondering who she is. She was a brilliant woman who helped teach computers to “speak English.” Read to learn more and then check out our lesson on other women inventors in Rabbit Trails through History: Inventors.

March 2025-Week 4
In Like a Lion Out Like a Lamb by Marion Dane Bauer

 

Have you heard the saying, “March came in like a lion and out like a lamb”? This book is based on that saying and explains what it means. We always want March to come in like a lion, not out like a lion!!

March 2025-Week 3
Jamie O’Rourke and the Big Potato by Tomie dePaola

 

Oh, Jamie O’Rourke! He is one of the laziest men in all of Ireland. His poor wife gets injured and Jamie needs to figure out what he will do. Who will dig up the pratties? He meets a leprechaun who may be able to help him. Check this Irish folktale to see what happens in the end. You can also add in our St. Patrick’s Day lesson to learn more about other legends of Ireland.

March 2025-Week 2
The Great Lakes by Barb Rosenstock

 

I grew up on the shores of Lake Erie, so books like this are a treasure to me! Barb Rosenstock is the queen of non-fiction and she did an amazing job with this book. This is also why we featured her in our writing membership, Journey Down the Rabbit Trail, this month. Take a journey to the Great Lakes by reading this book with your kiddos.

March 2025-Week 1
Horton Hears a Who by Dr. Seuss

 

Yesterday (March 2) was Dr. Seuss’s birthday. Celebrate it by reading one of his many creations. Horton is such a caring elephant and wants to save the people he hears on a speck of dust. Surprisingly, the whole town of Whoville is on this speck of dust. Will Horton choose to save them?

February 2025-Week 4
Locomotive by Brian Floca

 

We have enjoyed learning about Brian Floca and his writing style in our Journey Down the Rabbit Trail membership. Locomotive is such a fun book to read with all the fun onomatopoeia words and absolutely beautiful illustrations. If your kiddos are interested in learning more about the Transcontinental Railroad, check out our Rabbit Trails through History: Westward Expansion unit.

February 2025-Week 3
President Taft is Stuck in the Bath by Mac Barnett

 

Mac Barnett’s books are so much fun to read. My kiddos giggled through all the craziness of this story. Poor President Taft is stuck in the bath. Everyone he calls in for help has a different plan to get him out of the bath, but none of the plans work. Check it out to find out if he ever gets out of the bathtub. Learn more about our Presidents with our Rabbit Trails through President’s Day lesson.

February 2025-Week 2
The Day It Rained Hearts by Felicia Bond

 

Valentine’s Day is coming. There are so many Valentine’s Day books out there. This is such a cute book. Cornelia Augusta started collecting hearts to make some valentines for her friends. I love how this story talks about how much thought and work she put into making each valentine. Find more great books and activities in our Rabbit Trails through Valentine’s Day lesson.

February 2025-Week 1
Schomburg: The Man Who Built a Library by Carole Boston Weatherford

 

Celebrate Black History Month with us. I absolutely LOVE Carole Boston Weatherford’s books. We featured her a couple years ago in our Journey Down the Rabbit Trail membership. She does such a great job of sharing people’s stories with us, many of which we may have never heard of. Arturo Schomburg is an example of that. His collection of books, letters, art, and more was very impressive and is now known as the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. Definitely go check it out.

January 2025-Week 4
The Harmonica by Tony Johnston

 

Today is International Holocaust Remembrance Day. A young boy is separated from his family and only has his father’s gift, a harmonica. It helps keep the boy’s hopes alive and ensures his survival. The Harmonica is a must-read when learning about the Holocaust. That’s why it’s the main book for our Holocaust lesson in our next Rabbit Trails through History: Modern America Part 1 unit releasing next month.

January 2025-Week 3
Sloth Wasn’t Sleepy by Kate Messner

 

Sometimes we need to calm our bodies and thoughts before bed. Sloth definitely needed help. Mama Sloth helps Sloth calm down with some deep breathing and releasing her worries. Mama Sloth was successful in the end. Maybe this cute book will help your littles fall fast asleep.

January 2025-Week 2
Pizza! A Slice of History by Greg Pizzoli

 

Have you ever wanted to know where pizza came from? Check out this book to learn all about it and to celebrate National Pizza Week. When you’ve finished, go make some homemade pizza with your family!

January 2025-Week 1
Hurray for Three Kings’ Day by Lori Marie Carlson

 

Today we celebrate Epiphany, also known as Three Kings Day. Anita and her brothers walk the streets checking for a place to stay like Joseph and Mary. Learn more about this holiday and more in our Christmas Around the World unit.

December 2024-Week 5
Feliz New Year, Ava Gabriella! By Alexandra Alessandri

 

I love reading books about other cultures’ traditions on New Years. This one shares Ava’s Colombian family’s traditions. You can take this one step further and find recipes of the yummy food in the story. Don’t forget to check out our Rabbit Trails through New Years lesson.

December 2024-Week 4
Gifts of the Heart by Patricia Polacco

 

We are enjoying spending time learning about Patricia Polacco this month in our Journey Down the Rabbit Trail membership lesson. I just love that all her books are based on stories that she heard from her grandparents. This one does a great job of reminding our children that giving homemade gifts or gifts from the heart are more important than getting all things we think we want. If you’re interested in learning more about other authors and working on writing skills, sign up for our waitlist to join our Journey Down the Rabbit Trail membership next month.

December 2024-Week 3
The Night of Las Posadas by Tomie dePaola

 

Las Posadas begins tonight! If you aren’t familiar with this tradition, you should definitely check out Tomie dePaola’s book. It is beautifully illustrated and will help your family understand what this tradition is all about. You can learn more about Las Posadas and other December holidays in our Christmas Around the World unit study.

December 2024-Week 2
This Little Light of Mine by Darcy Pattison

 

Did you sing this song growing up? I remember singing it in Sunday School. This is a beautiful pop-up book that will help teach your children this great song and also to shine brightly for Jesus. It’s a great one to read during this Advent season. You can slow down and focus on Jesus the Advent with our Rabbit Trails through Advent unit.

December 2024-Week 1
The Legend of the Christmas Stocking by Rick Osborne

 

St. Nicholas Day is coming up on December 6. St. Check out this book to hear the story of St. Nicholas and how he helped those in need. Peter hears about St. Nicholas in church and it changes his point of view on what he was planning to do with his earnings. Read on to find out what Peter chooses to do. You can learn more about St. Nicholas in our Christmas Around the World unit.

November 2024-Week 4
Three Young Pilgrims by Cheryl Harness

 

Cheryl Harness’s books have such amazing illustrations! I especially love how this book has a map and diagram of the Mayflower. The illustrations really help history come alive! Harness tells the story of what living in the Plymouth colony was like and how their two friends, Samoset and Squanto, helped them all survive. This book is the main book for our Pilgrims lesson inside of Rabbit Trails through History: Early Settlers. You can also learn more about Thanksgiving in our Rabbit Trails though Thanksgiving lesson.

November 2024-Week 3
Love You Forever by Robert Munsch

 

Oh this book! I can’t make it through this book without tears rolling down my cheeks. It’s such a big reminder of how fast our children’s lives go. There are days when I wish I could rock all my babies again just like the mama in this book. This is one of Robert Munsch’s more serious books that he has written, but it’s one of his most popular books. Our members of Journey Down the Rabbit Trail are learning all about Robert Munsch. If interested, join our wait list so you’ll be ready to join us in 2025.

November 2024-Week 2
Sergeant Reckless by Patricia McCormick

 

Normally on Veteran’s Day, we read books about our heroes that have fought for our freedom. Well, I have another story for you to check out. Sergeant Reckless was such a brave horse who became the only animal to receive two Purple Hearts.

November 2024-Week 1
Granddaddy’s Turn: A Journey to the Ballot Box by Michael S. Bandy & Eric Stein

 

Granddaddy’s Turn is a great reminder of why voting is so important. Sadly, Election Day has turned into a day where many Americans don’t vote. I hope this book will help teach you and your children why we ALL need to get out to have our voices heard. Make sure to vote tomorrow and check our free Election Day lesson.

October 2024-Week 4
Martin Luther: A Man Who Changed the World by Paul L. Maier

 

Reformation Day is coming! Reformation Day is the anniversary of when Martin Luther posted his ninety-five Theses on the door of the Church. This event led to the Protestant Reformation. This is definitely a must read book. Once you have finished reading, you should check our new Reformation Day lesson to learn more about Martin Luther and other important Christians in history.

October 2024-Week 3
Verdi by Janell Cannon

 

I absolutely love this book. Sweet Verdi loves his yellow color. He doesn’t want to grow up, because growing up means turning green and being boring. One day, he wakes up and discovers a green stripe on his body. Find out what happens to Verdi. You can learn more about snakes in our Rabbit Trails through Science: Reptiles and Amphibians.

October 2024-Week 2
The Mysterious Guests by Eric A. Kimmel

 

Eric A. Kimmel is an amazing storyteller of many Jewish festivals and holidays. The Mysterious Guest is another one of his masterpieces to help children learn about Sukkot. Now is the time to learn more about Sukkot and the other Fall Feasts. Go check out our Fall Feast lessons on Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot to learn more about these feast in the Bible.

October 2024-Week 1
The Seasons of Arnold’s Apple Tree by Gail Gibbons

 

Gail Gibbons books are great resources to use in your homeschool. She writes all non-fiction books and makes sure to do all the research to learn about the topic. Her illustrations help children really understand the topic better. That’s why we chose her to be our author for the October lesson of our Journey Down the Rabbit Trail writing membership.

September 2024-Week 5
Bunny Day by Rick Walton

 

September 28 was National Bunny Day! Of course, we had to find a Book of the Week to celebrate. Are you curious about what bunnies do all day? Check out this cute book detailing what Father Rabbit’s family does during the day. Is their schedule similar to yours?

September 2024-Week 4
Johnny Appleseed by Steven Kellogg

 

I love Steven Kellogg’s books. The illustrations are so amazing and really add to the story. Most, if not all, of us are familiar with Johnny Appleseed. Since September 26 is his birthdate and also Johnny Appleseed Day, here’s a great book to check out. Learn the story of who Johnny Appleseed was and what he did. Also, download our Rabbit Trails through History: Johnny Appleseed freebie to go down even more Rabbit Trails.

September 2024-Week 3
No Pirates Allowed! Said Library Lou by Rhonda Gowler Greene

 

September 19 is Talk Like a Pirate Day! What better way to celebrate than to read lots of pirates books. No Pirates Allowed! Said Library Lou is a silly story about the Pirate Pete and his quest for treasure. The X on his map leads him to the library where Library Lou lends them a hand. After talking like a pirate and reading about pirates, you will be itching for more. We have a pirate lesson in Rabbit Trails through History: Early Settlers to lead you down more adventures.

September 2024-Week 2
Interrupting Chicken by David Ezra Stein

 

This is such a silly book to read with your children. When we were planning our authors for the Journey Down the Membership membership, I couldn’t pass up a book about chickens. Then after reading it aloud to my children, I knew David Ezra Stein was an author we needed to include. This book will remind you of your own children and all the interruptions of life. Learn more about David Ezra Stein’s writing style in this month’s Journey Down the Rabbit Trail lesson.

September 2024-Week 1
The Truth about Grandparents by Elina Ellis

 

Grandparent’s Day is coming up on September 8. Many people think grandparents are slow, clumsy, and quiet. You’ll have to check out this book to see how amazing grandparents really are. Make sure to take time this week to share your love and time with all the grandparents in your life.

August 2024-Week 4
A Camping Spree with Mr. Magee by Chris Van Dusen

 

Are you busy camping this summer? I hope you don’t end up with the same adventure as Mr. Magee on his camping spree. Chris Van Dusen’s books are always fun to read. I just love listening to my children giggle as we read them together.

August 2024-Week 3
Grand Canyon by Jason Chin

 

National Parks are some of my favorite places. We were able to travel to many different ones several years ago. I can wait for the day when we visit more. One of our favorite parks was the Grand Canyon. This book by Jason Chin has absolutely amazing illustrations. Then head on over to our website and get our Rabbit Trails through the Parks: Grand Canyon lesson. Or get all 10 of our National Parks lessons!

August 2024-Week 2
The Mixed-Up Chameleon by Eric Carle

 

August 14 is World Lizard Day! We have to celebrate this every year, because my son is in love with anything to do with reptiles or amphibians. To celebrate, go read The Mixed Up Chameleon by Eric Carle. I can’t pass up an opportunity to share one of his books. I just love them! If you have a junior herpetologist at home, go check out our Rabbit Trails through Science: Reptiles and Amphibians unit.

August 2024-Week 1
Hot Dog by Doug Salati

 

I just love this fun story about a cute little dog on a mission to get to the beach. It made me miss living near the ocean and being able to go to the beach anytime I wanted. It also reminds me of those peaceful moments we get when sitting out on our deck. Go check out this book. Then join our monthly membership, Journey Down the Rabbit Trail, to learn more about Doug Salati’s writing and illustration styles.

July 2024-Week 5
Mother of Sharks by Melissa Christina Márquez

 

Who is headed to the beach this summer? It’s always fun to learn about the animals that live in the ocean. Here’s a biography you should check out. Written by a globally renowned shark scientist who grew up in Puerto Rico, Mother of Sharks blends biography with a big dose of fantastical imagination. This gorgeously illustrated picture book dispels various myths about sharks and is a rallying cry for marine conservation.

July 2024-Week 4
Blackout by John Rocco

 

I just love it when books are easy for my kiddos to relate to. Who hasn’t had the power go out in their house? This story is about a time when that happened in New York. The illustrations are just so magnificent and definitely add to the story. The family and their neighbors all realize how much they can see around them when the whole city is dark. Definitely check this book out. For the month of July, we are learning more about John Rocco’s writing style in our monthly membership lesson of Journey Down the Rabbit Trail.

July 2024-Week 3
One Giant Leap by Robert Burleigh

 

On July 20, Neil Armstorng and Buzz Aldrin set foot on the moon! What an exciting time that was. Read all about that journey in this book. It’s a great way to help this very important event in our history come alive. You can learn more about space and space exploration in our Rabbit Trails through Science: Space unit.

July 2024-Week 2
The Picnic by Ruth Brown

 

It’s National Picnic Month so we have to read a book about picnics! Literally told as a rabbit’s-eye view of a picnic as observed by the wildlife nearby, Ruth Brown’s masterful watercolor paintings will engage readers as they watch this very human tradition from a new perspective.

July 2024-Week 1
Independence Cake by Deborah Hopkinson

 

This historical fiction picture book is written about a real person, Amelia Simmons, who lived during the Revolutionary War period and became the author of the first American cookbook. Clever parallels to the war are interwoven in her story of learning to cook and create something new. This book also delicately touches on grief as she mourns her parents’ death.

June 2024-Week 4
Meteor! by Patrica Polacco

 

Have you ever seen a meteor shower? It is so amazing to watch. We love to lay out in our yard and count how many we can see. Meteor is Patricia Polacco’s first picture book and it’s based on a true event. Find out what happens when a meteor crashes in the middle of Grandma and Grandpa Gaw’s yard. Also, go check out our Rabbit Trails through Science: Space unit!

June 2024-Week 3
Insectlopdia by Douglas Florian

 

I enjoy looking at and reading Douglas Florian’s books. That’s why he is our featured author for June in our monthly Journey Down the Rabbit Trail writing membership. Your children will love reading all the different poems about bugs. We paired this poetry book with our new Rabbit Trails through Science: Bugs unit coming this week!

June 2024-Week 2
When Dads Don’t Grow Up by Marjorie Blain Parker

 

Father’s Day is coming! Has your dad grown up? Does he still enjoy watching cartoons, racing shopping carts, and playing on the park equipment? That’s what makes dads so much fun. Check out this story to see what happens when dads don’t grow up.

June 2024-Week 1
D-Day: Untold Stories of the Normandy Landings by Michael Noble

 

This book will help you and your family relieve the events of June 6, 1944. There aren’t many children’s books about D-Day. This one is full of real-life stories from people that were part of it. Make sure to add this book to your World War II studies.

May 2024-Week 4
Cactus Soup by Eric A. Kimmel

 

We have had so much fun reading all of Eric A. Kimmel’s books this month. Our favorites have been his retellings of classic stories. Cactus Soup is one of those retellings of the classic, Stone Soup. You can join us in learning more about him in this month’s Journey Down the Rabbit Trail lesson.

May 2024-Week 3
The First Strawberries by Joseph Bruchac

 

I absolutely love all of Joseph Bruchac’s books. We have used many of them in our Rabbit Trails units. When I found out that today, May 20, was National Pick Strawberries Day, I had to dig this book out so I can read it with my children. It’s always fun to hear the different stories from the many Native American tribes.

May 2024-Week 2
I Pray You’ll Be… by Hannah C. Hall

 

We just celebrated Mother’s Day and it was National Prayer Day on May 2, so go check out this beautiful book about parents praying for their children.

May 2024-Week 1
Are You My Mother? by P.D. Eastman

 

Mother’s Day is coming up this weekend! There are lots of great books to read. Check out this fun one about a little bird looking for his mother.

April 2024-Week 5
The Lorax by Dr. Seuss

 

We celebrated Earth Day and Arbor Day this month so let’s read a book that teaches us nothing will get better if we don’t take care of it. After chopping down a Truffala Tree, the Once-ler gets greedy and starts chopping down all the trees. The Lorax tries to warn him, but he doesn’t listen. Read to find out what happens in the end. Remember: “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.”

April 2024-Week 4
The Spring Feasts and How Jesus Fulfilled Them by Jessica AcMoody

 

Passover starts today! This is a great book to share with your family to learn more about the Spring Feasts. Using Leviticus 23, Jessica AcMoody explains the different feasts, why they were celebrated, and how Jesus fulfilled them. You can learn more about the Spring Feasts with our Rabbit Trails through the Spring Feasts lesson.

April 2024-Week 3
If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff

 

Who hasn’t read a Laura Numeroff book? Her If You Give series has been read by millions around the world. It is a great book to learn about cause and effect too. We are learning about Laura Numeroff’s writing style in this month’s Journey Down the Rabbit Trail writing lesson. Now go have a cookie and have some milk along with it.

April 2024-Week 2
Library Lion by Michelle Knudsen

 

What happens when a lion comes to the library? There are no rules regarding lions and how they should act in a library. Read the cute story about how one lion becomes a library lion. Also, take time to celebrate National Library Week. This book is part of Rabbit Trails through Literature: Volume 1.

April 2024-Week 1
They’re Off!: The Story of the Pony Express by Cheryl Harness

 

Pony Express Day is on April 3. In 1860, that was the date the first journey started! The Pony Express may have been short-lived, but still an important part of our history. Cheryl Harness does an amazing job telling all about this first trip and even more facts about the Pony Express. The illustrations are amazing too! You can learn more about it in our Rabbit Trails through History: Westward Expansion unit.

March 2024-Week 4
Bare Tree and Little Wind: A Story of Holy Week by Mitali Perkins

 

Want a book to read this Holy Week? Check out this one. It will take you from Palm Sunday, Good Friday, Easter, and beyond. Every time you read it, you will learn something new or find something in the illustrations that you missed the last time.

March 2024-Week 3
Flowers are Calling by Rita Gray

Oh my goodness! You guys have to check this book out. The illustrations are so beautiful and it’s a cute story. You will learn about different animals that help flowers and also the many different kinds of flowers. It’s an absolute must read for the beginning of spring.

March 2024-Week 2
Happy Birthday, Madame Chapeau by Andrea Beaty

 

IT’S MY BIRTHDAY WEEK!!!! Let’s celebrate with this cute story about a hat maker who loses her hat. Everyone tries to offer their hat to her, but none of them were perfect for her. Will she ever find the perfect hat?

March 2024-Week 1
Thidwick the Big-Hearted Moose by Dr. Seuss

 

Thidwick is such a kind moose. It all starts out with a tiny bug that wants to live in Thidwick’s antlers. As the story goes on, more and more animals join the bug, even a bear! Unfortunately, they don’t take good care of Thidwick’s antlers and they get very heavy. Read on to find out what happens! You can learn more about Dr. Seuss this month in our Journey Down the Rabbit Trail lesson.

February 2024-Week 4
Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom by Carole Boston Weatherford

 

I just LOVE this book. We featured Carole Boston Weatherford in our Journey Down the Rabbit Trail in 2022. Her books are just wonderful at teaching children about Black history. This one shows how brave Harriet Tubman was and how her faith helped guide her. We just read it again when we did the Harriet Tubman lesson in our brand new Rabbit Trails through History: Civil War unit.

February 2024-Week 3
The Next President by Kate Messner

 

Looking for a great book that will teach your children about past presidents and what the future presidents at that time were doing? Then check out this great book by Kate Messner. I love how she makes sure to sat that anyone could be the next president, helping children to dream of their turn. Learn more about President’s Day in our brand new holiday lesson, Rabbit Trails through President’s Day.

February 2024-Week 2
The Grasshopper and the Ants by Jerry Pinkney

 

The Grasshopper and the Ants has an important moral to teach children (and maybe some of us adults): Don’t put off for tomorrow what you can do today! Will Grasshopper discover why the ants work so hard during the spring, summer, and fall? Check out this book to see what happens once winter comes for both the grasshopper and the ants. You can learn more about Jerry Pinkney in this month’s Journey Down the Rabbit Trail lesson.

February 2024-Week 1
Pioneer Girl: The Story of Laura Ingalls Wilder by William Anderson

 

We all have heard of Laura Ingalls Wilder and maybe have even read her books. This picture book is a biography of her life as a pioneer. We used this book in our author study lesson in our Little House in the Big Woods novel study. Definitely check it out.

January 2024-Week 5
The Emperor’s Egg by Martin Jenkins

January 20 was National Penguin Day. A great book to check out is The Emperor’s Egg. It also works great for a winter book. You will travel down to Antarctica and learn many facts about penguins. If your child is interested in learning more about penguins and other birds, check out Rabbit Trails through Science: Birds.

January 2024-Week 4
The Tree and the River by Aaron Becker

Aaron Becker is an amazing illustrator. His pictures do just an incredible job of telling the story without words. This month we have studied Aaron Becker and have learned to appreciate his wordless books. This book shows what a tree and a river experience as the world changes and people move or businesses are built. It’s a great book to check out around Earth Day too! Learn more about Aaron Becker in this month’s Journey Down the Rabbit Trail lesson.

January 2024-Week 3
Let the Children March by Monica Clark-Robinson

Today, we celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. This book is a great one to share with your children. It gives them what things were like according to the children. Dr. King didn’t want to put kids in harm’s way, but he knew they were not too young to also want their freedom. LET THE CHILDREN MARCH! Learn more about why we celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day in our Rabbit Trails through MLK Jr Day lesson.

January 2024-Week 2
Daisy Comes Home by Jan Brett

Today (January 8) is National Snuggle with a Chicken Day, which I intend to do! So I just had to choose a chicken book for our Book of the Week. Jan Brett does such an amazing job with her illustrations. Daisy is tired of the other pushy hens and decided to find a different place to sleep for the night. Unfortunately it wasn’t a safe place for Daisy to sleep. The river carries her away in her basket. Read on to find out what happens to Daisy.

January 2024-Week 1
Dumpling Soup by Jama Kim Rattigan

This is such a sweet story about family traditions. Marisa’s family makes dumplings every year to celebrate New Years Day. This is the first year she gets to help make them. She’s worried hers won’t taste or look as good as her Grandma’s. Check it out to find out how she does making dumplings.

December 2023-Week 4
An Early American Christmas by Tomie dePaola

If you aren’t a member of Journey Down the Rabbit Trail, then you are missing out of this great book. Tomie dePaola was a terrific author/illustrator. I have enjoyed learning more about him and his writing style. This book is fun to read to find out some of the early Christmas traditions. You can learn more about Tomie dePaola in this month’s Journey Down the Rabbit Trail lesson.

December 2023-Week 3
Who is Coming to Our House by Joseph Slate

This is such a sweet story about who is coming to visit the farm animals. They work hard all day long cleaning the barn and lining the crib with down feathers. They want the place to be just right for baby Jesus. Your littles are sure to love this book.

December 2023-Week 2
Lucia: Saint of Light by Katherine Bolger Hyde

Have you ever celebrated St. Lucia Day? When we were writing out Christmas Around the World, I learned so much about this holiday celebrated in Sweden. This is a sweet story that tells you all about the traditions from this holiday. Check out our new Christmas Around the World unit and follow all the Rabbit Trails.

December 2023-Week 1
Saint Nicholas and the Nine Gold Coins by Jim Forest

As many of you know, I am a lover of books with beautiful illustrations. This book definitely fits that category. The pictures remind me of stained glass windows. St. Nicholas was a wonderful person and this book does a great job of telling his story. You can learn more about St. Nicholas in our new Christmas Around the World unit.

November 2023-Week 4
One Hen: How One Small Loan Made a Big Difference by Katie Smith Milway

Every year, the Tuesday after Thanksgiving is Giving Tuesday. One Hen is a great book to teach our children about how giving to others can create a ripple effect. We read about how a loan and one hen helps provide for Kojo and his mother. Definitely worth checking out!

November 2023-Week 3
Squanto’s Journey by Joseph Bruchac

Joseph Bruchac books are amazing. He does a wonderful job sharing stories of his ancestors. Squanto’s Journey tells the story of Squanto and what happened to him. We also learn about the first Thanksgiving. We are enjoying learning more about Joseph Bruchac and his writing style this month in Journey Down the Rabbit Trail.

November 2023-Week 2
The Story About Ping by Marjorie Flack

And the winner is….

The Story About Ping! You have chosen a great book to start off National Young Readers Week. This classic book has been read many times in our house. My children enjoy looking at the illustrations and finding out what adventures Ping will have when he doesn’t return to the boat. Check out the lesson on this book and go on a Rabbit Trail to China in Rabbit Trails through Literature: Kindergarten.

November 2023-Week 1
Sleep Tight Farm by Eugenie Doyle

I may not have a farm, but I am loving our little homestead that God has given us. When I found this book, I had to add it to our book basket. It’s a great book for those families with homesteads and for those that want their children to see all the hard work that goes into farming during the different seasons.

October 2023-Week 5
Maria Molina and the Days of the Dead by Kathleen Krull

Maria celebrates Los Dias de los Muertos with her family in Mexico. This book does such a great job of sharing the meaning behind this holiday and showing how important it is to Maria’s family. You definitely want to check this out and our new Rabbit Trails through Dia de Los Muertos lesson.

October 2023-Week 4
Strega Nona’s Harvest by Tomie dePaola

Here’s another book to add to your fall read aloud list. Whenever I find a book by Tomie dePaola, I must read it. I just love his stories and illustrations. Strega Nona teaches Big Anthony and Bambolona how to plant and care for a garden. They all three get Strega Nona’s garden planted, but Big Anthony decided to also plant his own. Read on to find out what happens.

October 2023-Week 3
An Extraordinary Egg by Leo Lionni

We celebrate Reptile Awareness Day on October 21. It may seem like a strange holiday to celebrate, but not for my son who LOVES everything reptiles and amphibians. This is an adorable story about a frog who likes to explore and brings home a surprise one day, a chicken egg. This is a strange looking chicken to us, but the frogs all believe it’s a chicken. Check out this fun reptile story! You can learn more about reptiles in our Rabbit Trails through Science: Reptiles and Amphibians unit.

October 2023-Week 2
Encounter by Jane Yolen

Many times when studying Christopher Columbus, only his achievements are taught. This book helps you see from another viewpoint. This story is told by a young Taino boy and how he tried to warn his people against welcoming these strangers to their island. It ends with the young boy, now a man, reflecting on how this encounter affected his people. If you are looking for a history curriculum that covers all sides of the story, check out Rabbit Trails through History: Early Settlers.

October 2023-Week 1
Pumpkin Island by Arthur Geisert

The illustrations in this book are so much fun to look at. They definitely help tell more of the story. In a cute little town, a storm blows some pumpkins onto an island. Well those pumpkins have seeds, so you know what’s going to happen! Add this book to your fall read aloud list! You can learn more about Arthur Geisert in October’s Journey Down the Rabbit Trail lesson.

September 2023-Week 4
The Hard to Swallow Tale of Jonah and the Whale by Joyce Denham

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It’s always refreshing when you find a story from the Bible depicted in a true and beautiful way. This book is just that. It pairs great with our Rabbit Trails through Sukkot lesson.

September 2023-Week 3
Blackbeard the Pirate King by J. Patrick Lewis

September 19th be Talk like a Pirate Day! This here be a jolly book to read to ‘elp celebrate! The artwork in this here book be absolutely amazin’. I love that thar it provides an added opportunity to learn about the different artists. I’ve always been fascinated with the tales o’ blackbeard, especially while livin’ in North Carolina. This here book works jolly as the main book fer our pirate lesson in Rabbit Trails through History: Early Settlers.

September 2023-Week 2
The First Day of Homeschool by Kaitlin Harris

It’s hard to find picture books about homeschooling. This book has cute illustrations. It helps highlight all the fun a second grade boy has on the first day of school. It’s a great book to add to the short list of homeschool books.

September 2023-Week 1
Frog and Toad are Friends by Arnold Lobel

Since we are learning about Arnold Lobel this month for Journey Down the Rabbit Trail, we had to include a Frog and Toad book! I enjoyed Frog and Toad stories as a kid and have shared that love with my children. The short stories show children what friendship is and how important friends are in our lives. They are also funny and hold my littles’ attention.

August 2023-Week 4
The Story of the 100 Years War by Christine Zell

I’m so excited to feature my first children’s book as book of the week. The illustrations were all done by my oldest son. If you want to learn about the Hundred Year War, this book is for you. It also has a glossary and the original artwork in the back for an added art study. You can learn more about this war and more in Rabbit Trails through History: Medieval History.

August 2023-Week 3
Volcano Dreams: A Story of Yellowstone by Janet Fox

On August 25, we will celebrate National Park Service Founders Day. What better way to celebrate than to learn about different National Parks. Volcano Dreams is a beautiful illustrated book about the vibrant ecosystem in Yellowstone National Park. You can learn more about Yellowstone and other National Parks in our Rabbit Trails through the Parks lessons.

August 2023-Week 2
The Reptile Club by Maureen Fergus

August 14th is World Lizard Day! Since I have a junior herpetologist in my family, I can’t let this holiday slide by. This book is such a cute story about a boy named Rory who just doesn’t seem to fit into any of the school clubs. He decides to make his own and gets some very interesting members. If your child loves reptiles, check out our Rabbit Trails through Science: Reptiles and Amphibians unit.

August 2023-Week 1
Cock-a-Doodle Dudley by Bill Peet

My family LOVES Bill Peet books. His illustrations are so much fun to look at and really help tell more of the story. Dudley’s crow wakes up the sun or at least that’s what all the barnyard animals believe. Gunther, the jealous goose, is determined to prove it wrong. It is such a great story to help teach how we shouldn’t be prideful and always honest. Learn more about Bill Peet in August’s Journey Down the Rabbit Trail lesson.

July 2023-Week 4
Berry Song by Michaela Goade

This is an absolutely stunning book. It’s not just a beautifully written story, but the illustrations are absolutely amazing! A little girl and her grandmother go out to pick berries by the sea. As they do, they make sure to take care of the land and show how grateful they are. You definitely want to check this book out!

July 2023-Week 3
Reaching for the Moon by Buzz Aldrin

We celebrate the first moon landing every year on July 20. This book will help you learn more about one of the two famous astronauts: Buzz Aldrin. In this autobiography, you will learn about the younger years of Buzz Aldrin and how he was able to make his dreams come true. The paintings in this book definitely add to the story. Learn more about space in Rabbit Trails through Science: Space.

July 2023-Week 2
Fireflies by Julie Brinckloe

Have you ever caught fireflies? It was a fun summer tradition I loved as a young girl. Read about a little boy who enjoys this tradition also. Throughout the night, he discovers the fireflies light dimming. He must make a decision about what to do. Learn more about fireflies and other summer fun in our FREE lesson: Rabbit Trails through Science: Fireflies.

July 2023-Week 1
A is for America by Devin Scillian

Another American alphabet… but this one is my favorite! A is for America is one book from my favorite series of alphabet books. Stunning pictures. Beautiful poetry. Add this to your morning basket to celebrate the Fourth of July. Also check out our new holiday lesson: Rabbit Trails through Independence Day!

June 2023-Week 4
Hattie and Hudson by Chris Van Dusen

This is such a cute book and does a great job of teaching our kids about standing up for others who are different. Hattie is an explorer and loves to go out in her canoe every morning. As she is singing, she is greeted by a giant creature. Other townspeople see this creature and are afraid and ready to hunt him down. Read on to see what Hattie does to help her new friend.

June 2023-Week 3
Juneteenth for Mazie by Floyd Cooper

Mazie is frustrated because she can’t do anything she wants to do. Her dad used this time to tell her about her grandparents that were enslaved. He told her about the day when they learned about the proclamation that they were FREE. This book will help children understand what the first Juneteenth was like and why it’s important to celebrate.

June 2023-Week 2
F is for Flag by Wendy Cheyette Lewison

Flag Day is on June 14. F is for Flag will help you teach your child about the history of the flag and what it means to our country. It also talks about how the American flag helps bring us all together as one nation.

June 2023-Week 1
The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter

The Tale of Peter Rabbit is one of those classics that you can read over and over again. The artwork by Beatrix Potter is wonderful to look at. The story will help teach your children why we should obey our parents and to not steal. Enjoy reading this with your children. You can also learn more about Beatrix Potter, rabbits, and gardens with our June lesson in the Journey Down the Rabbit Trail membership.

May 2023-Week 5
Through Your Eyes: My Child’s Gift to Me by Ainsley Earhardt

This book has absolutely beautiful illustrations. It is a great reminder that life is a gift and we should find the beauty in the simple things. Sometimes we hurry through the day and miss the flowers blooming or get upset when the rain changes our plans. This book will help us to see what we can learn from our children.

May 2023-Week 4
The Littlest Mountain by Barb Rosenstock

This simple, yet beautiful tale explains why God chose Mt. Sinai to deliver the Ten Commandments. Each mountain has a relatable human personality teaching our children the importance of character. Mt. Sinai is quiet, humble, and respectful. Children will love the colorful illustrations and the easy to understand text. The watercolors are stunning and the story is delightful, a must have for your home library. You can learn more in our Rabbit Trails through Shavuot lesson.

May 2023-Week 3
A Chair for Mother by Vera B. Williams

In A Chair for My Mother, we learn about a family that is working together to save money for a comfortable chair. The mother works hard as a waitress and needs a comfy chair to rest her feet at the end of the day. This book will teach your children about family and how important it is to work together.

May 2023-Week 2
The Wall by Eve Bunting

Eve Bunting does such an amazing job of capturing what the Vietnam Veterans Memorial means to so many families. A little boy visits the wall with his father in search of his grandfather’s name. I love how the story is told from the viewpoint of the little boy and how he’s feeling as he visits the memorial. You can learn more about Eve Bunting in May’s Journey Down the Rabbit Trail lesson.

May 2023-Week 1
Cinco de Mouse-O! by Judy Cox

This is such a cute story about a mouse who follows his nose through a Cinco de Mayo festival. But the mouse better watch out for the cat. The author added in some Spanish words for some added fun as you read this together. Enjoy reading and celebrating Cinco de Mayo.

April 2023-Week 4
Arbor Day Square by Kathryn O. Galbraith

Arbor Day is coming and what better way to celebrate it than to read a book! That’s our favorite way to learn about things. Katie and her papa are building a town on the dusty prairie and realize that something is missing: trees! So they pool their money and order trees from back east. Read on to see what happens in Katie’s prairie town.

April 2023-Week 3
Wet Cement by Bob Raczka

It’s National Poetry Month. To celebrate, read this fun book full of concrete poems. Concrete poems are unique because they are written in the shape of what they are about. This book is a great way to introduce that concept. That’s why I used it in Rabbit Trails through Literature: Volume 3.

April 2023-Week 2
Creekfinding: A True Story by Jacqueline Briggs Martin

This book is a true story about a man in Iowa discovering a buried creek on his land. It is amazing to read about how this ecosystem came back to life when the creek was restored. Think about all the places that have been destroyed or covered up by man. It would be wonderful to be able to restore them all and protect all those animals that have become endangered. You can learn more about the author, Jacqueline Briggs Martin, in this month’s Journey Down the Rabbit Trail membership lesson.

April 2023-Week 1
The Passover Guest by Susan Kusel

When I came across Passover Guest I knew I wanted to use it in our Spring Feast lesson. Not only does it hold true to the original story of faith and Jewish survival, but it is a story of hope, miracles, kindness, and tradition. It serves as a great reminder to be thankful as it tells this story through a time of struggle in American history. The illustrations are beautiful, this is definitely a story for every family celebrating Passover. Learn more about the Spring Feasts in Rabbit Trails through the Spring Feasts lesson.

March 2023-Week 5
The Gardener by Sarah Stewart

This is the sweetest book. It is written through Lydia Grace’s letters. During the Great Depression, she is sent to live with her uncle in the city. She brings seeds along with her in hopes to plant a garden. Her flowers brighten customers’ day. Will she be able to get her uncle to smile too? Dive more into gardens and spring with our free Rabbit Trails through Science: Spring is in the Air lesson.

March 2023-Week 4
Marie Curie and the Power of Persistence by Karla Valenti

Celebrate Women’s History Month with this is a fun story about Marie Curie. It is a fictionalized story using the superhero theme that still teaches about Marie Curie’s amazing achievements. It also included a scientific glossary to help kids understand all the words.

March 2023-Week 3
St. Patrick’s Day in the Morning by Eve Bunting

I love how Jan Brett, the illustrator, only used shades of yellow and green in her illustrations. It helps add to the St. Patrick’s Day theme. Poor Jamie is sad because he is told he is too small to climb up Acorn Hill. He decides to prove that he isn’t too small. Read on to see what happens. Make sure to check out our fun Rabbit Trails through St. Patrick’s Day lesson for more beautiful literature.

March 2023-Week 2
Waiting by Kevin Henkes

Waiting is such a sweet book. It’s the perfect book to teach children about patience and how important it is to spend time together. Five friends wait together on a windowsill. Each one is waiting for something different. Will they have patience and stay there waiting? Will they get what they are waiting for? Definitely read it to find out! You can also do an author/illustrator study on Kevin Henkes in our March lesson of Journey Down the Rabbit Trail membership.

March 2023-Week 1
Queen Esther by Tomie de Paola

I absolutely LOVE Tomie dePaola. So when we found this book, I knew it had to be the main book for our Rabbit Trails through the Purim lesson. His illustrations do a wonderful job of helping tell this story of a brave woman who risked her life for her people. This is definitely a must read book!

February 2023-Week 4
Levi Strauss Gets a Bright Idea by Tony Johnston

During the Gold Rush in California, Levi Strauss notices a problem. The miner’s clothing didn’t hold up to all the hard work of sluicing gold. One day, Levi got an idea. He tried many different materials until finding the best material. He sent for his brother to help with the sewing. This story is considered mostly a legend. Celebrate Levi Strauss with this book on Levi Strauss Day this Sunday, February 26. You can learn more about the Gold Rush in Rabbit Trails through History: Westward Expansion.

February 2023-Week 3
Henry’s Freedom Box by Ellen Levine

Henry doesn’t know how old he is, because records weren’t kept for slaves. When his master becomes ill, he sends Henry to work for his son. During this time, Henry meets and marries his wife. They are blessed with several children. While at work one day, Henry gets some devastating news: His family was sold on the slave market. This is when Henry devises a plan to mail himself to freedom. Read on to find out how his journey ends. You can learn more about this amazing illustrator, Kadir Nelson, in our February lesson of Journey Down the Rabbit Trail.

February 2023-Week 2
In the Garden with Dr. Carver by Susan Grigsby

Dr. George Washington Carver showed up at just the right time with the right solution. He helped the farmers restore their soil. He also helped with the school garden. You can learn more about Dr. Carver and other inventors in Rabbit Trails through History: Inventors. This unit will help you celebrate National Inventors Day (tomorrow) and Black History Month!

February 2023-Week 1
Geoffrey Groundhog Predicts the Weather by Bruce Koscielniak

Yesterday was Groundhog Day. Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow. Six more weeks of winter! In this book, Geoffrey has become famous like Phil. He has a hard time making his prediction because of all the lights and cameras. Check out this story to see what happens. You can also learn more about this holiday with Rabbit Trails through Groundhog Day.

January 2023-Week 4
The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats

Little Peter puts on his cute red snowsuit and heads out to play in the snow. He has many small adventures during the day. My favorite part is when he put the snowball in his pocket to save for later.

January 2023-Week 3
Nian, The Chinese New Year Dragon by Virginia Loh-Hagan

First of all, the illustrations in this book are out of this world! They are so beautifully done and help tell the story. On the first day of spring, Nian the dragon comes out of his mountain prison to terrorize the local village. A magical warrior visits Mei in her dreams and tells her that she must defeat Nian. This book is based on an ancient legend. It’s a great read to start learning about the Chinese New Year!

January 2023-Week 2
Coretta Scott by Ntozake Shange

Poet Ntozake Shange does a great job of capturing the spirit of Coretta Scott King’s life. When celebrating the life of Martin Luther King Jr, many people forget about his wife. She helped push for change to civil rights alongside her husband. This book is a great addition to our Rabbit Trails through MLK JR Day lesson.

January 2023-Week 1
Owl Moon by Jane Yolen

Owl Moon is one of my favorite books. (Are you noticing that I have lots of favorites?) I love it so much it has been used in three different Rabbit Trails lessons. This book shares the story of a little girl who goes out owling with her father. You have to be quiet and patient when we go owling. Will they find an owl? Learn more about Jane Yolen in January’s lesson of Journey Down the Rabbit Trail.

December 2022-Week 5
Every Month Is A New Year by Marilyn Singer

This is a fun book to learn about how and when other countries celebrate their new year. The illustrations are fun collages to look at and find all the little details. Marilyn Singer wrote some wonderful poetry for each celebration. You can find this book and many others in Rabbit Trails through New Years.

December 2022-Week 4
The Night Before Christmas by Clement Moore

This is the perfect book to read before bed on Christmas Eve. Your children will love the beautiful illustrations and want to read this every Christmas Eve.

December 2022-Week 3
Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins by Eric A. Kimmel

My family absolutely loved reading this book! Eric Kimmel’s books are just so good! We have used many of them in our Rabbit Trails through the Holidays lessons. Hershel discovers a synagogue that has been taken over by goblins. Each night, he faces down a goblin using his clever wits. On the final night, he meets the goblin king. Can Hershel rid the synagogue of goblins and save Hanukkah? This is the main book for Rabbit Trails through Hanukkah.

December 2022-Week 2
The Snowman by Raymond Briggs

This picture book is a childhood favorite of mine. I remember getting lost in the pictures of the snowman coming alive in the boy’s dreams at night. I definitely recommend spending time with your children just checking out all the beautiful illustrations.

December 2022-Week 1
The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg

The Polar Express is one of my family’s favorite Christmas books. Chris Van Allsburg’s illustrations help this book come alive as you are reading it. Travel on an adventure from one little boy’s house all the way to the North Pole to see what the first gift of Christmas will be. Add lots more to this book with our December lesson in Journey Down the Rabbit Trail.

November 2022-Week 4
Thank You, Sarah by Laurie Halse Anderson

This is such an interesting story that many have not heard! Sarah Hale wanted Thanksgiving to be a national holiday. She wrote to president after president trying to make that happen. Finally after thirty-five years, she was successful. This is a great story to help teach perseverance to children!

November 2022-Week 3
The Scarecrow by Beth Ferry

I absolutely LOVE looking at the illustrations of this book. They add so much to the story. In this story, the friendly scarecrow becomes friends with an unexpected animal. Beth Ferry’s poetic words help to share the story and teach children how to be kind, even to our enemies. You can learn more about Beth Ferry in the November lesson in the Journey Down the Rabbit Trail membership.

November 2022-Week 2
Night Catch by Brenda Ehrmantraut

We were given this book during one of my husband’s deployments. This book is such a heartwarming story to read to children when their dad or mom is deployed. I had a hard time reading it without crying. Definitely a must read for military families!

November 2022-Week 1
About Time by Bruce Koscielniak

Who likes Daylight Savings Time? It does provide us a great opportunity to learn about the history of time. As you read through this book, you will learn how the sun, the moon, and the water were used to tell time. Then you’ll learn about the invention of clocks and calendars.

October 2022-Week 4
Pumpkin Jack by Will Hubbell

Tim carved his first jack-o’-lantern and named him Jack. After Jack began to sag, Tim took him out to the empty garden. He watched him change and grow mold. Tim discovered a surprise in the spring where Jack had been. Read more fun Halloween books in Rabbit Trails through Halloween.

October 2022-Week 3
Joan Proctor, Dragon Doctor by Patricia Valdez

Joan Proctor always loved reptiles. She even had tea parties with them when she was a little girl. All of that love led her to become a curator at the Natural History Museum and later in charge of the Reptile Room at the London Zoo. You can learn more about Joan Proctor and other reptiles in Rabbit Trails through Science: Reptiles and Amphibians.

October 2022-Week 2
Fletcher and the Falling Leaves by Julia Rawlinson

I am really enjoying watching all the leaves change colors. It is so beautiful! Fletcher has a favorite tree and when the leaves start to fall, he starts to worry about his tree. What is wrong with it? How can he help it? Read this book to find out what he discovers. You can also read more fall books and get some hands on, seasonal fun in your homeschool with our free lesson about Autumn.

October 2022-Week 1
Leif the Lucky by Ingri D’Aulaire and Edgar Parin D’Aulaire

Did you know that there is a Leif Erikson Day? On October 9, we celebrate Leif and his adventures. To help celebrate this day, check out Leif the Lucky. I absolutely LOVE all the books by the D’Aulaires. This one will take you through the life of Leif and his Viking crew. You can also learn more about Leif and other Vikings in Rabbit Trails through History: Early Settlers and in Rabbit Trails through Literature: Volume 1.

September 2022-Week 5
The Island of the Skog by Steven Kellogg

I absolutely love all of Steven Kellogg’s books! That is why he HAD to be part of our Journey Down the Rabbit Trail membership. The mice in this book go in search of a better and safer place to live. They find an island that has only one inhabitant: a Skog. None of them knew what a Skog was, but based on the size of the footprints left, they knew it was something big! Check out this story to find out what happens. 

September 2022-Week 4
Gershon’s Monster by Eric A. Kimmel

Gershon was not a very kind man and never apologized or repented of his sins. He felt he could simply sweep his wrongdoings into the sea every year on Rosh Hashanah.. Five year after his wife had twins, he will realize how his failure to repent can affect not only him but others. Gershon’s Monster is the main book in Rabbit Trails through Rosh Hashanah.

September 2022-Week 3
The People Shall Continue by Simon J Ortiz

As we were writing the Removal of Natives lesson for Rabbit Trails through History: Westward Expansion, we found this book. After checking it out, we knew it HAD to be the main book for the lesson! It tells about the Natives’ lives before the explorers came, how the explorers affected them, how they were removed from the land, and how they survived. This is definitely a must-read book!

September 2022-Week 2
The Keeping Quilt by Patricia Polacco

Anna, her mother, and other neighborhood ladies made a quilt from old clothing from their life in Russia. Patricia Polacco shares stories of how this quilt was used to celebrate four generations of special events. What a wonderful way to share stories of grandparents or great grandparents.

September 2022-Week 1
This is My Home, This is My School by Jonathan Bean

This autobiographically inspired picture book depicts a homeschool family where Mom is the best teacher and Dad the best substitute. Watch as the kids perform show-and-tells, science lessons, math, and even recess time! This book is also the main book that goes along with Rabbit Trails through Homeschooling!

August 2022-Week 4
Oh, the Places You’ll Go by Dr. Seuss

Dr. Seuss addresses the many highs and lows of life in this classic storybook. The inspiring and timeless message encourages readers to find the success that lies within, no matter what challenges they face.

August 2022-Week 3
The 50 States by Gabrielle Balkan

Explore the United States in this atlas for kids! Featuring characteristics that make each state unique, this book is a must for U.S. Geography! It is also the spine of the Rabbit Trails Geography Journal, My Exploring the 50 States Journal!

August 2022-Week 2
S is for S’mores by Helen Foster James

Since National S’mores Day was this week, we have to have a book about S’mores! I absolutely love this series of books, and S is for S’more is just as wonderful as the rest! Go through the alphabet together while reading all about what makes camping so great.

August 2022-Week 1
Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey

I just love this book! It was so fun to visit the ducks in Boston on a recent trip. Mr. and Mrs. Mallard work hard looking for the best place to lay their eggs. After the ducklings are born, Mrs. Mallard takes them through the streets of Boston. Luckily, they make it to their home safely. You can learn all about Robert McCloskey in August’s Journey Down the Rabbit Trail lesson.

July 2022-Week 5
The Bee Book by Charlotte Milner

This book is jam packed with information about bees. Your children will learn about what happens in the hive, how bees talk to each other, and what they do all day. The illustrations make this book so fun to look at. It also shares the very important message about the threat to bees and how we can help.

July 2022-Week 4
A Butterfly is Patient by Dianna Aston

Do you have a butterfly lover? I definitely recommend checking this book out! I absolutely love the books in this series! The illustrations are gorgeous! The information shared is great! My children love to look through these books over and over again. 

July 2022-Week 3
Counting on Katherine: How Katherine Johnson Saved Apollo 13 by Helaine Becker

This is such a great story of a woman who tore down a barrier for African American women and earned a role as a team member on NASA’s space projects. Her calculations made it possible for a spacecraft to orbit the moon and then land on it! You can learn more about her and many other astronomers in Rabbit Trails through Space: The Universe.

July 2022-Week 2
Swimmy by Leo Lionni

Swimmy is such a great book for teaching children to keep going even when you are scared. Leo Lionni’s illustrations are so beautiful! Little Swimmy is the only one left from his school of friends. He must travel the ocean alone. At the end, he makes a wonderful discovery. The July lesson for Journey Down the Rabbit Trail is all about Leo Lionni!

July 2022-Week 1
America: A Patriotic Primer by Lynne Cheney

Read about some important aspects of America, from A to Z, in this patriotic primer! Fun illustrations and facts fill the pages for all 26 people and ideas that make up this story.

June 2022-Week 4
Sea Glass Summer by Michelle Houts

One summer, Thomas visits his grandma at her seaside cottage. He spends his days with a magnifying glass that belonged to his grandfather, exploring the mysteries of the seaside. One day, Thomas’s grandmother shows him a piece of sea glass. That night, Thomas dreams of the sea glass and a bottle shattering. Could the piece of sea glass his grandmother showed him have come from the very bottle in his dreams? Thomas spends the rest of the summer looking for more sea glass and hoping to discover more secrets of the sea in this ode to imagining the possibilities in every hidden treasure.

June 2022-Week 3
Freedom in Congo Square by Carole Boston Weatherford

Carole Boston Weatherford has written so many of my favorite books. This one is no exception! Freedom in Congo Square helps give kids a glimpse at how hard slaves’ lives were. But it also shows how much joy they found in their Sunday afternoons. It is a great book to show kids how you can still find joy in difficult times. Learn more about Carole Boston Weatherford in this month’s Journey Down the Rabbit Trail membership lesson.

June 2022-Week 2
Father’s Love by Hannah Holt

This is such a sweet book showing all the different animal babies with their dads. This book helps show that a father’s love comes in all different ways. Let’s celebrate Dads all month with this cute book and discuss all the ways your own dad shows love.

June 2022-Week 1
The Star-Spangled Banner by Peter Spier

I absolutely love this book! The illustrations are gorgeous! I love that it includes pictures of all the different American flags. This book works well to show the story behind the song and is a great way to celebrate Flag Day on June 14. This is the main book for the FREE Rabbit Trails through History: Francis Scott Key lesson!!!!!

May 2022-Week 4
America’s White Table by Margot Theis Raven

Seeing a solitary white table with a single table setting may not be something that the average American sees when out at a restaurant, but these white tables don restaurants in military towns and mess halls around the country. In this book, Katie’s mom helps explain to her the importance and symbolism of America’s White Table.

May 2022-Week 3
Birds by Carme Lemniscates

This book has such a great message! The lyrical text and colorful, yet simple, illustrations will win over your heart as much as birds do with their unique differences and beautiful songs. Enjoy celebrating birds and the peaceful joy that they bring. If you want to learn more about birds, make sure to check out the Rabbit Trails through Science: Birds unit.

May 2022-Week 2
Finding Winnie by Lindsay Mattrick

This book is SO good! I love that it shares the story behind Winnie the Pooh. We get to follow the journey of Winnie as she joins the troops in England, makes a home at the London Zoo, and finally finds her friend Christopher Robin. Sophie Blackall is the featured author in May’s Journey Down the Rabbit Trail membership.

May 2022-Week 1
Miss Twiggley’s Tree by Dorothea Warren Fox

I still have this book from my childhood! It is such a fun book. Miss Twiggley lives a very different lifestyle than the other people in her town. So different that the mayor’s wife makes a stink about it. But Miss Twiggley is there to help rescue everyone in the end. I had to include this book in Volume 1 of Rabbit Trails through Literature.

April 2022-Week 4
Worm Weather by Jean Taft

Experience the joy of a wet muddy spring day in Jean Taft’s children’s book, Worm Weather.

April 2022-Week 3
The Girl Who Spoke to the Moon by Land Wilson

Land Wilson’s book, The Girl Who Spoke to the Moon, offers a gentle message for children and reminder for adults alike how important it is to protect the environment. With the moon as her guide, young Sofia learns how to care for the earth and help heal some of the damage inflicted.

April 2022-Week 2
The Donkey Who Carried a King by R.C. Sproul

Dr. R.C. Sproul tells the story of Christ’s sacrifice through the unique perspective of a young donkey, Davey, who never had a job to do until the day he was chosen to carry a King. As Davey carries Jesus into Jerusalem, he does not fully grasp the importance of his job until he sees Jesus being beaten and hung on the cross. This book offers unique insight and opens discussions with our children about how we are called to serve those around us just as Christ did.

April 2022-Week 1
The Proper Way to Meet a Hedgehog and Other How-To Poems by Paul B. Janeczko

It’s National Poetry Month! We love to incorporate poetry to our Rabbit Trails lessons. This is a fun book full of poems by various authors. The poems are about a variety of subjects such as how to toast marshmallows, riding a new bike, how to bird watch, and so much more!

March 2022-Week 5
Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney

I love this story! It’s such a wonderful story about how we all can make the world a better place. It’s a great reminder that when we plant a seed, it will blossom into something beautiful. Spring is a perfect time for planting seeds in the ground and in our own lives. Barbara Cooney is the featured author in April’s Journey Down the Rabbit Trail membership.

March 2022-Week 4
A Letter to Amy by Ezra Jack Keats

Peter writes a special birthday invitation to his friend Amy. The day he chooses to mail it, there is a wind storm and he almost loses the invitation. I love that this little boy wants to invite his friend even though she is a girl. You can learn more about Ezra Jack Keats in the March lesson of Journey Down the Rabbit Trail.

March 2022-Week 3
Patrick: Patron Saint of Ireland by Tomie dePaola

I just love Tomie dePaola books! This one shares the story of who Saint Patrick was. It also includes several legends told about him. You can learn more about Saint Patrick and the holiday we celebrate in Rabbit Trails through St. Patrick’s Day.

March 2022-Week 2
Elizabeth Leads the Way: Elizabeth Cady Stanton and the Right to Vote by Tanya Lee Stone

Elizabeth Cady Stanton was a strong woman. She stood up and fought for what she believed in. She went to college, even though most women didn’t, and joined in the battle to win women’s right to vote. Her story is so inspiring!

March 2022-Week 1
Fox in Socks by Dr. Seuss

Fox and Socks is a family favorite! I still have the copy of this book from my childhood. It is such a fun and crazy book to read. Try not to get tongue twisted too badly!

February 2022-Week 4
Rosa by Nikki Giovanni

On December 1, 1955, Rosa Parks stood her ground against the segregation laws on city buses. This story does a great job of sharing the events that happened during and after her arrest. You can learn more about Rosa Parks in the free Rabbit Trails through Literature lesson: Rosa Parks.

February 2022-Week 3
Big George by Anne Rockwell

This is a great book that tells about the life of a shy boy who became our first president. Anne Rockwell filled the pages with facts about George’s life. The illustrations are so beautiful and add so much to the story! This amazing book is a main book in Rabbit Trails through History: America’s Founders.

February 2022-Week 2
Saint Valentine by Robert Sabuda

How did Valentine’s Day begin? It all started with Saint Valentine and his secret message he sent to a little girl. It is such a great story and can lead to many important discussions. I am in love with the mosaic illustrations in this book! You can learn more about Valentine’s Day in Rabbit Trails through Valentine’s lesson.

February 2022-Week 1
Groundhog Weather School by Joan Holub

The Groundhog discovers he needs some help in predicting the weather. So he puts an ad in the paper. This book is full of fun facts about how animals and nature can help predict the weather and other weather facts.

January 2022-Week 4
Over and Under the Snow by Kate Messner

The Over and Under books are so much fun to read. They help children see what different animals do to survive the different habitats and seasons. You get to see which animals live in tunnels or caves and which ones camouflage above the snow. The illustrations are excellently done so that you feel like you are out skiing in the snow.

January 2022-Week 3
Snowflake Bentley by Jacqueline Briggs Martin

Wilson Bentley was fascinated by the beauty of snowflakes. He was determined to make paintings and take pictures of individual snowflakes. During his lifetime, he took over 5,000 pictures of snowflakes on black velvet. His work is still used today. You can learn more about him in the FREE Rabbit Trails through Science: Let It Snow lesson.

January 2022-Week 2
Martin’s Big Words by Doreen Rappaport

Martin Luther King Jr. had such a brave and wonderful dream. This book includes many quotes from Martin. I love being able to read his own words and not just what others have written about him. You can learn more about Martin Luther King Jr. In Rabbit Trails through MLK Jr Day lesson.

January 2022-Week 1
The Mitten by Jan Brett

Jan Brett’s illustrations are just simply amazing. Nicki’s Grandmother makes him new white mittens, but warns him not to lose them in the snow! Of course, he does lose one and the animals try to use it to keep warm. This awesome author/illustrator is January’s featured author in Journey Down the Rabbit Trail membership. You don’t want to miss learning about her and going on fun rabbit trails for each subject.

December 2021-Week 5
Freedom Soup by Tami Charles

This is a wonderful story about a tradition dating back to the Haitian Revolution. This year, Belle gets to learn how to make Freedom Soup with Ti Gran and the history of Haiti. This book will lead to more rabbit trails about what traditions are celebrated for New Year with Rabbit Trails through New Years!

December 2021-Week 4
Christmas Day in the Morning by Pearl S. Buck

A beautifully written Christmas book about a boy’s special gift to his father.

December 2021-Week 3
Baboushka and the Three Kings by Ruth Robbins

This Caldecott Award winning book has stunning illustrations- which is exactly why it is the main book in Rabbit Trails through Christmas! Go on the journey with Babushka to search for the three kings.

December 2021-Week 2
How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss

“You’re a mean one, Mr. Grinch.” That’s one of the only songs I don’t mind stuck in my head! This is another Christmas book you can also piggyback a movie with.

December 2021-Week 1
What is Christmas? by Michelle Medlock Adams

This sweet book goes through what Christmas may be about, to conclude that it truly is about our Savior Jesus and his birth.

November 2021-Week 4
People of the Breaking Day by Marcia Sewall

There are so many Thanksgiving books available, but very few from the Native Americans’ perspective. The Wampanoag tribe lived in southeastern Massachusetts where the pilgrims claimed as their new home in the New World. This book shares the meeting of these two very different cultures.

November 2021-Week 3
The Thanksgiving Story by Alice Dalgliesh

I love the books by Alice Dalgliesh. This story shares what the journey was like on the Mayflower for three children. They were so excited to make it to the New World. After arriving, they discovered that there were even worse challenges to face such as hunger, cold, and sickness. The pilgrims were able to survive with the help of the Native Americans. This book is also the main book that goes along with our Rabbit Trails through Thanksgiving lesson!

November 2021-Week 2
Veterans: Heroes in Our Neighborhood by Valerie Pfundstein

I love how this book points out the everyday people who are veterans. It helps children to realize that anyone could protect our country. The author included real pictures at the end of this book of veterans in her own neighborhood. Do you have any veterans in your neighborhood?

November 2021-Week 1
So You Want to be President? by Judith St. George

Hilariously illustrated by David Small, this story shares quirks and facts about past presidents. The newer edition of this book is updated to include up to our forty-second president, George W. Bush. This book will help children realize that everyday people can become president! It is also one of the main books in Rabbit Trails through Literature Volume 1, where you will go on an entire Rabbit Trail learning about the election.

October 2021-Week 5
Because of an Acorn by Lola M. Schaefer

Learn about how much a little acorn shapes an entire ecosystem. Do you know what happens when an acorn falls from a tree? Find out the amazing journey with this book!

October 2021-Week 4
Applesauce Day by Lisa J. Amstutz

It’s not fall without a visit to an apple orchard! Come along with this family as they take you through each step of making some delicious homemade applesauce!

October 2021-Week 3
Sweep by Louis Greig

This book is about so much more than sweeping up leaves. Learn how our emotions can impact more than just ourselves with this book by award winning author Louise Greig and acclaimed illustrator Júlia Sardà.

October 2021-Week 2
Hello, Harvest Moon by Ralph Fletcher

Have you ever seen the harvest moon rise? It’s a beautiful sight! See what happens after the moon rises in the sky- so much of what we read about happens during the day, but this book focuses on all of the amazing activity at night!

October 2021-Week 1
The Fox Went Out on a Chilly Night by Peter Spier

In this book, based on a folk song, you will see some beautiful fall scenery all throughout the book. Make sure to listen to the song, too, so you can sing along as you read! This book is also the main book for the free Rabbit Trails through Science Autumn lesson!

September 2021-Week 4
Pangolina by Jane Goodall

Legendary naturalist Jane Goodall weaves an eye opening fictional book about the plight of the pangolin, on its way to endangerment due to illegal trafficking.

September 2021-Week 3
The Buffalo Are Back by Jean Craighead George

The buffalo, an American icon once nearly extinct, has made a comeback. This stirring picture book tells the dramatic story, following bison from the Plains Indians to the cowboys, Teddy Roosevelt to the Dust Bowl, and from the brink of extinction to the majestic herds that now roam our national parks.

September 2021-Week 2
My Schoolhouse Rocks! by Katlynne Mirabal

My Schoolhouse Rocks is told from the joyful perspective of a homeschooled boy who loves being homeschooled. Throughout the story we learn all the things that he loves about his “schoolhouse.” The positive tone in this story is one that resonates with my mama heart and reminds me of all of the reasons I chose to homeschool my own kids!

September 2021-Week 1
Mama, Why Am I Homeschooled? by Jacy Ruwe

This is a question every homeschooled child asks at least once during their homeschool journey. With beautiful hand painted illustrations and rhythmic wording, Mama, Why am I Homeschooled will help answer some of the age old question for homeschooled children.

August 2021-Week 4
Goodnight, Campsite by Loretta Sponsler

Follow campers on their daily adventures hiking, biking, fishing, and going back to their campsites at night. This book emphasizes the uses of RV’s which makes it a unique camping book for children!

August 2021-Week 3
Camp Tiger by Susan Choi

In this poetic ode to childhood, Susan Choi tells the story of a young boy on an annual family camping trip. This year the boy is encouraged to be more independent like his older brother, but unlike other years, a tiger has ventured into the woods!

August 2021-Week 2
Journey by Aaron Becker

Follow a young girl on her journey through her drawings in this wordless story full of beautiful illustrations!

August 2021-Week 1
The Camping Trip That Changed America by Barb Rosenstock

Learn about the ultimate camping trip that John Muir and Teddy Roosevelt went on together that changed the future of the wilderness in America! Gorgeous illustrations accompany this book about the camping trip that ended up creating our National Parks. You can go down the Rabbit Trail with this book with the lesson Journey to the Parks from Rabbit Trails through the Parks, too!

July 2021-Week 5
Manfish by Jennifer Berne

Read about how Jacques Cousteau went from a curious boy to a pioneer in underwater exploration. More beautiful poetry and beautiful pictures fill this book.

July 2021-Week 4
The Brilliant Deep by Kate Messner

Read all about coral reef restoration and conservation in this stunningly illustrated book.

All it takes is one: one coral gamete to start a colony in the ocean, one person to make a difference in the world, one idea to help us heal the earth.

In telling the story of this sea conservation pioneer and marine life protector, Kate Messner and Matthew Forsythe create a stunning tribute to the wonders of nature and the power of human hope—a power even the smallest readers can access in their quest to aid our extraordinary planet.

July 2021-Week 3
Coral Reefs by Gail Gibbons

Marine biologists believe coral reefs existed 400 million years ago, when dinosaurs roamed the earth. Today this active environment is home to about 20,000 kinds of brilliantly coloured corals, plants, and animals-more sea creatures than are found anywhere else in the world. What is life like in a coral reef? What do corals eat? Why are corals more colourful at nighttime? Children will enjoy Gibbon’s informative text and clear, detailed illustrations on this journey into the unique lives of coral reefs.

July 2021-Week 2
Shark Lady by Jess Keating

Eugenie Clark fell in love with sharks the first time she saw them at the aquarium. As she grew older, Eugenie realized that many people feared sharks, calling them ugly & scary! Others believed that women should not be scientists. Eugenie Clark was determined to prove them all wrong and when she was older, she did just that! Follow the story of the “Shark Lady” and how she proved that a woman can do anything she puts her mind to!

July 2021-Week 1
The 4th of July Story by Alice Dalgliesh

What was the 4th of July like before the parades and fireworks? Alice Dalgliesh brings young readers back to the Revolutionary era when the colonists desire for Independence and Freedom flowed through the thirteen colonies and the Declaration of Independence was created.

June 2021-Week 4
The Little Blue Cottage by Kelly Jordan

The little blue cottage waits each year for summer to arrive―and with it, the little girl. Through sunny days and stormy weather, the cottage and the girl keep each other company and adventure away the long days and nights together. Until one year, and then another, the cottage is left waiting and empty, season after season.

In this heartfelt story about change, Kelly Jordan’s lilting text and Jessica Courtney-Tickle’s lush art captures the essence of cherishing a favorite place.

June 2021-Week 3
Papa, Please Get the Moon for Me by Eric Carle

Monica wants to play with the moon but can’t quite seem to reach it. As your kids read through the story they will literally watch the story unfold on the pages as they follow along with Papa while he tries to reach the moon. This beautifully illustrated Eric Carle classic is perfect to read with dads this Father’s Day!

June 2021-Week 2
The Truth About My Unbelievable Summer by Davide Cali

What really happened over the summer break? A curious teacher wants to know. The epic explanation? What started out as a day at the beach turned into a globe-spanning treasure hunt with high-flying hijinks, exotic detours, an outrageous cast of characters, and one very mischievous bird! Is this yet another tall tale, or is the truth just waiting to be revealed?

June 2021-Week 1
All Different Now: Juneteenth, the First Day of Freedom by Angela Johnson

Through the eyes of one little girl, All Different Now tells the story of the first Juneteenth, the day freedom finally came to the last of the slaves in the South. Since then, the observance of June 19 as African American Emancipation Day has spread across the United States and beyond. This stunning picture book includes notes from the author and illustrator, a timeline of important dates, and a glossary of relevant terms.

May 2021-Week 4
The Poppy Lady by Barbara E. Walsh

When American soldiers entered World War I, Moina Belle Michael, a schoolteacher from Georgia, knew she had to act. Some of the soldiers were her students and friends. Almost single-handedly, Moina worked to establish the red poppy as the symbol to honor and remember soldiers. And she devoted the rest of her life to making sure the symbol would last forever. Thanks to her hard work, that symbol remains strong today. Author Barbara Elizabeth Walsh and artist Layne Johnson worked with experts, primary documents, and Moina’s great-nieces to better understand Moina’s determination to honor the war veterans.

May 2021-Week 3
Have You Seen My Duckling by Nancy Tafuri

A mother duck searches the pond for her missing duckling. None of the pond residents – bird, turtle, beaver, or fish – has seen Mother Duck’s missing baby. But clever viewers of these charming color scenes can see that the duckling isn’t really lost, just adventuring – and never very far away.

May 2021-Week 2
An Egg is Quiet by Dianna Hutts Aston

This stunningly beautiful and wonderfully informative book from award-winning artist Sylvia Long and author Dianna Hutts Aston makes for a fascinating introduction to the vast and amazing world of eggs. Featuring poetic text and an elegant design, this acclaimed book teaches children countless interesting facts about eggs. Full of wit and charm, An Egg Is Quiet will at once spark the imagination and cultivate a love of science.

May 2021-Week 1
Love You Forever by Robert Munsch

Get the tissues ready!! I have memories of my mom reading this to me and tearing up while she did so. I never understood it until I read it to my kids for the first time and couldn’t even get through it! It’s a running joke in our house that this book makes mom cry, but I’ll read it over and over again through the tears, as this book about the journey through motherhood and watching our children grow up will never grow old.

April 2021-Week 4
We Are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom

Inspired by the many Indigenous-led movements across North America, 2021 Caldecott winner We Are Water Protectors issues an urgent rallying cry to safeguard the Earth’s water from harm and corruption―a bold and lyrical picture book written by Carole Lindstrom and vibrantly illustrated by Michaela Goade.

April 2021-Week 3
Sometimes Rain by Meg Fleming

This week’s book of the week uses lyrical exploration to show young readers the wonder and joy in the changing of the seasons. Written by Meg Fleming with beautiful watercolor illustrations by Diana Sudyka, Sometimes Rain is bound to be a new spring favorite for your young readers!

April 2021-Week 2
Busy Spring: Nature Wakes Up by Sean Taylor & Alex Morss

In this uplifting picture book about spring, follow two children and their father through their backyard as they discover all the different ways nature wakes up from its long winter sleep.

Spot the busy creatures and plants as the tale unfolds, then learn about how each responds to the increasing daylight and warmth that usher in the season.

Co-authors Sean Taylor (picture book author) and Alex Morss (ecologist, journalist, and educator) offer an inviting introduction to the science behind spring. The yard is bright, birds are singing, the bees are buzzing, and there are tadpoles in the pond! What is all the commotion about?

April 2021-Week 1
The Garden, the Curtain and the Cross

This beautifully illustrated hardback book, The Garden, the Curtain, and the Cross by Carl Laferton and illustrated by Catalina Echeverri, takes children on a journey from the garden of Eden to God’s prefect new creation. Through an engaging Bible overview, children will discover that ‘because of our sin, we can’t go in’ but because of Jesus’ victory on the cross, an even better garden awaits us.

March 2021-Week 4
The Wind Blew by Pat Hutchins

The wind blew, and blew, and blew! It blew so hard, it took everything with it: Mr. White’s umbrella, Priscilla’s balloon, the twins’ scarves, even the wig on the judge’s head. But just when the wind was about to carry everything out to sea, it changed its mind!

With rhyming verse and colorful illustrations, Pat Hutchins takes us on a merry chase that is well worth the effort.

March 2021-Week 3
Patrick: Patron Saint of Ireland by Tomie dePaola

This timeless picture book is a perfect introduction to important Irish legends and an ideal St. Patrick’s day gift. Beloved children’s book author-illustrator Tomie dePaola recounts the life of Saint Patrick–from his noble birth in Britain, to his captivity in Ireland, to the visions which led him to return and found the first Christian church in Ireland. With his signature bold illustrations and engaging prose, Tomie dePaola recounts a number of legends about the Saint–including the well-known story of how he drove the snakes from Ireland, and his association with the shamrock.

March 2021-Week 2
It’s My Birthday by Helen Oxenbury

It’s one lucky toddler’s birthday, and of course there must be a cake. So the child asks some animal friends to gather ingredients, one by one: the chicken an egg, the bear some flour, the cat the butter and milk, and on and on! After they all share the fun of making the cake, it’s even more fun to eat it! Helen Oxenbury’s winsome illustrations and simple, repetitive text make this an ideal gift for the youngest of children.

March 2021-Week 1
The 500 Hats of Bartholomew Cubbins by Dr. Seuss

Follow along in this humorous Dr. Seuss book as he writes about the unjust treatment of young Bartholomew (The very same Bartholomew as in Bartholomew & the Ooblek!) by King Derwin. Everytime he removes one hat, another magically appears on his head which ENRAGES King Derwin! While this is a lesser-known book by the great Dr. Seuss, it is sure to have your kids laughing at the silly rhymes and Dr. Seussian illustrations!

February 2021-Week 4
Rosa by Nikki Giovanni

As we wind down with Black History Month, our last book of the week for the month is Rosa by Nikki Giovanni. In this biography, readers will follow Rosa Parks onto the bus where her “No” planted seeds of change in our nation’s history. Looking to follow this rabbit trail deeper? Check out Rabbit Trails Through Literature: Rosa! This language arts lesson pays tribute to Rosa Parks and her courageous act of defiance. Follow the link below to get your freebie lesson!

February 2021-Week 3
The Story of Ruby Bridges by Robert Coles

This week’s Book of the Week is The Story of Ruby Bridges. The story takes place in 1960 in New Orleans, Louisiana where a judge has just ruled the desegregation of schools. Follow little Ruby in this beautiful narrative on her first day at the previously all-white William Frantz Elementary where she faces angry mobs of parents and racial prejudices. Ruby’s story is sure to inspire all who read of her courage, hope, and child-like faith.

February 2021-Week 2
Martin’s Big Words by Doreen Rappaport

“I have a dream…”We have all heard those iconic words of the great Dr. King, but how much do we really know about his early life and his fight against racial injustice? In Martin’s Big Words, Doreen Rappaport helps young readers learn more about Martin Luther King Jr., from his early life to his assassination, using direct quotes from many of his own speeches and beautiful watercolor illustrations. Want to follow this rabbit trail a little deeper? Check out one of this years newest additions to Rabbit Trails Through the Holidays: Martin Luther King Jr. This lesson features more beautifully illustrated books, a glimpse into Martin Luther King Jr’s life, hands-on crafts, copywork, and much more. This lesson is sure to deepen your appreciation for Dr. King and the struggles he faced while fighting racism in our country.

February 2021-Week 1
Voice of Freedom: Fannie Lou Hamer by Carole Boston Weatherford

This weeks book of the week is Voice of Freedom: Fannie Lou Hamer: The Spirit of the Civil Rights Movement! This 2016 Caldecott winning book is the perfect way to kick off honoring Black History Month. Voice of Freedom is filled with inspiring poems and collage art celebrating the life of Fannie Lou Hamer and her fight for equal rights voting. Voice of Freedom is a book that is sure to inspire and teach the future generations valuable lessons in determination and fighting for what they believe in!

January 2021-Week 4
Over and Under by Kate Messner

Did you know there is a world teeming with life underneath the thick layer of snow you see in the winter? Kate Messner invites us into this secret world with her nonfiction book Over and Under. Filled with beautiful illustrations and amazing facts about the creatures who live in the subnivean zone, Over and Under is a book that your kids will want to read over and over again!

January 2021-Week 3
The Big Snow by Berta & Elmer Hader

The days are getting shorter and the air is getting colder as the woodland creatures prepare for the coming of winter. Animals big and small begin to grow thicker fur and lay down for a long winter nap while others head south to warmer weather. Cuddle up with the family and enjoy this beautifully illustrated Caldecott winner that is sure to delight readers young and old!

January 2021-Week 2
Snowflake Bentley by Jacqueline Briggs Martin

Follow the life of Wilson Bentley, in his lifelong journey photographing and studying snowflakes in this Caldecott winner! Snowflake Bentley is a story that will delight people of all ages with its beautiful illustrations and look into one man’s determination to show the world just how unique each snowflake is!
Want to dive a little deeper into the world of snowflakes? Go down the Rabbit Trail with this free winter unit study! – This Bit of Life

“Of all the forms of water the tiny six-pointed crystals of ice called snow are incomparably the most beautiful and varied.” — Wilson Bentley

January 2021-Week 1
The Mitten by Jan Brett

Who doesn’t love being warm & toasty on cold winter days? I know I do! Woodland creatures in Jan Brett’s The Mitten are no different! In this retelling of a Ukrainian folktale, Brett tells the story of Nicki, a boy who loses his mitten in the woods & the hilarious antics of the woodland creatures who crawl in, each one larger than the last! Beautifully illustrated & written in Jan Brett’s distinctive style, the Mitten is sure to become a family favorite if it isn’t already!

December 2020-Week 3
Pick a Pine Tree by Patricia Toht

One of the most magical parts about Christmas is picking out the perfect tree & bringing it home where it will be decorated with love & enjoyed throughout the Christmas season. In her debut book, Pick a Pine Tree, author Patricia Toht has written an ode to family, friends, & the joys of the holiday season!

December 2020-Week 2
The Year of the Perfect Christmas Tree by Gloria Houston

The Year of the Perfect Christmas Tree is set in the mountains of Appalacia that focuses on giving, not receiving. With beautiful illustrations from Caldecott Award winner Barbara Cooney, it’s sure to become a beloved classic in your home!

December 2020-Week 1
Mr. Willowby’s Christmas Tree by Robert Barry

Mr. Willowby’s tree has arrived, but it is too big for his parlor! This charming book tells the story of how the top of the tree is passed around the forest from animal to animal to bring holiday cheer. It will bring my kid’s some cheer when they find it under their Christmas tree this year, too!

November 2020-Week 3
Thanksgiving in the Woods by Phyllis Alsdurf

“When fall winds blow cold and jack-o-lanterns lose their smiles, when branches lie bare, and corn stalks rustle in the wind, that’s when it’s time for Thanksgiving in the woods.”
Based on a true story, join this family who gathers with family and friends every year for a special Thanksgiving among the trees!

November 2020-Week 2
Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn by Kenard Pak

This sweet book tells the story of a girl taking a walk as the seasons are changing. Beautiful illustrations show the change from Summer to Autumn. The perfect book to curl up with on a cool Autumn day.

November 2020-Week 1
Leaf Man by Lois Ehlert

Fall has come, the wind is gusting, and Leaf Man is on the move. Is he drifting east, over the marsh and ducks and geese? Or is he heading west, above the orchards, prairie meadows, and spotted cows? No one’s quite sure, but this much is certain: A Leaf Man’s got to go where the wind blows. This book contains beautiful illustrations made from fall leaves. This whimsical book celebrates the imagination of children and is the perfect addition to your fall library. 

October 2020-Week 4
The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything
by Linda D. Williams

Once upon a time, there was a little old lady who was not afraid of anything! But one autumn night, while walking in the woods, the little old lady heard . . . clomp, clomp, shake, shake, clap, clap. And the little old lady who was not afraid of anything had the scare of her life! This is a classic and fun Halloween read aloud! Not only are there beautiful illustrations, there are tons of opportunities for the kids to participate in the reading. This is a crowd pleaser and family favorite!

October 2020-Week 3
The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson

“He has terrible tusks, and terrible claws, and terrible teeth in his terrible jaws.”
When a clever mouse comes across a hungry fox, then an owl, and then a snake. He invents the gruffalo. He has no worries because there’s no such thing! Or is there? This book is so fun and has even been turned into a movie on Amazon!

October 2020-Week 2
Gus Was a Friendly Ghost by Jane Thayer

“We’ve got a ghost!” I’ve had this book since I was a child and love reading it to my kids. It’s one of those classics that you can read any time of year, not just around Halloween.

October 2020-Week 1
Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson

This book is beloved by children of all ages (and adults too ). One of my favorite parts is that no matter how many animals keep coming, they keep making room. Not only is this a great fall themed book, but you can easily use this for an informal lesson on kindness and sharing!