“Chickens Can’t See in the Dark” by Kristyna Litten is a charming children’s book. It tells the story of Little Pippa, a curious chicken on a quest. She wants to see in the dark, just like an owl.

Book Details

Title: Chickens Can’t See in the Dark
Author: Kristyna Litten

Illustrator: Kristyna Litten

Publisher: Oxford University Press

Genre/Topic: Animals – Chickens, Behaviour – Curiosity

Grade Recommendation: Grade 3

Series: No

Page Count: 28

Word Count: 484

eBook Link: Click Here to Read eBook for FREE!

Audiobook/Video-book: Click Here to Listen to Audiobook for FREE!

Physical Book Link: Click Here to Buy Book!

Comprehension Quiz: Click Here for the FREE Quiz!

Plot Summary

On Sunnyside Farm, Little Pippa learns from Mr. Benedict that chickens can’t see in the dark. Pippa feels disappointed but determined. She seeks advice from Mr. Owl, but he laughs and offers no help. Next, she visits Miss Featherbrain’s library. Miss Featherbrain calls it an old hens’ tale, but Pippa finds a book that says carrots can help with night vision.

Pippa’s Determination

Pippa rushes to the farm shop and buys a lot of carrots. She plans to eat them all to improve her sight. Pippa cooks a massive carrot feast. The smell attracts all the chickens on the farm.

The Banquet

Pippa prepares various carrot dishes: cookies, curry, croutons, chowder, crunches, custard, quiche, and caramel. The other chickens are curious and laugh at her idea. As night falls, the chickens join Pippa and enjoy the feast. They start to see things they never noticed before: stars, shadows, and the moon.

The Lesson

The chickens realize they were wrong. They admit that chickens can see in the dark, thanks to Pippa’s determination and carrots. Mr. Benedict and Miss Featherbrain praise Pippa. She feels proud and happy.

Themes and Illustrations

The book teaches kids about persistence and creativity. Pippa’s journey shows that believing in oneself can lead to surprising results. The illustrations are bright and engaging. They capture the farm’s charm and Pippa’s emotions perfectly.

Conclusion

“Chickens Can’t See in the Dark” is a delightful read for children. It encourages them to be curious and never give up. Kristyna Litten has created a memorable story with lovable characters and a valuable message. This book is perfect for bedtime reading or classroom discussions. It’s a fun way to teach kids about problem-solving and the power of believing in themselves.

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Arthur’s Pen Pal by Lillian Hoban is a lovely children’s book that teaches the value of friendship, honesty, and sibling relationships. This book is perfect for young readers with its simple language and engaging illustrations. It tells the story of Arthur, a young chimpanzee, who starts a pen pal friendship with someone named Sandy.

Book Details

Title: Arthur’s Pen Pal

Arthur’s Excitement and Assumptions

Arthur is very excited about his pen pal. He thinks Sandy is a boy who has a big brother. Arthur often compares his life with Sandy’s imagined one. He dreams of having a big brother instead of a little sister like Violet. The story unfolds with Arthur writing letters to Sandy, sharing his thoughts and experiences.

Sibling Rivalry and Bonding

Meanwhile, Arthur’s little sister Violet also wants his attention. She asks him for help with her homework and to play games. Arthur often feels annoyed by Violet. He thinks having a little sister is a pain. However, Violet tries her best to bond with him, even though Arthur is sometimes mean to her.

Different Interests and Skills

The plot thickens when Arthur and Violet have different ideas about fun activities. Arthur likes wrestling and karate, while Violet excels at rope skipping. This leads to some sibling rivalry. Violet proves she is great at what she loves, showing her skills in rope skipping games like Sweet Milk, Sour Milk, and Red Hot Pepper.

The Big Twist and Lesson in Honesty

Arthur’s assumptions about Sandy turn out to be wrong. When he finally receives a picture from Sandy, he learns Sandy is actually a girl. She is also great at Indian wrestling and karate, just like Arthur imagined. This twist adds a humorous and enlightening element to the story.

Valuing Sibling Relationships

Arthur also realizes the value of his little sister. Despite their differences, Violet is supportive and caring. She doesn’t cry too much when Arthur beats her at wrestling. She also doesn’t brag too much when she wins at rope skipping. This helps Arthur see his sister in a new light.

Educational Aspects and Themes

Parents and teachers will appreciate the educational aspects of this book. It encourages children to read and write letters. It can also spark discussions about honesty, friendship, and sibling relationships. The story shows that everyone has unique strengths and talents.

Conclusion: A Valuable Read

In conclusion, Arthur’s Pen Pal by Lillian Hoban is a charming and heartwarming story. It combines humour, relatable characters, and important life lessons. The simple language and engaging illustrations make it a perfect choice for young readers. The book’s themes of honesty, friendship, and sibling love are timeless and universal.

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Title: Billy Sure Kid Entrepreneur

Author: Luke Shape

Genre/Topics: Fiction, Humour, Family Life – Jobs for Youth, People – Inventors

Grade Recommendation: Grade 4

Series: Yes

Page Count: Approx. 154

Word Count: Approx. 23,400

Book Review

Luke Sharpe’s Billy Sure Kid Entrepreneur is a captivating children’s book that narrates the story of Billy, a young boy with a keen interest in inventing, who, with the help of his best friend Manny Reyes, embarks on an entrepreneurial journey.

The book is a fun and engaging read for kids, and it teaches valuable lessons on entrepreneurship and creativity. The story is well-paced, with plenty of humor and excitement to keep young readers entertained.

One of the book’s notable features is its emphasis on innovation and problem-solving. Billy continually comes up with new ideas for inventions, and he is not afraid to take risks or try new things. This message is crucial for kids who often feel pressured to conform and follow set rules. Billy is a role model for young readers who want to think outside the box and pursue their passions.

Another strength of the book is its focus on teamwork and friendship. Billy’s partnership with Manny is a key factor in his success, and their friendship is an endearing aspect of the story. The two boys complement each other well, with Billy’s creativity and Manny’s practicality and business sense. Together, they make an excellent team, and their collaboration is an excellent example for kids who are learning how to work with others.

The illustrations in the book are also noteworthy. Graham Ross’s artwork is colorful and detailed, bringing the characters and setting to life. The illustrations are also cleverly integrated into the text, with speech bubbles and labels that add to the humour and visual appeal of the book.

Billy Sure Kid Entrepreneur is a fantastic children’s book that teaches valuable lessons about innovation, teamwork, and entrepreneurship. Its engaging story, lovable characters, and beautiful illustrations make it a must-read for young readers. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or young reader yourself, Billy Sure Kid Entrepreneur is a book that is sure to inspire and entertain.

Billy Sure Kid Entrepreneur Series

Billy Sure Kid Entrepreneur is a series of children’s books written by Luke Sharpe and illustrated by Graham Ross. There are a number of books in the series, listed here:

1. Billy Sure Kid Entrepreneur

2. Billy Sure Kid Entrepreneur and the Stink Spectacular

3. Billy Sure Kid Entrepreneur and the Cat-Dog Translator

4. Billy Sure Kid Entrepreneur and the Best Test

5. Billy Sure Kid Entrepreneur and the No-Trouble Bubble

6. Billy Sure Kid Entrepreneur Is a Spy!

7. Billy Sure Kid Entrepreneur and the Haywire Hovercraft

8. Billy Sure Kid Entrepreneur and the Invisible Inventor

9. Billy Sure Kid Entrepreneur Is NOT A SINGER!

10. Billy Sure Kid Entrepreneur and the Everything Locator

11. Billy Sure Kid Entrepreneur vs. Manny Reyes Kid Entrepreneur

12. Billy Sure Kid Entrepreneur and the Attack of the Mysterious Lunch Meat

Each book in the series follows Billy Sure and his best friend Manny Reyes as they come up with new inventions and start their own business, Sure Things, Inc. While each book can be read as a standalone story, they are best enjoyed in order as they build on each other and reference events from earlier books.

Happy Reading!

The post Unlocking the Secrets of Success: A Book Review of Luke Shape’s Billy Sure Kid Entrepreneur appeared first on BookGuru.

Title: The Twits

Author: Roald Dahl

Genre: Humour

Grade Recommendation: Grade 3 & 4

The Twits is a classic children’s book by the renowned British author, Roald Dahl. Originally published in 1980, this humorous and entertaining tale is still loved by children and adults alike today. In this book review, we will explore what makes The Twits such a delightful read and why it is a must-read for anyone who loves a good laugh.

Plot Summary

The Twits tells the story of Mr. and Mrs. Twit, a vile and unpleasant couple who take pleasure in tormenting each other and innocent animals. Mr. Twit has a long, straggly beard that he never washes, while Mrs. Twit has a glass eye that she uses to scare birds away from their garden. They both enjoy playing mean-spirited tricks on each other and anyone else they can think of.

However, their cruel behavior soon catches up with them when the monkeys they keep as pets decide to exact revenge. With the help of some clever planning and a bit of magic, the monkeys manage to turn the tables on the Twits, and the couple gets exactly what they deserve.

Writing Style

Roald Dahl’s writing style is one of the things that makes this book so enjoyable. He has a way of painting vivid and hilarious pictures with his words, making it easy for readers to visualize the absurd and outrageous antics of the Twits. His use of descriptive language and clever wordplay adds to the whimsical nature of the story and keeps readers engaged from beginning to end.

One of the most entertaining aspects of The Twits is the way in which Dahl plays with language. He uses puns, alliteration, and other literary devices to create a story that is both amusing and memorable. Dahl also has a talent for creating characters that are larger than life, yet still relatable. Even though the Twits are terrible people, readers can’t help but be drawn into their world and root for the monkeys to get their revenge.

Themes and Lessons

The Twits is not just a fun and entertaining read; it also teaches some important lessons. One of the main themes of the book is the idea that cruelty and meanness will eventually catch up with you. The Twits are so focused on causing trouble and making each other miserable that they don’t realize the harm they are doing. However, their actions have consequences, and they ultimately have to face the music.

Another important lesson in The Twits is the power of teamwork. The monkeys in the story are able to overcome the Twits by working together and using their individual strengths to achieve a common goal. This message is especially important for children, who can learn the value of cooperation and collaboration through the adventures of the monkeys.

Conclusion

In conclusion, The Twits is a delightful and entertaining book that is sure to make readers of all ages laugh out loud. Roald Dahl’s clever writing style and witty humor make this story a joy to read, while the important lessons it teaches about the consequences of cruelty and the power of teamwork make it a valuable addition to any child’s reading list.

The characters in The Twits are unforgettable, from the vile and repulsive Twits to the mischievous and resourceful monkeys. Dahl’s ability to create such vivid and memorable characters is a testament to his skill as a writer.

Overall, The Twits is a must-read for anyone who loves a good laugh and a fun-filled adventure. It is a timeless classic that continues to captivate and entertain readers of all generations. Whether you are a child or an adult, this book is sure to leave you with a smile on your face and a newfound appreciation for the power of kindness and teamwork.

Vocabulary Boost

Fifteen vocabulary words from the book which are appropriate for grades 3 and 4 readers.

1. Vile – extremely unpleasant or disgusting

2. Mischievous – causing or showing a fondness for causing trouble in a playful way

3. Straggly – thin and untidy

4. Scrumptious – extremely delicious or appetizing

5. Miserable – wretchedly unhappy or uncomfortable

6. Rancid – smelling or tasting unpleasant as a result of being old and stale

7. Mutter – speak or say something in a low or barely audible voice

8. Cackle – laugh in a harsh, raucous manner

9. Deceive – cause to believe something that is not true

10. Gruesome – causing repulsion or horror; grisly

11. Dastardly – wicked and cruel

12. Oafish – clumsy and stupid

13. Gloat – contemplate or dwell on one’s own success or another’s misfortune with smugness or malignant pleasure

14. Impish – inclined to do slightly naughty things for fun; mischievous

15. Peculiar – strange or odd; unusual

Multiple Choice Comprehension Quiz

Ten multiple-choice questions and answers for “The Twits” by Roald Dahl

1. What is the name so the couple in “The Twits”?

a. Mr. and Mrs. Smith

b. Mr. and Mrs. Brown

c. Mr. and Mrs. Twit

Answer: c. Mr. and Mrs. Twit

2. What do the Twits like to do to each other?

a. Give each other presents

b. Play mean-spirited tricks

c. Go on walks together

Answer: b. Play mean-spirited tricks

3. What is Mr. Twit’s beard like?

a. Short and neatly trimmed

b. Long and straggly

c. Bald

Answer: b. Long and straggly

4. What does Mrs. Twit use her glass eye for?

a. To scare birds away from the garden

b. To spy on her neighbors

c. To see better in the dark

Answer: a. To scare birds away from the garden

5. What kind of animals do the Twits keep as pets?

a. Monkeys

b. Dogs

c. Cats

Answer: a. Monkeys

6. What do the monkeys do to get revenge on the Twits?

a. They run away

b. They play mean tricks on them

c. They turn the furniture upside down

Answer: c. They turn the furniture upside down

The post Book Review: The Twits by Roald Dahl – A Hilarious Tale of Mischief and Revenge appeared first on BookGuru.

Title: The Girl Who Drank the Moon

Author: Kelly Barnhill

Genre: Fantasy

Grade Recommendation: Grade 5 & Above

Kelly Barnhill’s The Girl Who Drank the Moon is a captivating and enchanting novel that is sure to capture the hearts of young and old readers alike. This book tells the story of a young girl named Luna, who is raised by a witch and a swamp monster in a world filled with magic and wonder.

The book is a delightful combination of fantasy, adventure, and coming-of-age themes, which makes it a perfect read for readers of all ages. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and the plot is intricate and engaging.

One of the strengths of this book is the author’s ability to create a vivid and immersive world that readers can easily get lost in. From the magical forest to the mysterious and foreboding Tower, every detail is carefully crafted to create a sense of wonder and intrigue.

The narrative structure of the book is also noteworthy, as it is told from multiple perspectives. This allows readers to gain a deeper understanding of the characters and their motivations, as well as the world they inhabit.

The book’s central conflict revolves around the idea of sacrifice and the lengths that people will go to protect those they love. This theme is explored in a nuanced and thought-provoking way, making the book much more than just a simple fairy tale.

Another aspect of the book that makes it stand out is its prose. Barnhill’s writing is lyrical and poetic, and she has a talent for using language to create vivid and evocative imagery. This makes the book a joy to read, even for those who are not typically fans of the fantasy genre.

Overall, The Girl Who Drank the Moon is a beautifully crafted novel that is sure to delight readers of all ages. Its engaging characters, intricate plot, and immersive world-building make it a must-read for fans of fantasy and fairy tales.

Pick from this and many more wonderful reads at the BookGuru Library. Offer your kids a rich reading experience.

Vocabulary Boost:

10 words from the book “The Girl Who Drank the Moon” by Kelly Barnhill

1. Abomination – something that is hated or loathed

2. Befuddle – to confuse or perplex

3. Citadel – a fortress or stronghold, usually on a high hill

4. Coven – a group of witches who meet regularly to practice magic

5. Cryptic – mysterious or obscure in meaning

6. Deluge – a great flood or heavy downpour of rain

7. Inscrutable – impossible to understand or interpret

8. Luminous – emitting or reflecting light; shining brightly

9. Malevolent – having or showing a wish to do evil to others

10. Quaint – attractively old-fashioned or unusual

The post Book Review: The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill appeared first on BookGuru.

Is your little one a fan of the fictional fire breathers too? Then we have lined up a great selection of dragon books for them to pick from. Thirty one all time favourites that include award winners as well as timeless classics. What’s more, we have also sorted them by grade for your easy reference.

Kindergarten

• A Friend For Dear Dragon by Margaret Hillert
• If I Had A Dragon by Amanda & Tom Ellery
• A Dragon In The Sandpit by Louise Goodman
• Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin

Grade 1

• Dear Dragon Gets A Pet by Margaret Hillert
• Dragon Egg by Mallory Lochr
• Have You Seen My Dragon by Steve Light
• The Dancing Dragon by Marcia K. Vaughan
• The Little Dragon by Heather Amery

Grade 2

• Danny The Dragon by Russell Punter
• George’s Dragon by Claire Freedman
• King Jack And The Dragon by Peter Bently & Helen Oxenbury
• The Dragon Painter by Rosie Dickins
• George And The Dragon by Chris Wormell

Grade 3

• Dragon Masters – Saving The Sun Dragon by Tracey West
• Ella And Owen – The Cave Of Aaaaah! Doom! by Jaden Kent
• The Kingdom Of Wrenly – The Lost Stone by Jordan Quinn
• Sir Cumference And The Dragon Of Pi by Cindy Neuschwander
• The Tiara Club – Princess Daisy And The Dazzling Dragon by Vivian French
• Herb The Vegetarian Dragon by Jules Bass and Debbie Harter
• The Dragonsitter by Josh Lacey

Grade 4

• My Father’s Dragon by Ruth Gannett
• Dragon’s Tooth by N. D. Wilson
• Lily And The Shining Dragons by Holly Webb
• The Girl Who Drank The Moon by Kelly Barnhill
• Dragon Rider by Cornella Funke

Grade 5 & Above

• Wings Of Fire by T. T. Sutherland
• The Unwateds Quests – Dragon Captives by Lisa McMann
• Where The Mountain Meets The Moon by Grace Lin
• A Dragon’s Guide To The Care And Feeding Of Humans by Laurence Yep and Joanne Ryder
• How To Train Your Dragon by Cressida Cowell

We are confident that this booklist is guaranteed to provide hours of page turning fun and numerous flights of fancy. Let us know which of these books found their way on to your little dragon enthusiasts book shelf.  

You can pick from these and other fantastic books from the BookGuru Library. We are always happy to assist.

The post 31 Great Dragon Books for Kids Who Are Fantasy Fans appeared first on BookGuru.

Many parents are often unsure where teasing ends and bullying begins. The three defining characteristics of bullying are – intent to hurt, repetition and power. An isolated fight can’t be termed as bullying.  

So, what can we do to protect our kids from becoming the victim or the perpetrator? The first step towards building a safer space for them is to educate them on the issue. Have open conversations that help children feel comfortable discussing bullying, should they experience or witness it.  

The BookGuru team has curated a booklist by grade that will help you have these tough conversations. Kids often find it easier to discuss sensitive issues from a make-believe character’s perspective. All these stories are beautifully written and loved by children world over.  

Grade 1 

• Stick and Stone by Beth Ferry 
• A Big Guy Took My Ball! by Mo Willems 
• Llama Llama and the Bully Goat by Anna Dewdney 

Grade 2 

• The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig 
• Coat of Many Colors by Dolly Parton 
• No More Teasing by Fran Manushkin 

Grade 3 

• Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon by Patty Lovell 
• Willow Finds a Way by Lana Button 
• My Secret Bully by Trudy Ludwig 
• Each Kindness by Jacqueline Woodson 
• Enemy Pie by Derek Munson 
• The Bully Blockers Club by Teresa Bateman 

Grade 4 

• Confessions of a Former Bully by Trudy Ludwig 

• Bully by Patricia Polacco 

• The Bully Book by Eric Kahn Gale 

• Wonder by R.J. Palacio 

• Wolf Hollow by Lauren Wolk 

Grade 5 

• The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes 

We hope that you found some of these books to be just right for your little one. These stories address bullying from different perspectives and always leave the reader with a lesson in empathy. And we are sure you will agree that empathy is the only real antidote to bullying. 

You can pick from these and other fantastic books from the BookGuru Library. We are always happy to assist.    

The post Let’s Talk to Our Kids About Bullying! appeared first on BookGuru.