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Select the book together

Read the book together

Talk about the book together

Read it together, again. Children learn through repetition.

Click here for - Reading Tips for Preschoolers (pdf)

Our book selections, offered by the staff of Seattle Public Libraries, highlight books that include laughable poems and the re-telling of a West African Tale that provides food for thought and discussion.

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This month we would like to collect stories and pictures from our book review friends. Please “join” this site and write a comment about the time you shared reading together. *Click on the "Add a Comment" link below, to share your story. We’d love to hear from parents, grandparents, child care providers, and others who have the privilege of reading to young learners.

Learn more

One of the most important ways to help your child get ready to read is to read aloud. For more information about Early Literacy Skills, check out the King County Library System’s Ready to Read web site.

Children's Book Reviews

Dinosaur Dinner with a Slice of Alligator Pie: Favorite Poems,
by Dennis Lee
J811.54 LEE 1997
Lots of kids think poetry is BO-ring. Not so! Pull out this hilarious collection of poems by Dennis Lee, and let the fun begin. Reading them out loud allows you to discover the rhythms that bring each verse to life. Try “I Eat Kids Yum Yum!” for a sassy twist on monsters, or “The Perfect Pets” for a raucous reflection on owning animals. “Alligator Pie” is perfectly yummy, too! Quirky illustrations add another humorous touch to this outstanding selection that’s easy to enjoy. Super silly ingredients will have kids of all ages craving another helping of Dinosaur Dinner! - Susan, Lake City

Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People’s Ears: A West African Tale,
Retold by Verna Aardema
J398 AARDEMA
Ever wonder why mosquitoes buzz in people’s ears? When Iguana plugs his ears to avoid hearing Mosquito’s silliness, a chain of events begins that results in a tragedy affecting the entire forest. King Lion gathers the council to determine the cause, only to discover each animal’s actions were based on false assumptions. Vibrant pictures reveal the anxiety motivating the animals, until finally Mosquito is determined to be at fault. Part cumulative story, part cautionary tale, this richly illustrated book is a great choice for reading and discussing with kids.
– Susan, Lake City