High quality children’s books are a crucial part of children’s literacy development. For young children who have not yet developed their reading and writing skills, looking through books and having caregivers read to them help them discover the concepts of print.
Concepts of print include information about books, such as how books have a title, which way pages turn, and how you read from left to right. Frequent early exposure to books helps children to be more successful as they begin to start reading. It also increases their interest and attention span for books.
Older children also can greatly benefit from high quality books. It’s important for students to have access to a wide variety of books that share about all types of experiences.
As coined by educator Emily Styles in 1988, books give children an opportunity to experience ‘windows’, where they can peer into the experiences of people different from them, and ‘mirrors’ where they see themselves and their experiences represented. Experiencing both of these types of books helps children to develop a positive self identity, and to be curious and empathetic towards the experiences of others.
A perfect place to start finding a wide range of books is in the library. Children’s librarians are extremely knowledgeable about children’s literature, and can help steer families towards books that would be best for their children.
With how much time children’s librarians devote to children’s books, they often come across favorites to share with children. We consulted Rachel Goldberg, children’s librarian at Wines Elementary and the Library Services District Chair for Ann Arbor Public Schools, to get her current recommendations for children’s books.
Children’s book recommendations
Goldberg’s first recommendation was “Luli and the Language of Tea” by Andrea Wang and Hyewon Yum. She recommends this book for children ages 3-7.
“This friendship story about a group of children who all speak different languages but come together for a tea party is a great way to talk with children about welcoming others,” Goldberg said. “It also includes information about tea customs around the world, as well as the word for ‘tea’ in a variety of languages for children to practice.”
Goldberg next recommended “Bebikaan-Ezhiwebiziwinan Nimkii: The Adventures of Nimkii.” This story is by Stacie Sheldon and Rachel Butzin, and Goldberg recommends it for children ages 3-12.
Goldberg shared, “This bilingual Ojibwe-English book by local author, Stacie Sheldon, is always a favorite. This sweet story about a dog’s adventures through the seasons is a great way to share Michigan’s first language with children of all ages. The illustrations are beautiful, too.”
Goldberg’s final recommendation was “Knight Owl and Early Bird” by Christopher Denise. She recommends this book for children ages 4-7.
Goldberg told us she loves this book because, “This is the second book in the “Knight Owl” series and it’s just as charming as the first. The lovable characters, the hilarious dialogue, and the way they learn to work together delights children every time I share it.”
