2018 Top 50 - ELEMENTARY

2018 Top 50 - ELEMENTARY

On March 10, we presented Kiss the Book's Top 50 books that every elementary school should have in their library.  You can find the whole list here, but these are some standouts amongst standouts - 

The Secret Sheriff of Sixth Grade by Jordan Sonnenblick - Maverick is an incredibly believable character and the readers will find themselves rooting for him and hopefully discover some empathy. This was a book that I could not put down and it did not talk down to the reader either. The situation is fully fleshed out and the author has a done a great job creating the world. This is one of the best fiction books (non-graphic novel anyway) I have read this year.

Chasing Augustus by Kimberly Fusco - Rosie is a spunky, hard-headed, independent, quirky 11yo that will stop at nothing to find her dog. Despite all that, it’s hard not to love her. In fact, all the characters are lovable despite their flaws due to the author’s superb writing. This is a fresh, new book that is sure to please the animal loving crowd.  There are few books that I have a hard time putting down. This was one of them because the characters are so fully developed and interesting.

The Legend of Rock, Paper, Scissors by Drew Daywalt - This book is, in a word, hilarious. I found myself literally laughing out loud, maybe in tears at some points, at the exploits of Rock, Paper and Scissors. The text is genius and Rex's illustrations are absolutely on point. Kids and adults alike will love this book. Aside from being brilliantly hilarious, it could lend itself to some fun writing prompts about origin stories of other stories, games, etc.

The Witch Boy by Molly Ostertag - This has by far been one of my favorite graphic novels I have read in a long time –certainly my all time favorite by this publisher. I love the theme of gender roles and self acceptance –all wrapped up in an intriguing magic story.  I think readers will very much enjoy this story which comes together nicely in the end with additional lessons of friendship and changing family norms.  

Ban This Book by Alan Gratz - Gratz has really done his homework here.  I’m guessing that he has first hand knowledge of book challenges, perhaps? He weaves together a compelling story with true-life circumstances in an authentic heart-filled look at knee-jerk book bannings.  Hand this to every PTSA, parent, teacher, and administrator you know as a MUST READ.

Shell, Beak, Tusk by Bridget Heos - Each two-page spread shows two animals or insects that share a common trait (spines, tall ears, etc.), and talks about how each of them uses that trait.  The two animals are not related to each other genetically, nor in the same geographic region.  An extensive bibliography is included.  Pair this with Different? Same? By Heather Tekavec and Animals Do, Too! By Etta Kaner for an extensive look at animal traits and adaptations.  Perfect for Utah’s 7^th grade science core.

The Sand Warrior by Mark Siegel - This is an incredibly well written book with multi-faceted plot. I may have done a poor job summing up the plot. Reading this graphic novel was like watching a great anime movie with fantastic illustrations, well crafted characters, and top notch world building.

If Sharks Disappeared by Lily Williams - What would happen if sharks, in danger in may places,  were to disappear?  Read on and find out.  What a great introduction to so many different science lessons.  I foresee teachers in almost any grade wanting to use this in their classroom.  Great for ecology, food chains, biodiversity, the consequences of over-fishing – so many choices.

Lost and Found Cat by Ted Kuntz - This is the true story of a little cat named Kunkush who is lucky enough to be taken by his family when they flee war torn Iraq. When the family is separated from Kunkush, some amazing people step in and help to try to bring the lost cat and his family. 

This book is right up there with Two Bobbie’s by Libby Larson, meaning I can’t read it to a group without copious tears. This book also doubles a great story for refuge survival and acceptance, a wonderful book for this moment in history. 

Read the rest of the list to see what else made the final cut and fill your library with books that students and teachers will devour!