The Bakery Dragon and the Fairy Cake: A Picture Book That Teaches Algorithms, Sequencing, and Clear Instructions

 Teaching students how to write good instructions — whether for coding, robotics, or AI — is surprisingly hard. The Bakery Dragon and the Fairy Cake by Devin Elle Kurtz makes that concept come alive in the most delightful way.

This story introduces readers to Ember, a dragon who loves gold just like other dragons — except his “gold” is actually bread. Ember doesn’t just love eating it… he loves baking it, and he’s very good at it. Under the watchful eye of Beatrice the baker, Ember becomes a trusted apprentice, even being left alone in the bakery while she delivers orders.

That’s when everything goes hilariously wrong.

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Brief Summary

While Beatrice is away, a very important letter arrives from Princess Turnip, who wants to order a birthday cake. Ember has never heard of such a thing before. The princess tries to describe what she wants — yellow, round, with flowers on top — and Ember does exactly what he understands… delivering a loaf of bread that fits those instructions perfectly.

The princess tries again. And again. And again.

Each time, Ember follows her directions as literally as possible — and each time, the result is completely wrong. Eventually, Princess Turnip takes Ember to the library to find a recipe. With clear, step-by-step instructions, Ember finally bakes the perfect cake.

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The Good

This book is an absolute goldmine for teaching algorithms, sequencing, and precision.

From a classroom and media lab perspective, it naturally supports:

• Writing and following step-by-step instructions

• Understanding how computers (and AI) interpret prompts

• Debugging when something goes wrong

• The importance of clarity in communication

Students instantly see that Ember isn’t “wrong” — he’s just following the instructions exactly as they were given. That’s the heart of computational thinking.

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The Not-So-Good (From a School Librarian Lens)

There really isn’t much to flag here. The humor depends on misunderstanding, so very literal thinkers may initially get confused — but that confusion is actually what makes the learning powerful.

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Coding, AI & STEM Connections

As a media and technology teacher, this book opens the door to so many meaningful lessons:

Algorithms & Sequencing
Have students write a recipe for:

• Making a sandwich

• Drawing a monster

• Building a LEGO tower

Then follow the instructions exactly — no guessing allowed. Students will quickly see how missing steps cause problems.

AI Prompt Writing
Connect Ember’s mistakes to how AI image generators work:

• If you say “a yellow, round thing with flowers,” the AI might give you something very different than what you imagined

• The more specific the prompt, the better the result

Students can practice writing prompts for:

• A cake

• A dragon

• A bakery

Then compare what they asked for vs. what they got.

Debugging
Ask:

• What went wrong with Ember’s first cake?

• How did the recipe fix the problem?

• What would you change to make the instructions better?

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Overall

The Bakery Dragon and the Fairy Cake is one of those rare picture books that is just as valuable for STEM and coding instruction as it is for reading enjoyment. It’s funny, clever, and deeply aligned with the way students learn computational thinking.

For librarians, media specialists, and teachers looking to teach algorithms, sequencing, and AI prompts in a kid-friendly way, this book is a must-have.

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Recommended Grade Levels

K–4
(Works beautifully for STEM, coding, and library lessons.)

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Why Your Students Will Love It

Students love Ember — his confidence, his mistakes, and his determination to get it right. The repeated attempts and silly misunderstandings make this a laugh-out-loud read that sneaks in powerful learning.

Pete the Cat’s Cool New Ride: A Playful Read-Aloud for Early Math and Rhythm

 I’ve followed Pete the Cat since the beginning, and whenever a new title appears, I find myself a little skeptical — will this one actually work in my classroom? Pete the Cat’s Cool New Ride turned out to be a pleasant surprise.

In this story, Pete gets a new car and heads out on the road, picking up friends along the way and wondering whether everyone will fit. The simple rhymes and repetition invite participation, and as each friend climbs in, students naturally begin counting and tracking how the number grows.

What unfolds is a charming, engaging read-aloud that blends storytelling with gentle math exploration.

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The Good

This book shines as an early literacy and math crossover read-aloud. The rhythm, repetition, and bright illustrations make it ideal for engaging younger students.

From a classroom and library perspective, this book supports:

• Counting and simple addition concepts

• Predicting and sequencing

• Rhyming and phonological awareness

• Interactive read-aloud participation

The illustrations are vibrant and expressive, holding student attention and supporting comprehension through visual storytelling.

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The Not-So-Good (From a School Librarian Lens)

This is a simple, straightforward story designed for early learners. Older students may outgrow it quickly, so it’s best matched intentionally to younger audiences.

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Classroom & Library Connections

Math Center

• Use counters or manipulatives to model how many friends are in the car

• Ask: If Pete has 1 friend and picks up 2 more, how many are there now?

Felt Story / Storytelling

• Create car and character pieces

• Let students retell and physically add characters as the story progresses

Interactive Read-Aloud

• Pause for prediction

• Count together as friends join the ride

These extensions help students move from listening to doing — reinforcing both literacy and numeracy skills.

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Overall

Pete the Cat’s Cool New Ride is a charming and engaging read that blends music, math, and storytelling in a way that feels natural and fun. It’s especially effective for educators looking to integrate counting concepts into read-aloud time.

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Recommended Grade Levels

PreK–1
(Also works well in Kindergarten math/literacy integration.)

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Why Your Students Will Love It

Students are drawn to Pete’s relaxed personality, the rhythmic text, and the colorful illustrations. The opportunity to count along and predict what happens next makes this a joyful and participatory reading experience.

Amara’s Farm: A Gentle Garden Story About Patience, Focus, and Noticing

 Patience, persistence, and careful observation are skills students build through everyday moments — and Amara’s Farm by JaNay Brown-Wood captures that beautifully. As students follow Amara’s focused search through her garden, the story naturally supports executive functioning skills like attention, flexibility, and self-regulation while also connecting to sustainability themes found in both CSLP’s Unearth a Story™ and iREAD’s Plant a Seed, Read for 2026.

Amara heads outside excited to pick a pumpkin, but it’s not as easy as she expects. As she searches, she has to slow down, look closely, and keep trying. Along the way, the garden becomes a space where she practices noticing details, managing disappointment, and sticking with her goal — all while learning that good things take time.

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The Good

This book is an excellent choice for early elementary classrooms because it naturally supports SEL and early executive functioning skills without feeling like a lesson. It also offers meaningful representation, which can be difficult to find — particularly stories that feature farming families of color in a warm, everyday way.

From a classroom and library perspective, Amara’s Farm supports:

• Perseverance and patience

• Observation and “noticing”

• Flexible thinking when plans don’t work

• Problem-solving in a real-life setting

The garden setting also makes it an easy fit for seasonal learning, science, and nature-based units.

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The Not-So-Good (From a School Librarian Lens)

This is a gentle, everyday story rather than a high-action one. It works best as a read-aloud with discussion, especially for students who benefit from talking through feelings like frustration or waiting.

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Classroom & Library Connections

Amara’s Farm is easy to extend in meaningful, hands-on ways:

SEL & Executive Functioning

• Ask: What do you do when something isn’t working the first time?

• Create a class anchor chart: “What helps us keep trying?”

Science & Observation

• Discuss what pumpkins need to grow (sunlight, water, soil, time)

• Talk about plant life cycles and seasonal changes

Hands-On Produce Exploration

Bring in a small selection of real produce for students to explore and compare, such as:

• Figs

• Kumquats

• Kiwi

• Potato

• Eggplant

Invite students to:

• Observe the outside (color, shape, texture)

• Carefully open the produce and look at seeds and insides

• Compare textures and smells

• Taste samples if appropriate

This activity reinforces noticing, builds vocabulary, and connects the story directly to real-world experiences.

Writing Extension

• Sentence stem: “I noticed…”

• Create a class book: “What We Notice in the Garden”

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Nature Journaling, SDGs & Summer Reading

Amara’s Farm is a wonderful launch text for starting a nature journal, making it an excellent fit for sustainability-focused learning and summer programming.

As students follow Amara slowing down, looking closely, and noticing her garden, they are practicing the same skills needed for nature journaling. Nature journals don’t need to be perfect — they are simply a place to observe, wonder, and record.

This work aligns naturally with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly:

• SDG #3: Good Health & Well-Being – slowing down, being outdoors, and managing frustration

• SDG #12: Responsible Consumption – understanding where food comes from

• SDG #15: Life on Land – observing and caring for plants and ecosystems

This story also aligns naturally with both major 2026 summer reading themes — CSLP’s Unearth a Story™ and iREAD’s Plant a Seed, Read — as Amara’s garden mirrors the way curiosity, patience, and discovery grow when students take time to explore stories.

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Overall

Amara’s Farm is a warm, relatable picture book that turns a simple garden search into a thoughtful lesson about patience, focus, and paying attention. It offers a meaningful way to build SEL and executive functioning skills while also encouraging curiosity about the natural world.

For educators looking to connect storytelling, observation, and hands-on learning — especially within garden, science, or summer reading themes — this book is a strong and flexible choice.

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Recommended Grade Levels

PreK–2
(Also works well in K–3 for garden, science, and seasonal units.)

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Why Your Students Will Love It

Students will relate to wanting something right away — and having to keep looking and trying. The garden setting feels cozy and familiar, and the hands-on extensions help bring Amara’s experience to life in a concrete, memorable way.

“If You Make a Call on a Banana Phone: A Picture Book for Sequencing & SEL”

 

Fans of If You Give a Mouse a Cookie will feel right at home with If You Make a Call on a Banana Phone. Both books use a playful chain-reaction structure where one small action leads to another, creating humor, curiosity, and endless opportunities for students to predict what will happen next.

The story begins when a child pretends to use a banana as a phone and calls a gorilla. From there, one silly call leads to another, and readers are swept into a series of funny, unexpected events that grow more ridiculous and delightful with every page. What starts as simple pretend play quickly becomes a joyful exploration of imagination and connection.

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The Good

This book is a wonderful choice for early literacy, sequencing, and SEL. The repetitive structure, predictable pattern, and escalating silliness make it ideal for interactive read-alouds.

From a classroom and library perspective, this book supports:

• Oral language and storytelling

• Imaginative play

• Sequencing and cause-and-effect

• Social connection and friendship

There is also a sweet SEL layer underneath the humor — the idea of reaching out, starting a conversation, and making a new friend, even in a silly way.

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Compare & Contrast Connection

Just like If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, this story follows a chain-reaction pattern. One event causes the next, which makes it perfect for teaching:

• Cause and effect

• Story structure

• Predicting outcomes

Teachers can read both books and ask:

• What happens first?

• What happens next?

• How does each small action change the story?

Students quickly begin to recognize patterns while still enjoying the humor.

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Classroom & Library Activities

Banana Phone SEL Activity
Give students a pretend banana phone (or a paper cut-out) and let them practice:

• Saying hello

• Asking a question

• Starting a friendly conversation

This supports communication skills and confidence in a playful, low-pressure way.

Class Book
Create a shared book titled:
“If I Made a Call on a Banana Phone…”
Each student draws and writes who they would call and what would happen next.

Compare the Books
Use a Venn diagram or chart to compare If You Give a Mouse a Cookie and If You Make a Call on a Banana Phone. Students can track how one event leads to another in both stories.

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The Not-So-Good (From a School Librarian Lens)

Because the story is so playful and convincing, some younger students might momentarily wonder whether a banana could really work as a phone. This creates a wonderful opportunity to talk about fiction vs. nonfiction and how stories sometimes imagine things that aren’t real.

Taking a moment to clarify what’s pretend and what’s real helps strengthen early media literacy and story understanding.

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Overall

If You Make a Call on a Banana Phone is a joyful, imaginative picture book that blends humor with learning. It invites students to laugh, predict, connect, and see how stories — and friendships — can grow from one small idea.

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Recommended Grade Levels

PreK–2
(Also works well for K–3 as an interactive read-aloud.)

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Why Your Students Will Love It

Kids love the silliness of using a banana as a phone and the surprise of who answers on the other end. The playful tone, funny twists, and chance to act out the story make this a book students will want to hear again and again.

Dragonborn: A Fantasy About Identity, Grief, and Discovering Who You Are

 Some fantasy stories are driven by action alone, while others are shaped just as much by emotion and identity. Dragonborn by Struan Murray falls into the second category — a darker, thoughtful fantasy that explores grief, control, and what it means to grow into who you truly are.

This juvenile fantasy novel blends dragons and magic with very real feelings of loss, fear, and self-doubt, making it especially compelling for readers who enjoy fantasy with emotional depth.

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Brief Summary

The story follows Alex, a girl whose life changes dramatically shortly after the death of her father. Her mother, overwhelmed by fear and anxiety, becomes extremely overprotective, carefully scheduling every aspect of Alex’s life and leaving little room for independence.

Everything shifts when a mysterious man arrives and reveals a shocking truth: Alex is not fully human — she is a dragon.

Unlike the other dragonborn students she later meets, Alex cannot transform into her dragon form. Instead, she remains stuck in her human body, unsure if she truly belongs in the dragon world at all. She is sent to a dragon school to learn more about who she is and what she might become, even though she seems to lack the most important dragon ability.

As Alex struggles to fit in, she discovers she has a different — and dangerous — power: the rare ability to communicate with dead dragons. This unexpected gift forces her to confront hidden truths and rethink what it truly means to be dragonborn.

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The Good

This book does an excellent job blending fantasy with emotional realism. Alex’s grief over her father’s death and her complicated relationship with her mother feel authentic and relatable, even within a magical setting.

From a classroom and library perspective, Dragonborn supports:

• Themes of identity and belonging

• Coping with loss and change

• Independence versus overprotection

• Discovering strengths that don’t fit expectations

Readers who enjoy character-driven fantasy will appreciate the depth and complexity of this story.

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The Not-So-Good (From a School Librarian Lens)

This is a dark and emotionally intense read, and the pacing is deliberate. Some students may find the tone heavy, particularly early in the book as the story explores grief, fear, and control.

It’s also worth noting that the book includes one mild instance of language (“damn”). While this is unlikely to be an issue for most older readers, it’s something I always note from a school librarian perspective.

Because of these elements, this title is best matched thoughtfully to readers who are ready for complex emotions and sustained tension.

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Classroom & Curriculum Connections

While primarily a recreational read, Dragonborn offers strong discussion opportunities for older students:

ELA

• Character development and internal conflict

• Theme analysis (identity, power, belonging)

• How fantasy reflects real-world emotions

SEL

• Navigating grief and loss

• Managing control and independence

• Recognizing strengths that look different

This book would work well in fantasy literature circles or as an option for advanced or avid readers.

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Overall

Dragonborn is a moody, atmospheric fantasy that asks big questions about identity, power, and belonging. While it may not appeal to every reader, it offers a powerful experience for students who enjoy darker stories with emotional weight.

For school libraries serving upper-elementary and middle-school readers, this is a strong — if intense — addition to a fantasy collection.

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Recommended Grade Levels

Grades 5–8
Best suited for mature readers who enjoy darker, character-driven fantasy.

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Why Your Students Will Love It

Students who enjoy dragons, secret identities, and magical schools will be drawn in quickly. Alex’s struggle to belong — and her discovery that power doesn’t always look the way we expect — makes this a story that lingers long after the final page.

Oh Dear!: A Playful, Interactive Read-Aloud for Sequencing, Rhyme, and Story Comparison

 Some books are especially powerful because they slow students down and invite them to think about what comes next. Oh Dear!, Look What I Got from the creators of the beloved We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, is one of those deceptively simple books that works beautifully as a teaching tool — particularly for sequencing, rhyme, and prediction.

At first glance, this is a lighthearted, interactive story perfect for young readers. But when used intentionally, it becomes an excellent way to help students practice following events in order, noticing rhyming patterns, and anticipating what might happen next.

In the story, readers move through a series of familiar settings, each one building on the last. With every page turn, students are encouraged to pause, listen closely, and join in — making the reading experience active rather than passive.

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The Good

This book shines as a sequencing and rhyme-based read-aloud. Its predictable structure makes it easy for students to recognize patterns and understand that stories follow a clear order.

Teachers and librarians can naturally pause to ask:

• What just happened?

• What do you think comes next?

• What words sound the same?

These moments support both phonological awareness and early narrative skills.

In addition, Oh Dear! supports:

• Rhyming and sound recognition

• Oral language development

• Listening comprehension

• Prediction and recall

• Understanding beginning, middle, and end

Students who already love We’re Going on a Bear Hunt will feel immediately comfortable with the familiar style and rhythm.

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The Not-So-Good (From a School Librarian Lens)

This book is intentionally simple and doesn’t offer a deep or complex plot. It’s not meant for extended written responses or long discussions.

However, that simplicity is what makes it such an effective early literacy tool, especially for students who are just learning to recognize rhyme, repetition, and story structure.

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Classroom & Library Connections

Oh Dear! works especially well when paired with hands-on and interactive activities:

• Stop before page turns and ask, “What comes next?”

• Have students listen for and repeat rhyming words

• Retell the story using sequencing cards

• Act out the story using movement and sound effects

Because of its repetitive structure and strong rhythm, this book is also perfect for:

• Felt board stories

• Magnet board storytelling

• Interactive storytime centers

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Compare & Contrast: An Author Study Opportunity

This book is an excellent companion to We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, making it a strong choice for a compare-and-contrast lesson or author study.

Students can explore:

• How both stories use repetition and rhythm

• Similarities in structure and pacing

• Differences in setting, characters, and tone

• How illustrations support the text in each book

Because We’re Going on a Bear Hunt is also a staple in children’s music and movement, students may already know it as a chant or song. That familiarity helps them quickly recognize patterns and apply those same ideas when reading Oh Dear!.

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About the Author (Author Study Appeal)

Michael Rosen, the author of Oh Dear! and We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, is one of the most influential children’s authors in the UK and served as the UK Children’s Laureate. He is especially known for writing books that are meant to be read aloud, chanted, and performed, not just read silently.

This performance-based approach is one reason his books work so well in classrooms, music lessons, and storytime settings — and why they lend themselves so easily to movement, song, and interactive storytelling.

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Extension Idea: Create Your Own “Oh Dear!” Story

Because the structure is so clear, this book makes a fantastic mentor text.

As a class, students can:

• Brainstorm new settings or animals

• Work together to create simple rhyming lines

• Illustrate each page

• Turn the final product into a class book, felt board story, or magnet story

This activity reinforces sequencing, rhyme, collaboration, and creative confidence.

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Overall

Oh Dear! is a simple but highly effective read-aloud that supports multiple early literacy skills at once. Beneath its playful surface, it offers rich opportunities to teach sequencing, rhyme, prediction, and story comparison.

For teachers and librarians looking for a joyful, interactive book that invites participation and creativity — and pairs well with a classic favorite — this is an excellent addition to the collection.

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Recommended Grade Levels

PreK–1
(Especially effective for whole-group read-alouds, storytime, and early literacy instruction.)

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Why Your Students Will Love It

Students love joining in, hearing the rhymes, predicting what comes next, and recognizing patterns they already know from We’re Going on a Bear Hunt. Many will be eager to act it out, sing it, or create their own version — turning reading into a shared, joyful experience

We Walked Slow: A Mindful Picture Book About Noticing, Focus, and Balance

 Some picture books gently remind us that slowing down isn’t a weakness — it’s a skill. We Walked Slow (2025) is one of those quiet, meaningful stories that invites readers to pause, breathe, and notice the world around them.

The story follows a grandfather and grandson who take a slow walk together. Instead of rushing, they move intentionally. As they walk, the child begins to notice things he hadn’t before — small details in nature, sounds, movements, and moments that only reveal themselves when we slow down.

Rather than telling readers how to be mindful, the book shows it. The simple act of walking slowly becomes a powerful model for presence, attention, and connection.

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The Good

This book is an excellent SEL and executive functioning read-aloud, especially for teaching mindfulness, attention, and self-regulation.

Many students are used to fast transitions, constant stimulation, and screen-based entertainment. This story offers a counterbalance — showing how focus and awareness increase when we slow down and engage with our surroundings.

From a classroom perspective, We Walked Slow supports:

• Mindfulness and self-awareness

• Attention and focus

• Emotional regulation

• Observation and curiosity

• Building connections with others

The illustrations encourage readers to linger, reinforcing the idea that noticing takes time.

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The Not-So-Good (From a School Librarian Lens)

This is a quiet, reflective book, which means it may not immediately hook students who prefer fast-paced stories.

That said, when shared intentionally — especially during SEL time, morning meetings, or calm-down routines — it becomes a powerful teaching tool.

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Media Balance & Executive Functioning Connections

We Walked Slow pairs naturally with conversations about digital balance and focus.

The book opens the door to questions like:

• What do we notice when we step away from screens?

• How does our brain feel when things are quiet?

• Why is it sometimes hard to slow down?

Teachers can use the story to explain that taking breaks — especially outdoors — helps our brains reset, making it easier to focus, listen, and learn.

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Mindful Moment: Slow Walk & Noticing

Use this short mindful moment after reading.

1. Invite students to sit comfortably or stand quietly.

2. Ask them to take one slow breath in and one slow breath out.

3. Guide them through a brief walk (real or imagined):

   • “Notice one sound you can hear.”

   • “Notice one color you see.”

   • “Notice how your body feels when you slow down.”

4. End by asking students to gently open their eyes and share one thing they noticed.

This mindful moment helps students practice attention control, self-regulation, and present-moment awareness.

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Quick Discussion Questions

• What did the grandson notice when he walked slowly?

• Why do you think slowing down helped him notice more?

• How did the walk make the characters feel?

Media Balance

• What do we usually notice when we’re on a screen?

• What do we notice when we take a break outside?

• How can taking breaks help our brains focus better?

Reflection

• What is one small thing you noticed today that you might have missed before?

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Classroom & Library Extensions

• Take a short slow walk outside and notice sounds, colors, and movement

• Encourage nature journaling through drawing or writing

• Create a “Things We Notice When We Slow Down” class chart

• Use this book as part of a digital balance or executive functioning lesson

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Overall

We Walked Slow is a gentle, thoughtful picture book that supports mindfulness, focus, and balance in a world that often feels rushed.

For educators looking to help students strengthen attention skills, reduce overstimulation, and reconnect with their environment, this book is a meaningful and timely choice.

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Recommended Grade Levels

PreK–2
(Also effective for older elementary students during SEL or mindfulness lessons.)

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Why Your Students Will Love It

Students will enjoy noticing small details alongside the characters and may begin to see their own world differently. The calm pacing and warm relationship make this a comforting story students will want to revisit during quieter moments of the day.

A Brush with Magic: A Gentle Fantasy Inspired by Korean Art, Culture, and Storytelling

 Art has a way of connecting us to culture, family, and stories bigger than ourselves. A Brush with Magic by Flora Ahn blends creativity, heritage, and imagination into a fantasy that will especially appeal to readers interested in Korean culture, art, and character-driven storytelling.

The story follows Yumi, who travels to South Korea for the summer while her parents remain behind for work. Although both of her parents are Korean, Yumi initially feels disconnected from the place and uncertain about where she belongs. She arrives expecting to spend time with her older sister, Minji, but quickly realizes Minji would rather hang out with their cousins — leaving Yumi feeling lonely and sidelined.

With little else to do, Yumi begins spending time with her grandfather, who introduces her to traditional Korean ink brush painting and shares stories rooted in folklore. These moments become the emotional anchor of the book, offering Yumi a connection to her family history and a new way to express herself.

When her grandfather is away and Yumi runs out of art supplies, she wanders into a mysterious art shop to buy more. What she brings home turns out to be far more than ordinary — an ancient brush infused with magic. When Yumi uses it, she accidentally summons a spirit and is swept into a series of unexpected adventures she never would have chosen on her own.

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The Good

This is a gentle fantasy well suited for readers who enjoy imaginative stories without intense danger or nonstop action. Fans of Howl’s Moving Castle will recognize a similar cozy, whimsical tone — magical, atmospheric, and driven more by character than plot.

One of the book’s strongest elements is its cultural richness. Ahn does a wonderful job bringing Seoul to life through descriptions of the city’s sights, sounds, and smells, making the setting feel vivid and immersive.

This book will especially appeal to:

• Students interested in Korean culture and folklore

• Readers who enjoy art, painting, and creative expression

• Fantasy readers who prefer softer, lower-stakes stories

The inclusion of traditional Korean ink brush painting adds a unique artistic thread that sets this story apart from more familiar fantasy titles.

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The Not-So-Good (From a School Librarian Lens)

This is a quiet, character-focused story, which means it won’t be the right fit for every reader. Students looking for fast pacing or constant action may struggle to stay engaged.

However, when matched with the right audience — particularly readers who enjoy atmosphere, cultural exploration, and creativity — the book’s style feels intentional. This is a title I would recommend thoughtfully, rather than broadly.

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Classroom & Curriculum Connections

A Brush with Magic offers several natural cross-curricular connections:

• Art:

  • Exploring traditional Korean ink brush painting

  • Creating artwork inspired by cultural techniques

• Social Studies / Global Learning:

  • Learning about Korean culture and traditions

  • Discussing identity and connections to family heritage

• ELA / SEL:

  • Feelings of belonging and loneliness

  • Navigating sibling relationships

  • Finding confidence through creativity

This book works well within a global literature unit, an art-integrated lesson, or a multicultural reading display.

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Overall

A Brush with Magic is an imaginative and culturally rich story that blends gentle fantasy with meaningful themes. While it may not appeal to every reader, it offers a rewarding experience for students interested in art, creativity, and learning about Korean culture.

I especially enjoyed the nods to Howl’s Moving Castle and the opportunity to experience Korea through a magical lens. With the right audience, this book has the potential to spark curiosity, creativity, and thoughtful discussion.

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Recommended Grade Levels

Grades 4–7
Best suited for readers who enjoy character-driven fantasy and cultural storytelling.

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Why Your Students Will Love It

Students who enjoy art and painting will be drawn to Yumi’s journey. The magical brush, the spirit-filled adventures, and the vivid setting make this a story that feels imaginative without being overwhelming — ideal for readers who want magic with heart.

Blood in the Water: A Slow-Burn Thriller That Hooks Readers with History, Horror, and Suspense

Blood in the Water by Tiffany D. Jackson is a Scholastic title that immediately caught students’ attention during our book fair. As I was preparing displays, students were instantly drawn in after watching the book trailer Scholastic provides — the tension, mystery, and ominous tone did exactly what a great trailer should do: it made them want to know more.

Tiffany D. Jackson is well known for her suspenseful writing, and this book is no exception. The story unfolds on Martha’s Vineyard, a setting rich with history and atmosphere. What begins as a quieter, slower-paced story gradually builds into something far more intense, revealing how fear, bias, and misunderstanding can escalate with devastating consequences.

At the center of the story is Kaliani, whose experience invites readers to examine how people are treated when fear takes over — and how quickly assumptions can replace truth.

The Good

One of this book’s greatest strengths is how it showcases Black history connected to Martha’s Vineyard, making it a meaningful curriculum connection for social studies and ELA classrooms.

The story also offers a strong look at the judicial process, creating natural opportunities for:

• Mock trials

• Analyzing evidence and perspective

• Discussing fairness, bias, and justice

From an SEL perspective, students can explore how Kaliani feels about the way she is treated, how fear impacts decision-making, and what it means to be unheard or misjudged.

The Not-So-Good (From a School Librarian Lens)

This is a slow-burn novel, especially at the beginning, and some students may need encouragement to push through the early chapters. That said, readers who stick with it will find themselves pulled into twists and turns that make the final portion of the book feel like a roller coaster ride.

It’s also important to note that this story falls within the horror/suspense genre. There are intense scenes that may be uncomfortable for younger or sensitive readers, making this a book best recommended with intention.

About the Author

Tiffany D. Jackson is a master storyteller known for keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Her ability to blend suspense with real-world issues is what makes her books so impactful.

I first read Allegedly back in 2017, and it’s a story that has stayed with me ever since — a testament to Jackson’s skill at crafting narratives that linger long after the final page. With Blood in the Water, she once again proves her gift for building tension and delivering powerful, thought-provoking stories.

Classroom & Curriculum Connections

This book offers strong cross-curricular opportunities, particularly for middle and upper grades:

• Social Studies:

  • Black history of Martha’s Vineyard

  • Community response to fear and crisis

• ELA:

  • Character perspective

  • Theme, conflict, and suspense

• SEL / Civics:

  • Fairness, bias, and empathy

  • How fear influences behavior and judgment

• Science & Health Extensions:
  Teachers can extend the story by discussing shark attacks, including:

  • Why shark encounters happen

  • How rare shark attacks actually are

  • General water safety tips and how to reduce risk

This adds a real-world connection that helps students separate fear from facts.

Overall

Blood in the Water is a gripping, unsettling read that rewards patient readers. Tiffany D. Jackson’s talent for suspense is on full display, blending history, horror, and social commentary into a story that invites deep discussion.

For students who enjoy thrillers with substance — and for educators looking to spark conversations about justice, fear, and safety — this book offers powerful possibilities.

Recommended Grade Levels

Grades 6 and up
Best suited for mature middle-grade readers and early high school students.

Why Your Students Will Love It

Students who enjoy suspense will be hooked by the tension and twists, especially once the story gains momentum. Many readers will find themselves eager to talk about what’s fair, what isn’t, and how fear can quickly change the way people are treated.

Maddie’s Fridge: How Books Build Empathy, Awareness, and Action

 

One of the greatest powers of books is their ability to help students understand experiences beyond their own. Stories give children language for feelings, context for complex issues, and a safe way to explore realities they may not yet fully understand.

Maddie’s Fridge by Lois Brandt is a powerful example of this. Through a simple story about friendship, the book gently introduces students to the reality of food insecurity and invites meaningful conversations about empathy, responsibility, and community support.

This book also aligns beautifully with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG #2: Zero Hunger and SDG #10: Reduced Inequalities, making it a strong choice for classrooms looking to connect literacy with global citizenship.

The story is told through the eyes of Sofia, a child who begins to notice something troubling: her friend Maddie’s fridge is always empty. As Sofia struggles with what she has seen and what she should do, the book carefully explores the tension between wanting to help and respecting a friend’s wishes — all while centering compassion over judgment.

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The Good

This book handles a sensitive topic with care, honesty, and respect. It acknowledges that food insecurity exists — sometimes within our own communities — without placing blame or shame on families.

Because the story is told from a child’s perspective, students can easily connect to Sofia’s confusion, concern, and growing understanding. This makes it especially effective for SEL instruction, helping students practice empathy and problem-solving in a developmentally appropriate way.

From a curriculum standpoint, Maddie’s Fridge works well for:

• SEL lessons on empathy, kindness, and responsibility

• Social studies discussions about community needs

• Global citizenship and SDG-aligned learning

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The Not-So-Good (From a School Librarian Lens)

Because the book addresses food insecurity, the topic may feel personal or emotional for some students. It’s important to approach the story thoughtfully and create a safe, supportive environment for discussion.

That said, the author handles the subject in an age-appropriate way, and with guidance, this book becomes a powerful opportunity for understanding rather than discomfort.

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Discussion Guide: Talking About Empathy and Helping Others

Use these questions to guide thoughtful, student-centered conversations. Consider reminding students that families are different and that needing help is never something to be ashamed of.

Before Reading

• Look at the cover. What do you notice about the characters?

• What do you think the title Maddie’s Fridge might mean?

• What do you think a fridge is usually used for?

During Reading

• How does Sofia feel when she notices Maddie’s fridge is empty?

• Why do you think Maddie asks Sofia not to tell anyone?

• What choices does Sofia have? What might be hard about each one?

After Reading

• Why do you think the author chose to tell this story from Sofia’s point of view?

• How do the grown-ups help in the story? Why is that important?

• What does this book teach us about friendship?

SEL-Focused Questions

• How can we tell when someone might need help?

• What are respectful ways to help someone without embarrassing them?

• Why is empathy important when we don’t know someone else’s full story?

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From Understanding to Action: Classroom & School Ideas

One of the most powerful things about this book is how naturally it leads students from awareness to action. After reading, many students want to help — and this book provides an excellent opportunity to show them how.

Here are meaningful, age-appropriate ways to respond:

• Start a food drive to support a local food pantry

• Create a classroom share table for unopened snacks

• Invite a community helper to explain how food pantries work

• Discuss how helping should always be respectful and kind, not embarrassing

These actions reinforce the idea that even small efforts can make a real difference.

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Family & Community Resources

This book can also be a gentle entry point for sharing support resources in a respectful, non-assumptive way. Schools may choose to quietly include information such as:

• Local food pantry locations

• School meal programs

• Community assistance organizations

Providing this information helps ensure families know support is available if needed.

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Overall

Maddie’s Fridge is a quiet but deeply impactful book. It reminds us that stories don’t just teach — they build empathy, foster understanding, and inspire action.

For educators looking to connect literacy with SEL, global citizenship, and real-world impact, this book is a meaningful and powerful choice.

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Recommended Grade Levels

Grades K–3
(With thoughtful discussion, it can also be effective in upper elementary classrooms.)

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Why Your Students Will Love It

Students will connect to the friendship at the heart of the story. They’ll recognize Sofia’s concern, feel her uncertainty, and often leave the conversation wanting to help someone else — a powerful reminder that books can change how we see the world.

Ursula Upside Down: A Picture Book About Perspective, Confidence, and Being Yourself

 Because my school’s only vendor is Scholastic, I sometimes miss out on quieter picture books that don’t come with big buzz. Every once in a while, though, a title stands out immediately — and Ursula Upside Down by Corey R. Tabor was one of those books I’m especially glad I didn’t miss.

At first glance, it feels like a simple, charming picture book. But as I read, it quickly revealed itself as a thoughtful story with big ideas — one that works beautifully for classrooms, libraries, and SEL lessons.

The story follows Ursula, a catfish who lives her life happily in what she believes is a perfectly normal world. She swims, eats, and goes about her day without question. There’s just one thing readers notice right away: Ursula’s world is upside down.

Everything feels right to Ursula… until one day, another fish points out that she’s upside down. Suddenly, something that never bothered her before becomes impossible to ignore. Ursula begins questioning herself, her world, and whether something is “wrong” with her.

Just as doubt starts to creep in, Ursula meets a friendly bat — who, of course, also lives upside down. Through this unexpected friendship, Ursula begins to see things differently and realizes that being upside down isn’t a flaw at all. It’s simply who she is.

The Good

This book is a fantastic SEL read-aloud with a clear but gentle message about self-acceptance, confidence, and perspective. The text is accessible and engaging, and the illustrations perfectly reinforce the idea that there’s more than one way to see the world.

It’s the kind of book that naturally invites discussion. Students want to talk about how Ursula feels, why her confidence wavers, and how perspective can change understanding.

The Not-So-Good (From a School Librarian Lens)

There’s very little to flag here. Some students may strongly relate to Ursula’s moment of self-doubt, so it’s helpful to pause and talk through those feelings as a class. That emotional moment, however, is exactly what makes this book such an effective teaching tool.
One small thing to note is that the book occasionally requires readers to turn the book around to follow Ursula’s perspective, which may momentarily confuse some younger readers. That said, this is easily explained during a read-aloud and can actually become part of the conversation about perspective — reinforcing the book’s central message in a very literal way.

About the Author

Corey R. Tabor is well known for creating thoughtful picture books that blend humor, heart, and big ideas. Many teachers and librarians will recognize his Caldecott Honor–winning book Mel Fell, as well as other beloved titles like Snail Crossing and Simon and the Better Bone.

In Ursula Upside Down, Tabor once again demonstrates his talent for taking a simple concept — in this case, being upside down — and turning it into a meaningful story about identity, confidence, and perspective.

Classroom Extension Ideas

This book is incredibly easy to extend beyond an SEL lesson and into science instruction, making it a great cross-curricular choice.

• Introduce students to the real upside-down catfish that lives in the Congo River

• Discuss why this adaptation is helpful for survival

• Compare Ursula to other animals with unique adaptations (bats, owls, chameleons, etc.)

• Ask students: How does being different help animals survive?

These conversations help students see that being “different” often serves a purpose — both in nature and in ourselves.

Overall

Ursula Upside Down is a thoughtful, engaging picture book that reflects everything Corey R. Tabor does best. Like Mel Fell, it uses perspective in a clever way to explore deeper ideas, and it’s no surprise given his award-winning track record.

This is a book I would confidently recommend for classrooms, libraries, and SEL collections — one that sparks meaningful discussion while still feeling light, accessible, and kid-friendly.

Recommended Grade Levels

PreK–2
(With strong discussion potential for older elementary students as well.)

Why Your Students Will Love It

Students will connect immediately to Ursula’s curiosity and confusion. The upside-down world feels playful and surprising, and the friendship with the bat adds warmth and reassurance. Most importantly, kids walk away with a powerful message: there’s nothing wrong with being yourself — even if your world looks a little different from everyone else’s.