The Vanderbeekers have just a few days to convince their landlord to renew their lease. They've always lived in the brownstone in their Harlem neighborhood and they can't imagine living anywhere else. Using their strengths: connections with their other neighbors, some cute kittens, and the good-natured generosity of the Vanderbeeker kids, the family hopes to convince grumpy Mr. Beiderman to let them stay. A good 3rd, 4th, 5th grade realistic fiction title.
Beatrice Zinker, Upside Down Thinker by Shelley Johannes
Beatrice is entering third grade with a plan: she and her best friend Lenny will both dress as ninjas and begin a top-secret spy mission! Beatrice is surprised when Lenny comes to the first day of third grade without her ninja outfit. She also seems to have befriended the new girl, Chloe. How will the friends work out this situation? A funny early chapter book for 2nd and 3rd grade readers.
The Great Big Book of Families by Mary Hoffman, illustrated by Ros Asquith
A nonfiction book about all types of family structures and all the activities families do. There's lots to look at in these beautiful illustrations!
Dumpling Dreams: How Joyce Chen Brought the Dumpling from Beijing to Cambridge by Carrie Clickard, illustrated by Katy Wu
This picture book tells the story of Chinese immigrant and chef, Joyce Chen, who introduced Chinese cooking to Cambridge, MA and founded successful restaurants, cooking shows, and cookbooks.
The Hidden Life of a Toad by Doug Wechsler
This informational book shows the metamorphosis of a toad in vivid, close-up photographs. The author incorporates into the text questions to the reader. For example: "Day 27 Legs grow out. Toes are forming. Why would a tadpole need legs and toes?" Stunning photography.
All of these books are available in our school library, the public library, and at our local bookstores. Come check them out!