Every December, parents find themselves exclaiming, “Not one more toy!” Garbage cans overflow with cardboard and plastic and batteries from toys children may play with once or twice before they are relegated to the bottom of the toy box.
The joy and novelty of the newest gizmo is fleeting at best. Books however, are gifts that will leave an imprint on the heart of your child for years to come.
John Schumacher, also known as Mr. Schu, the National Ambassador for School Libraries for Scholastic, recently visited Memphis, giving away hundreds of books to eager readers. He lectures at Rutgers University and served on the 2014 Newbery Committee, the highest honor given in children’s literature. Mr. Schu knows books and he loves books. His dream job takes him across the country sharing his “forever” books — stories that are forever tattooed on his heart. Mr. Schu sprinkled book-joy across Shelby County, reinforcing the belief that stories connect us.
Instead of buying your child the latest gadget this holiday season, consider one of these titles your child won’t soon forget unwrapping.
The Day You Begin
by Jacqueline Woodson
As adults, we can all remember a time when we walked into a room and felt like we did not belong. Children experience alienation and loneliness, too. Maybe their hair is too long or too short. Maybe their lunch smells weird. Maybe they don’t wear trendy clothes. Jacqueline Woodson, the National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature, has woven a hopeful story that all kids can relate to. Give this to any child who finds themselves on the outside, looking in. Recommended for grades K-5.
Saving Winslow
by Sharon Creech
The holidays often magnify feelings of loss and grief. When the absence of loved ones casts a gloom over holiday celebrations, books can offer a cathartic way for kids to handle those emotions. Louie, a young boy inept at keeping things alive, takes in an ailing miniature donkey he names Winslow. Soon, Louie is so busy attending to his new friend, he forgets how much he misses his brother Gus who is serving in the army. This book provides a timely message of hope for any child missing someone special during the holidays. Recommended for grades 2-5.
Front Desk
by Kelly Yang
We all know the saying, “You never know what people are going through.” How often do you take time out of your busy schedule to talk to a stranger? Someone who looks or talks or dresses differently than you? Through this fictional account based on her own experiences growing up in the 1980s, Kelly Yang offers a unique glimpse into the hardships facing new immigrants to the United States. While she tackles a heavy subject, the pacing is so fast your child will be sure to finish this book before the first snowfall of winter. Recommended for grades 3-8.
Long Way Down
by Jason Reynolds
How do you tell the story of your brother’s murder in less than 60 seconds? Jason Reynolds delivers a powerful tale about the cycle of violence in 304 pages, but this novel in verse will be a breeze for even the most reluctant readers. As the elevator drops to each floor below, we learn about the haunting reality facing kids every day across our country. Universal Studios has optioned the rights to the film adaptation, with Michael De Luca and John Legend producing. If your teen has read or seen The Hate You Give by Angie Thomas, fill their stocking with this book.
Jennifer Boren is the lead library media specialist for Collierville Schools and blogs at bookjabber.wordpress.com.