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Thursday, June 10, 2021

the little library, written by Margaret McNamara and illustrated by G. Brian Karas. schwartz & wade, Penguin Random House. 2021. $23.99 ages 4 and up


"Jake spent the next week 
reading more of the book. 
Still slowly. 

The more he read, the 
more curious he became 
about things made of wood.
"

This is the fifth time young readers have visited Mr. Tiffin and his classroom. It is a fine place to be. Now, we learn that their school library is also exceptional. Jake is leery about making that first visit. He is a slow reader whose self-confidence is shaken when Library Day rolls up. He would prefer to stay in the classroom. 

Librarian Beck is quick to set any fears to rest, promising to find books for each of the students to love. They are invited to explore the shelves while Librarian Beck gets to know them better. The children quickly find their favorite spots; Jake checks the construction of the bookshelves. Aha! Would a book about woodworking be just the ticket, Librarian Beck wonders? Jake immediately recognizes many of the tools that his gramps has in  his workshop. It's the perfect book for him. 

It takes time and attention for Jake to read the book. When Library Day rolls around again, Librarian Beck offers it for another week. The book sparks Jake's interest in all things made of wood. He checks it out again, along with other books chosen specifically for him be a caring, knowledgeable school librarian. 

A special gift to Librarian Beck at year's end is the perfect way to close this heartfelt book. What goes around comes around, when Librarian Beck does the same for Jake during summer vacation.                                                                                  


    Other books in the series include: how many seeds in a pumpkin?, the apple orchard riddle, a Poem in Your Pocket, and The Dinosaur Expert.                                                                           

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