Blumberg, R. (1985). Commodore perry in the land of the shogun. New York: Lothrop, Lee & Shepard Books.

A Newberry awarded book, this is the story of Commodore Perry and how he worked to build diplomatic relations between America, and the then very secluded Japan. Does a great job describing the cultural differences between the two groups, which led to difficulty in building these relations. This book would be a great tool when instructing students about Japanese history.

Highly Recommended *****

Stanley, J. (1992). Children of the dust bowl: The true story of the school at weedpatch camp. New York: Scholastic, Inc.

The “Okies” face a difficult time. Their land is dry and wind storms plague them. They are unable to farm, and it is hard to support their families. With the temptation of work, many trek across the country to California. Once there however, they were treated as second class citizens by the native Californians. The “Okies” weren’t allowed in public places, and often were not even given the jobs that they came for. They lived in dire poverty, and their children too faced opposition. In an attempt to give the Okie children the education that they deserve, Leo Hart fights to have a school built for the Okie children. This amazing story of the school at Weedpatch Camp, will remind readers of the importance of hard work, and being willing to fight for what you believe in.

Highly Recommended *****

Macaulay, D. (1988). New way things work. New York: Houghton Mifflin Company.

This book illustrates and explains in detail how things work. Interested in how pulleys work? How about flying? Perhaps you are more into string and percussion instruments? A wooley mammoth guides the reader through pages of explanation to those who simply do not seem to understand how things work. The illustrations are very clear, and there are a vast amount of topics to read about, at times the concepts are still difficult. As an adult, I still at times scratched my head and said “huh?”, but I’m sure that there are some children who would devour this book, and be excited to learn more about the world.

Highly Recommended ****

McClellan, R. (2008). Supermoto. Minneapolis, MN: Bellweather Media.

Supermoto introduces the reader to the basic background of this extreme sport. You can find information about how the sport works, to the equipment that is needed, and basic safety information. Reluctant readers will be willing to pick up this book, and may get excited to share what they learned with others.

Recommended ***

Stewart, M. (2009). Movie blockbusters. Pleasantville, NY: Gareth Stevens Pub.

This book reviews the top ten movie blockbusters! From Titanic, to Jaws, to The Wizard of Oz, and The Lord of the Rings, this book has plot outlines, quick facts, and other information about these popular movies. Students will enjoy being able to read about some of the most well known books of all time!

Highly Recommended *****

Parvis, S. (2009). Jonas brothers. Kansas City, MO: Andrews McMeel Pub.

Preteen girls will be very excited to read this story. This book goes into the stories of the Jonas brothers, and gives facts and details about their lives. I found this story very hard to read as an adult, because it turns out that the Jonas Brothers have not lived very interesting lives, despite the fact that they are popular singers. However, despite the fact I didn’t enjoy the book, I know that my students will love it!

Highly Recommended ****