Run Wild, by David Covell

Book description (from publisher): 
"Get back to nature in this gorgeous sunlit filled book that celebrates the joy of being outdoors.

“Hey, you! Sky’s blue!” a girl shouts as she runs by the window of a boy bent over his digital device. Intrigued, the boy runs out after her, leaving his shoes (and phone) behind, and into a world of sunshine, dewey grass, and warm sand. Filled with the pleasures of being alive in the natural world, Run Wild is an exquisite and kid-friendly reminder of how wonderful life can be beyond doors and screens."

This book is one for the nature lovers! Simple yet compelling illustrations and text. Celebrates the simple pleasures of exploring the nature world. Openly challenges many of the attitudes that commonly prevent children (and adults) from getting out and enjoying nature ("Squeaky clean? Who cares about that?"). A great book to read to prime children to enjoy the outdoors over summer or to reminisce on adventures when they come back together in the fall. Made me want to take my shoes off and go find some warm sand to wander in...





 

Quiet Please Owen McPhee, by Trudy Ludwig & Patrice Barton

Publisher's description:
"From the author-illustrator team who brought you The Invisible Boy comes the story of a boy who won't stop talking--until he gets laryngitis. You don't have to be a chatterbox to appreciate this tale of listening and learning.

Owen McPhee doesn't just like to talk, he LOVES to talk. He spends every waking minute chattering away at his teachers, his classmates, his parents, his dog, and even himself. But all that talking can get in the way of listening. And when Owen wakes up with a bad case of laryngitis, it gives him a much-needed opportunity to hear what others have to say.

From the author-illustrator team behind The Invisible Boy comes a bright and lively picture book that captures the social dynamics of a busy classroom while delivering a gentle message about the importance of listening."

A great book to share with children as they join new learning communities this fall. Using talk to share ideas, wonder, and build identity is important. But listening to others has much to offer also. A great discussion tool to explore the artful skill of balancing speaking and listening. The book's diverse characters are also sure to appeal to a wide audience.