The Paper Bag Princess

Title: The Paper Bag Princess
By: Robert Munsch and Michael Martchenko

Why We Love It: This book is relatively short, but it still manages to give a glimpse of a spunky character. Elizabeth, the princess, isn't cute and helpless. As girls who sometimes root for the death or dumping of the hero in chick flicks, we can't help but love this princess and type of princess story, at least I can't. The cartoony pictures give a good dose of fun to the story.

Chrysanthemum

Title: Chrysanthemum
By: Kevin Henkes

Why we love it:
This book is so much fun. The story is about a young mouse named Chrysanthemum and her struggle to love her name. Through support from her parents and friends, she learns to love who she is. (Also, it's not half as lame as that sounds.) It's simple, with repetitive wording that makes it a great read-aloud. The characters are lovable and believable. The pictures really tie the whole thing together. Pretty much, this book is just awesome.

Commander Toad

Title: Commander Toad in Space
By: Jane Yolen

Why we love it:
This book is very accessible to young readers, but that doesn't mean that the story has been watered down. Commander Toad and his crew are funny and exciting characters, who have imaginative adventures. I appreciate the use of repetition in this book because it enhances the writing and is useful and appropriate for young readers. Also, it is filled with many actually clever amphibian puns.The illustrations are great too.

Other Information:
Look for other books in this series. They are all great.