Eve Bunting
Reading Rockets recommends the following books by Eve Bunting.
A Day's Work
When his grandfather arrives from Mexico, Francisco helps him find work as a gardener even though he is really a carpenter. When they mistakenly pull all the plants but leave the weeds, Abuelo, upset at Francisco's lie, refuses to accept payment until the job is done correctly.
A Turkey for Thanksgiving
Mr. and Mrs. Moose invite all their animal friends for Thanksgiving dinner. The only one missing is Turkey. They set out to find him, not realizing that Turkey is quaking with fear because he thinks his hosts want him on their table, not at it.
Dandelions
When Zoe and her family move to the Nebraska prairie, it is the isolation and sameness of the landscape that depresses her mother most. A simple clump of dandelions planted on the roof of their sod house, however, provides color and hope.
Fly Away Home
A boy tells of his life living in an airport with his dad, remaining unnoticed but noticing how others seem to have so much. Homelessness is realistically portrayed in this bestselling book with sensitivity and hope.
How Many Days to America?: A Thanksgiving Story
Refugees from a Caribbean island embark on a dangerous boat trip to America where they have a special reason to celebrate Thanksgiving.
Smoky Night
In this Caldecott Medal book, a boy and his mother come to know a Korean neighbor when their cats escape during the Los Angeles riots. Boldly colored paintings and textured collage illustrations help distance readers while evoking the tension of the time.
That's What Leprechauns Do
Three leprechauns can't help but create a bit of mischief on their way to place their pot of gold at the bottom of the rainbow; that's what leprechauns do! This spritely original tale, accompanied by energetic illustrations evokes the magic and mayhem often attributed to the Little Folk of Irish lore.
The Butterfly House
A girl and her grandfather make a butterfly house that provides shelter for Painted Ladies even after the girl grows up. The cyclical nature of life is gently portrayed in handsome paintings and lyrical language.
The Wall
A boy describes the trip he takes with his father to visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. Together, they look for the name of his grandfather, who died before he was born.
The Wedding
Miss Brindle Cow collects other animals on her way to a very speical wedding – her own! The lighthearted, rhyming text combines with humorous illustrations for a playful and satisfying bovine romp.
The Wednesday Surprise
Anna and her grandmother share many things, including Grandma's big secret. As a special surprise for her Dad's birthday, Anna teacher her Grandma to read a story out loud.
Train to Somewhere
In the 1850s, "Orphan Trains" carried children from New York City orphanages to new homes in the West. Many, like Marianne, hoped to be reunited with their parents. Though not all of the children found happiness, Marianne's story provides hope and an introduction to an intriguing period in American history.
Your Move
Ten-year-old James is intrigued by the K-Bones, a local gang, and considers joining. But when his six-year-old brother witnesses him vandalize a sign, he begins to have second thoughts. A tough topic is handled in a brief but effective way, sure to launch discussion.
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