,A gorgeously written and illustrated retelling of the Bible story of Moses' miraculous escape, as seen through his sister, Miriam's, perspective.

Miriam's story comes to life in this beautiful, thought-provoking picture book. What happens when a law is evil or wrong--should it be followed and obeyed? That is the question seven-year-old Miriam must face, and her brave actions invite readers to consider what they would have done in her position. 

The author's rich, poetic language offers insight into Miriam's thoughts and foreshadows what's to come, while vivid illustrations gorgeously portray the transformation from darkness to light, as the sun rises, and Miriam chooses to save her baby brother's life. 

Here are a few activities that align with the themes of this book:

• Pair this book with the original story in the Bible, found in Exodus 2:1-10.  
• Think about what this event must have been like for Miriam. Write a letter, or draw a picture, from Miriam to her little brother, telling about her experience.
• Think about what this event must have been like for Baby Moses. Draw a picture or write a story about what he might have experienced.
• Conversation starters:  "Which character in this story do you relate to most? Why?" "Should someone obey a law that is evil or wrong? Why or why not?" "Can you think of a time when you acted courageously? What did you do, and how did that make you feel?"

Looking for more perfect picture books? Check out Susanna Leonard Hill's website!

A poignant story about community, family, and the passage of time.

This lovely picture book follows the life of a hundred-year-old barn, and the transformation of the family that tends to it. From the building's beginning--laying the foundation, building the frame, shingling the roof--a child tells the story of the origin of his family's barn. As years pass and the little boy grows, the barn ages, but through care and stewardship, the barn continues to thrive with every passing season. Stunning illustrations complement the tender language. This quiet and gorgeous picture book reminds readers to treasure ordinary moments, for it's often in those that special memories are made. 

Here are a few activities that align with the themes of this book:

• Take a field trip to a barn. What animals did you see? What did the barn smell like? What noises did you hear? Write a story or draw a picture about what you experienced in the barn.
• For more fun activities and information about barns, try this website!
• Conversation starters:  "Of all the animals that live in a barn, which one is your favorite? Why?" "What do you think life will be like, one hundred years from now. How will it be different? How will it be the same?" "When you are old, which memories do you think will be most special to you?"

Looking for more perfect picture books? Check out Susanna Leonard Hill's website!

This lyrical picture book offers a beautiful tribute to song and the act of singing.  

Like notes in a chord of music, the layers of this book resonate, reading after reading. Beginning with a call for quiet, the authors draw attention to the music happening all around--the melody of nature, the rhythm inside the human body, the chorus found in community. Woven throughout the text are phrases from songs that readers may recognize--encouragements to sing what is familiar and create what is unique and personal. Likewise, hidden within the illustrations are nods to music--sheet music, blank staff paper,  and various musical notes.

The vibrant illustrations bring music to life, representing both the structure and freedom of song. The poetic language dances on the tongue when read aloud, inspiring readers to discover the melody inside and the power of music to inspire, encourage, and unify.

Here are a few activities that align with the themes of this book:

• Go outside and listen to the music all around (birds singing, horns honking, wind blowing). Make a word web of all the sounds that were heard. Learners may draw a picture of what they heard, as well.
• Pair with the other books in this series--How to Read a Book and How to Write a Poem. 
• Conversation starters:  "What is your favorite style of music?" "If you could create a song, what kind of song would it be? What would it be about?" "How does singing make you feel? Why?"

Looking for more perfect picture books? Check out Susanna Leonard Hill's website!