With perseverance and ingenuity, a teacher challenges a class of unruly students, and invents a sport that is still played by millions today.

This fascinating, true story depicts the plight of James Naismith, a young man in 1891, trying to teach a class of rambunctious students--a class so rowdy that two teachers had already quit! But not Naismith. With compassion and creativity, Naismith develops a game that is still beloved to this day, and has been an Olympic sport for nearly ninety years!

With illustrations that evoke the time period, and endpapers that portray the original draft of the rules of the game, this nonfiction picture book is captivating, right from the beginning. The story is fun, and often humorous, and readers might just find themselves wanting to go outside to dribble, pass, and shoot the ball! 

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

• Go out and play basketball! Practice dribbling, passing and shooting the ball.
• Check out these downloadable activities.
• Conversation starters:  "If you could create a sport, what would it be?" "If you could change any rule in basketball, which rule would you change?" "When you feel rowdy, or full of energy, what activities help you get your energy out?"

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

A beautiful, poignant tribute to the bond of family, and the legacy that's passed from one generation to the next.

I love the idea that we can leave something lasting for future generations. Something tangible, like a pecan tree, but also the intangible--love, traditions,  memories. By lyrically weaving in the past with the present, the author, Anne Wynter,  underscores the fact that often, what we see now, is a result of the actions of those who came before.

​Every time I read this book, I'm struck by something new. The rich, delicious use of language. The gorgeous, captivating illustrations. The significance of one action long ago, and the implications it has for future generations. The value and benefit of trees. The importance of family. There is so much beauty in this book, it merits multiple readings and  many thoughtful discussions.

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

• Plant a seed, or even a tree, like Nell. Watch it grow together. 
• Identify a family recipe that has been passed down through generations, or one you might want to pass down. Write out the recipe, if necessary, and then cook it together. 
• Create a family tree. This article offers information about how to do that, and provides a free template.
• Conversation starters:  "What are the ingredients that help seeds grow?" "What are the ingredients that help relationships grow?" "What family tradition is special to you, and why?"

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

With a little imagination, and the help of a faithful friend, Lottie finds the courage she needs to overcome her fear.

Having once been a child with a vivid imagination, I could definitely appreciate Lottie's plight. Swimming with sharks is never fun, especially when they show up at the pool during swimming lessons!

This story is completely charming, and the characters are lovable and fun, but the thing I enjoyed most of all, is the illustrations. Anna Walker's use of white space, as well as color, draws the reader in and allows the often humorous details to stand out. From the simplicity of the endpapers, to the beautiful renderings of the pool, Lottie's neighborhood, and Lottie and Walter's adventures, Anna Walker brings the characters and the story to life with every lovely page. Read it, if you haven't already. I'm sure you'll love it!

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

• Write a story about (or draw a picture of) an imaginary friend. What does the friend look like? Act like? What adventures will they undertake?
• A fun, free, downloadable activity pack can be found here.
• ​Conversation starters:  "Have you ever had an imaginary friend?" "Have you ever felt afraid?" "Can you think of a time when you were brave, even when you felt afraid?" 

Looking for more perfect picture books? Check out Susanna Leonard Hill's website!
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Sharing isn't always easy, but with this delightful picture book, learning about sharing will be fun!

Looking for a picture book that explores the concept of sharing in a simple, profound way? Look no longer! Using pie as the starting point, and a 4th of July picnic as the backdrop, the author invites readers to consider all the things that can be shared. Through tender and lyrical text, and beautiful illustrations, PIE IS FOR SHARING underscores the value of sharing, and the bonds of friendship and sense of community that are reinforced, as a result.

Here are a few activities to consider and resources to check out: 

• Make a pie together and share it with friends, family, or neighbors.
• Stephanie Parsley Ledyard's website offers creative extension activities that are worth exploring!
• Conversation starters:  "What things are easy to share? Why?" "What things are hard to share? Why?" "How do you feel when you share with others?" "How do you feel when others share with you?"

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

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