A family, displaced and grieving, finds hope and renewal as they restore their new home, deep in the woods.

This poignant picture book, with roots in Eliza Wheeler's own family history, tells the story of six-year-old Marvel, her seven siblings, and her mother, as they relocate to a new home after the loss of the children's father. In this tiny, broken-down shack in the woods, they find the ingredients they need to start building the next chapter of their lives, together. 

Beginning in summer, and moving through each season of the year, Eliza Wheeler depicts change in the tiny house, as a similar transformation is reflected in the people that live there. Darkness and gloom are replaced with warmth and laughter as the young family learns to survive and thrive, in the midst of pain and lack. With gorgeous illustrations and heartfelt text, this book is a testament to the strength and resilience of a family facing dire circumstances, but growing in love, together.  

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

• Find author interviews, extension activities, and a free downloadable coloring page at the author's website.
• In the story, the family took fresh fruits and vegetables and preserved them in cans. With an adult, find recipes to can fruits or vegetables, and try it together! For canning resources and recipes, visit this website.
• Conversation starters:  "Think about each of the four seasons. Which season do you think was most difficult for the family to survive in? Why?" "Which character in the story did you relate to most? Why?" 

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

A tender tale about taking risks, taking tumbles, and trying again.

A little bear cub, watching its mother enjoy fruit in a tree, wants to savor the sweet snack, too, but wrestles with feelings of fear and concern about the unknown. All the while, the patient mama bear encourages her little one with wise perspective and gentle reminders of the truth. 
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This heartfelt story, brought to life through spare text and beautiful illustrations, is a tender reminder that Sometimes We Fall--but that's all a part of taking chances and learning. And, how sweet it is to know that there are loved ones there, along the way, encouraging and helping us as we grow!

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

• Think about a time when you tried to do something, but it didn't turn out as expected.  Write a story or draw a picture about that experience.
• Identify someone who encourages you when you make a mistake or fail. Write a letter to them, thanking them, and letting them know how much you appreciate their encouragement.
• Conversation starters:  "Can you think of a time when you failed at something? How did that feel? Did you learn anything from that experience?" "In your opinion, do you learn and grow more when you fail at something, or when you succeed at something? Why?"

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

A beautiful, thought-provoking story about the origin of a house.

Looking back to the past often creates a greater understanding of--and appreciation for--the present. This gorgeous book presents a picture of what exists now, and gives readers a glimpse into what used to be. The door that was a tree. The bricks that were mud. The window that was sand. The author ties each object to elements in nature, while challenging young learners to infer what other parts of the natural world might be involved, as well.   

The soft warmth of the illustrations works together with the richly poetic language,  to evoke a cozy, satisfying feeling, reminiscent of home. Readers of all ages will love snuggling up with this book, in favorite parts of their own houses. Or, this story may inspire them to go outside, connect with nature, and explore the incredible, natural world that our homes ultimately come from.

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

• Draw a picture of the place where you live. Think about the materials your home is made of--wood, stone, brick, siding. Include those details in your picture.
• Click here for a list of fun ideas, worksheets, writing prompts, and extension activities for This House, Once.
• Conversation starters:  "Where do you live?"  "How might the place where you live influence the materials that are used for dwellings?"

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