Thursday, July 27, 2006

Classic children's books

The Christian Science Monitor offers up a brief list of classic children's books it insists are still perfect for summer reading.

One title for ages 9-12:

Arthur, for the Very First Time by Patricia MacLachlan

Ten-year-old Arthur Rasby is having the worst summer of his life--that is, until he goes to stay with his great-aunt and uncle. Things are different--really different--on the farm. Among other things, his relatives sing to a pig and speak French to a chicken. But as Arthur's journal entries reveal, different can be good. In fact, it's just the kind of summer he needs to make sense of the world--and himself.

And here's one for ages 4-8:

Three Days on a River in a Red Canoe by Vera B. Williams

If you can't get out on the river yourself, this story--about two kids, two mothers, and one fabulous red canoe-- is almost as good as a paddling adventure of your own. There are crayfish to be found, a waterfall for a shower, encounters with wildlife, and a man overboard - not to mention a very satisfying journey from start to finish.

Click here to see what other traditional children's books are still recommended.

--Marshal Zeringue