Handpicked by Our Editors

Testing the Ice: A True Story About Jackie Robinson
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Testing the Ice: A True Story About Jackie Robinson

Why We Recommend It

Jackie Robinson was special on the baseball field and off. His daughter's bio of the slugger-as-dad emphasizes courage.

Read our full review
Finding great books for children makes them lifelong readers.

When you give your children books they love, you give them a gift that lasts forever. But finding books that appeal to kids when there's so much else competing for their time has become really tough. Our recommended lists by theme and topic will help you find books for children of all ages and interests, from All Things Harry Potter to the best books to share with dads.

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Masterpiece by Elise Broach
Parents Need to Know...

that there is a scene where a boy gets his hand crushed under a car trunk lid, possibly on purpose, though this is never clear. Otherwise there is little of concern, and some good conversation about friendship, art, and philosophy. read more

Masterpiece
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Allie Finkle's Rules for Girls: The New Girl by Meg Cabot
Parents Need to Know...

that Allie deals with a bully and other social and family situations in the book, including a bossy grandmother and worry over sick kittens. She does seem to have an obsession with the visual of brains splattering -- she uses this analogy ... read more

Allie Finkle's Rules for Girls: The New Girl
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Wabi Sabi by Mark Reibstein
Parents Need to Know...

that this is one book they will want to keep on their bookshelf permanently. While younger readers may not understand the haiku, they will definitely be drawn in by the story of the inquisitive cat and all the other animals she meets. ... read more

Wabi Sabi
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Dinosaur vs. Bedtime
Parents Need to Know...

that this is a book younger kids will enjoy. They're sure to be roaring along with the main character and shouting "Dinosaur wins!" as they read along. read more

Dinosaur vs. Bedtime
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A Bear Called Paddington by Michael Bond
Parents Need to Know...

that there is nothing to be concerned about here -- this comes from an earlier tradition of children's book writing in which stories were gently humorous and comforting. read more

A Bear Called Paddington
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The Dangerous Book for Boys by Conn & Hal Iggulden
Parents Need to Know...

that there is much here that you may find objectionable, beginning with the premise of the book. Boys are encouraged to hunt and gamble, and some of the stories are very violent, though not graphically so. Most of the activities require ... read more

The Dangerous Book for Boys
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About Our Reviews

Common Sense Media's book reviews and ratings for all ages are based on child development principles. We give you trustworthy information so you can pick what's best for your family. We may know media, but you're the expert on your kids.

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