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.

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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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The King Who Rained by Fred Gwynne
Parents Need to Know...

that there is nothing of concern in this book that pokes fun at idioms and homonyms. read more

The King Who Rained
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A Little Pigeon Toad by Fred Gwynne
Parents Need to Know...

that there's nothing here to worry about. The artwork is squarely aimed at the funny bone, and the simple text is easy to digest. But it lacks any zest or poetry that might have amplified the pleasures of the figures of speech and ... read more

A Little Pigeon Toad
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A Chocolate Moose for Dinner by Fred Gwynne
Parents Need to Know...

that, when it comes to content, they can rest easy reading this lighthearted book to their kids. The visual interpretations are comic enough to keep 4- to 8-year-olds entertained and also offer a lively commentary on the capricious side ... read more

A Chocolate Moose for Dinner
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Bear About Town by Stella Blackstone
Parents Need to Know...

that Bear's daily walks to town are described in rhyme, and emphasize days of the week. Varied scenes are illustrated in bold colors that draw attention. Children can follow Bear's path. read more

Bear About Town
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A Child's Calendar by John Updike
Parents Need to Know...

that there's nothing here to raise any alarm bells. Vivid verse told in a child's voice pulls readers into a family's everyday life, and the lively illustrations will prompt discussion between parents and their kids. That said, the ... read more

A Child's Calendar
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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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