Recommended Reading: Featured Reading

Always Blue for Chicu

Category: Featured Reading, Picture Books

By Karen Dugan, 2010

Over many long years, Chicu is handed off from one owner to another until he finally ends up at a parrot sanctuary. Chicu's story opens a window into the life of exotic birds whose very beauty leads to their imprisonment, birds whose unique qualities call out for understanding and care.

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Ginger

Category: Featured Reading, Picture Books

By Charlotte Voake, 2008

Ginger has a problem. Having lived the luxurious life of a pampered cat, he's suddenly confronted with a kitten in the house. A delightful surprise ending gives hope for these two becoming furry friends after all – and teaches the reader that animals can’t just be put together and expected to get along.

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Hey, Little Ant

Category: Featured Reading, Picture Books

By Phillip and Hannah Hoose, 1999

This parable about mercy and empathy asks readers to look at life from an insect's point of view. A boy contemplates squishing an ant who pleads with the boy to spare him. A great conversation starter about how we and animals (even insects) are alike and different, and how peer pressure can lead to bullying. Can be performed as a song (sheet music is appended).

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The Way I Love You

Category: Featured Reading, Picture Books

By David Bedford, 2014

Great for grade K-2, The Way I Love You explores all the different reason why we love our pets. Told through the eyes of the young child, this book demonstrates that our pets are more than just our pets; they are our friends and family.