HELPING TEACHERS INSPIRE COMPASSION FOR ANIMALS, PEOPLE & THE ENVIRONMENT


Recommended Reading: Picture Books

“Let’s Get a Pup!” Said Kate

Category: Books with Resources, Picture Books

By Bob Graham, 2001

When Kate and her parents go to the animal shelter to adopt a puppy, it’s love at first sight – twice! The young family decides that two dogs are better than one – especially when one is wee and bouncy, and the other “old and gray and broad as a table.” A fun way to introduce the joys – and struggles – of pet ownership.

A Home for Dakota

Category: Books with Resources, Picture Books

By Jan Zita Grover, 2010

Dog No. 241, from a puppy mill breeding operation is rescued and taken to a warm, secure foster home. She is eventually renamed Dakota and learns to love and trust. A new challenge arrives when Dakota is adopted by a family with a little girl, Sweetie, who is also undergoing recovery. Dakota and Sweetie learn from and take comfort in one another.

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A Tale of Three Puppies

Category: Picture Books

By Maggie Griffin, 2009

The author effectively gets across a message to children that what animals want is to be treated with kindness and compassion, the same way people want to be treated. “Animals deserve humane treatment above all else and if I can influence children to be loving, caring guardians to animals and break the chain of abuse and neglect, then I have achieved my greatest goal in life.” (Maggie Griffin) Note: this book contains three short stories with a limited number of pictures.

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All Dogs have ADHD

Category: Elementary Non-Fiction, Picture Books

By Kathy Hoopmann, 2008

This charming book takes an inspiring and affectionate look at Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), using images and ideas from the canine world to explore a variety of traits that will be instantly recognizable to those who are familiar with ADHD.

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Always Blue for Chicu

Category: Books with Resources, 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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Animals at Play: Rules of the Game

Category: Elementary Non-Fiction, Picture Books

By Marc Bekoff & Michael J. DiMotta, 2008

Biologist Marc Bekoff shows us how animals behave when they play, from squirrels climbing up a tree to polar bears somersaulting in the snow. He also emphasizes how animals communicate, cooperate and learn to play fair and what happens when they break the rules.

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Are You Ready for Me?

Category: Picture Books

By Claire Buchwald, 2009

Dog expert Stanley Coren says, ‘This easy-going book tells kids what they will have to do to turn their dog into a happy and fun pet, and also how to care for it in the right way. It is a useful and pleasant 'reality check' for all kids who are begging to have a dog of their own.’

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