America has a rich and exciting history!  Help your child journey through time, back to Boston and the American Revolution. Johnny Tremain is a Newbery Award-winning book about a fictional boy who experiences the events surrounding the coming of America. This novel will bring to life events of the Revolution and peak your child’s interest in history!

After reading and brushing up on the events that led to our independence, celebrate! Tempe 4th commemorates the 4th of July in style with one of the best fireworks shows around. In this amazing show, fireworks are timed to some of the best patriotic music. The celebration is free for kids under 12 and includes a free inflatable village for families. Celebrate our great country with  Johnny Tremaine and Tempe 4th!

(more…)

This one is for the grownups.  Reading Magic: Why Reading Aloud to Our Children Will Change Their Lives Forever is written by Mem Fox, a best-selling children’s book author and literacy expert. The book illustrates how reading aloud to your kids can prepare and even teach them to read, improve their speaking skills, expand their vocabulary and (my favorite) strengthen the bond between parent and child. Mem Fox comments, “The time spent reading together provides clear evidence to a child of a parent’s love, care, and focused attention. And it gives the parent a chance to close off the rest of the world, relax, and connect with the child wonderfully.”

Summer is around the corner. Make reading together part of your summer plans. Schedule trips to the library or bookstore and browse our recommended books in our online bookstore. You can even email us for ideas and we will help you find books your kids will love! Work reading time into your plane trips, car ventures, and everyday activities.  We will provide fun, weekly activities to keep your summer moving  and your kids reading. Make a commitment to connect again with your kids this summer through books!

(more…)