Storyteller John Weaver

7pm Pajamatime Family Storytime

"Storytime 'til the Cows Come Home"

Friday, January 27

10:30am Baby/Toddler Storytime

11am Preschool Storytime

Monday, January 30

7pm Pajamatime Family Storytime

"Once Upon a Storytime"

Friday, February 3

10:30am Baby/Toddler Storytime

11am Preschool Storytime

Monday, February 6

7pm Pajamatime Family Storytime

"Storytime is a Zoo"

Friday, February 10

10:30am Baby/Toddler Storytime

11am Preschool Storytime

Monday, February 13

7pm Pajamatime Family Storytime

"A High-Flying Storytime"

Friday, February 17

10:30am Baby/Toddler Storytime

11am Preschool Storytime

Friday, February 24

10:30am Baby/Toddler Storytime

11am Preschool Storytime

Monday, February 27

7pm Pajamatime Family Storytime

"Froggy Goes to Storytime"

Friday, March 2

10:30am Baby/Toddler Storytime

11am Preschool Storytime

Monday, March 5

7pm Pajamatime Family Storytime

Friday, March 9

10:30am Baby/Toddler Storytime

11am Preschool Storytime

Saturday, March 10, 2012

Storytelling at 3pm

Monday, March 12

7pm Pajamatime Family Storytime

Friday, March 16

10:30am Baby/Toddler Storytime

11am Preschool Storytime

Monday, March 19

7pm Pajamatime Family Storytime

Friday, March 23

10:30am Baby/Toddler Storytime

11am Preschool Storytime

Saturday, March 24

Sunday, March 25

Lake Merritt, Oakland

Storytelling at 1:30 and 2:30 each day

Monday, March 26

7pm Pajamatime Family Storytime

Friday, March 30

10:30am Baby/Toddler Storytime

11am Preschool Storytime

Monday, April 2

7pm Pajamatime Family Storytime

Friday, April 6

Sunnyvale Library Storytelling Festival

10:30am Baby/Toddler Storytime

11am Preschool Storytime

Monday, April 9
Livermore Public Libary, Civic Center
7pm Pajamatime Family Storytime

Friday, April 13
Livermore Public Library, Rincon
10:30am Baby/Toddler Storytime
11am Preschool Storytime

Saturday, April 14

Many tellers, many tales!

Time TBA

Monday, April 16
Livermore Public Libary, Civic Center
7pm Pajamatime Family Storytime

Friday, April 20

10:30am Baby/Toddler Storytime

11am Preschool Storytime

Monday, April 23

7pm Pajamatime Family Storytime

Friday, April 27

10:30am Baby/Toddler Storytime

11am Preschool Storytime

Monday, April 30

7pm Pajamatime Family Storytime

Friday, May 4

10:30am Baby/Toddler Storytime

11am Preschool Storytime

Monday, May 7

7pm Pajamatime Family Storytime

(Final Spring Pajamatime Family Storytime)

Friday, May 11

10:30am Baby/Toddler Storytime

11am Preschool Storytime

(Final Spring Storytimes)

Saturday, June 16

San Leandro Main Library

Storytelling at 5:30pm

Other recent or upcoming events include storytelling & education for Little Flowers Montessori, Acorn Learning Center, Saint Cyprian School, & Brentwood Elementary. Private events (for schools, etc.) do not show up in listings above. For regular updates, connect with me on Facebook!

2011: A Look Back

2011-12-31T12:35:00.000-08:00

I’m starting off 2012 with a look back at 2011:

January:

Having just returned from Hawaii, where I performed at the Honolulu Aquarium & the Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center, I kicked off 2011 with a weekend of professional development at the Asilomar Reading Conference in Monterey County. A new year of storytimes for toddlers, preschoolers & family groups begins at the Livermore Public Library; I marked my first performance of 2011 at Children’s Fairyland; and I did some classroom storytelling in San Francisco.

February-March:

More storytime fun in Livermore, including a few Baby Storytimes, which are always a sweet change of pace. I had the pleasure of sharing more stories on the Emerald City Stage at Children’s Fairyland, and I also got to perform at a couple of my favorite events—Family Reading Nights—at elementary schools in Brentwood & Fremont.

April-May:

I began a series of performances at branches of the San José Public Library, and I also got to perform twice for the Sunnyvale Library: once on my own, and once as a part of its annual storytelling festival. More library fun: I got to do my thing in San Leandro, and of course there were the ongoing storytimes in Livermore. There were also storytelling sessions at preschools in Milpitas, Palo Alto & Santa Clara; another trip to Children’s Fairyland; and I visited Livermore elementary schools to tell students about the library’s summer reading programs.

June-August:

Summer is always my favorite time of the year—and not just because I thrive on the warm weather & long days—it’s Summer Reading season! At the Livermore Public Library, I get to shake up my regular routine by presenting School-Age Storytimes (as well as the evening Family Storytimes I love), AND I book & present a season of very special family programs. This year, I also made time for a nice variety of storytelling appearances: preschools & school-age groups in Alameda, Danville, & Lafayette; a gym daycare; a Girl Scout Day Camp in the East Bay hills; another San José Library; and my first storytelling trip to Palo Alto’s famous Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital! And yes, I was even able to fit in a weekend at my beloved Children’s Fairyland.

September:

The end of the Summer Reading Program is always a huge letdown for me, but this year I had something big to look forward to: a trip to Asia to attend the Singapore International Storytelling Festival & Asian Congress of Storytellers! Professional & personal development time, as I was exposed to hundreds of teachers, storytellers & other early childhood professionals & volunteers from throughout the region & also far-flung locations including Australia, Spain & the U.S. The seminars were very much like teachers’ conferences I’ve attended over the years right here at home, as were many of the concerns & questions brought up by the attendees. The festival portion of the event included one of the most amazing storytelling performances I’ve ever seen: the epic Indian tale of the Ramayana, told by six very different tellers. So glad I finally made it to this big event; hope to be finding myself back! I also took a lot of time to explore as much of Singapore as I could, and took advantage of a Hong Kong layover on the way home to explore that island for a couple of days—and even briefly took in the local Disneyland. This was a fitting end to a trip that in fact did reinforce that people are so much the same—it’s a small world, after all. Within a couple of days of my return, I was back to storytimes in Livermore!

October:

Another first-time event for me: storytelling at a mall! I also conducted a course in classroom storytelling for preschool & elementary school teachers, and shared stories for families at an Oakland preschool’s Halloween party. Of course, I also did my thing at Children’s Fairyland & the Livermore Library!

November-December:

Winding down the year with classroom storytelling in Pleasanton & San Jose, a final pair of events for Children’s Fairyland (the second a special performance for the park’s annual “Fairy Winterland” celebration), and the last storytimes of 2011 at the Livermore Public Library!

So what’s ahead for 2012? January kicks off with another round of professional development in Asilomar, another visit to Children’s Fairyland, and a new year of library storytimes in Livermore. Beyond that? Stay with me & find out!

Happy New Year! Wishing you much health & happiness in 2012.

Read Up: Jojo Eats Dim Sum

2011-12-27T23:32:00.000-08:00

Jojo is so lucky! She gets to have her favorite breakfast every Saturday. It’s not pancakes she wants; she doesn’t care for cinnamon rolls or sugary cereals, either. What Jojo loves to eat is dim sum! I love dim sum, too, and I love the new book Jojo Eats Dim Sum, by James Kye.

The book is oversized: not wide, but extra-tall so it can accommodate large orders of dim sum and tall appetites. The super-sized pages let the reader’s eyes move hungrily around the page, taking in the food and the action--not to mention the delicious art. Whimsically-drawn cartoon people interact with perfectly-photographed food, sharing space on pages where words grow and shrink as characters in their own right. Together, author/illustrar Kye and designers Janet & Edwin McKelpin have created a work that’s exciting to look at, whether or not one can read the words on the page.

Jojo Eats Dim Sum packs a lot not just visually (and in the dim sum carts); there’s a lot going on in the story, too. There’s the trip to the dim sum restaurant, with its particular atmosphere and foods; within that, we get subtle lessons on the Cantonese language, being willing to try new foods, and learning new cultures. Something not put into words--but made clear to me in the illustrations--is that Jojo’s mother seems to think Father’s habit of reading the newspaper at the restaurant table is very rude. I agree!

A newspaper, in case you are too young to remember, is what people utilized to ignore one another at meals before the smart phone was invented.

But I digress.

The way the book ends, and the way the its title is presented, lead me to believe that there may be more culinary adventures with Jojo to come. That’s fine, but this single serving is satisfying all by itself, and I recommend it highly.


I want every single thing this lady has in her cart, and I want it right now, mm goi!

Wonderful words

2011-12-13T16:14:00.000-08:00

"You are a joy to watch and do a tremendous job with the children. Livermore Library is lucky to have you and so are we! Have a wonderful holiday! Thanks for being you."

Some days, it's really worth the effort to come to work. Actually, I'm lucky enough to love my job almost every day, but to be the recipient of the wonderful words on the card given to me last night by one of my regular storytime families-- my heart feels full.

Read Up: Back to Bed, Ed!

2011-12-13T15:58:00.000-08:00

   Sure, Santa Claus made an appearance at my Family Storytime last night, but I think the REAL star of the show was Sebastien Braun's book, Back to Bed, Ed!

     The book's subject matter is a situation with which I think most families can relate: a young child having a hard time transitioning to sleeping in his own bed. Every time I read it, I flash back to the nights when I would be so tired from the struggle I'd somehow fall asleep down the hall next to the little bed--and to the mornings when I'd wake up with an extra little someone in my own bed! The yelling at the door, the feet in the face--the events in Back to Bed, Ed may not measure up to the high drama you might've experienced in your own household, but I think they will ring true & take you right on back!

     For families going through "the change" right now, I think this is a great book to read & maybe even keep around. There are no bad guys in the story; it just seems like Ed is facing a challenge, and that he may need time & a little help. As I share this book at storytime, I ask the children, "will Ed stay in bed this time?" We talk about whether those things Ed sees under his bed are real, and I point out how tired poor Daddy & Mommy look. The discussion as we make our way through the story helps build empathy for all three parties, & I think by the end, everyone is rooting for Ed to stay in bed! Will he? Ever?!?

Braun's illustrations are simple & effective. Just look at Ed, with a foot in one parent's ear, and an arm pushing the other parent off the bed! And with a baby in a crib at the foot of the bed, you know those grownups might not be getting a decent night's sleep for QUITE some time...

A Book on Every Bed

2011-12-09T23:36:00.000-08:00

Lucky me: I grew up with a father who read to me, living in a home where the books always threatened to crowd out the people (pound-for-pound, we were always outnumbered). This situation, of course, predisposed me toward having a houseful of books as an adult, and toward reading to my child regularly (as well as accompanying him to library & bookstore storytime events whenever possible).

Lucky me.

Other children are not so lucky: at least half of this country's children don't get read to regularly, and many don't even have books of their own at home. This was pointed out by nationally-syndicated advice columnist Amy Dickinson in her December 8, 2011 column. The facts she was highlighting are bleak, but her point was to offer a solution: A Book on Every Bed. Here's Dickinson:

Introducing books and reading very early in life will write indelibly on a child's future. Here's how it works:

Take a book.

Wrap it.

Place it on a child's bed so it's the first thing the child sees on Christmas morning (or whatever holiday you celebrate).

That's it.

Well, I think it's brilliant, don't you? It starts at home, and it starts with one book at a time--brilliant and simple! "A Book on Every Bed" is an initiative of the New York-based Family Reading Partnership, a community nonprofit promoting early literacy. Although the organization does accept donations to provide books, Dickinson makes it clear that is not the point of her column:

This is not a fundraising appeal. This is not about selling or buying books (the book you give can be passed down). "A Book on Every Bed" is an appeal to spread the love of reading from parents to children. We also want to encourage families to share books by reading aloud.

Whether that gift of a book is going on a bed or under a tree, on December 25 or (insert random date here), it is a very powerful, important gift. The book may have been free to you, but that additional gift of reading it aloud with a child is absolutely priceless.

I think this can be a very fun new tradition. And I think it can be even more fun: let's put the every in "every bed!" Sure, every child should get a new book--but so should every adult! Whether the books are coming from a local bookseller, your favorite online new or used bookstore, or the local Friends of the Library Sale, keep the adults in mind as well as the kids--and don't forget yourself! Even if it means wrapping a book for yourself and "sneaking" it onto your bed before you turn in for the night, do it!

Check out the video of Amy Dickinson celebrating "A Book on Every Bed" with her granddaughter, and please let me know: do you have any traditions (holiday or otherwise) surrounding books?

Same, Same but Different

2011-12-09T21:12:00.000-08:00

Do children still have pen pals? Jenny Sue Kostecki-Shaw's Same, Same but Different makes a wonderful case for restarting the trend!

Elliot lives in the U.S., and he starts trading notes & drawings with Kailash, who lives in India. We get to see both of their worlds--how different they are, and how very much the same. Kostecki-Shaw's art--a combination of drawing, painting & collage--draws us beautifully into each child's world. You may end up wanting a pen pal of your very own!

2011-11-30T12:48:00.000-08:00

Just found this in the files

2011-11-13T10:25:00.000-08:00

From the May 3, 2009 edition of the Tri-Valley Herald: this little feature on the Día de los Libros event at Livermore's beautiful Rincon Branch Library shows of more of my silly mugging.

Upcoming Events

2011-10-19T20:36:00.000-07:00

Public events! My storytelling appearances are in red, and my storytimes at the Livemore Public Library are in brown.

Friday, October 21

10:30 Baby/Toddler Storytime

11am Preschool Storytime

Oct 21 p.m.: Private event: Conducting storytelling education seminar for preschool teachers

Monday, October 24

7pm Pajamatime Family Storytime

Theme: "It's Magic!"

Friday, October 28

10:30 Baby/Toddler Storytime

11am Preschool Storytime

Monday, October 31

7pm Pajamatime Family Storytime

Theme: "Storytime in Disguise"

Friday, November 4

10:30 Baby/Toddler Storytime

11am Preschool Storytime

Monday, November 7

7pm Pajamatime Family Storytime

Theme: "It's a Jungle in Here!"

Saturday, November 12

Sunday, November 13

Lake Merritt, Oakland

Storytelling at 1:30 & 2:30 each day

Monday, November 14

7pm Pajamatime Family Storytime

Theme: "It's a Library in Here!"

Friday, November 18

10:30 Baby/Toddler Storytime

11am Preschool Storytime

Monday, November 21

7pm Pajamatime Family Storytime

Theme: "Eat Up!"

Friday, November 25

10:30 Baby/Toddler Storytime

11am Preschool Storytime

Monday, November 28

7pm Pajamatime Family Storytime

Theme: "I Can Dig It!"

Friday, December 2

10:30 Baby/Toddler Storytime

11am Preschool Storytime

Monday, December 5

7pm Pajamatime Family Storytime

Theme: "Gators & Crocs"

Friday, December 9

10:30 Baby/Toddler Storytime

11am Preschool Storytime

Saturday, March 10, 2012

Monday, December 12

7pm Pajamatime Family Storytime

Theme: "Quiet as a Mouse"

Friday, December 16

10:30 Baby/Toddler Storytime

11am Preschool Storytime

Saturday, December 17

Lake Merritt, Oakland

Storytelling at 2:30pm as a part of the park's Fairy Winterland holiday events

2012

Saturday, January 7

Sunday, January 8

Lake Merritt, Oakland

Storytelling at 1:30 & 2:30 each day

January 13-15, 2012: Attending Asilomar Reading Conference (Santa Clara County Reading Council)

Saturday, March 10, 2012

Storytelling at 3pm

Other recent or upcoming events include storytelling & education for Quarry Lane School, Tudorka Tots & Discovery Charter School. Private events (for schools, etc.) do not show up in listings above. For regular updates, connect with me on Facebook!

Trip Report: Singapore International Storytelling Festival & Asian Congress of Storytellers

2011-09-16T18:10:00.000-07:00

I am back from Asia, and my time attending the 2011 Singapore International Storytelling Festival & Asian Congress of Storytellers. I spent four days inside the National Museum of Singapore-- actually, four nights taking in a variety of performances, and two full days of workshops, keynotes, and even more performance! Top that off with my determined city exploration before, after, and in & between every nook & cranny of open space, and you can bet I was a tired guy! The entire trip was such an amazing experience.

First off, there were the performances. The first three nights featured an array of tellers from Australia, France, Scotland, Singapore, Spain, and even as far away as the United States, showing the true diversity of storytelling. I don’t usually get exposed to such marathons of storytelling, and it was a pleasure to experience the variety: pathos, tragedy, comedy, ballads, rhyme, freneticism & absolute calm. There were bits of style that I recognized as somewhat similar to my own, and certainly many other styles that were quite divergent. To take them all in & consider them, I feel, was a growing experience.

The fourth evening of performance was a departure from the first three; it was a storytelling performance of The Ramayana, the Indian epic tale. One story, two hours, six storytellers—it was truly epic! A high point of the entire SISF for me, it showed how a variety of people with very different styles can collaborate on a single project & make it a huge, unified success. Some of the tellers were more of the “narrator” variety; others leaned toward big movements and character voices. The tale was customized & cast in such a way that the whole thing really came together—and I wish that I could sit through it again! Very inspiring.

The day sessions—the Asian Congress of Storytellers—cleaved quite close to what is familiar to me from attending conferences here in the U.S. pertaining to reading and early childhood education. The mornings started off with keynote events, after which we as attendees could choose from a menu of topics for the two remaining sessions each day. I attended seminars on the following: helping struggling readers; storytelling for babies & toddlers; improvised stories; and character education through storytelling. As with most professional development events, I found much of the value across the board to be in refreshing previously-held knowledge, benefitting from outsiders’ perspectives on common practice, and gleaning a few bits of fresh research. There were many interactive exercises throughout the sessions, and I was interested & amused to observe that this group of teachers, storytellers, parents & volunteers—primarily from Singapore & Malaysia—was throwing themselves into the experience much more than attendees of similar gatherings I’ve attended back home!

From the breakout sessions mentioned above, and from the Festival & Congress as a whole, I gleaned so much, from information I can practice right away in my own storytelling & storytimes, to little bits over which I can slowly ponder as how I might incorporate them in my own fashion. A huge lesson I got, from exposure to these people from around the world, is that our situations are so much more alike than anyone might have us believe. The values of reading, and the oral tradition of storytelling, are recognized by researchers & professionals for their unique & substantial individual benefits, but getting that information out to the world is & has been a constant challenge. The encouraging news is that there is a large & growing global community of storytellers at every level, each sharing their passion in their own way. I feel very lucky to have been able to make this trip, and get a peek at this global view. I certainly hope to continue on this path!

Upcoming Events

2011-07-28T17:52:00.000-07:00

Through August 12: School-age & Family Storytimes at the Livermore Public Library
Mondays: 10:30am School-age Storytime outside under the tree;
7pm Family Storytime, Civic Center
Fridays: 10:30am School-age Storytime outside under the trees, Rincon

Saturday, August 13

Sunday, August 14

Lake Merritt, Oakland

Storytelling at 1:30 & 2:30 each day

September 1-6: Attending Singapore International Storytelling Festival

September 16-December 16: Toddler, Preschool & Family Storytimes at the Livermore Public Library
Mondays: 7pm Family Storytime, Civic Center
Fridays: 10:30am Baby/Toddler Storytime, Rincon
11am Preschool Storytime, Rincon

Saturday, October 8

Sunday, October 9

Lake Merritt, Oakland

Storytelling at 1:30 & 2:30 each day

Wednesday, October 5

Wednesday, November 9

Wednesday, December 7

WESTFIELD OAKRIDGE MALL

San Jose

Storytelling for Westfield Family Fun Days

3pm

Saturday, November 12

Sunday, November 13

Lake Merritt, Oakland

Storytelling at 1:30 & 2:30 each day

Saturday, March 10, 2012

Sunnyvale Public Library
Storytelling at 3pm

Other recent or upcoming events include storytelling for Club Sport Pleasanton, and Girl Scouts/Coyote Hills Service Unit. Private events (for schools, etc.) do not show up in listings above. For regular updates, connect with me on Facebook!

Storyteller John: This Really Happened!

2011-07-14T17:34:00.000-07:00

Thanks!

2011-06-22T16:46:00.000-07:00

I had a lot of fun this weekend storytelling for the children & their families at the Lucile Packard Children's Hospital in Palo Alto! I just got this e-mail from the staffer who made it all happen:

"I was so pleased with how well it went! The kids and parents and staff all enjoyed our time with you very much. I got your name from a Palo Alto librarian, and I will be sure to thank her for her great recommendation. A couple of parents even took flyers AFTER your visit so that they would remember who you were :) We hope to have you visit here again!"

Reading Together: A Family Tradition!

2011-06-18T11:27:00.000-07:00

Listen to this story from NPR's Weekend Edition about the father & daughter who decided to read together for 100 nights in a row. Did they read for 100 nights? NO: they read for 3,218! This is fantastic. Many parents wonder about how to "find the time" to read to their kids, but this family shows how just by making a commitment to start, reading together can become a cherished tradition. This parent & child got so much more out of the experience than simply the words on the pages.

Check out the link: there's the audio of Weekend Edition Saturday host Scott Simon interviewing Jim Brozina & Alice Ozma (the parent & child readers); a text version of the story; an excerpt from Ozma's book, The Reading Promise: My Father and the Books We Shared; and from that book, a list of suggestions for families looking to start a reading streak of their own!

The Littlest Storyteller

2011-06-12T23:49:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for a story about a boy named Jack? Two-year-old Dalton will tell you all about "Jack & the Beanstalk," and he'll do it with tons of enthusiasm! I think my favorite part is about the food laid out by the giant's wife, a feast that includes potstickers & pizza!

Libraries: Recession-busters since FOREVER!

2011-06-09T09:45:00.000-07:00

Did you know that all of the live entertainment at libraries this summer is FREE? I see full schedules of storytellers, puppetry, music, crafts, clowning, wildlife, magic, authors--and in Kaneohe, Hawaii, STORMTROOPERS! And ALL of it is presented in real-life 3-D that won't strain your eyes or your pocketbook!

Reading with Character(s)

2011-06-04T20:18:00.001-07:00

Reading with Character(s), a photo by Storyteller John Weaver on Flickr.

Just unearthed this photo from 2008: Storytime with Strawberry Shortcake & Curious George at the Alameda County Fair in Pleasanton, California.

Upcoming Events

2011-06-03T06:49:00.000-07:00

Summer Reading Game season is here! Check with your library for information on the games & prizes, storytimes, special performances and fun for all age groups (yes, there are summer reading programs for adults, too--a fun chance to set a good example).

School-age & Family Storytimes
Livermore Public Library
Join John for the fun each week (June 13 - August 12):
Mondays: 10:30am School-age Storytime outside under the tree;
7pm Family Storytime, Civic Center
Fridays: 10:30am School-age Storytime outside under the trees, Rincon

Storytelling Appearances:

Saturday, June 18

Sunday, June 19

Lake Merritt, Oakland

Storytelling at 1:30 & 2:30 each day

Wednesday, June 29

San José Public Library, Rose Garden Branch

Storytelling at 2pm

Saturday, August 13

Sunday, August 14

Lake Merritt, Oakland

Storytelling at 1:30 & 2:30 each day

Other recent or upcoming events include storytelling for Lucile Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford, Bright Horizons/Garner Preschool Learning Center in Alameda, The Child Day School in Lafayette, Husky House, Children's Academy of Danville, Club Sport Pleasanton, and Girl Scouts/Coyote Hills Service Unit. For regular updates, connect with me on Facebook!

SUMMER READING GAMES are Here!

2011-06-02T20:37:00.000-07:00

Note: Before the dawn of up-to-the-moment social media, I kept folks up to date on my doings through an e-mail newsletter list. Now that most people have access to online resources such as Facebook & Blogger, I decided it's time to phase out the labor-intensive, old-school newsletter. Here's the final one:

June is here, and lots of summer reading fun & prizes for all ages lay ahead! In this e-mail, I'll talk about what's up at local libraries, where I'll be performing (and where I've been lately), and share a few resources. Finally, I'll be signing off from these e-mail newsletters, giving you new options to keep track of the family & literacy-related bits that I share.

1. Join your local library for the Summer Reading Game!

2. Where I've Been, & Where Else I’ll Be

3. A Few Great Books

4. GOODBYE... to this newsletter (but let's stay connected)

1. Summer Reading Games: One World, Many Stories @ Your Library!

When school is out, reading is in, with library calendars that are packed with FREE shows, storytimes, crafts and prizes! Each library is a little different, but look and you will find games for pre-readers, school-aged kids, teens, and even adults. Stop by your local library & ask how to sign up & get in on the fun! There are some not-to-be missed shows taking place: animal programs, magic, puppets, music & dance—check out the calendars of your libraries with a simple web search, or start with one click here!

As for the library system where I present storytimes & book special events—the Livermore Public Library—here’s just part of what you can find going on there this month (a printable calendar of ALL of the summer's performances, storytimes & crafts is available at this link):

Every Monday (beginning 6/13):

10:30am: Preschool Storytimes with Kelly; School-age Storytimes with John

7pm: Family Storytimes with John

Every Friday (beginning 6/17):

10:30am: Preschool Storytimes & Music with Clara Yen; School-age Storytimes with John

FREE Special Family Performances!

June 15, 2:30: Folk music, stories, & dance of Mexico & the Caribbean with Dúo Cascada de Flores

June 22, 2:30: Chinese-style juggling, balancing & contortion with Red Panda Acrobats

June 28, 6pm: An interactive "Adventure in Space" with Kenn Adams' Adventure Theater

June 29, 10:30: Hilarious & exciting Cowgirl Tricks with Karen Quest

--and that's just for starters! In July & August, the Livermore Libraries will welcome guest storytellers, a gamelan orchestra presenting the music of Bali, silly clown magic, a juggler who will leave you in stitches, puppetry-- and a REAL-LIVE MOUNTAIN LION. If the times & locations do not work for you, explore the other library links above, as many of these presenters will be appearing at other libraries in the region this summer.

2. What I've been up to-- & what I'll be getting up to!

I've not been sending out these newsletters much; I've found I keep in touch much more quickly through my page on Facebook and on my blog. I'm still sharing stories all over, though! I started 2011 in Hawaii, with storytelling visits to the Waikiki Aquarium and the Hawaii Children's Discovery Center-- you can see several photos of my performances at that Facebook link. Back in California, I attended the annual Asilomar Reading Conference, and was soon back at Children's Fairyland in Oakland, a perfect place for fertilizing budding imaginations with lively stories! In the spring, I took part in the annual Sunnyvale Library Storytelling Festival, and also have been storytelling at libraries in San Jose & San Leandro, as well as at elementary schools & preschools throughout the Bay Area.

THIS MONTH (in addition to my Livermore Library duties), I'll be doing my storytelling at the following public locations:

June 18 & 19th at 1:30 & 2:30: Children's Fairyland, Oakland

June 29 at 2pm: San Jose Public Library, Rose Garden Branch

Hope to see you somewhere along the way!

3. Looking for some good reads?

From time to time on the "Read Up" section of my blog, I'll share some great picture books, both old & new. Take a look--I think it's a good place to get started on some fun family summer reading! I'd also love to hear of any favorite books you have. Ready to get started? READ UP!

4. Goodbye-- but not really, I hope.

I started communicating by e-mail "newsletter" long before the days of Facebook. I used to do this about once a month--and it takes a LONG time! Through my Facebook page and my blog, though, I can add bits of news and longer entries alike on a more timely basis, and you don't have to wade through (or delete) a long email (which may be landing in your spam folder in the first place)! PLEASE-- do get reaquainted with me over on the social network, and/or subscribe to the blog; I try to share useful information, funny bits, and hopefully something you'll occasionally find worthy of passing along to your own friends & contacts. Please do connect & say hello.

Here’s to a beautiful summer with your family, & thanks for supporting storytelling,

--John

Read Up! May Flowers

2011-05-03T21:26:00.000-07:00

This time around, just a small Spring arrangement of books about gardening. All are blooming with fun & imagination, and can be enjoyed indoors or out.

Fran's Flowers
Lisa Bruce & Rosalind Beardshaw
Fran finds a flowerpot with a tiny bud growing inside, and she tries to make the bud flower. Did you know that pizza & ice cream are unlikely to make plants grow? It's fun to read this book along with the children in your life, and talk to them about their ideas as to what Fran is doing wrong.

My Garden
Kevin Henkes
The girl in this book knows her way around a garden, but she has big dreams about what a garden of her own would look like. Would you also like jelly-bean bushes?

Rose's Garden
Peter H. Reynolds
Reynolds is responsible for a growing list of beautifully-illustrated stories about amazing transformations in the lives of their young characters. The "Rose" here, with the help of a diverse group of new friends, cultivates a colorful garden in a formerly-dreary & neglected neighborhood. Reynolds books inspire.

Koala and the Flower
Mary Murphy
Poor little Koala lives with a couple of grownups who can only see things in black & white, and always think they have the answers to everything--without ever seeking out any actual information. Koala finds the place where information blooms from the shelves, and her garden soon flowers like magic.

The Apple Pie Tree
Zoe Hall & Shari Halpern
Part storybook, part nonfiction, this book is the least fanciful of the set--but still asserts that apple pies grow from trees. The collage illustrations are beautifully done, and the pie recipe at the end looks full of possibilities.

Me...Jane

2011-04-23T12:55:00.000-07:00

In the summer, when I conduct many book-based library programs geared toward school-aged children, I am constantly on the lookout for biographies that can introduce an important figure to young children, but still be simple & snappy enough to manage to engage a large, mixed-age group. This is a tall order, especially when the program takes place on a lawn, on a bright and breezy summer morning!

I was lucky enough this week to discover a new book that I know will work not just for these motley groups I describe, but is great for preschoolers, as well! Me...Jane, written and illustrated by Patrick McDonnell (of "Mutts" comic strip fame), is a simple-looking picture book about an adventuresome young girl. Young Jane loves to explore and play outdoors, often accompanied by a stuffed chimp toy she names Jubilee. Jane studies nature, drawing and making notes on what she sees, and she dreams of living among the animals. At the end of the book, we learn that the girl's dreams have come true, as we see a photograph of a real-life, grown-up Jane with a real-life chimpanzee.

I find McDonnell's picture-book story treatment of the early childhood of the famous primatologist Jane Goodall to be ingenious; not only does it function as a beautifully-illustrated, stand-alone picture book story for pre- and early readers, but it also introduces Goodall, with more detail on her and her life's work at the end of the story itself. We have the biography aspect, animals, and themes of dreams, achievement, and girl power. Love it!

The first group of preschoolers with whom I shared Me...Jane enjoyed the story, and the idea it was about a real person. This is a book I can look forward to sharing again and again, knowing it will reach each child at his or her own level.

John's Inbox

2011-04-21T22:47:00.000-07:00

Here's a very nice email I received from the director of Heads Up Early Learning Institute in Palo Alto, where I recently had a great time sharing stories:

Hi John:

Thank you! The kids had so much fun and the teachers were still talking about how much fun it was during lunch hour. Everyone enjoyed themselves.

It was such a breath of fresh air in storytelling. My kids are a great judge of character and they clearly felt very comfortable with you. I have been asked numerous times when you are coming back. We will definitely do this again in the very near future.

National Library Week: How to Celebrate?

2011-04-11T13:15:00.001-07:00

National Library Week is here! How to celebrate? Here are just a few simple ideas:

READ. Parents, please notice I didn’t say, “read to your children.” That’s vital. Do that more. Fit it in to your everyday routine, and also fit it in, in non-routine ways. But it’s also vital to let your children catch you reading to yourself! This action models reading as a worthwhile pursuit. Last year, I had a parent admit to me that her children thought she could not read—because they had never seen her do so! Sadly, it would seem she has also not read to them within the span of their memory. Do not let this happen to you!

GET A LIBRARY CARD. If you have one, dust it off. The best way to celebrate libraries is by using the ones you have.

TAKE A FRIEND TO THE LIBRARY. Maybe your friend does not have a library card. You probably have friends who aren’t even aware of the locations of the local libraries. Some people think they don’t have time, but do they have time for coffee? Meet them for a coffee at the closest library café, and then take a stroll through the building. Some people say they don’t like to read, don’t have time to read—but maybe they’ll actually see something they like. Does your friend like TV? You know, the library has quite a collection of book featuring TV characters, like Scooby-Doo and Spongebob Squarepants, Dexter and Paula Deen.

CHECK THE EVENTS CALENDAR. Your local libraries have tons of events happening every month—storytimes, travelogues, author visits, puppet shows, movies, game days, even homework, legal, and tax help—synch your calendars!

TAKE YOUR LIBRARY CARD ONLINE. Do NOT abandon your library building, but DO check out its website (you can even do so from inside the library itself—your computer or theirs)! The library pays for all kinds of premium services, and then gives you free access—all you need is your library card. You could get help finding a job, or starting a new business, buying a new car, repairing an older one, or learning a new language. Check different library’s sites, because not every library has every resource. You’ll be surprised what is open to you and the students in your house, for free!

JOIN THE FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY. Please join. The Friends of the Library are a vital lifeline in this financially-troubled time when layoffs are common & resources are stretched. The Friends provide the funds that support library programs such as the annual Summer Reading Game and all of its amazing free performances. They enrich the library at every turn, and libraries would be in dire straits indeed without these groups. Join. It’s cheap. Shop at their book sales regularly. You’ll be able to build your home library at a bargain rate.

EVANGELIZE. The libraries need to be utilized by you, supported by you—and they need you to be their cheerleader! Talk about what you are reading. Talk about libraries. Write a letter to the editor of your newspaper. Write a letter to your elected representatives at every level. Pick up or print out a flyer of the library’s family programs and hand a copy to your child’s teacher, put it up at the school office, bring it up at the PTA meeting. Put one up on the bulletin board of the supermarket, coffee shop, ad infinitum. The key to supporting and saving libraries is to have enough people who care to save them. Most people don’t even know the range of programs available. Most people spend more time at Target than they do at their local library. Put a flyer up at Target.

COOKIES FOR YOUR LOCAL LIBRARIANS? Well, that’s sweet, but using your library regularly, getting new people (and old friends) in, and supporting the Friends group—that is ever so much sweeter, and exponentially more sustaining.

Finally, and most importantly:

FORGET NATIONAL LIBRARY “WEEK.” Your library needs you all year long. Your library cannot subsist on one weekly push, so keep coming in, keep utilizing the resources, and supporting them, and telling everyone about them! Keep reading!

Upcoming Events

2011-04-05T16:59:00.000-07:00

Toddler, Preschool & Family Storytimes
Livermore Public Library
Join John for the fun each week:
Mondays: 10:30am Toddler Storytime; 7pm Family Storytime, Civic Center (through May 9)
Wednesdays: 10:30am Toddler Storytime, Civic Center (through May 11)
Fridays: 10:30 & 11:00 Toddler & Preschooler Storytimes, Rincon (through May 13)

Storytelling Appearances:

Saturday April 9

San Jose Public Library

Vineland Branch
Storytelling at 1pm

Wednesday, April 13

San Jose Public Library

Cambrian Branch
Storytelling at 3pm

Saturday, April 23

Storytelling at 3pm

Saturday, April 30

San Jose Public Library

King Branch
Storytelling at 3pm

Sunday, May 1

Cooleykatz Toys, Livermore

Special library-style storytime and preview of the Livermore Public Library's Summer Reading Game
1pm

Sunday, May 1

The 22nd Annual Sunnyvale Library Storytelling Festival

This 2-hour event runs from 2-4pm. I'll be on at 3pm.

Saturday, May 21
San Leandro Library
Manor Branch
Storytelling at 10:30am

Saturday, May 21

Sunday, May 22

Lake Merritt, Oakland
Storytelling at 1:30 & 2:30 each day

Saturday, June 18

Sunday, June 19

Lake Merritt, Oakland
Storytelling at 1:30 & 2:30 each day

Wednesday, June 29

San José Public Library, Rose Garden Branch

Storytelling at 2pm

Other recent or upcoming events include storytelling for Heads Up Early Learning Institute in Palo Alto, Elan Esprit preschools in Milpitas & Santa Clara, Bright Horizons/Garner Preschool Learning Center in Alameda, The Child Day School in Lafayette, Husky House, and Children's Academy of Danville. For regular updates, connect with me on Facebook!

Read Up: Spring is Pop-Up Book All Over!

2011-03-24T11:04:00.000-07:00

If you want to experience 3-D entertainment, there’s no need to sit through the latest overrated blockbuster movie, which is guaranteed only to assault your senses, intelligence, & eyesight. Go old-school, and seek out some pop-up books! They cover every genre, from cute animal story, to humor, to action—even the classics are out there, such as Alice in Wonderland, Winnie-the-Pooh, and works by Shakespeare and Mother Goose, herself. The paper engineering will cause some oohs & aahs, and maybe even inspire the craftier folks in the crowd.

Here’s a tiny list of just a handful of my favorites; seek them out, but also keep your eyes open for some new favorites of your own!

Charlie Chick

Nick Denchfield & Ant Parker

Charlie Chick is big and round, with big feet & a big beak—but what’s even bigger than Charlie Chick? I love this book! It’s big & bold, simple & sturdy—and very funny!

I Love to Eat Bugs

John Strejan

In this version of the traditional tale of one-upmanship, we meet several animals who pop out of the book & tell us about their dining habits. Talk about your favorite foods as you read this book, and don’t miss the opportunity to make a few animal sounds.

Big Frog Can’t Fit In

Mo Willems

Big Frog has a hard time fitting into her own book, but she eventually gets by—with some help from her little friends. The simple, eye-appealing art of Mo Willems pokes & flies out of this chunky book, thanks to some amazing paper engineering by Bruce Foster.

Papa, Please Get the Moon for Me

Eric Carle

Monica wants to play with the moon, so she asks her Papa to bring it to her. The moonrise in this book is so big, I’m tempted to hold it near my bathtub to see if it can make waves.

Under the Bed

David Wood & Richard Fowler

The simplest of this set, this is the familiar story about a small child’s (in this case, a small bear child’s) claim of a monster under the bed. Watch out for the surprise, pop-up, ending!

Do you have any favorite pop-up books? Please tell me about them—I don’t want to miss out on the 3-D fun!

Author Spotlight: Janet Stevens

2011-03-01T10:55:00.000-08:00

Janet Stevens made me bark like a dog in front of hundreds of teachers at the 2011 SCCRC Asilomar Reading Conference!

Stevens was giving a presentation to the group, and got around to a book of hers called "Help Me, Mr. Mutt: Expert Answers for Dogs with People Problems." Lots of confused, barking dogs in this one. Stevens suddenly pointed to the person seated directly before her to get up & do the "heavy barking." That was me. She had no idea she was calling up a professional--and I never told her!

Curl up in a comfy place when you open a book by Janet Stevens, because you (and your child, if you're sharing) will both want to take your time to explore the intricate, witty illustrations on each page. Hidden surprises abound. Janet's artwork has enhanced works by authors including Eric Kimmel and Coleen Salley, and Stevens herself has penned many books, both alone & with her sister, Susan Stevens Crummel. Here are just a small handful:

Tops & Bottoms
The star of this book is a hare who once “lost a risky bet with a tortoise.” Now he has to get his food by tricking a lazy bear. Kids can laugh along with this trickster tale, and learn a little bit about their veggies at the same time.

My Big Dog
Merl the cat seemed very happy to have his home & his family all to himself—so obviously a dog had to come into the picture. Colorful illustrations are integrated with real photographs, and a very cute puppy.

Cook-a-Doodle-Doo!
Fans of the Little Red Hen will be interested to learn that great-grandson is a baker, as well. Rooster has a lot of help—but it is not necessarily helpful help. The story is funny, there are a lot of lessons about kitchens & cooking along the way, and there’s a tasty recipe at the end.

The Great Fuzz Frenzy
This book is the true story of how Janet's dog, Violet the Golden Retriever, dropped her ball down a prairie dog hole—and the fantastical imagining about what may have happened next. You’ll turn the book, fold out pages—and maybe even want to set about puzzling some prairie dogs, yourself!

Plaidypus Lost
A little girl gets a very special homemade plaid friend from her grandmother, and what’s the first thing she does? She loses it! And she gets it back. And she loses it again. Everybody should recognize the pattern, even if they have no idea what a platypus (or plaidypus) is!

The Dish Ran Away with the Spoon
Where did dish & spoon go? Little Dog isn’t laughing—it’s time to round up a search party! Everyone gets involved: Little Boy Blue, Little Miss Muffet’s Spider—even the Big Bad Wolf!

That should be enough to get you started. You can also visit the author's web page to view a larger list of titles, download coloring sheets, learn about her art process, and more.

Check out Janet Stevens, and let me know what you think!

Upcoming Events

2011-02-16T15:55:00.000-08:00

Preschool & Family Storytimes
Livermore Public Library
Join John for the fun each week:
Mondays: 7pm Family Storytime, Civic Center (through May 9)
Fridays: 10:30 & 11:00 Toddler & Preschooler Storytimes, Rincon (through May 13)

Saturday, March 5

Sunday, March 6

Lake Merritt, Oakland
Storytelling at 1:30 & 2:30 each day

Saturday April 9

San Jose Public Library

Vineland Branch
Storytelling at 1pm

Wednesday, April 13

San Jose Public Library

Cambrian Branch
Storytelling at 3pm

Saturday, April 23

Storytelling at 3pm

Saturday, April 30

San Jose Public Library

King Branch
Storytelling at 3pm

Sunday, May 1

The 22nd Annual Sunnyvale Library Storytelling Festival

This 2-hour event runs from 2-4pm. I'll be on at 3pm.

Saturday, May 21
San Leandro Library
Manor Branch
Storytelling at 10:30am

Other recent or upcoming events include storytelling for Brier Elementary in Fremont, Brentwood Elementary, The Child Day School in Lafayette, and Children's Academy of Danville. For regular updates, connect with me on Facebook!

Read Up: Hopppy New Year!

2011-02-02T23:38:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

No, I am not a month late! I am referring to the Lunar New Year, AKA Chinese New Year (but many Asian cultures actually celebrate the Lunar New Year). This year, the new year falls on February 3, kicking off the Year of the Rabbit. If you were born in one of the following years--1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, or 1999--you are a rabbit! To sum up the characteristics of a person born in the Year of the Rabbit: they are very special! Just like everyone born in any of the 12 phases of the lunar cycle!

In honor of the bunnies out there, I am offering up a few of my favorite rabbit books--so let's hop to it!

A Boy and His Bunny
Sean Bryan & Tom Murphy
“One day a boy woke up with a bunny on his head.” It’s an amazing day, and a fun book full of simple pictures & funny rhymes—and you’ll love what Sister brings to the story.

Bunny Fun
Sarah Weeks & Sam Williams
Indoor time on a rainy day, with bright pictures & rhymes as we watch two friends play! There are some wonderful visuals for good things to do—and also a few opportunities to discuss the not-so-great choices!

Duck! Rabbit!
Amy Krouse Rosenthal & Tom Lichtenheld
Is that a duck getting a drink, or a rabbit cooling its ears in the water? A pair of off-page voices disagree over the shape we see, and by the end, we’ve all been able to exercise our imaginations.

The Max & Ruby books
Rosemary Wells
The cute little bunny & his bossy big sister have made it to TV, but make sure you don’t overlook their books! In Bunny Cakes, Max is sent around to buy ingredients for Ruby to make Grandma’s birthday cake—but he also finds time to make one himself. There’s no recipe at the end, & you’ll understand why.

Not a Box
Antoinette Portis
I love this book (which looks like a box, but is not). The rabbit/child is playing with—well, with what the book’s off-page narrator thinks is a box. It’s not a box. It’s many, many things—but it is NOT NOT NOT NOT a box!

Read to Your Bunny
Rosemary Wells
Bunnies read outside & inside, day & night, in every situation possible. Bunnies show the rest of us how it’s done! Read to your bunny often.

If you have any favorite bunny books, or books on celebrations, or culture, or anything at all-- please tell me about them. I don't want to miss out!

New home library design: making less with more!

2011-01-20T07:54:00.001-08:00

Books are more than just reading material these days!

Wait, scratch that: there seems to be a trend of people using books as a lot less than reading material.

According to this article originally printed in The New York Times, the big new trend in interior design is big, custom-built libraries. Boy, I sure would love to have one of those! I’m thinking built-in shelves in at least two rooms of my home—and maybe overhead in a hallway or two—to corral the thousands of books that spill out all over, and maybe even encourage me to somehow keep them all organized. Sure, I’ve got plenty of perfectly-serviceable bookcases, but isn’t the built-in look so much more neat-looking, much cooler—much more, I don’t know, built-in? That’s not even taking into account the fact that I live in earthquake country, where heavy bookcases can become very dangerous, super-sized dominoes. And did I mention that built-ins look cool?

So people are spending thousands for these custom-designed libraries. The thing is, the designers are also supplying the books! And you can get any genre of book you want, like light blue & gray, earth tones, paper-wrapped, or even sheathed in linen! If you’re looking for even more mental stimulation, perhaps you’d like to go for the “books displayed backwards” option, so that you could enjoy the texture of the pages. Mm, paper-y! Or if you are into a more classic look, you can still go for a library of same-sized volumes, all bound identically in rich Corinthian leather—on all six sides, if you wish.

Apparently, those of us who actually like to read our books should be grateful for this decorating trend, as it is a boon to the more-endangered-than-ever publishing industry—if only as a way for them to slough off their remainders of Danielle Steele potboilers and Michael Jackson biographies, giving them a new lease on life following a vigorous draping in taffeta. Yes, it would appear as if these biblioartistes and their clientele are actually subsidizing the reading habits of the rest of us!

To be fair, if I must, some of these showcase books may eventually get read. May. The more affordable of the libraries come without the choice of any particular language of text, but at least one client insisted on English, because “he wanted the option of being able to read his books.” Options, after all, are where it’s at here in the ‘10s. Of course, other folks are more into appearances than options, such as the people who “insist that (the books) be in English, because they want them to look as if they could read the books.” Yeah, “as if they could read the books.” As if.

Now, the buzz you’ll hear a lot in childhood education circles is about having a “literature-rich environment.” This has to do with incorporating books and reading throughout the home and school environments: books in the playhouse, reading recipes aloud as you cook together—and of course, letting your children “catch you” reading for pleasure. We can translate all of this into the terms of the new decorating craze, can we not? Next time you redecorate your kids’ room, don’t forget books! Get some children’s classics—or whatever, really, it doesn’t matter (as long as they are of a uniform size)—find some cute wrapping paper (bonus points if you laminate it first)—and truss them up! You’ll probably have to tell the children that these are not gifts, and are therefore never to be opened, but they’re sure to catch on eventually and enjoy the style as much as trendy adults around the country already do. C’mon, get into the spirit; it’s enough that you actually have all of these books in your house—no need to waste time actually reading any of them!

That’s why the e-reader was invented, right?

Read Across America: Every Day!

2011-01-13T12:01:00.000-08:00

Read Across America Day is coming! Sure, it's happening on March 2nd--about a month & a half away as I write this--but it's never too early to start planning, or to start reading!

The Read Across America initiative was created by the National Education Association to celebrate Dr. Seuss (whose birthday was on March 2), and also something that author celebrated in every one of his books for young people: the joy of reading. Theodor "Dr. Seuss" Geisel was no fan of the beginning reader books of his day, which featured thrilling text along the lines of, "See Mark. See Janet. See Mark sit. See Janet sit. Sit, Mark. Sit Janet. See Mark and Janet sit." These are the memories of my bored inner five-year-old; my school had apparently not yet adopted Seuss (though my parents had), and in class I had to read about the "adventures" of Janet, Mark, and their equally-thrilling dog Tip ("See Tip. Here, Tip. Come, Tip. Tip-Tip."). Ugh.

Thank goodness for Dr. Seuss, who came along and gave beginning reader books what they needed: FUN. The Foot Book, for instance, combines its simple vocabulary with rhyme, silliness, bright & inventive illustrations--AND also manages to cover the subject of opposites! Hooray for Dr. Seuss, on his birthday and every day.

So, how to celebrate Read Across America Day? Schools & libraries do it by hosting special events with guest readers or storytellers, or just by doing a little extra reading on that day. Seuss-related crafts are very popular, as are campus parades and dramatizations from the works of Dr. Seuss. Does the whole day have to focus on Seuss works, though? NO! It's about celebrating the joy of reading! Is Read Across America just for schools & libraries? No, please don't leave it there; any person or organization can have an event, no matter big or small. Parents? You can read, too! It would be a nice birthday present for Dr. Seuss, and an even bigger gift for your children--today, March 2, and every day.

Read Across America

2011-01-06T22:57:00.000-08:00

Aloha!

2010-12-27T19:52:00.000-08:00

In motion at the Waikiki Aquarium

Celebrating the Hawaii Children's Discover Center's 12th "birthday"

Storytelling in Honolulu for the Waikiki Aquarium and the Hawaii Children's Discovery Center was a lot of fun! I've posted a couple of albums of photos of the experience over at my Facebook page, please go and check them out!

Want to hear a story?

2010-11-13T10:57:00.000-08:00

From NPR's Weekend Edition, Daniel Pinkwater & Scott Simon read the book Chicken Big, by Keith Graves.

Listen to the story...

Reading at the Library is Fun

2010-11-12T23:00:00.000-08:00

Read Up! A Little Family Time

2010-11-03T10:27:00.000-07:00

Fall & Winter are the cold & “celebrate-y” parts of the year, with warm thoughts often turned toward family. There are so many wonderful picture books available on the topic—and my short list here (just eleven, I don’t want to overwhelm), doesn’t even scratch the surface. What are some of your favorite books that feature family members having fun together? Here are just a few of mine.

The Big Honey Hunt, by Stan & Jan Berenstain

Back before the the Berenstain Bears became a ubiquitous franchise, there was just small bear and his mom & dad. This simpler, funnier era was my favorite, and The Big Honey Hunt is a great example. Small Bear follows his dad on a stinging adventure, while Mother just waits for the moment they finally get back with the safer, store-bought stuff.

The Family Book, by Todd Parr

We Belong Together: A Book About Adoption and Families, by Todd Parr

“There are lots of different ways to be a family,” writes Todd Parr in The Family Book, and in his typically bright, colorful & simple style, he shows fanciful yet relatable families of all stripes—even skunk stripes! Parr has individual books to cover mommies, daddies, grandmas & grandpas, and even one on adoption: We Belong Together. The entire collection shares funny images that are sure to get kids giggling & talking.

Let’s Go, Froggy, by Jonathan London & Frank Remkiewicz

Froggy & his daddy are planning a bike trip & a picnic, but will they manage to get out of the house in time? The story certainly reinforces the adage, “it’s always the last place you look.” It’s always fun to imitate Froggy’s voice as he replies to his parents’ calls with a stretched-out, “wha-a-a-a-at?”

Oh, Daddy! By Bob Shea

This book is worth picking up for the cool, bold art alone, but the story isn’t lagging either! Little Hippo loves his daddy—and loves showing him how to do things. In fact, Daddy wouldn’t be able to get dressed, get in the car, or even eat lunch without Little Hippo! Great big fun.

Our Grandparents: A Global Album, by Maya Ajmera, Sheila Kinkade, & Cynthia Pon

Beautiful photos from around the world celebrate the joys shared by grandparents and grandchildren. The book ends with “five things to do with your grandparents.” A treasure of a book about treasured family.

Our Granny, by Margaret Wild & Julie Vivas

With gentle wit and lots of love, a pair of children talks about the fact that there are all kinds of grandmothers in the world—and the fact that the most special one to them is their own. Grandmas at storytime always get a giggle out of the idea of a wobbly-bottomed granny who “marches in demonstrations!”

Lola at the Library, by Anna Mcquinn and Rosalind Beardshaw

Lola Loves Stories by Anna Mcquinn and Rosalind Beardshaw

What a great imagination Lola has! She & her daddy load up on library books once a week, and Lola’s parents read or tell her stories every evening. The next day, Lola’s play echoes the previous evening’s stories! This is a family who really knows how to love & play together. For more Lola & family, check out Lola at the Library.

Uncle Bobby’s Wedding, by Sarah S. Brannen

Chloe is scared that when her favorite uncle gets married, she’ll lose him forever. Over the course of this sweet and reaffirming book, she is assured that her family is actually growing to include another favorite relative.

What! Cried Granny: An Almost Bedtime Story, by Kate Lum & Adrian Johnson

Patrick has arrived at his Granny’s for his very first sleepover there—but he seems to be missing a pillow, a teddy bear—and a few other things! Granny will do whatever it takes to make sure Patrick has all of the bedtime essentials he needs, even if it takes all night! Johnson’s bold, colorful art carries the weight of the story, and will have adults & kids smiling at this eager-to-please grandmother.

I hope you check these out, and maybe find some new favorites. If you’ve got some great books in mind—whether they fit in with this list or not—please share them with me!

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-29T18:22:00.000-07:00

Upcoming Events

2010-10-13T18:22:00.000-07:00

Preschool & Family Storytimes
Livermore Public Library
Join John for the fun each week:
Mondays: 7pm Family Storytime, Civic Center (through December 13)
Fridays: 10:30 & 11:00 Toddler & Preschooler Storytimes, Rincon (through December 17)

Saturday, November 27

Sunday, November 28

Lake Merritt, Oakland
Storytelling at 1:30 & 2:30 each day

Saturday, December 18

WAIKIKI AQUARIUM

Honolulu
Storytelling 10am-12 noon

Sunday, December 19

HAWAII CHILDREN'S DISCOVERY CENTER

Honolulu
Storytelling at 11am, to celebrate the center's 12th birthday

Wednesday, December 22

Lake Merritt, Oakland
Storytelling at 5:30pm, part of the Fairy Winterland Celebration

Livermore Library storytimes resume
Monday, January 10, 2011

January 14-16, 2011
Attending Asilomar Reading Conference

Saturday, January 29

Sunday, January 30