Picture Books of the Week: The Pumpkin Runner and Grandfather Buffalo

Today we read a really delightful picture book titled The Pumpkin Runner. We really enjoyed this book and were thrilled to read at the end that it is based on a true story. You cannot help but root for the underdog and I think almost anyone would appreciate the simple country feel to the book as well. Great tale and great pictures, really reminiscent of an old folk tale.

We read another great picture book last night titled Grandfather Buffalo. Now, it is not particularly sad or profound but I almost cried. Being a woman that is probably not that much of a spectacular statement but the story was so incredibly sweet.



Such a statement to me about the importance of the elderly. It made me think of my dear sweet grandma who has long since passed. The tone of the writing and the pictures were perfectly matched.

Now whoever thinks that picture books are just for little kids ..... I weep for you(Yes, I just used the word weep in reference to picture books). It is sad to me that often picture books are left behind when children learn to read. There is so much beauty to be found in picture books, so much more so than most of the leveled readers you find out there today for beginning readers. Exposing children to the rich vocabulary present in good picture books is so enriching as well. Doing family read-alouds is not something to cease once children are reading on their own but great to continue as a wonderful family tradition.

We enjoy many, many picture books but also enjoy reading chapter books as well. Our chapter book read aloud list is to the right of the page. Currently we are reading Poppy by Avi (still undecided as to how much I like this one). We are also listening to Dragon Rider on audio cd.

Up tonight for family read- aloud will be The Butter Battle by Dr. Seuss among others. Brian has asked me to save this one for him to read. We are anxious to read Dr. Seuss' commentary on the nuclear arms race as presented to little kids.