Volcanoes written by Neil Cross Beckerman, Illustrated by Kalen Chock

We have slowly begun getting more books that have some substance in the real world rather than simply stories. This book is beautifully illustrated and entertaining, while also providing some understanding on a force of nature that captures kids (and adults) imagination.

Noah's Ark by Kate Thompson

I am unsure as to where we got this book, but it has been a mainstay. It tells of the astounding story of Noah and the Ark and has taught our kids the idea of listening and God as provider. Forewarning: not completely accurate to the biblical story.

Construction Site: Garbage Crew to the Rescue by Sherri Duskey Rinker and AG Ford

We desire our kids to know that there is great honor in having a dirty job. Our world is dependent on people doing undesirable jobs, and we need our kids to know that these occupations are important to building a world that is beautiful. Plus, this book inspires young entrepreneurs.

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein

This is an Olga pick, who is a huge Silverstein fan. I think it says a lot about her, that even if our kids are not aware of it, she would do anything for them. She is a wonderful mother.

Big Bear and Little Bear Go Fishing by Amy Hest

This book is not stimulating. It is slow, patient, and calm. The water color illustrations are beautiful, and the story is deliberate. In the way the story is told, it teaches our younger reader these important values of simplicity, of slowness, patience, and relationship.

The Lorax by Dr. Seuss

This is an essential. It speaks against the abuses of capitalism, consumerism, and greed, while raising concern for stewarding the goodness of God’s creation. It teaches that we as people are responsible for the world around us, teaching us to be intentional and care.

Nubby written by Dan Richards, Illustrated by Shanda McCloskey

Our children are going to grow up wanting to find a place that they not only belong but are beloved. They will go on journeys of discovery, thinking they will find this desire filled in relationships, in fame, in money. This book reminds us that we are most beloved in the small simple places with our family and close relationships.

Harold Loves His Wooly Hat by Vern Kousky

Harold teaches that our significance is not in the things we have but in the love we share in our relationships.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss

Another Olga classic, because she has based her personality off Jim Carrey’s version of the Grinch.

The Scholastic Read and Learn Bible from the American Bible Society

Why?
Most kids Bibles try to do too much. The pictures are too complex, the stories are told in a strange way, they say too much per page. We wanted a Bible that tells the basic story in an authentic way, and this is the Bible we keep coming back to. It is so worn we are getting another copy this Christmas!

The editors do a good job capturing the heart of difficult stories. Obviously is not going to be where we draw verses to memorize from, as there are no verses. This is primarily a Bible to learn the mega story of the Bible.