For many, the journey of reading begins with the stories shared in childhood. To find out which books resonate with young readers, insights were drawn from Teresa Luvender’s kindergarten class at Pittston Area Primary Center.
Teresa Luvender, Kindergarten Teacher, Pittston Area Primary Center
Book: “Thank You, Mr. Falker”
Author: Patricia Polacco
Teresa Luvender’s top pick is “Thank You, Mr. Falker” by Patricia Polacco. The story revolves around a girl with a learning disability who, with Mr. Falker’s help, learns to overcome her challenges and gain acceptance from her peers. Luvender reads this story to her class every year to impart a message that learning can be different for everyone, and that perseverance, along with support, can help overcome difficulties.
Alexandra Reese, Kindergarten
Book: “If You Give a Moose a Muffin”
Author: Laura Numeroff
Alexandra Reese enjoys “If You Give a Moose a Muffin” by Laura Numeroff because of her love for muffins.
Delaney MacRae, Kindergarten
Books: “Pete the Cat”
Author: Eric Litwin
Illustrator: James Dean
Delaney MacRae finds humor in the “Pete the Cat” series, which stands out as her favorite.
Kairo Seals, Kindergarten
Book: “The Easter Bunny Hunt”
Authors: Stacy Gregg and Sarah Jennings
Kairo Seals appreciates “The Easter Bunny Hunt” for its engaging narrative about finding the Easter Bunny.
Dawson CoolBaugh, Kindergarten
Book: “The Little Engine that Could”
Author: Watty Piper
Dawson CoolBaugh’s preferred read is “The Little Engine that Could,” a classic tale about determination and perseverance.
Ellie Fisher, Kindergarten
Book: “The Cat in the Hat”
Author: Dr. Seuss
Ellie Fisher is drawn to “The Cat in the Hat” by Dr. Seuss due to its adventurous storyline.
Natalie Richelle Reese, Kindergarten
Book: “The Artist who Painted a Blue Horse”
Author: Eric Carle
Natalie Richelle Reese enjoys “The Artist who Painted a Blue Horse” because of her interest in art.
Cypher Gogas, Kindergarten
Book: “Dragons Love Tacos”
Author: Adam Rubin
Illustrator: Daniel Salmieri
Cypher Gogas finds delight in “Dragons Love Tacos,” particularly enjoying the part where the dragons find the tacos too spicy.
Kyle Cole-Ward, Kindergarten
Book: “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” books
Authors: Various
Kyle Cole-Ward favors the “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” series, inspired by a classmate’s interest.
Madilyn Hughes, Kindergarten
Book: “Pinkalicious”
Authors: Victoria Kann and Elizabeth Kann
Madilyn Hughes loves “Pinkalicious” for its charming narrative and the winter sledding scenes.
Aurora Lawrence, Kindergarten
Book: “If You Give a Moose a Muffin”
Author: Laura Numeroff
Aurora Lawrence appreciates the humor in “If You Give a Moose a Muffin.”
Elliana Balko, Kindergarten
Book: “Mama Cat Has Three Kittens”
Author: Denise Fleming
Elliana Balko finds “Mama Cat Has Three Kittens” endearing, particularly the scenes of the kittens’ birth.
Brock Herron, Kindergarten
Book: “The Cat in the Hat”
Author: Dr. Seuss
Brock Herron enjoys “The Cat in the Hat” for its comedic elements.
Landon Farrell, Kindergarten
Book: “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” books
Authors: Various
Landon Farrell is captivated by the “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” series, particularly the character Mikey.
Veda Preston, Kindergarten
Books: All
Authors: Various
Veda Preston cherishes all books, finding joy in each story she encounters.
Sarah Scinto, WVIA Morning Edition Host and Reporter
Book: “Blanche and Smitty”
Author: Michele Malkin
Sarah Scinto recalls her childhood favorite, “Blanche and Smitty” by Michele Malkin, a story full of quirky charm and life lessons about friendship and understanding.
For more recommendations or to share your favorite book, you can reach out via email at sarahscinto@wvia.org with “Bookmarks” in the subject line.
