Reading for Life Part 4 - Books that Promote Constructive Use of Time


1. Roxaboxen, by Alice McLerran.

In the magical town of Roxaboxen, anything can happen with a little imagination. A desert of rocks is transformed into a childhood of treasured memories.
• What do you like to do in your free time?
• If there was no electricity, what games might you play together and how might you spend your time?


2. The Snowy Day, by Ezra Jack Keats.

Waking up to a world of snow, Peter had a day of exploration and fun. He discovered a great love for deep, deep snow.
• What are your favorite ways to play in the snow?
• What are your other favorite things to do with your friends on cold days?


3. Jumanji, by Chris Van Allsburg.

Peter and Judy learn the importance of reading the directions before starting a project in this humorous tale of imagination.
• What is one of the best games you’ve ever played? Have you ever made up your own game?
• What can you do when you’re getting bored to be creative instead?


4. Froggy Plays In The Band, by Jonathan London.

Froggy heard about a marching band contest, so all of his friends learned to perform in the band. On the big day, they had a little goof-up, but they still won a prize.
• Do you like to play or sing music?
• How much time does it take to learn to play an instrument? If you could play any instrument in the world, what would you play?


5. Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs, by Judi Barrett.

This delightful tale takes readers through daily life in the town of Chewandswallow. The words, pictures and plot will inspire imagination in readers of all ages.
• Can you make up a silly story to share with your friends?
• Can you draw pictures of your story?


6. My Mama Had a Dancing Heart, by Libba Moore Gray.

Mama found a reason to dance and play in every season of life, and gave her daughter a passion for dancing.
• Do you play any of the games that Mama and her daughter played?
• What are your favorite things to do in winter? Spring? Summer? Fall?


7. Something From Nothing, by Phoebe Gilman.

Joseph’s grandfather transforms a tattered piece of cloth into the most magical things, each time it gets to dirty and ragged to carry around.
• Do you know anyone who sews or cooks or draws – creating something from nothing?
• What could YOU create with a tiny blanket?


8. The Hatseller and the Monkeys, by Baba Wague Diakite.

This is an African tale about BaMusa, a joyful hatmaker, and his journey in responsibility, commitment and creative problem-solving.
• What are you good at making?
• Why is starting the day with breakfast important?
• Have you ever used your imagination to solve a problem?