Three 'Green' Reads for Kids in March

Whether it's Irish peat bogs, whimsical recipes or tall-tale tellers,  will keep you in the green this month. Check out their recommendations tomorrow for adult readers.  

“Grandpa Green” by Lane Smith  

Join the book’s young narrator on a walk through a magnificent garden filled with amazing trees and shrubs. Author Lane Smith recently received a 2012 Caldecott Honor Medal for his wonderful portrayal of a topiary garden and the memories each pruned shrub represents. As the young boy travels through the garden, he sees the moments that make up his grandfather’s life—one bush to suggest growing up on a farm, another to suggest going to war. A lovely and heartwarming story of a grandson, grandfather and their shared love of gardening. ages 5-9 (picture book) —Review by Sarah Iverson

“Gooney Bird Greene” by Lois Lowry

Meet Gooney Bird Greene, a new student at Watertower Elementary School. On her first day of school, she arrives wearing pajamas, cowboy boots, and demands a desk in the center of the classroom. Mrs. Pidgeon’s class has never met anyone like Gooney. They soon discover that she has an incredible talent—she tells amazing, “absolutely true” stories. Learn how this delightful character got her unusual name, how she traveled by flying carpet, and her experience directing an orchestra. (All “absolutely true” stories, of course!) Mrs. Pidgeon’s class is captivated by Gooney’s stories and her unique personality. Second grade becomes even more entertaining when Gooney’s classmates realize that they each have remarkable tales to share. Children who enjoy the “Judy Moody” and “Junie B. Jones” series will love Gooney! This title is the first in the series. ages 7-10 (chapter book) —Review by Sarah Iverson

“Green Eggs and Ham Cookbook, Recipes Inspired By Dr. Seuss” by  Georgeanne Brennan

Celebrate Dr. Seuss’s birthday (March 2) by having fun in the kitchen with this cookbook inspired by classic tales from Dr. Seuss. Grownups and kids alike will enjoy making tasty creations with names like “Yot in the Pot,” “Who-Pudding,” and “Daisy-Head Mayzie Burgers.” The book contains over 40 recipes, offering fun options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, beverages, and desserts. The author is mindful of safety concerns, and includes many simple tasks for even the youngest chefs in training. Also, many recipes in the book require no cutting, cooking, or electric appliances. The text includes many illustrations lifted from Dr. Seuss books, along with photographs of what the finished product should ideally look like. Both old and new Dr. Seuss fans will enjoy this cookbook. —Review by Erin Holl