Summer Days - To Read, Fish and Canoe with You

Saturday morning California and I completed the second part of Casper's summer reading program for preschoolers. While I'm still finishing my first book of the summer, he listened to 100 books over the month of June, picked out his first chapter book (Midnight on the Moon (Magic Tree House, No. 8)) and added a "Fizz Boom Read" shirt to our preschool clothing stash.  While we do have four summer specific book recommendations, we by no means limit ourselves to a few books!  In fact we we created a Pinterest board "100 Books for Boys" if you need more ideas for your summer reading list: http://www.pinterest.com/ladylobdell/cuddled-up-in-casper-100-books-for-boys/
 It includes our top reads from birth to age 3.

Now to conclude the second half of my summer book post...  These last two books transport you into the lazy days of summer.  Canoe Days is a picture book that you appreciate for its illustrator Ruth Wright Paulsen.  Her artwork shows realistic images surrounding the quiet  lake.  You feel the calm, see the fish in the water and watch for the animals that come to this vital life center. It is the shavasana of bedtime books.  You take in the surroundings and feel at peace once the book has closed.  Read before your own canoe trip and your tot is sure to sit quieter in an attempt to see wildlife.

Such a quiet day on the lake also brings the opportunity to cast a fishing pole!  If your family enjoys fishing, you MUST read Sam's First Fish.  This one hands down made our 100 Books for Boys list.  The story follows a young boy who wants to have a fishing pole and makes it his goal to catch the giant fish he sees jumping out of a stream.  It teaches responsibility as Sam saves his money and then must replace a lost lure he borrowed from his big brother.  You will cheer as he gets help from his uncle, a skilled fisherman, and again, when he plays a key role in landing the big fish.  Every little guy will be able to relate to Sam and share in his victory.  It is worth finding!  Enjoy your summer reading and please share with us the titles of your favorite reads!