January 2018 Book List
Kick off the New Year right with some great books! 
Start by celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. Day on January 15th. This special day not only celebrates an American hero’s birthday, but also reminds us of the importance of equality, acceptance and civil rights for all.
I Have a Dream by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Illustrated by Kadir Nelson
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s historic speech brought to life with award-winning Kadir Nelson’s beautiful illustrations. A great read for children and adults alike to celebrate a truly incredible hero in American history. Ages 5 and up.
Play Ball, Jackie! By Stephen Krensky, Illustrated by Joe Morse
On April 15, 1947, a 10-year-old boy and his father go to a historic baseball game. It is Jackie Robinson’s first game as a Dodger, and he is the first African American baseball player in MLB history. Accompanied by detailed illustrations, this story shows how Jackie Robinson’s baseball career was a huge step in breaking down racial divides in the U.S. Ages 5 and up.
Celebrate the world-famous Tournament of the Roses Parade in Pasadena with some fun books on different kinds of parades:
Paper Parade by Sarah Weeks, Illustrated by Ed Briant
A little girl really wants to go to the parade! The only thing getting in her way is her little brother needing a nap, so she takes matters into her own hands. Using a bit of creativity, she creates her own little parade. Age 2–4 years.
Pippa at the Parade by Karen Roosa, Illustrated by Julie Fortenberry
Pippa loves sitting on her dad’s shoulders, watching the incredible parade passing by! There are gymnasts, musicians and even fireworks! Charming illustrations accompany this rhyming story about a girl’s celebratory day. Ages 2–4 years.
January is Walk Your Pet Month! Here are some books to read with a friendly family pet:
Please Take Me for a Walk by Susan Gal
A sweet pup really wants you, the reader, to take him out for a walk. He talks about going to the park, chasing squirrels and visiting the shops downtown. This interactive book puts the reader in the story as the dog’s best friend! Ages 3–7.
Walk the Dog by Bob Barner
Learn the ABCs with each different dog breed from A to Z. Vibrant collages fill the pages of this quirky alphabetical romp through the world of dogs! Ages 2 and up.
January 20 and 21 are National Bald Eagle Appreciation Days! Learn about the national animal of the U.S. with these books:
The Eagles Are Back by Jean Craighead George, Illustrated by Wendell Minor
Bald eagles were once very close to becoming extinct. Thankfully, with the help of many different people the eagles have made an amazing recovery. This beautiful story shows the importance of working together to conserve our natural environment and its animals. Ages 5–7.
Is a Bald Eagle Really Bald? by Martha E. H. Rustad, Illustrated by Holli Conger
Accompany Ms. Patel’s class as they discuss America’s national bird, the bald eagle. Learn about how these birds of prey live in the wild and why they have become an important symbol in American history. Ages 5–8 years.
