Library Director Jenna Dauer reminisces about five memorable books from her childhood.
Giving Tree | Shel Silverstein
Summary: A young boy grows to manhood and old age experiencing the love and generosity of a tree which gives to him without thought of return.
Reminisce: I tested on this book for Accelerated Reader and I remember reviewing the story with my mom. The version I read was well-loved and just made me feel like I was holding something precious and important. It’s amazing how books can make you feel.
Are You My Mother? | P. D. Eastman
Summary: A little bird asks animals, planes, and boats, “Are you my mother?” until he finds his own mother.
Reminisce: I remember thinking how funny the homonyms were in this book. The crane pages were the most humorous to me.
Wacky Wednesday | Theo LeSieg (Dr. Seuss)
Summary: Drawings and verse count the many things that are wrong one wacky Wednesday.
Reminisce: This was the silliest book that I remember owning. I usually requested it at bedtime on a Wednesday, which I found to be extra fun.
The Foot Book | Dr. Seuss
Summary: Beginner’s text describes all sorts of feet doing all sorts of things.
Reminisce: This is the first book (and only) book that I memorized word for word, much to the delight of my uncle. (ha)
The Lady with the Alligator Purse | Nadine Bernard Westcott
Summary: The old jump rope/nonsense rhyme features an ailing young Tiny Tim.
Reminisce: The rhythm to this book is so fun and easy to learn. I remember liking the claw-foot tub. And the lady’s purse.