Paul Bunyan's Sweetheart

The newest tall tale in the Paul Bunyan collection, this is the story of how Paul falls in love with Lucette Diana Kensack from Hackensack (of course). Paul is so smitten that he will do anything to win Lucette's heart. However, Lucette has an unusual love test for him to pass first. Written by Marybeth Lorbiecki, illustrated by Renee' Graef, this is a wonderful addition to the Bunyan canon of tall tales.

Mud

We're having a January thaw today, and that makes me think of Spring. Spring makes me think of mud. For children, jumping in puddles and playing in mud is great fun! This book by Mary Lyn Ray, illustrated by Lauren Stringer depicts the sheer joy and ectasy of playing in the mud. In this simple picture book, children can follow a young boy as he enjoys the first mud puddles in Spring. What fun! It won the Minnesota Book Award for illustration in 1997.

A Library Story: Building a New Central Library

Readers will follow the action in the construction of the new Central Library in Minneapolis. Along the way are personal reflections by several people involved in the design and construction of the library, as well as numerous interesting facts about libraries in general. Written by Jennifer Vogel, it is an interesting introduction to a unique building.

If You Were Born a Kitten

This simple picture book by Minnesota author Marion Dane Bauer, describes how twelve baby animals come into the world, and what happens when a human baby is born. The large illustrations by Jo Ellen McAllister Stammen compliment each animals story and show the special bond between parents and babies. It works nicely for a first introduction to how babies are born.

A Hmong Family

This book, by Nora Murphy, describes the history and culture of the Hmong, a unique ethnic group from Southeast Asia. The book follows the story of the Vang family as they lived in the mountains of Laos, fought against the Pathet Lao, escaped as refugees to Thailand, and eventually emigrated as refugees to the United States, first in California and eventually settling in Minnesota. It also describes the daily life of the family here.

Lighthouse: Living in a Great Lakes Lighthouse 1910 to 1940

Readers will learn about the history of Split Rock Lighthouse on the shore of Lake Superior. The text and historical photos relate the daily lives and activities of lighthouse keepers and their families during the early 1900's. Sidebars include additional information and activities. Use this book to supplement Minnesota history units.

Pioneer Farm: Living on a Farm in the 1880's

City children may have little experience with life on a farm, but in this book they will be introduced to life on a pioneer farm. Photographed on the Oliver Kelley Farm in Elk River, Minnesota, this book describes a typical day on the farm, and includes such activities as feeding the animals, washing laundry, threshing grain, gardening, churning butter, and baking. Sidebars include additional information and activities. This is a nice supplement for Minnesota history units.