We are blasting off with a new summer reading program. This year's Collaborative Summer Library Program is a theme is a great one: "A universe of stories." The possibilities are endless and trying to pick one idea for programming becomes hard because there is so much to choose from. Sitting here in a cool office contemplating outdoor story times, deciding that perhaps at 91 degrees may be a bit too hot for little ones to stay still, and be comfortable without a water balloon or hose handy. (Needless to say, it would be better for a water-themed CSLP but we are digressing a bit here.) On cooler evenings, with everyone with their jammies, comfy slippers, and favorite stuffed animals there are magical stories to share about Stars. These books are perfect for star dreamers, wishers and catchers of all ages. Remember there are tons of great books out there to read to children on this topic. There is never enough room or time to list them all, but as stated previously these are gems that have stood the test of time.
Christie Matheson's Touch the Brightest Star is relatively new. It was published in 2015 and unlike the other books that will be listed later, this hasn't stood the test of time but it will. The book is perfect for engaging with little ones re you are reading with them. For example, the book opens up with the instruction for the reader to "wave good-bye to the sun's bright light." It is a magical interactive story that children will believe that they are able to have an effect on the outcomes described in the book. It's a show stealer or sealer. Whichever way you choose to use it.
Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star by Iza Trapani is awesome with its soft dreamy illustrations. Every child is either learning and knows this song's first stanza by heart. This is the perfect time to either sing along or read the book and do fingerplays for the song after the book is read. Perhaps the most enchanting illustration in the book is of the little girl swinging on the rings of Saturn as she enjoys the view of the planets. Children will love the book for the soothing rhythm. Adults love this book for a nostalgic reminder of the innocence of childhood Incorporating a fingerplay with this song seems natural and easy to fit in. However, if some children's librarian or parents are up to the challenge of teaching the song Twinkle Twinkle Little Star in American Sign Language it is a treat for kids.
The simply titled book Stars by Mary Lyn Ray and Marla Frazee is another goldmine that shines brightly on children's bookshelf. This book reminds readers that stars not only in the sky but come in all shapes and sizes. They are also everywhere. The author and illustrator work brilliantly together to begin and end with the same stary night. In between, they take the readers through scenic seasons and familiar feelings.
A little older title to use but loved just as much features a little book who is looking to catch his own star. Without giving up the ending, which is a happy one, the little boy finds that there is one special star to call his own. Oliver Jeffers' book How to Catch a Star is sweet, and just the right length for a perfect ending for storytime programming. (Hint: You may want to have a starfish handy for this story.)
To mix it up a little, add a book that is kind of related to stars but misses the mark just a little bit. It's fun to see the children reactions to this story because they may or may not realize this book is not like the others. They won't care because The Boy and The Moon written by James Christopher Carroll, is delightful and howling fun. the perfectly hued blue and silver illustrations are whimsical and the hero of the story is not only brave but adorable too!
The activities that can go along with this program are numerous. Along with teaching ASL to the children. Tossing little bean bags in the shape of a star is one to help them with coordination and of course catching a star of their own. (Look at the picture on Librarian At Large Facebook page to see the different colors and textures of the bean bags.) Invite children in sharing with the others which color star they caught and have them describe it. Is it bumpy? Shiny? Smooth? The bean bags are small and easy to handle. An added bonus if it hits the librarian in the face (which it has done on many occasions) no broken glasses or noses.
These are just a few ideas for a stary storytime and to kick off a stellar summer reading programs with the little tykes at your favorite library. Librarian at Large will be chasing her favorite star readers this summer and sharing many of her favorite books. Good luck to fellow librarians out there who are chasing their own stars in their library universe!
