Do We Still Need Libraries? 10 Recommended Children’s Books for Early Learners

When did your child last visit their school library? Did you know the Singapore American School libraries are among the busiest in the world?

At Singapore American School, the high school library alone receives over 2,000 visitors per day; the middle school library receives 1,100 visitors each day; and the elementary library sees approximately 1,500 or more. While not every one of SAS’s 4,000+ students goes to the library each day, many students choose to visit the libraries two or more times each day.

At SAS, the belief is that school libraries must become laboratories where students and teachers alike can experiment with new technologies and informational sources. An open, honest broker to show us the best new tools for learning, problem-solving, innovation, and personal development. In 2020, a school library is the perfect setting to serve as a testing ground for new approaches to learning.

Says elementary school librarian Alison Cuthbert:

“Our libraries serve as community spaces on the SAS campus where everyone is welcome: students, parents, faculty, staff, alumni, and visitors. We strive to inspire, enhance, and support learning both at school and at home through an impressive lineup of print and online resources, as well as provide learning opportunities through a collaborative approach with librarians, ed tech coaches and other specialists.”

Want to learn more about how libraries can spark a love of reading and learning in your little one? Check out 10 recommended children’s books in the gallery above from librarian Alison Cuthbert at the SAS Elementary School Library. Even cooler, the authors/illustrators with an asterisk – many of them Caldecott and Newberry Medal winners! – have spent time at Singapore American School as academic visitors-in-residence, a signature program funded by the SAS PTA and SAS Foundation that provides up-close opportunities for students to work alongside and be inspired by award-winning authors and illustrators.

Singapore American School, 40 Woodlands Street 41, Singapore 738547, Tel: (+65) 6363 3403, www.sas.edu.sg

For ages 3+

Telling the story of a lighthouse and its keeper, this beautiful picture book is filled with stunning illustrations that families can pour over together.

Sophie Blackall has created a wonderful book that is sure to captivate and delight young readers!

Find it on Amazon

*Author/illustrator has visited SAS as an academic visitor-in-residence

For ages 3+

In It’s Okay to Be Different beloved author and illustrator Todd Parr reminds us to celebrate diversity.

The picture book delivers important messages of acceptance, understanding, and confidence to young readers.

Find it on Amazon

*Author/illustrator has visited SAS as an academic visitor-in-residence

For ages 3-8

A favorite book for beginning readers, a little yellow bird teaches Rocket the dog how to read.

Those beginning to read will enjoy following Rocket on his inspiring journey of learning the alphabet and reading accomplishments.

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*Author/illustrator has visited SAS as an academic visitor-in-residence

For ages 2+

A nearly wordless book that won the prestigious Caldecott Medal, Green is a simple yet wonderfully effective book with fascinating die cut-outs that transform as you turn the page.

Find it on Amazon

*Author/illustrator has visited SAS as an academic visitor-in-residence

For ages 4-8

This powerful wordless picture book provokes conversations about kindness and acceptance as it follows the actions of a little girl who inspires her community to stand up to bullying.

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For ages 6-9

Funny, adorable characters capture readers in this early reader graphic novel series.

Featuring three stories, this series showcases the joys of friendship and the power of working together.

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For ages 6-9

The first in a fantastic series of early chapter books featuring Jasmine Toguchi, a spunky Japanese-American girl.

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*Author/illustrator has visited SAS as an academic visitor-in-residence

For ages 6+

A funny, silly crossover fiction graphic novel that will engage your young reader’s imagination. Two boys build their dream treehouse and add 13 storeys with each new book.

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*Author/illustrator has visited SAS as an academic visitor-in-residence

For ages 7-11

Star Jumper: Journal of a Cardboard Genius is the first of a trilogy of early chapter books. Recommended for readers who love to create, tinker, and dream!

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For ages 9+

This Newberry Award-winning novel makes a great read aloud or independent reading for older children. Its themes of friendship, kindness, and hope are appealing to a wide audience. (NB: Some parents may feel that the book’s descriptions of violence are too graphic for children under 10).

Find it on Amazon