For this week's Brainstorm I thought I would share some not-so-scary spider stories. Spiders aren't the favorite creatures of many people, but these spiders are kind, artsy, full of surprises (the good kind), and fascinating. Click the image or scan the barcode of each title to see my full summary and review of each including any content notes/trigger warnings.
The Brainstorm Mission: To help readers find books they will love. To get books off the shelves and into reading hands. To make teachers and parents aware of resources. To give teachers an “excuse” to use books by helping them brainstorm ways books will augment current studies. (But teachers, please use activity tie-in ideas wisely, and don’t use every idea for each book; let’s avoid book death by overkill and keep the love for books alive!)
Thursday, October 30, 2025
Thursday, October 16, 2025
Brainstorm 344: Glowing Reads
This week's Brainstorm features books about creatures and phenomena that glow. Click on the title to see my full review and thoughts on each book including content notes/trigger warnings or scan the QR code.
Mysterious Glowing Mammals: An Unexpected Discovery Sparks a Scientific Investigation by Maria Parrot-Ryan
The Science of Light by Margaret Peot
Thursday, October 2, 2025
Brainstorm 343: Hurricane/Typhoon/Cyclone Reads
There's stormy weather all over the world right now, so I've got some hurricane/stormy weather readers for you. Whether they help kids find home after the storm, provide a heartwarming read, or help reduce the fear by increasing understanding of what is happening, here are several options. Click on the images or scan the QR codes in the images to see my full review of each title including any content notes/trigger warnings.
















