Lindsay

Christmas picture book advent: 24 books you’ll love

Posted on November 28, 2019 by Lindsay Books

One of my favorite Christmas traditions is reading a different Christmas picture book every night. My husband and I wrap up all our books a few days before December starts and put them under the tree, and then our kids take turns picking what they want to open.

After Christmas, all the books go back into the Christmas decoration box, so it makes it extra special to pull them out just once a year. Each year, I’ve been weeding out some of the more childish ones as my kids get older (Pete the Cat Saves Christmas didn’t make it, for example), and of course there are always some new books I love.

Whether you want to do a Christmas picture book advent or just want some great books to read with your children this season, I hope you find this list helpful! Here are 24 Christmas books to check out.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss. It’s a classic for a reason, and last I checked, it was only $9 for a sparkly hardcover on Amazon. My whole family loves this one and the classic cartoon.

When Santa Was a Baby by Linda Bailey. This cute book about what Santa was like as a kid (and how he ended up becoming Santa) has darling illustrations and a sweet story.

I Spy: Christmas by Walter Wick. What kid doesn’t like to find hidden pictures? This holiday-themed I Spy book is really fun to look at and has the most detailed photographs. It’s also the only I Spy book we own (why, I don’t know), so it’s extra-special when we pull it out for Christmas.

The Christmas Train by Thomas S. Monson. A retold story from my church’s former president, this sweet tale about a boy who is reluctant to share with another boy in need has become a favorite in our home. My son loves trains, so he particularly likes the illustrations of the electric train.

The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg. The illustrations make this story absolutely magical. I always hoped that a train would come pick me up as a child on Christmas Eve, and jingle bells remind me of this beautiful book. Also, we always skip the movie. Tom Hanks’ multiple characters were a bit too kooky for me.

Red and Lulu by Matt Tavares. I seriously stopped in my tracks when I read this gorgeous book for the first time. It’s about two birds who end up finding each other again after their tree is cut down to be used as the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree in New York City. The illustrations are stunning.

The Christmas Wish by Lori Evert. My dad served a mission for our church in Norway 40 years ago, and my family has long had an appreciation for Nordic culture and Christmas traditions. This story is told through amazing photographs of a little girl and her reindeer and always makes me want to live in Norway.

A Pirate’s Night Before Christmas by Philip Yates. A friend recommended this book last year, and I immediately bought it after we checked it out from the library. It is SO GOOD. The rhyming text is spot-on, and you’ll love seeing what the pirates hope Santa will bring them for Christmas. Bonus: You have to read this in a pirate voice. The text just begs it.

The 12 Sleighs of Christmas by Sherri Duskey Rinker. If you have a vehicle-lover in your home, you’ll love this book by the author of Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site. Santa’s sleigh is broken, so his elves come up with lots of different designs for a new sleigh. My son adores this book.

Pick a Pine Tree by Patricia Toht. I love this cute book about a family that picks out their Christmas tree together and then decorates it. The rhyming text is fun, and the illustrations are just beautiful. This author and illustrator also collaborated on my new favorite Halloween book, Pick a Pumpkin.

The Berenstain Bears Meet Santa Bear by Stan and Jan Berenstain. I grew up reading this one and still love it. Sister Bear is concerned about how Santa Bear will get down their chimney and how many gifts she should ask for. In the end, she learns that Christmas is about giving, not receiving.

Mr. Willowby’s Christmas Tree by Robert Barry . This is one of my favorites! When the Christmas tree is too tall for Mr. Willowby’s home, the butler chops it off and a bunch of people and animals keep chopping off the top of the tree to make it fit in their own homes. It’s a classic you’ll want to own.

Santa Claus: The World’s Number One Toy Expert by Marla Frazee. I absolutely adore Marla Frazee’s illustrations, and this book is darling. It explains how Santa picks out toys for all the kids and delivers them. Such a sweet book!

The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey by Susan Wojciechowski. If you have small children (probably younger than 4), you may want to wait to read this one to them, since it requires a longer attention span. It’s about a gruff carpenter who makes friends with a widow and her young son and begins carving a nativity for them. The pictures are beautiful, and the story is such a great reminder about why we celebrate Christmas.

Construction Site on Christmas Night by Sherri Duskey Rinker. Clearly we are big fans of this author, since this is the second book by her on the list. My son just loves all things tractors and trucks, and the rhyming text and fun illustrations make this a great one. All of the trucks and tractors work together to build a new home for the fire engines before Christmas.

Llama Llama Holiday Drama by Anna Dewdney. I love all of the Llama Llama books, but this one is such a great way to talk to kids about having patience while they wait for Christmas to come — and a gentle reminder to parents that the holidays can be overwhelming for little ones.

The Night Before Christmas illustrated by P.J. Lynch. You can find a bunch of different versions of this classic poem, but I immediately bought this one from our local bookstore when I saw that P.J. Lynch illustrated it. He also illustrated The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey listed above, and I love his work.

The Little Reindeer by Nicola Killen. We LOVE all of Nicola Killen’s animal friend books (we also have her Easter and Halloween stories), and this one has beautiful illustrations and a cute story about finding a lost reindeer in the woods. Bonus: The pages have foil, and there are cut-outs!

Snowmen at Christmas by Caralyn Buehner. I wish snowmen really did come alive and have parties at night the way they do in this book (and the other ones in the series). The illustrations make it look so fun!

The Berenstain Bears’ Christmas Tree by Stan and Jan Berenstain. There is actually an updated version of this book that apparently isn’t as good as the original, so make sure you buy/check out the one published in 1980. In this story, Papa and the cubs go out to find the perfect Christmas tree in the woods, even though Mama suggested they just get a tree from the nearby lot. It ends up snowing and they come back empty-handed, only to find that there are no Christmas trees left. Luckily, all the woodland creatures have banded together and decorated their treehouse for Christmas to say thank you for not cutting down the trees where they live.

The Princess and the Christmas Rescue by Caryl Hart. All of Caryl Hart’s books are cute, and I love the message of friendship and acceptance in this one. Princess Eliza is bored all alone in her castle, and then she stumbles upon the elves, who are backed up and not going to get the Christmas gifts out in time. She figures out faster ways of making the toys and makes a bunch of new friends in the process.

The Day Santa Stopped Believing in Harold by Maureen Fergus. This is an off-beat Christmas book about how Santa and a boy named Harold stop believing the other exists. On Christmas morning, however, they both get the surprise of their lives. This story is so funny and charming at the same time!

Silent Night by Lara Hawthorne. If you want a peaceful book that reminds you of Christ’s birth, this is it. Lara Hawthorne’s gorgeous illustrations perfectly complement the lyrics from the hymn “Silent Night,” and you’ll finish this book with more appreciation for Mary and Joseph. I just discovered Lara Hawthorne also illustrated Twelve Days of Christmas. I’m adding that to our collection.

The Nutcracker illustrated by Valeria Docampo. I wanted a whimsical, pretty version of this classic story for my little kids, and this one fits the bill. My daughter and I have begun going to the Nutcracker ballet each year, too, so I love to read this before we go.

Your turn! What are your favorite Christmas books? Do you do a Christmas picture book advent?

The personal style book you should read + why I care so much about children’s clothes

Posted on November 24, 2019 by Lindsay Books Life

It’s no secret that I love children’s clothes. In fact, one of my favorite parts of the week is getting my kids dressed up for church and then taking a picture of them on our front porch. It’s been fun to see them grow over the four years since we bought our home, and it’s also been fun for me to search for classic children’s clothes I can pass on to other families when my kids outgrow them.

While it may seem superficial to worry so much about the clothes your kids wear, I think it is SO important to teach your kids how to pick out flattering clothes and get a sense of style. Here are a few reasons I focus on this every week:

It gives your kids confidence. The way you dress sends a big message, even when you’re a kid, and you can’t start teaching them this too early. I know I’ve found a dress my daughter loves when her eyes light up and she doesn’t want to take it off right after church. I am also trying to be careful about not praising my kids’ appearance (things like “You look so pretty in that dress”) and instead saying things like “That dress is fun to twirl in!” or “That bow tie works well with your sweater.” I want my kids to feel confident and then forget about what they’re wearing and participate in whatever they want to do.

It helps your kids understand how to put outfits together. The other day, my son walked outside wearing his orange jack-o-lantern shirt and a pair of pale orange shorts because he thought the colors should go together. I will admit that I asked him to put on different pants, mainly because it was way too cold outside for shorts, but also because I wanted to teach him that the outfit didn’t really work. I think there’s a gentle way you can explain how colors coordinate and why it usually doesn’t work to wear a striped shirt with checkered shorts. Sure, it’s fun to see what kids come up with, and it doesn’t matter if they wear two shades of orange. For me, though, it’s a chance to set my kids up for success later by teaching them to put together more flattering outfits.

It teaches your kids to try new things. Several friends have asked me how I get my son to wear bow ties or my daughter to wear my jeans, because their kids only want to wear casual clothes. Honestly, I have been dressing my kids in dressier clothes since they were babies, so they don’t know anything different. I also expect them to wear nice clothes to church, and they know that. I do try to make dressing up more fun and personal by picking patterned button-ups and colorful bow ties for my son to pick from and twirly dresses, colorful tights, and velvet hair bows for my daughter. If you want your kids to dress a certain way or try something other than leggings, start early. And if you can’t start early, show them by example. Buy yourself a flattering new dress, or get your husband a new tie and show them that trying new clothes can be fun.

Now for the book you should read: The Curated Closet by Anuschka Rees. I read this several years ago, but I think about it often when I’m deciding whether to buy new clothes. It’s all about getting rid of clothes that don’t work for you and creating a wardrobe with just a few pieces that go together. I’m actually thinking I should check this out again for a refresher, because it has some great tips about determining your personal style.

I used to go through phases where I hated everything in my closet and wanted to get rid of everything. Honestly, I still have moments like that, but they’re much less frequent because I’ve figured out the types of clothes that work for me thanks to suggestions from this book. I also have completely stopped buying cheap shoes, because I’m tired of them falling apart so quickly or hurting my feet (another sign that I am getting old).

AND the best part of this book is that it teaches you to be realistic about your lifestyle and then buy clothes that fit that. I don’t own any heels because I’m only wearing dressy shoes to church or occasionally to fancier events (and I’m tall AND they hurt my feet). I also have been investing more in comfy, well-made tees because I work from home most of the time and don’t have to dress up for the office. When you really think about the clothes you need and why you’re buying them, it helps you cut back and buy only clothes you’ll really wear and love.

Do you have any favorite books about personal style? I want to hear! I’m especially interested in books about children’s clothing styles. It seems so fun to read about.

8 great books made into fantastic movies

Posted on November 21, 2019 by Lindsay Books

Winter is approaching quickly, and one of my favorite things to do when it’s cold is snuggle up on the couch with a blanket and a good movie — and it’s even better when that movie is based on a cherished book.

I will admit that the book is usually better. There are some things you just can’t capture in a film (like poetic phrases), or you imagine characters in a certain way and are disappointed by the people they cast. Sometimes, though, the movie is just as good as the book! Here are a few of my favorite books made into movies.

Little Women. I often get the itch to reread this classic during the winter, but it really works for all seasons since it encompasses several years of a family’s trials during the Civil War. I have seen several movie versions, and I have to say that the 1994 Winona Ryder film is the most true to the book. I LOVE this movie. Who can compete with Christian Bale as Laurie? I’m also looking forward to the new version coming out this Christmas with Emma Watson. Do yourself a favor and read the book and watch one of the films this winter.

The Help. Yes, Octavia Spencer won an Oscar for her role as Minny in this film (and she definitely deserved it), so you already know that this is a good one. I’m laughing just thinking about the part where Minny bakes the pie. However, the book by Kathryn Stockett is just as good. I loved this story about African-American maids in Mississippi in the 1960s, and it’s the perfect blend of human rights, feminism, and family. I highly recommend it to everyone!

The Book Thief. This book has been in my top 10 ever since I read it in college. Death narrates the story about a little girl named Liesl living in Nazi Germany with her foster parents after the rest of her family dies. The language and descriptions in this novel are so amazing, and I was worried that the film wouldn’t be as memorable. I was wrong. Geoffrey Rush is so great in this movie, and the kids who play Liesl and Rudy are perfect. If you haven’t read this book, know that it is REALLY sad, so maybe don’t watch it on Christmas if you’re looking for something happy.

To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before. I flew through this entire young adult series about a teen who writes love letters to guys she used to love as a way of dealing with her feelings — and then her sister mails them out without her knowing. The books have some strong language and some allusions to sex, so know that going in (I probably would be cautious about having teens read these, even though they are YA), but they are SO GOOD. The Netflix movie of the same name was also really well done, and I ended up being pleasantly surprised.

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. In this case — gasp — I think the movie is actually better than the book. I read it years ago and remembered liking it but not thinking it was worth all the hype. Then I watched the Netflix movie when it came out and fell in LOVE with Dawsey and Juliet all over again, so I reread the book. I finally realized that the original author got sick before finishing the book, so her niece finished the rewrites. I can totally tell where the old story ended, because the ending fell so flat. So. Read the book, but then watch the movie for a much more satisfying ending.

Me Before You. I absolutely adored this book (actually, the whole series is great) about a woman who’s hired to help care for a quadriplegic man and discovers he doesn’t want to live anymore. I know the ending is controversial, so I was surprised when they made the movie, but I love it just as much as the book. Casting Emilia Clarke as Lou was the PERFECT choice, because she can play the quirky, joyful character so well. This is another sad movie (so don’t watch it on Christmas), but it’s so well-done and funny at the same time. I recommend reading the book first, though!

The Perks of Being a Wallflower. Confession: I actually read this book after I saw the movie, but the movie was so captivating that I knew I needed to read the book. This is a quick read, but the movie does it justice. There’s some language and mature scenes in both the book and the movie, so proceed with caution, but I think this story is a fantastic way to talk to older teens about abuse and about the importance of having good friends and being kind to everyone. Plus, Emma Watson really shines in this role.

The Fault in our Stars. My friends were joking a few weeks ago that I only read sad books, and looking at this list you would probably agree with them. This young adult novel focuses on two teens battling terminal cancer (though one is in remission) who fall in love and take a trip to Amsterdam to find out what a beloved writer really meant in his book. That is WAY oversimplifying it, but I loved this book and also loved the movie. As with the other YA books/movies on this list, there is some language and mature scenes, so use your judgment (and don’t watch it with little kids in the room). As a cancer survivor myself, I really appreciated that this book is a realistic view of how teen cancer victims feel. We don’t want to be called a “hero,” and all we want is to be treated normally (though this rarely happens). Watch this one with a box of tissues.

I am snuggled up with my blanket and ready to watch some new movies this winter. What are your favorite book adaptations?

8 Thanksgiving picture books you’ll love

Posted on November 15, 2019 by Lindsay Books

Ah, Thanksgiving. This is basically the only time of year when I eat pie, and you can bet I’m looking forward to it — and my mom’s famous marshmallow-topped yams.

While I’m all about celebrating holidays with themed books, I don’t ever remember reading Thanksgiving books as a kid and only read a few of them to my own kids last year. Therefore, we plowed through a ton of Thanksgiving books to find options that were fun (there are a lot of dumb turkey books out there), touched on gratitude, and explained the history of the holiday. I hope you and your family enjoy our Thanksgiving picks and can snag some from the library before the big day!

Giving Thanks: A Native American Good Morning Message by Chief Jake Swamp. This stunning book is written and illustrated by Native Americans and shares a traditional Thanksgiving address still given by the Iroquois at ceremonial events. It’s not technically about the Thanksgiving holiday as we know it, but it’s about giving gratitude to the earth for everything we have.

A Plump and Perky Turkey by Teresa Bateman. My kids and I laughed at this story about a smart turkey who outwits an entire town trying to find him and eat him for Thanksgiving. The illustrator gave the turkey the best facial expressions, and the rhyming text is fun to read aloud. I also just discovered that the author was born in the same city I was and that we attended the same college. How cool is that?

The Memory Cupboard: A Thanksgiving Story by Charlotte Herman. This sweet book is about a girl who accidentally breaks a family heirloom during Thanksgiving dinner at her grandma’s house. Instead of scolding her, Grandma teaches her that family is most important. We loved this one!

Balloons over Broadway: The True Story of the Puppeteer of Macy’s Parade by Melissa Sweet. If you buy just one Thanksgiving book this year, make it this one. We read it last year, and I can still remember the bright, colorful illustrations and the amazing story of the puppeteer who started the tradition of giant balloons in the Thanksgiving Day parade.

One Little, Two Little, Three Little Pilgrims by B.G. Hennessy. This is a counting book geared to younger kids, but older kids will have fun listening to it, too. My 5-year-olds really liked the illustrations and the rhythm of the text (I sang it to the tune of “Ten Little Indians,” but you could just read it). It describes life for both the pilgrims and the Wampanoag tribe in a simple way that kids can understand.

Apple Cake: A Gratitude by Dawn Casey. You could read this book anytime, but I think it’s perfect for fall and Thanksgiving. A little girl says thank you for lots of different things, like farmers, eggs and milk, and the illustrations are adorable. At the end, you discover she is thankful for all the ingredients that go into an apple cake, and then there’s a recipe on the back page. This book was absolutely darling!

Sarah Gives Thanks: How Thanksgiving Became a National Holiday by Mike Allegra. There’s actually another book about Sarah Hale called Thank You, Sarah: The Woman Who Saved Thanksgiving that is great, too, but I preferred this one because it offered more insights into Sarah’s life and the illustrations were more accessible for younger kids. It explains how it took 38 years for Sarah Hale to get the president to make Thanksgiving an official holiday. There are a lot of interesting details here!

I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Pie by Alison Jackson. The illustrations and fun rhyme and rhythm make this book a winner. I even found myself chuckling as the old lady swallowed a giant cooking pot after turkey, pie, cider, and other various Thanksgiving foods. The “swallowed a fly” books are not always my favorite, but this one is hilarious.

Share your favorite Thanksgiving books with me! I’m on the hunt for even more great options for this season.

The book that changed my life (and five ways to generate less waste)

Posted on November 9, 2019 by Lindsay Books Life

About a week ago, I learned that our city and several surrounding areas would no longer be accepting anything but plastic bottles, corrugated cardboard, and metal food cans for recycling. Over the past few years, I’ve been very dedicated to recycling whatever I can and reducing our waste in other ways, so this was a huge blow.

You may have heard people say recycling is dead. This is because it’s incredibly expensive to recycle here, so the U.S. was shipping recycling to China — and China has now decided not to accept most of it, since it is often contaminated with food and other items that can’t be recycled. While I still think it’s valuable to recycle IF you are recycling the right things and not causing more problems, it’s becoming harder and harder to do that.

What you CAN do is reduce your waste entirely. Almost three years ago, I read a book that literally changed my life: Zero Waste Home: The Ultimate Guide to Simplifying Your Life by Reducing Your Waste by Bea Johnson. This woman and her family have found ways to reduce their household waste to just a liter-sized bottle each year.

Before you roll your eyes and say that this is impossible, know that I was the same way. I remember finishing this book right before Christmas in 2016 and thinking about how everything comes in plastic and that there was no way I could make my own food from scratch constantly or bring a glass jar to the store to get ice cream to avoid a cardboard carton (which is one thing Johnson does).

Bea Johnson does have a big advantage: She lives in California within biking distance of farmers’ markets and small grocery stores that offer organic produce, and she’s also a stay-at-home parent who has time to make lots of foods and products (including makeup) on her own to avoid packaging. It’s completely unrealistic to make everything or assume that the homemade version is better than the manufactured product. I would be terrified to make my own makeup and hope it didn’t give me some crazy rash, and I despise cooking and do not want to make my own yogurt in an effort to reduce plastic waste.

So. Do I think everything in this book makes sense? Absolutely not. However, it made me completely rethink my buying and recycling habits and be more conscious of the waste my family creates. It also made me realize there are simple changes I can make to have a better impact on the environment and live a more minimalist life (which is what I was striving for anyway).

If you’re like me and want to make small, sustainable changes, keep reading. I’ve shared how I try to live minimally on social media before, but here are five different ways I’ve begun reducing my family’s waste:

Buy secondhand. Sadly, I used to be a lot better at this when my kids were babies, but it seems fewer people donate older kids’ clothes to the yard sales and consignment stores I frequent. I had a hard time finding jeans for two 5-year-olds this year and ended up buying most of them brand-new. However, I do sell most of my kids’ clothes at consignment sales every year to help other parents save money (and avoid buying brand-new where possible). I also try to buy toys from Facebook Marketplace or consignment sales, and I try to buy used books whenever possible.

Stop washing your hair so often. If you’d told my 16-year-old self I would only be washing my hair 2-3 times a week, I would have laughed in your face. But it’s actually healthier to wash your hair less, and you use much less shampoo and conditioner when you wash it only a few times a week. Also, since it takes forever for me to wash and condition my dry, curly hair, I spend only a fraction of the time I used to in the shower when I’m just scrubbing my body.

Invest in nicer-quality items. A few years ago when flash deal sites were all the rage, I found myself getting so excited about scoring a great deal on a shirt or a pair of sandals or a necklace. Then, of course, I’d get those shoes I paid $15 for and they would fall apart within a few months or start to look really scuffed or dirty within a few weeks of wearing them. I’d buy cheap jewelry and end up having to throw it away because the metal hurt my ears or started wearing away to reveal a green undertone. Even if you give this stuff to someone else or donate it to a shelter, pretty soon it ends up in the landfill because it’s not built to last. Over the past year, I’ve paid more attention to what items are made of, especially my shoes and clothes. I’m willing to spend a bit more for pieces that will last for years rather than filling my closet with trendy ones that instantly fall apart.

Avoid disposables wherever you can. One thing you’ll notice when you try to reduce your waste is how much we rely on single-use items everywhere. You go to a work event and the catering company has brought disposable silverware packaged, of course, in plastic you have to throw away. You go to a kid’s birthday party and eat everything on disposable plates. Even the breakfast at my kids’ school is handed out in disposable bags, and everything is in plastic. I get it. It’s much easier to throw things away than to clean a bunch of dishes (especially at a school). But you can control what you and your family waste. Start bringing reusable sporks with you and carrying a water bottle so you don’t have to buy plastic bottles or use disposable cups. Buy something you can eat with your hands, if possible, to avoid disposable silverware. Figure out ways to bring your own food or containers along. I even have a friend who carries a washable handkerchief to wipe his mouth with when eating so he doesn’t have to throw away a napkin. Even if you start small, you’ll notice you generate much less waste this way.

Borrow or do without items when possible. If you love to read and end up with shelves full of books you’ll never pick up again, start planning ahead so you can borrow new releases instead. Goodreads will often tell you when an author you’ve loved is releasing a new book, so you can search for the book on your library’s website and request it way in advance. You can also check Amazon for release dates or browse for new books coming out soon that sound interesting and reserve them at your library. Even better, use the Libby app to read ebooks or listen to audiobooks. They come right to your phone, so you don’t have to waste time and gas driving to the library — and the library also buys fewer hardcover copies if there’s less demand for them. Avoid buying an entirely new Halloween costume each year and figure out items you already have that can be repurposed. A black dress works for a witch costume. A brown leather jacket can work for an Amelia Earheart outfit. Get creative rather than buying something new each time.

I’ll occasionally share more ideas here as my family continues our quest to generate less waste, but this book really did change my life and continues to impact the way I think about my possessions every day. I’d love to hear about a book that changed your life, too!

10 amazing books you need to read this fall

Posted on October 30, 2019 by Lindsay Books

Do you associate certain books with different seasons? I feel like summer is the time for romance or more lighthearted reads, but by the time fall and winter roll around, I’m in the mood for mysteries and classics and stories set late in the year.

If you’re like me and want to curl up with a good book when it’s cold outside (it already dipped below 20 degrees here this morning!), read on for a few of my favorite novels for fall.

The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare. This was my all-time favorite book as a kid, and I reread it again last year and loved it just as much. If you’ve never read this, it’s the story of a teen girl named Kit sent to live with her rigid Puritan family in colonial Connecticut. When Kit befriends a lonely Quaker woman believed to be a witch, she risks her own reputation. Seriously, you need to read this (or reread it).

Tuesdays With Morrie by Mitch Albom. You can read it anytime, but I often get the urge to reread this memoir about the author and his favorite college professor during the fall when school has begun again. It’s also just an amazing story about a man in the autumn of his life if you want another reason to pick this one up. P.S. Listen to the audiobook to hear actual clips from Mitch Albom’s interviews with Morrie.

Dracula by Bram Stoker. I think one reason I have a hard time with Twilight and similar vampire books and TV shows is because I read Dracula first. It’s absolutely terrifying (in the best way), and I can’t ever see vampires as appealing. If you’ve never read this classic, make time for it this fall. I also noticed that there’s an audiobook narrated by Tim Curry, so I’m going to check that out immediately.

The Hound of the Baskervilles by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. I have no shame in admitting that I read this purely as a result of seeing the synopsis on the PBS show Wishbone as a kid. Anyone else remember that show? Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson investigate the murder of Sir Charles Baskerville, who supposedly died of a heart attack — but his friend thinks he died of fright thanks to a family curse that involves giant bloodhounds. This novel is really short and totally worth reading. Maybe read it during the daytime, though.

The Witches by Roald Dahl. I read this out loud one afternoon to my youngest brother when we were kids, and we laughed and laughed. This classic story about a little boy who accidentally attends a witch meeting and learns about their diabolical scheme is perfect for fall and Halloween. Yes, this is a kids’ book, but you’ll love the humor and Roald Dahl’s signature goofiness just as much as an adult.

The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield. This is one of the best mysteries I’ve ever read. A young biographer named Margaret is chosen to write a biography for the famous writer Vida Winter, who has finally decided to reveal secrets from her own life. Margaret and Vida’s stories become intertwined, and you will have a hard time putting this book down.

The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi. I read this when I was in middle school and have always loved it, and it just says fall to me. Thirteen-year-old Charlotte Doyle is traveling on a ship all alone (and is the only woman on board) and ends up in between a conflict with the sailors and the captain. You may have read this as a kid, but I promise it’s worth a reread.

The Princess Bride by William Goldman. I’m willing to bet you’ve seen the movie (and if you haven’t, go remedy that situation immediately), but have you read the book? It’s actually written by the same man who wrote the screenplay, so it has the same humor and great dialogue as the film. Plus, what more could you want for fall than a giant, rodents of unusual size, pirates, a princess, and a man in a black mask?

Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt. Somehow I never read this classic as a kid, but I actually felt it meant more when I read it as an adult last year. This story about Winnie, who accidentally discovers a well of water that gives those who drink it everlasting life, is so poignant and relevant even years after it was written. I love the themes of this book for fall.

Where The Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls. I had to end this list with a tearjerker like this one. Nothing says fall to me like a story about a boy’s love for his hunting dogs, even as tragedy occurs. I think my kids need to be a little older before I read this one to them, but I can’t wait to introduce them to Old Dan and Little Ann. This is such a wonderful book.

I’m always looking for new books to curl up with during the fall and winter. What are your favorites?

How to score children’s audiobooks under $2

Posted on October 23, 2019 by Lindsay Books

I recently professed my love for audiobooks and listed a few of my favorites for adults (with a few kids’ chapter books mixed in). Now, however, my kids have become completely obsessed with the audio versions of their favorite picture books and ask to listen to them ALL THE TIME in the car. Here’s a quick tutorial on buying books from Audible (you don’t’ have to subscribe!) and a list of our favorites — all under $2.

Buying individual books from Audible

You’ve all seen the commercials for Audible or have at least heard of it and know it’s an audiobook subscription service. What you might not know is that you can buy audiobooks from Audible without a subscription — or you can buy them individually without using your monthly credit.

Amazon owns Audible, so you can search Amazon for your favorite books and buy audiobooks directly through Amazon. When you look at a book product page, you’ll usually see hardcover, paperback, Kindle (ebook) or Audible versions. Click on the Audible version, and it’ll give you an individual price or allow you to use a credit if you’re an Audible member.

Once you buy your audiobook, just download the free Audible app, create an account (or sign in with your Amazon account), and all the audiobooks you’ve bought will appear in your library. Then you can download them straight to your phone and listen to them anywhere.

Bonus: If you have an Amazon Echo Dot, you can ask Alexa to play your audiobooks in any room! Grab the physical copy of the book (if you have it), plop your kids down on the couch, and let them flip through it while the book plays over the speaker. It’s a fantastic way to help your kids recognize the words and learn to read or just entertain them while they’re playing with something else.

Five favorite children’s audiobooks under $2

The Three Little Pigs by James Marshall. My kids have listened to this at least 20 times, and this is the first one they ask for in the car. If you only buy one book, buy this one. The narrator is fantastic and does an amazing wolf voice. He even wheezes convincingly when he’s trying to blow down the house. I laugh every time he says “Colossal!” Just buy this one. Trust me.

Miss Nelson is Missing by Harry Allard. If you haven’t read this classic about a teacher who teaches her class to behave by disguising herself as the evil Ms. Viola Swamp, you’re in for a treat. My kids always ask to listen to this one, and it’s fun to relive a book I loved as a child.

Caps for Sale by Esphyr Slobodkina. I don’t ever remember reading this one when I was little, but my kids have loved it ever since their teacher read it to them at preschool. If you’re not familiar with the story, a bunch of monkeys steal the caps from a peddler while he naps under a tree. He tricks them into giving them back when he realizes they imitate everything he does.

Red Riding Hood by James Marshall. Many of James Marshall’s books are really affordable on Audible, and this one is just as fun as The Three Little Pigs. The narrator is great, especially with Granny’s voice, and my kids love that Red Riding Hood and Granny jump back out of the wolf’s tummy when the woodcutter comes because the wolf “didn’t even bother to chew.”

Strega Nona by Tomie de Paola. I loved this book as a kid, and I’m delighted that this is also one of my kids’ favorites. The narrator does all the voices (the surprised nun voice always makes me laugh), and the Italian music playing in the background and bubbling sounds from the pasta pot make it even more special. We listen to this one a lot.

There are many other classic audiobooks available on Amazon/Audible, but these are the ones currently on repeat. They are absolutely worth the money, too. Where else can you spend $10 and get instructional entertainment for your kids that you’ll love, too?

Do you buy Audible audiobooks for your kids? I want to hear your favorites!

7 ways to protect your children from abuse

Posted on October 9, 2019 by Lindsay Life

I’m well aware that this is a blog about reading and writing, NOT a parenting forum. However, I’ve had a feeling for a few months now that I should share something very personal, and I’m hoping it may help someone else in a similar situation.

My oldest brother, just two years younger than me, was sexually abused as a child by a family friend. This is not my story to tell, so I won’t share more about that, but he has shared his own story publicly this year and has been open about the many ways it has affected him.

Twenty-plus years ago when this happened, we didn’t talk about abuse the way we do now. We didn’t have tons of online resources and opinions from psychologists and physicians about ways to prevent it and warning signs to look for. We didn’t have training sessions at church about keeping kids safe.

Abuse is absolutely devastating to everyone involved, and I unfortunately know far too many people who’ve also been abused or have family members suffering from its effects. I worry about my own children, and I worry about the children they go to school and church with.

If you’re like me, though, preparing your kids for lots of situations can ease your mind. Here are some suggestions for preventing child abuse.

Use the real names for body parts and discuss them without embarrassment

There was a time in my life when someone said the word “penis” and it made me blush — and I’m willing to hazard a guess that some of you still feel that way. It’s time to get over the fear of using the proper anatomical terms, especially with your kids. My husband and I have used the real names for our boy/girl twins’ genitals since they were potty training. As a result, they are comfortable telling us if certain body parts are itchy or sore. One day, my then-4-year-old son told me I was squishing his penis when I buckled him into his car seat, and I immediately adjusted it!

Is it weird to hear little kids using the proper names for private body parts? Maybe at first it will be, but it helps your kids be comfortable with their bodies and comfortable explaining EXACTLY what they’re feeling. It also normalizes discussions about how the body works.

Don’t force your kids to hug or touch other people

I am a HUGE believer that you are in control of your body and that it will tell you when something is wrong. Kids can sense tension and may feel uncomfortable around certain people for a reason, or they may just be feeling shy at the moment. No matter what’s going on, make sure your kids know they don’t have to give a relative a hug or kiss goodbye. Teach them to be in tune with their feelings, and don’t force them to offer physical touch — even if YOU want a hug from them or someone else expects it.

I do always makes sure my kids say hello or goodbye when someone is leaving, but I let them decide whether they want to offer a hug. If they don’t want to, I don’t force it or say anything more.

Trust your own intuition

Just like with your kids, pay attention to your gut reactions. If you have a bad feeling about someone or something just feels strange when they’re around, get out of the situation. Don’t let them take care of your kids or touch them or even talk to them if you don’t feel comfortable. Mom intuition is a real thing (and I’m not a dad, but I’m sure that’s a thing, too).

If this person is a teacher or you’re in another situation where you can’t just pick up your kids and run out, stick around to see what happens. If you still have a bad feeling after staying with your kids for a while, trust yourself and figure out a new teacher or place for your family.

Make sure your kids know they can tell you anything

I have two 5-year-olds, so obviously I have not yet encountered the junior high/high school phase where kids become sullen and refuse to talk to their parents. I’m not sure what I’ll do at that point. However, I have tried to be better at spending one-on-one time with my kids and making sure they know I notice the things that make THEM unique. I’m also working on more open-ended questions to get them to talk. Instead of saying “How was school?” I’ll ask “What was your favorite part of school today?” My cousin asks her kids to share “roses” and “thorns” every night before bed, and I like this idea for opening up dialogue, too.

I think the biggest way to make sure your kids are comfortable talking to you is hiding your embarrassment or annoyance or judgment and just listening. Sometimes kids (and adults) don’t want advice. They just want to talk about something and know you won’t get upset with them or try to solve their problem. I lose patience easily (especially at bedtime), so I’m working on this one.

Watch what your kids are doing with their phones and tablets

I know this is a controversial topic because parents want to be connected to their kids and make sure they can contact them in an emergency. I do have a really strict stance on electronics in my home, though. My kids never get to play with my phone, and they never watch anything online without my husband or me showing it to them.

Do I want to give my kids independence online? Absolutely! However, my kids are too young to know how to safely use a phone or tablet and not come across disturbing images or accidentally pull up the wrong site. This is a separate discussion and one you can find tons of better resources on, but I absolutely believe that pornography is connected to child abuse. Even little kids who see explicit images can become confused about their bodies, and adults can use these images to manipulate and abuse children.

Your kids WILL see things you don’t want them to see. I know this will happen to my own kids within a few years. But I can talk to them about online safety, keep an eye on what they’re doing, and protect them as best I can.

Teach your kids positive body image and respect for others’ bodies

I grew up in a culture that focused WAY too much on dress and appearance, especially for women. Leaders of my church wrongly taught girls that they needed to cover up because “the boys can’t control themselves” or “they’ll get the wrong idea about you.” This kind of thinking perpetuates abuse, and it needs to stop. Men and women are both in control of their bodies and their thoughts. It is NEVER OK to justify abuse based on the way someone was dressed or the way they looked.

I believe the way you dress sends a loud message. However, I’m focusing on teaching my kids to dress in a way that flatters their bodies, makes them feel confident, and lets them be comfortable running and playing. I also want to teach them that all shapes, sizes, and colors are beautiful.

Have difficult conversations with your kids early

Andrew and I decided way before our kids were born that we would talk to them early about sex. Right before they started kindergarten, I checked out It’s Not the Stork! A Book About Girls, Boys, Babies, Bodies, Families and Friends from the library and read it with my kids. It was a fantastic introduction to the differences between boys and girls, human anatomy, and an age-appropriate explanation of where babies come from.

While my kids are really young, I still think it’s important to answer questions honestly as they come up and talk to them about how their bodies work and what will happen as they get older. I used to dread the “sex talk,” and honestly, I don’t anymore. Because I already use correct anatomical terms with my kids and they feel comfortable using them, I don’t feel embarrassed or awkward about explaining this to them. It feels like a natural extension of what we’ve always talked about.

This is a hard topic, but it’s one I think we need to talk about more often. Share your thoughts and ideas about protecting kids in the comments!

13 picture books for Halloween

Posted on October 2, 2019 by Lindsay Books

I enjoy Halloween, but I think I enjoy anticipating it more than I do the actual holiday. The decorations come out at the beginning of October (fall still has to have its time to shine), the playlist of spooky songs is on repeat, and I started a tradition of reading 13 picture books to my kids to celebrate Halloween.

Some of these books actually stay on our shelves year-round because they’re not Halloween-specific, while others get tucked away in the bin on November 1 to enjoy the next year. You can start early in the month on your countdown or do it more as an advent with just 13 days left until Halloween. No matter how you do it, these picture books will help you get in the mood for Oct. 31. I wrote this post later with even MORE Halloween books!

Pick a Pumpkin by Patricia Toht

This book was released in July, and I actually preordered it and got it then because I just KNEW it would be good, thanks to her first book Pick a Pine Tree (also with illustrator Jarvis). It did not disappoint. The story follows a family who picks out pumpkins at a pumpkin patch, carves them into jack-o-lanterns, and then dresses up for Halloween. The illustrations are stunning, and I love the diversity of skin tones in this book! This one would look so pretty displayed on a themed book shelf for the season.

The Berenstain Bears Trick or Treat by Stan and Jan Berenstain

You probably read this as a kid, along with all the other books in the series, but this Berenstain Bears book was always one of my favorites. Brother and Sister Bear dress up and go trick-or-treating with their friends, but they’re afraid to go to Old Miz McGrizz’s home because of the rumors about her. It ends with a message about how appearances can be deceiving. While I don’t think I’d ever let my kids trick-or-treat on their own, I still think this is a classic (and my kids love it, too).

Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson

The same duo that created The Gruffalo (which I LOVE) is responsible for this fun rhyming story about a witch who keeps losing things while she’s flying, like her hairbow, her hat, and her wand. Animals help her find them when she lands, and then they keep climbing aboard her broom for a ride. There’s also a cute animated cartoon of this available on Amazon Prime, so if your kids like the book, they can watch it come to life on screen.

How to Make Friends with a Ghost by Rebecca Green

I just discovered this book a couple weeks ago, and it is delightful. Written in the same vein as Dragons Love Tacos or How to Give Your Cat a Bath: In Five Easy Steps, this faux self-help book explains how to make a ghost feel comfortable, what to feed it, how to take care of it, and what to do as you get older and your ghost stays the same. The illustrations are adorable, and I love that it takes something scary like a ghost and makes it seem like caring for a pet.

Snowmen at Halloween by Caralyn Buehner

If you’re familiar with the other Snowmen books, this one follows the same format. Some kids make snowmen when snow falls early before Halloween, and then the snowmen come to life and do crazy and fun things to celebrate the holiday together. It’s fun to look at these pictures with your kids and see the snowmen dressed up in costumes and bobbing for apples. Also, we own several of the Snowmen books, and I somehow missed the fact that there’s a mouse hidden on every page! Bonus: If you have school-age kids, this book is on sale right now in the book order.

Bonaparte Falls Apart by Margery Cuyler

Skeletons can’t be cute, right? Wrong! At least Bonaparte, the skeleton in this book, is absolutely adorable. He keeps falling apart and losing different bones (it sounds creepy, but I promise it’s not), and he’s worried about going to school for the first time. Luckily, his friends have some ideas about how to help him stay together.

The Biggest Pumpkin Ever by Steven Kroll

This author has several books like this one for holidays, but this story about two mice taking care of the same pumpkin is so sweet. One mouse wants to enter the pumpkin in a contest, while the other just wants to carve it into a giant jack-o-lantern for Halloween. They both carefully water the pumpkin, even giving it sugar water, and make sure it has the right soil, and neither knows the other one exists — until they discover each other putting blankets over the pumpkin to keep it warm.

Ghosts in the House! by Kazuno Kohara

I was blown away by this book when I first checked it out a few years ago. A witch moves into a haunted house, but she isn’t afraid of the ghosts living there. Instead, she finds creative ways to put the ghosts to use, like hanging one as a curtain, using another as a tablecloth, and putting one on the bed like a sheet. The entire book is orange and black with translucent white ghosts on the pages, and the color scheme just makes the story pop.

The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything by Linda Williams

When a little old lady goes out for a walk one night, she starts to hear strange noises and see various articles of clothing walking behind her. They all keep building on each other to create a sort of ghost/monster, but she is NOT afraid of it and has some tricks up her sleeve. This book has a great rhythm to it and is so fun to read out loud!

Sir Simon: Super Scarer by Cale Atkinson

This quirky book caught me off-guard when I checked it out last week, because I was NOT expecting it to be so funny! Simon, the ghost who narrates the story, explains that professional scarers have “ghost chores” they have to do, like flushing the toilet in the middle of the night, making floors creak, and slamming doors. Then, when a grandma and her grandson move into his house, he realizes he can enlist the boy’s help in doing some of his ghost chores. The illustrations and dialogue in this book are so great.

Ten Orange Pumpkins by Stephen Savage

While this is a basic counting book in which one pumpkin disappears in a different way on every page, the illustrations are so engaging that even parents will like this book. The numbers are bold throughout the book, and Savage uses bright colors and a minimalist style to bring the story to life. Your kids will be engaged by the rhymes and the pictures.

The Scariest Book Ever by Bob Shea

I will be honest and say that I’m not normally a Bob Shea fan, because his books are always too weird for me. However, I do like this one a lot. The ghost narrating the story is nervous about everything and warning you not to turn the page because any number of things might be waiting. Of course, when you turn the page, there are neon colors and charming woodland creatures, and treats and doughnuts. Also, the ghost spills orange juice on his white sheet, so then he’s translucent through the rest of the book, and I just love the texture and his facial expressions. This one is goofy, but give it a try.

What Was I Scared Of? by Dr. Seuss

Somehow I missed this classic Dr. Seuss book when I was a kid, but I still love it as an adult. The narrator is terrified by a pair of pants walking around with no one inside them, but the pants are ALSO afraid of him. Make sure to get the version with glow-in-the-dark pictures. The pants glow on every page when you shine a flashlight on them, and it’s so fun to look at the book with your kids.

Now it’s your turn! What are your favorite Halloween books? Do you read the same books to your kids each year?

How to download ebooks and audiobooks on the Libby app

Posted on September 27, 2019 by Lindsay Books

I have gushed about the Libby app before and how it changed my life, but it’s true! If you are serious about making more time for reading, this app will absolutely help you do that. Read on for more details about Libby, how to connect it to your libraries, and how to make the most of it.

What in the world is Libby?

Libby is an app that connects you to your local library’s collection of ebooks and electronic audiobooks. It’s a newer app released by Overdrive, the original electronic library app, and connects to the Overdrive collection — but I think Libby is more user-friendly. In a nutshell, Libby is a way to download books to your phone or tablet automatically without having to check out physical books or audiobooks from the library.

How do I connect Libby to my library?

First, download Libby from the app store. Once you open it, the app will ask if you have a library card. You’ll hit yes (unless you don’t have one, and then you’ll need to go to your local library to get one), and it will let you search for your library by zip code or guess your library based on your location. You’ll enter your library card number and your PIN (usually the last four digits of your phone number).

The cool thing about Libby is you can attach multiple cards to the app. For example, I have a card for my city library and another card for my county library system, so I’ve entered both in the app. I’m actually about to get a third library card for a separate library system, so I’ll enter those details when I have my new card.

Once you’ve connected to your library or libraries, simply search for a title. If your library has an ebook or electronic audiobook for that title, it’ll appear in the search results. Normal ebooks just have an image of the book; audiobooks have a headphone icon and say “audio” underneath.

If the book is available, you’ll tap Borrow and it’ll take you to another screen. This one shows how long the book will be available, which library you’re borrowing the book from (if you have multiple cards), and how many loans and holds you have left from that library.

If the book isn’t available, you can tap Place Hold. On the next screen, it once again shows you the library you’re borrowing the book from and the loans and holds you have left. It also gives you an estimated wait time for the book based on how many copies the library has and the number of people waiting for each copy.

Once you put the book on hold, you’ll get an email from the library when it’s available. When you open the Libby app, it’ll automatically download when you’re connected to wifi (or if you have data enabled).

Why is Libby so great?

I mean, isn’t it already great that you just download titles automatically to your phone or tablet without having to search for them at the library or carry around a hardcover? Here are some other reasons I love this app:

Books automatically return to the library when they’re due. You don’t have to worry about returning books or paying late fees if you can’t finish in time, because the book deletes itself from your device on its due date. You DO have to tap Renew Loan from your shelf if you won’t be able to finish, and you can’t renew if other people are waiting for the book. On the other hand, if you finish early, you can always tap Return early and delete it from your phone. I always do this so I can free up more space for loans.
You can have five loans and five holds at a time PER library. Now you know why I’m about to have three linked library cards in my Libby account. I almost always max out my holds for audiobooks, especially if they’re brand-new, so I like to have multiple library cards to increase my hold capacity. For example, right now I have holds on several audiobooks that were just released on one card and then holds for kid audiobooks we can listen to in the car on another card. We’re going on a trip next week, so I’m trying to have multiple audiobooks the whole family can listen to.
You can tell at a glance how long you have to wait for a book. Once you search for a title, you can tap the little calendar icon next to a book that isn’t available. It’ll give you the estimated wait time (the same one you’ll see when you tap Place Hold). If I have a trip next week and the estimated hold time is four weeks, I’m not going to waste my precious hold space with that book.
You can easily toggle between libraries to see which titles are available. While I love my city library, it doesn’t have nearly as many available ebooks and audiobooks as the county library system does. So if I search for a book there and get no results, I tap the little girl icon at the top right and switch to the other library and search for it there.
You can see all your recent searches. It’s the WORST when you’ve been dying to read a book and suddenly can’t remember the title when you want to see if it’s available. Libby saves all your recent searches, so you can just pick one from the dropdown that appears when you tap the magnifying glass at the top. If you scroll all the way to the bottom, you can tap Clear Recent Searches to start over, or you can swipe left on an individual title to remove it from your searches (which I always do if I’ve already checked out the book).
You can easily speed up your audiobooks. If you use Audible, you already know about this feature, but you can increase the listening speed by tapping the speedometer icon at the top once you’re listening to a book. I usually start at 1.5 speed and sometimes listen at 1.75 speed, but it depends on the narrator and the type of book. If you’re hesitant, just move it to 1.25 to start. It’s just slightly faster than the original narration, but it helps you get through the book faster — and once you listen at 1.5 speed or even 2X speed (this is rare for me), the original narration will seem SO slow to you.
You can skip back or forward in fifteen-second increments or skip to certain chapters. One of my favorite reading hacks is checking out a hardcover from the library and then getting the audiobook on Libby at the same time. That way I can listen to the book when I’m in the car or folding laundry or doing some other task, and then I can pick up the physical copy at night and read where I left off. I wouldn’t be able to do this if I couldn’t skip to certain chapters. To do this, you have to select the book and then tap it again. Icons at the top will appear, and you’ll tap the three lines in the top-right corner and tap Chapters. If I’m in the middle of a chapter, I use the 15-second increments to find the spot where I left off. You can also skip to different chapters in ebooks.
You can measure how much time you have left to read/listen to the book. When you’re listening to an audiobook, a ticker appears at the bottom that shows how many hours you’ve listened to and how much time you have left. If you’re reading an audiobook, it will show many pages you have left (note that these are electronic pages, NOT the number of pages in the physical book). Tap that section again and it shows how many pages are left in the chapter, and tap it again to see the percentage you’ve read. This really helps to motivate me if I see that I only have two pages left in the chapter or that I’ve already read 20% of the book.

Have I convinced you that this app is life-changing? It makes reading and listening to audiobooks so much easier! Leave any questions about this app in the comments — and fellow Libby gushers are always welcome, too. 🙂

Lindsay

Lindsay

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