I've created this book list of great crafty fiction for kids. These are not how-to books but stories that will inspire, inform, and entertain. If you have any favorites please list them in the comments for all to enjoy. Yea for summer! Yea for reading!
Pelle's New Suit
by Elsa Beskow (illustration pictured above) One of my all-time favorites. Pelle learns what it takes to create a new wool suit.
Warm As Wool by Scott Russell Sanders This is an historical-based story about a pioneer family in Ohio and how a small herd of sheep goes a long way in easing their hardships.
The Goat in the Rug
by Charles L. Blood A true story about best friends, Glenmae, a Navajo weaver, and her pet goat Geraldine. Glenmae weaves a rug from Geraldine's hair. Very cute illustrations and narrated by the goat.
The Quiltmaker's Gift by Jeff Brumbeau A modern fable about a talented and generous quiltmaker that teaches a greedy king about the gift of giving. Gorgeous illustrations by Gail De Marcken.
The Josefina Story Quilt by Eleanor Coerr A patchwork memory quilt eases the transition of a Westward-moving pioneer family and a young girl's attachment to her favorite pet. An I Can Read Book level 3.
The Keeping Quilt A quilt preserves the memories of multiple generations of Russian immigrants. A biographical story written and illustrated by the wonderful Patricia Polacco.
The Button Box by Margarette S. Reid A boy enjoys playing with his grandmother's button stash. Cute ideas to use with your own kids.
The Paper Crane by Molly Bang Magic happens after a restaurant owner is given a paper crane. Very cool illustrations created from a combination of collage and painting.
Yoko's Paper Cranes by Rosemary Wells Generations stay connected through the art of origami even though they are oceans apart. Incredible illustrations that make use of washi papers and gold leaf turn this book into a true feast for the eyes.
Ox-Cart Man by Donald Hall An early nineteenth-century family works on their crafts all year round then sells them at the market only to start the process all over again. A nice simple telling of the circle of seasons and wonderful illustrations by the fabulous Barbara Cooney.
The Chalkbox Kid by Clyde Robert Bulla This is a beginning chapter book but also a great read-aloud. A boy works out his anger and at the same time finds the artist within himself while creating a chalk garden in a burned-out factory.
I Am An Artist by Pat Lowery Collins A beautiful and delicately illustrated book describes how anyone is an artist when they look closely at the natural world around them.
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I don't own the following books but they looked like good ones from my search on Amazon:
Knitting Nell by Julie Jersild Roth A quiet girl that knits inspires everyone with her generosity.
Homeless Bird
by Gloria Whelan For older readers. A thirteen-year-old girl's experience within a traditional Indian culture and how embroidery helps her find her own independence and happiness.
Emma's Rug by Allen Say A story about how a young girl gets her artistic inspiration. If you aren't familiar with Allen Say's work then you are in for a real treat. His illustrations are the best!
Fairy Houses by Tracy L. Kane Fairy houses! Do I have to say more? I put this one in my cart :) Check out this website too.
