Just a quick one today.  I've got another great kid novel to pass along, or maybe you've already read it.  It's certainly not new but if you're new to kids' lit, then this is one you need to read. The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo is a novel I read several years ago for a class, and when I saw it in a Scholastic pamphlet, I had to buy it.  I read it to Elijah over several nights and we just finished it.  It's still as good as I remembered.  I'm always amazed at what will get Elijah's approval as a good read.  If he's not liking it -- we stop.  I was a bit disappointed when he didn't want to hear any more of The Wizard of Oz. Too weird and difficult, I think.  But, I keep pushing classics while Kenny is working in all the Lion, Witch and Wardrobe books.  I don't know how long he'll let us read to him at night, but I'll take it as long as I can.
    I compare Edward Tulane to the sweetness of The Velveteen Rabbit. Edward is an arrogant china rabbit, without any love in his china heart, who journeys from a child, to an elderly couple, to a hobo, to a scarecrow, to a sick girl and along the way, finds his heart.  It's sweet, tear-worthy, and really a great read-aloud.  This site will give much more depth than me.  Just wanted to pass it along.
    And if you know of any great ones, please share.
    Happy Reading!