Author Archives: Kristi Morefield

About Kristi Morefield

Teacher-Librarian at Chambers Prairie Elementary School in Lacey, WA.

Everyday Vietnamese by Kim Thompson

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Everyday Vietnamese offers a simple, friendly introduction to basic Vietnamese phrases for young learners, with bright illustrations that help give context to the vocabulary. The book is easy to follow and works well as an introductory cultural resource.

However, the content is very limited, and the phrases are presented without enough depth or explanation. Most importantly, nowhere in the book does the author include guidance on how to make the sounds of the Vietnamese words. Without pronunciation support or phonetic cues, young readers and educators may struggle to use the phrases accurately, which reduces the book’s effectiveness as a language-learning tool.

Overall, Everyday Vietnamese provides a visually appealing introduction but lacks the pronunciation support and contextual detail needed to fully support beginners.

Do Aliens Visit Earth? by Kevin Cunningham

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Do Aliens Visit Earth? is an accessible entry in the Into the Unknown series, aimed at curious young readers who love mysteries, science, and the possibility of life beyond our planet. The book attempts to strike a balance between scientific explanation and the thrill of the unexplained. The author introduces readers to UFO sightings, government investigations, and theories about extraterrestrial visitors. The book encourages critical thinking – rather than pushing a single viewpoint it lets readers decide what they believe. The photos, sidebars and quick fact boxes break up the text and keep readers engaged. It’s well-suited for middle-grade audiences who enjoy nonfiction packed with intriguing questions.

Some of the “Fast Facts” are not actual facts. For example, on page 23, the Fast Fact includes opinions from scientists about why we haven’t found intelligent life, but none of these statements are proven or supported by evidence. These are hypotheses, not facts, which makes the section misleading and weakens the book’s credibility.

The book lays out evidence through real-world reports and debunks common myths though at times the stories feel disconnected. The book jumps between ideas in a way that lacks cohesion. While including elements of non-fiction such as table of contents, glossary, and index, readers may find the layout of the chapters confusing.

Tell My Why Series

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The Tell Me Why series invites young readers to stay curious about the everyday wonders of the world. In Set Two, students explore fascinating questions about food and science—like how we taste different flavors and what makes a cake rise.

With lively text, colorful photos, and playful illustrations, these books make complex ideas easy to understand and fun to explore. The engaging question-and-answer format encourages inquiry-based learning and supports classroom discussions in science, reading, and critical thinking. Ideal for grades 2–5, this series is a great choice for classroom libraries and STEM lessons, helping students see that learning starts with one simple question—why?

Jump!’s Digital Wellness Series

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The Digital Wellness series from Jump! helps young readers learn how to stay safe, smart, and balanced when using technology and the internet. Each book introduces an important topic—like identifying false information online, practicing kindness on social media, and keeping personal information private—through clear, leveled text that’s accessible for students as young as 2nd grade.

With colorful photos, SEL connections, and hands-on activities such as Grow with Goals and Try This!, these books encourage reflection and real-world application. Each title also includes a glossary, index, and tips for educators and caregivers. Perfect for grades 2–5, this series is a worthwhile addition to any classroom or library collection for teaching digital citizenship, media literacy, and overall digital wellness.

Smoosh’s Super-Duper-Fun Day by Michael Slack

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Smoosh's Super-Duper-Fun Day: Ready-to-Read Level 2

Join best friends Smoosh and Mallow, two adventurous aliens, as they discover a fun amusement park in this Level 2 Ready-to-Read. When they find one of the roller coasters is closed, they don’t let it stop the fun! This easy-to-read, entertaining story encourages early readers to keep going, enjoy humor, and engage with imaginative adventures. Perfect for guided reading and independent practice for emerging readers.

The Tunneler Tunnels in the Tunnel by Michael Rex

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The Tunneler Tunnels in the Tunnel: Ready-to-Read Level 1

This Level 1 Ready-to-Read story takes readers on an underground adventure with a mysterious tunneler. The Tunneler digs in the tunnel but where he is going and why isn’t revealed until the end. This easy to read story keeps early readers engaged with a surprise ending the sparks curiosity and discussion. Perfect for guided reading and independent practice for emerging readers.

Where the Deer Slip Through by Katey Howes

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Where the Deer Slip Through

Follow a day on a woodland farm as animals slip through a gap in the hedge, bringing the farm to life. Told in a repeating, cumulative style, the story introduces woodland animals familiar to the Pacific Northwest. Beth Krommes’ stunning scratchboard illustrations capture every detail of the animals and the landscape, making this book perfect for read-alouds, nature-themed lessons, and library collections.

The Richest Cow in the World by Barroux

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The Richest Cow in the World

In this delightful fable, Cow enjoys relaxing under her apple tree, watching clouds and listening to the wind. But Pig has a grand plan: sell the apples, make pies and applesauce, plant more trees, and maybe even start a huge food company! Cow listens patiently but instead of chasing fame and fortune, she has her own idea of what truly matters.

With simple, humorous watercolor illustrations, this charming picture book offers a modern take on the classic story about happiness and contentment. It’s a perfect read-aloud for classrooms and libraries, and it encourages discussions about money, career goals, critical thinking, and what really makes life meaningful.

The Pink Pajamas by Charlene Chua

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The Pink Pajamas: A Story About Love and Loss

Charlene Chua tells a gentle, heartfelt story about love, loss, and remembering someone special. A young girl honors her aunt, Ah Yi, by wearing the pink pajamas her aunt sewed just for her. Ah Yi shows love through her sewing, making soft, perfectly tailored pajamas for her niece. The girl loves every pair—except the pink one, her least favorite color—but her aunt always knows how she feels and reassures her.

When Ah Yi becomes very sick and goes to the hospital, she never comes home. Through the customs of mourning, the little girl learns to treasure her aunt’s love in a new way—by wearing the pink pajamas that are now perfect for her. This tender story offers a gentle way to discuss love, loss, and remembrance, making it a thoughtful choice for classroom read-alouds or library collections.