The Book Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson is a realistic fiction book, involved with elements of fantasy that analyzes relationships along with grief. Jess’s character development in the story is crucial, as he builds himself up emotionally through his friendship with Leslie and understands how to handle losing somebody. Literary elements like symbolism,setting, and imagination improve the novel's complexity. Bridge to Terabithia’s layout is mainly text- focused, letting the book’s emotional impact be noticeable to the readers. Very sophisticated themes are attended to but in an approachable way for children. The book can relate to children by helping them deal with all sorts of emotions. I, along with many other people, can connect with this novel because of Jess’s course of comprehension to deal with loss, understanding, and endurance. I rate this book a five out five because it is a very well liked book regarding real life situations that children are going to have to deal with in life. I think it teaches them that they are not alone when these situations happen and everyone will cope and be okay.

The Egypt Game by Zilpha Keatley Snyder is a children’s realistic fiction book and combines some mystery to it, along with creative play to discover the theme of friendship and finding oneself. In this storyline, it trails main characters, April and Melanie, whose both character developments build as they make their own unique and creative world together. This in the process, allows them to start trusting each other and start to bond. Symbolism, foreshadowing, and setting are main elements in this story that grow tension and sensitivity. The isolated yard turns into a very important spot that mirrors imagination and risk. This book greatly aligns with the genre of coming-of-age fiction, along with psychological realism in it. This book relates to children and how they use their own imaginations to deal with change. I could relate to this book as a kid with the thought of searching for connection through mutual imagination and bonds. I rate this book a four out of five because it dives into a deeper theme, which young readers can connect to having their own creative imagination.

The book The One and Only Ivan is a modern animal fantasy that explores the theme of freedom and kindness. Ivan, a main character in this novel, who is also a captive gorilla, goes through a significant character development, moving from acceptance to a supportive character. In this novel it has a first- person narrator with a poetic organization that are key literary elements and provide emotional effect. There are very simple visuals, along with spacing add to the tone and speed in The One and Only Ivan. This novel mixes real life problems with personification. The book relates to younger readers in educating them on animal welfare and compassion. I can personally relate to Ivan’s silent courage in believing and standing up for what I know and think is right. I rate this book a three out of five because I think children will especially like books about animals, while also being able to relate to it and understand on a deeper level the importance of the main idea.

The Book Because of Winn Dixie, written by Kate DiCamillo is a realistic fiction book that is mainly based on isolation and making friendship. The character in the book, Opal’s character development is heavily influenced on the people surrounding her, particularly with Winn Dixie, displaying the theme of bonds and healing. Key elements such as dialogue, setting, and also characterization develop emotional intensity. The basic design and few drawings here and there, improves access to children reading. Being a children's book, it truly emphasizes character development and being one as a community. This book especially is great for allowing young readers to comprehend loss and acceptance. This book I can connect to because of its heavy focus on being lonely at times and the true importance of having real friendships. When Opal searched for a meaningful connection, it made me think about all of the effort it can take to find that good relationship with someone. I rate this book a four out of five because children can especially relate to this book by feeling isolated and looking for true friendships.

Holes by Louis Sachar mixes in realistic fiction with mystery, and utilizes a type of nonlinear plot arrangement to expand the main theme which is fame and fairness. Stanley Yelnats, a character in the book, seems to display vital character development as his character changes for the better. It starts off as passive to being independent as he deals with outer and inner struggles. Literary elements, like symbolism, foreshadowing, and connected storylines strengthen the novel. The limited visuals and basic design really helps readers to understand and really engage in what the plot is truly about. As a category, it blends thrill with value based storytelling.
Holes' relation to younger adults rests in fairness and strength, and I actually connect to Stanley's determination regardless of challenges that are out of his control. I rate this book a three out of five because I think it is a good book children can relate to, but I am not sure they would be very interested in it.

This popular picture book features stories of adventure and childhood amazement through Peter’s winter journey. The narrative is of everyday happenings which put forward themes of observation and curiosity. Peter’s growth as a character is there but very subtle, what we see is his independence and that he is on a path of discovery. The art is in a collage style which adds texture and visual appeal at the same time stays true to a real world setting. Also the language used is simple and the description very vivid which in turn makes the story easy to access. What stands out in this book is also its cultural value and how it presents certain issues. I think it does very well in putting forward that what is ordinary in childhood is in fact very important.

This funny picture book looks at cause and effect in a circular story structure. We see the results of action and reaction which are the main themes. Character growth is few in number but what there is of it is consistent as the mouse’s personality which in turn shapes the story. The predictability is a main feature which at the same time gets the reader involved. Illustrations play into the humor which they do so by extending each situation visually. As a study in its genre the work does a good job at teaching sequencing and logic. What makes it relevant for kids is its engaging structure and that it is very much like them. I am also a fan of the circular ending which plays up the fun almost inevitable requests of the mouse.

This alphabet picture book has rhythm and rhyme which attract early readers. We see that the main theme is that of cooperation and playful learning which takes a back seat to narrative depth. Character development is an issue as the letters play symbolic roles rather than that of fully realized characters. Repetitive structure and musical language are key literary elements which support memorization. Also very present are bright bold illustrations which put forth an energetic tone. As a genre piece it does well in teaching letter recognition while at the same time is entertaining. What it does best is to appeal to preschool audiences’ needs, although it may not provide the same level of interpretive depth for older readers.

This present realist picture book looks at issues of gratitude and perspective through the story of CJ’s time on the bus with his grandmother. The narrative does so in a way that is socially conscious without being instructive, which is to say that we see how small events form world view. Also, the character of CJ grows in that he goes from a place of disappointment to one of appreciation. The art which is used is very bright and textural which in turn reinforces mood and diversity. We see use of dialogue and repetition which in turn improves the reading. The book also speaks to what kids need developmentally by way of fostering empathy and reflection. Personally what I take away is how out of the ordinary events can in fact lead to great growth and meaning which makes the book at once very meaningful and at the same time accessible for young readers.

This graphic novel looks at issues of identity, race, and belonging through Jordan’s experience at a new school. We see the theme of living out dual identities play out in both what is said and what is shown. As the story goes forward we see Jordan’s character grow as he tries to balance being true to himself with the demands of a new environment. The graphic novel format does this well which in turn heightens the story telling we see this in how panels are used to present emotion and social tension. Also, the genre of the work does what is hard, and it brings up complex issues in a way that is accessible. The art also supports the narrative by what it chooses to focus on. This book is very much for middle grade readers and also very much from the heart in its look at social issues in the school setting.

The Cat in the Hat
The Cat in the hat by Dr. Seuss is about two children who are bored at home when a mysterious cat comes to the house. The cat makes lots of clusters in chaos, which makes the story amusing and fun. While the book is lively, it also gives students teachings about accountability and options. The rhyming words make it enjoyable and amusing for kids to read, while helping kids practice reading skills. Dr. Seuss uses silly language to keep readers interested.This book is often one of the first longer books kids read, helping them gain confidence while enjoying the story. This is also a kid’s classic and is often very enjoyable and entertaining for children. I rate this book a four and a half out of five because it is a pleasing book that keeps kids interested throughout the whole book.

Goodnight Moon
Moon by Margaret Wise Brown is a peaceful story that is usually read before nighttime. The book displays a tiny rabbit saying good night to every single thing in the room. The recurring words and relaxed tone help children to calm and feel more secure. Nothing really exciting goes on in the book, but that is why the story is more comforting. It instructs children about schedules, habits and easing up at the end of the day. Lots of families read this book every night because it helps children go to sleep. It's simple writing and peaceful pictures make it a classic bedtime story. I rate this book a three out of five because it does not have too much to it besides giving children an idea of responsibility.

The Very hungry caterpillar
The very hungry caterpillar by Eric Carle trails behind a caterpillar, as he then eats a variety of foods every day before eventually turning into a full butterfly. The book helps the younger readers learn all the numbers, days of the week, and general science. The pictures are very colorful and fun, which helps keep the kids interested in the book. The book is simple to comprehend, but it also teaches that growing takes time. Children like seeing the caterpillar change, which helps them to learn about life changes. This book is pretty known because it is both entertaining and educational making it beneficial at home and school too. I rate this book a three out of five because it is a cute and simple book but kids may seem to get bored reading it.

Charlotte's Web
Charlotte's Web by E.B White is about a story of a pig named Wilbur and a spider named Charlotte. Wilbur is scared of possibly being killed, and Charlotte, the spider, tries to help and support him by writing words on her web. The book concentrates mostly on friendship and doing friendly stuff for others. Charlotte does not ever question and applaud Wilbur even though it requires a lot of effort. This story also displays that life doesn't last forever, which is a gloomy tone but important to understand. Even though it is emotional, the book teaches readers about loyalty, kindness, and how friendships can change your life. I think every child enjoys this story because it is a classic and is a unique tale. I rate this book a five out of five because it is a great story I personally loved as a kid and is very entertaining for children.

Where the Wild Things are
The Book Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak is about a young boy named Max, and he gets taken into his room after he acts bad and immaturely. In his imagination, Max’s room ends up turning into a forest and he travels to a place of many wild creatures. Max later on becomes their leader, but after a little while he feels isolated and wants to go home. The story shows how kids can feel angry but still want love and comfort. The pictures help explain Max's emotions , instead of using words to do that. This book teaches readers that it is okay to feel upset, but home is where you feel safe and cared for. I rate this book a four out of five, because it is cute book that gives kids a lesson in life.