Traveling around the world with your kindergartner only requires a few good books, a cozy armchair for two, and a great imagination! Try these read-aloud books for global learning and fun.
Martha by Gennady Spirin (2005)
Enjoy the old-fashioned feel of Moscow, Russia from inside the artist’s studio with a pet crow for company. Martha the crow was injured but with caring attention from her humans she may fly again! A homey tale with lovely watercolor illustrations, this book is perfect for a cozy reading time just before bed.
Elena’s Serenade by Campbell Geeslin (2004)
The hot desert land of Mexico comes alive in this empowering story of a small girl who is determined to be a glassblower like her papa. On her journey to Monterrey, Elena helps some of the desert animals she encounters by playing music with her glassblowing pipe. When she finally reaches her destination, the best glassblowers in the city are surprised by what Elena can accomplish.
Bilby Moon by Margaret Spurling (2001)
Little Bilby makes a journey through her native land of Australia, searching for the missing piece of moon. This lovely, simple story introduces children to some of the strange creatures of Australia while spinning a tale that is just right for bedtime.
Next Stop–Zanzibar Road! by Niki Daly (2012)
Bustle around South Africa with Elephant Mama Jumbo in her “flippy-floppy, flappy-slippy, this-way-that-way pompom hat.” Fun to read and fun to listen to, this detail-packed story bursts with good humor and African animal characters. Your child will enjoy the warm community and the busy adventures.
A Penguin Story by Antoinette Portis (2008)
All the colors Edna the penguin knows are white, black, and blue. She goes out into the Antarctic to find something else. Edna finds a bright orange science research station! This gentle story with simple illustrations makes reading time special for both the reader and the child. Cuddle up and enjoy the warmth of a sweet penguin adventure in a cold land.
Grandma Calls Me Beautiful by Barbara M. Joosse (2008)
Immerse yourself in this Hawaiian love story about a grandmother and her granddaughter. Enjoy the bright, vibrant illustrations, the traditional Hawaiian vocabulary, and especially the sing-song cadence of the story.
Tree of Cranes by Allen Say (2009)
Allen Say is a superb children’s book author and illustrator who skillfully conveys both his Japanese and American culture. In this Christmas book, the American and Japanese traditions combined are not awkward together but lovely and meaningful. Perhaps you’ll want to try creating your own origami crane when you finish reading this book.
So Say the Little Monkeys by Nancy Van Laan (2001)
Little, noisy blackmouth monkeys come alive in this fun read-aloud book! Have fun in the South American rain forest with monkeys who want to play rather than build a shelter. You might meet some other animals along the way!
The Singing Fir Tree by Marti Stone (1992)
Can a tree sing? Find out in this retelling of a Swiss folktale. Pierre the woodcarver is up against a tough tree that won’t be cut down. Finally, he decides to use some branches that have fallen off the tree. His bird carvings are delightful in more ways than one to the children who receive them! Enchanting and rich with meaning, this tale of Switzerland brings the mountains to your home.
What is your favorite picture book from another country? Is it a folk tale from China? An Irish book of limericks? Maybe you know a story that takes place on the Nile River in Egypt. Find the book that once brought you wonder and joy and read it with your child! You’ll both share an imaginative journey to another land as well as a fond memory of reading together.
