Deana Metzke

I have found that children’s books are a great way to learn more about history in general or specific history-makers, so much so that children’s books are a large part of what I read for fun. There are a couple of books I read recently that fall into this category that are great options for […]

It was not intentional, but this summer I read a couple of books that would be great reads for children who have an entrepreneurial spirit. I remember when I was a young junior high student, a few of my friends and I got together with every intention of becoming our own local version of The […]

The school year is coming to an end and summer is quickly approaching. Summer is a time where school-age kids have more time to enjoy all sorts of fun things, like sports, bike rides, time with friends, vacations … and reading. Just like any other skill, it is important to continue to spend time reading […]

I’ve mentioned this before, but one of the many things I love about children’s literature is the author’s ability to help young readers learn a lesson, at times without explicitly calling out that lesson. As a parent, kid lit can be a helpful tool to use when conversations are difficult or when your child needs […]

One of my favorite children’s book authors is Mac Barnett, who has authored numerous picture books and middle-school chapter books. Each book I’ve read that he has written brings a smile to my face, and often also a chuckle. The likelihood that my kids and I laughed while reading one of his books is at […]

As parents, our vision for our kids’ future usually includes raising children who are compassionate adults who care for the world around them and the people in it. We want them to be able to do their part to make the world a better place. Personally, there are times when I find that authors of […]

During the holidays, most families tend to have their own traditions. Some are large, like all the extended family gathering at one house for Thanksgiving, or small, like taking a drive around the neighborhood to look at Christmas lights. One tradition that I didn’t have as a child, but have started as a parent, was […]

With another school year on its way, a great way to get kids back into the swing of things is through books. There are a lot of tried-and-true classics, like The Kissing Hand and Pete the Cat and his shoes, but there are also some newer releases that can get your kids ready for school. […]