Are you looking for reading recommendations for kids? We can help! Visit us in person or online to get ideas for great reads for kids. For one-on-one help call or ask a Library staff member at any of our locations. You can also call, text, or email ask-a- librarian!
This collection of book lists created by our staff can assist students with homework, help them find more books by their favorite authors, and aid parents in finding books for the youngest readers, among other things! We add new lists each month so returning readers can continue to find their next read! Find more reading recommendations for kids in our blog or enjoy storytime online.
You can also get reading recommendations online from NoveList K-8 Plus or Book Connections. Read book reviews, see “read alike” lists, browse starred reviews, and more.
Talking to Kids About Thanksgiving
Are you looking for ways to share with children the importance of family, community, and gratitude? In our blog post Talking to Kids About Thanksgiving, learn about Keepunumuk Weeãachumun’s Thanksgiving Story by Danielle Greendeer (Mashpee Wampanoag) and Tony Perry (Chickasaw), story of Weeãachumun, who asked local Native Americans to show the newcomers how to grow food. The post includes more ways to help give kids an age appropriate introduction to Thanksgiving history. We can also help you find more books to share about generosity and giving.
Stories of Modern Indigenous Life
Some people think that Indigenous culture is a thing of the past, but that could not be further from the truth! These books, some fiction and some nonfiction, explore the vibrancy and diversity of present-day culture across many different Indigenous tribes and nations. Learn about things like family, food, and tradition and experience all the joy these Indigenous authors and artists have put on the page!
The Wild Robot
The Wild Robot has been adapted into an animated feature film that is premiering in theatres this fall. Shipwrecked on a deserted island, a robot named Roz must learn to adapt to its new surroundings. Building relationships with the native animals, Roz soon develops a parental bond with an orphaned gosling. If you have read or watched The Wild Robot…try one of these!
Elections and Voting – It’s a Big Deal!
Choose a book or two from this list to learn about the United States election process, who can vote, and the history of how each has developed over the last 200+ years. Find out the answers to some puzzling FAQs: What’s a ballot? What is a poll? What does suffrage mean? Why couldn’t Black people vote? Why couldn’t women vote? You can read a general history or focus on one issue, event, or person who made a difference. #IndyPLKids
Updated September 2024
Thanksgiving Storytime Online
Here are some of our favorite books to share with kids in the days leading up to Thanksgiving. You and your child can learn about the history of Thanksgiving and learn about Thanksgiving from an American Indian perspective. Additionally, you can read prayers and songs of gratitude from different religious and cultural traditions, learn to draw iconic Thanksgiving symbols, or laugh out loud at what Thanksgiving dinner might be like for monsters. Garlic is OK for a recipe ingredient, but not eyeballs! Laugh again when you find out what happens when someone (everyone!) forgets to bring their dish to Thanksgiving dinner! Enjoy Thanksgiving storytime online!
Even Vampires Celebrate Fangsgiving!
Enjoy these favorite and new Thanksgiving picture books that cover the early history to turkey dinner to the gratitude of what it is to celebrate “plenty.” Also laugh out loud at some silly stories starring picture book friends – even vampires celebrate Fangsgiving!
Join Us for Storytime!
- Event: Reading Ready Time – Nutcracker Fun
- Date & Time: Wednesday, November 20, 12:00am
- Location: Online
- Description: Children 3-6 are invited to a virtual Library visit! The Indianapolis Ballet shares the story of The Nutcracker followed by a dance lesson. On your toes, everyone! Visit https://bit.ly/readingreadytime for this program.
- No Registration Required.
- Event: Storytime at Warren – Baby & Toddler
- Date & Time: Wednesday, November 20, 10:15am
- Location: Warren Branch
- Description: Babies and toddlers up to 36 months and their adults are invited for stories, songs, toys, and more.
- No Registration Required.
- Event: Storytime at Fort Ben – Preschool
- Date & Time: Wednesday, November 20, 10:30am
- Location: Fort Ben Branch
- Description: Preschoolers and their caregivers are invited for stories, songs, and fingerplays followed by an art and craft time.
- No Registration Required.
- Event: Family Storytime at College Avenue
- Date & Time: Wednesday, November 20, 10:30am
- Location: College Avenue Branch
- Description: Families with children of all ages are invited to listen to stories, sing songs, and participate in movement activities. Stay after stories are finished for some literacy activities and play time.
- No Registration Required.