build a great reading space!

If you build it, they will come . . . Creating a good reading space for your kids is pretty simple as long as you follow this formula:

bookcase with sufficient space + cozy seat + fun rug and pillows + good lighting.  

Here I have created a cute cactus themed book nook, and I think the fun theme plus comfy digs will draw kids in and invite them to stay and read a while.  

1. This bookcase from Ikea is perfect for holding a growing book collection.  The first reading space that I put together for my own kids had one of those canvas sling bookshelves that are great because they allow each book to be displayed with the cover facing out.  This made the kids want to read them more because they could see them better, but I eventually had to get rid of the canvas shelf because it just doesn't hold that many books.  This case holds a lot.
2. This chair from Amazon looks so comfortable!  I know my kids would fight over who gets to snuggle up in this chair first.
3. This lamp is so fun! The playful shape adds to the theme, but the neutral color keeps it from being cheesy.
4. I found this art on Etsy here and here.  Oh, Etsy.  My credit card hates you.  My credit card company loves you.  Too many cute things that I can't live without.
5. Every good book nook needs a soft rug.  Half the time, my kids would rather lay on the floor while reading as opposed to sitting in a chair, so finding a good rug is key.  I like this one from Ikea.  The graphic print is happy, and the price is happy too! 
6. Lastly, cute and comfy pillows bring it all together.  The two pillows here are from Land of Nod.

Do you have a special reading area in your house? What did you put in it?  Let me know below! 

the weekend round up!

Weekend time!  We made it through the week.  Honestly, there were a few moments that I had my doubts- a certain fourth grader's lost homework assignment yet again, a three year old's art project that involved an entire roll of toilet paper unraveled on the floor, a possibly burned to a crisp Wednesday night dinner.  But we made it just the same.

I just heard that one of the picture books featured here on Booktomato will be coming out with a second story!  Mother Bruce by Ryan Higgins is a hoot (see our review here) and will be coming out with Bruce the bear's second story, Hotel Bruce, very soon.  Look for it in stores! 

Here are some of our fave bookish posts from around the web.  Enjoy your weekend! 

Kid Book Review has several book picks out this week: an artsy alphabet book here,  the follow up work to the beautifully illustrated Animalium called Botanicum here, and an interview with illustrator Gus Gordon here.

Pragmatic Mom talks about the Hasbro Kindness Campaign here and shares new and exciting additions to the world of picture books that promote diversity. 

Roald Dahl would have been 100 years old this week!  Here is an article from USA Today with 10 quotes from his treasured books to celebrate.  

have a fun weekend!

The weekend is here again, and from you to me, please enjoy this picture of a cat reading a book while wearing bifocals.  You've earned it.  

Do you have a wonderful picture book that you and your kids love?  A chapter book that your kid can't put down?  Booktomato is always on the lookout for what's new, fun, and delightful in children's literature.  Shoot us an email or leave suggestions below in the comments.  

Whatever you find yourself up to this weekend, take some time to read a good book!