First Lady Jane Beshear's Communications Office
First Lady Jane Beshear Announces Fall Reading List

FRANKFORT, Ky. – In recognition of the beginning of autumn, First Lady Jane Beshear today announced her Fall Reading List as part of her Reading Recommendations initiative.

“For my second annual fall reading list, I have selected both classic and newer books for a variety of ages,” said Mrs. Beshear. “While young people have many choices of how to spend their free time, few pursuits are more beneficial and enjoyable than delving into a good book. The long-term educational advantages of reading are well-documented, and the experience of discovering a beloved story is unparalleled. I encourage students to visit their local public libraries and check out these books, which may be read individually or with a family member.” 

Mrs. Beshear introduced the Reading Recommendations program in the summer of 2009 and issues reading lists four times per year.

2010 Fall Reading List

1. Where the Red Fern Grows, Wilson Rawls (Ages 12-15)
   I love to re-read this wonderful tale about a boy and his dog roaming the Ozarks, which resonates with readers young and old.
    
2. Corduroy, Don Freeman (Ages: Birth-5)
   The story of a beloved bear in green corduroy overalls rescued by a girl named Lisa is one of my favorite children’s books.
    
3. The Pumpkin Goblin Makes Friends, Aaron Taylor (Ages: 4-8)
   About an unkind Pumpkin Goblin whose unlikely friendship with a young boy causes him to make amends in his town, this picture book reveals the importance of companionship and kindness.
    
4. Momma, Where Are You From?, Marie Bradby (Ages: 4-8)
   Written by a Louisville author, this book depicts a conversation between a curious child and her mother about the mother’s past. From the joys of listening to Count Basie records to the trials of segregation, Momma’s memories evoke a bittersweet nostalgia.
    
5. All the King’s Men, Robert Penn Warren (Ages: 15-18)
   A Pulitzer Prize-winning novel penned by a Kentuckian, this narrative portrays the rise and fall of Willie Stark, a popular but unethical political figure, and the moral struggles his aide Jack Burden faces. Published in 1946, it continues to be relevant.
    
    
6. The Indian in the Cupboard, Lynne Reid Banks (Ages: 9-12)
   This much-loved novel about a boy who receives a magical cupboard that brings plastic toys to life has enchanted children and adults for almost 30 years.
    
7. The Widow’s Broom, Chris Van Allsburg (Ages: 4-8)
   Written and illustrated by an award-winning author, this story describes an enchanted broom, suspicious neighbors and a triumphant widow.
    
8. Jane Eyre, Charlotte Brontë (Ages: 15-18)
   Chronicling Jane’s progression from a penniless child orphan to courageous young woman, this classic novel remains on school reading lists for good reason.
    
9. The Ghost’s Grave, Peg Kehret (Ages: 9-12)
   A spine-tingling story about a boy and the ghost of a coal-miner, this story will get young people in the spirit for Halloween.
    
10. Mouse’s First Fall, Lauren Thompson (Ages: Birth-5)
    Mouse and Minka explore the outdoors on a fall day, learning about autumn, leaves and the changing of the seasons in this visually appealing book.

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