Once a child graduates from simple picture books to children’s reading books, whole new worlds are made available. The reader may find his or herself traveling down the Mississippi river on a raft or flying into outer space. In “The Heart of Nine Tigers” the young reader visits ancient China and learns about an important historical figure. In “Alligators Can’t Stand Butterflies” the reader delves deep into the Florida swamp to meet alligators. The best books for children who are advancing their reading skills are books such as these that inspire via participation.