True Story of the Three Little Pigs

True Story of the Three Little Pigs

By Jon Scieszka

Illustrated by Lane Smith

True Story of the Three Little Pigs

Classroom Selection

     Another fantastic read aloud by Professor O! This fractured fairy tale is told from the wolf’s point of view. It would be a great classroom activity to have students compare this version of the story to others they have read. They could even work in small groups to create their own version of what happened. The wolf’s excuses are sure to remind students of someone they know, themselves! The illustrations are detailed and very humorous. Professor O’s deliver of this story was extraordinary from the pitch of her voice to the movement of her hand gestures, she amazingly had me riveted to her next word. I believe even upper elementary students would enjoy listening to this book. A great recommendation for every classroom library.

Click, Clack, Moo Cows That Type

Click, Clack, Moo

Cows That Type

By Doreen Cronin

Illustrated Betsy Lewin

Click, Clack, Moo Cows That Type

Classroom selection

      I had read this before Professor O read it aloud on the first night of class, but listening to her read it aloud really brought it to life for me. The cows are quite a clever bunch of animals. They reminded me of my children demanding me to meet their requests, right now! I feel this is a great book for predicting. I am sure students could create many interesting predictions, students could even create a new story about many of the other animals in the farmyard. The duck turns out to be a crafty little fellow himself, reminding me of several students I have had in class. The illustrations are large and bold and help to move the story along. I love Farmer Brown’s look of exasperation. This is a definite must for every classroom.

Author Study Lois Lowry

Author Study

Lois Lowry

     I was first introduced to Lois Lowry in 2009 when my daughter was required to read the Giver for Language Arts class. We were on a long car trip when I finished my book and had nothing left to read.  So, I decided to read her book for lack of anything else. To my surprise, I could not put it down and finished it in about two hours. I could not wait for her to read it also, so we could discuss the details, especially the ending. We ended up having two different points of view on the ending, which led to an exciting debate. It was then that I realized the power books have to unite generations.

     After reading three other Lois Lowry books for this author study, I believe I have found a new favorite author. She reminds me of Jodi Picoult for the younger reader. They both tackle many riveting social issues and compel readers to consider various points of views. There are multiple layers of themes in each book, which would lead to many great classroom discussions. I would recommend every upper elementary and middle school teacher have various Lois Lowry books in their classroom library for students to read or share as a read aloud.

Gossamer

Houghton Mifflin

Copyright 2006

pp. 140

Gossamer

     This is a fantasy book about small creatures who bestow dreams to sleeping humans. Littlest One, is a young dream giver just learning her craft. She is very curious about who she is and her purpose. Thin Elderly is her mentor and discovers Littlest One has great gift, a touch like gossamer. Dream givers bestow their dreams on humans after touching the humans’ possessions and collecting the memories that lie within. Littlest One and Thin Elderly are assigned to the house of a lonely older woman, who has just taken in a very troubled eight-year old boy. Littlest One senses the boy’s need for pleasant dreams to help soothe his mind and bring peace to his life. The boy does not have many possessions to touch so Littlest One learns to become creative in collecting memories for him. Throughout the story the reader learns that the boy has been unbelievably abused by his father. The old woman is patient, kind, and loving toward the boy, but it is hard for the boy to trust anyone. Sensing the uneasiness and hurt in the lives of the woman and the boy, the evil Sinisteeds, givers of nightmares, decide to attack the woman and the boy. Littlest One and Thin Elderly must use all their creativity and power to reverse the nightmares into pleasant dreams.

      This book was uplifting and heartbreaking at the same time. The abuse this boy suffered at the hands of his father was inconceivable to me. I was reminded of the various news reports of parents abusing their children. How a parent can be so cruel to their own flesh and blood is beyond my comprehension. Thankfully there are people like the old woman in this book, who have the courage and faith to make a difference in the life of a child. While reading this book, I began to hope there really were such fantasy creatures as the dream givers to help ease the pain and suffering of these children. But, maybe the people trying to make a difference in the life of someone else are really the actual dream givers.

Number The Stars

Houghton Mifflin

Copyright 1989

pp. 137

Number The Stars

     Number the Stars is historical fiction book set in Denmark during the German occupation during 1943. Annemarie Johansen and her best friend Ellen Rosen are trying to live as normal life as possible in Copenhagen, while German soldiers patrol every street corner. Annemarie and Ellen’s courage becomes tested when the Germans decide to arrest all the Danish Jews and take them away. Ellen’s parents flee leaving her with the Johansen family. She pretends to be their daughter Lise, who has passed away. The Johansen family is secretly trying to help, with the aid of resistance workers, the Rosen family and others escape to Sweden.

     A wonderful book about courage, loyalty, and strength.. A class discussion on courage is sure to follow after Annemarie encounters the soldiers on her way to give Uncle Henrik the package. The conversation between, Uncle Henrik and Annemarie about how it is easier to be brave if you do not know everything is also a great discussion starter. I tried recalling times in my life when this might have been true. I do believe Uncle Henrik is correct because it is much harder, at least to me, to lie and pretend when you the whole story.

Find A Stranger, Say Goodbye

Houghton Mifflin

Copyright 1978

pp. 187

Find A Stranger, Say Goodbye

     While this is an older book, the story is still current. Natalie has just graduated high school and wants to begin a search for her biological parents. Her parents are not receptive to the idea at first, but give her their blessing and resources to begin her search. The book is set in late 1970’s, so Natalie must become a resourceful detective to uncover her history with the few clues provided by her parents. I believe many students might find it interesting to read how it was possible to get things done without using the internet. The themes of acceptance, rejection, and family are found throughout the book. While this book deals with adoption, I feel the theme of acceptance is one every reader can connect with. As Natalie realizes at the end, everyone must “sort everything out… figure out what you want to hold on to… acknowledge what is and what was.” What a wonderful life lesson.

Dog and Bear Two Friends Three Stories

Dog and Bear

Two Friends

Three Stories

By Laura Vaccaro Seeger

Roaring Book Press

Copyright 2007

pp. 30

Dog and Bear Two Friends Three Stories

Award Winner (Boston Globe Horn Award)

     This is an adorable picture book for the preschool to early elementary school student. It is a charming tale of friendship between bear and dog. Many of the illustrations are from the perspective of the animals. When dog wants bear to come down from the chair to play, the reader sees how far down the ground is from bear’s point of view and realizes why bear is scared. Dog reminds me of my children when they were small because of his exuberance and energy. Bear on the other hand appears to be a bit older and wiser and able to persuade dog’s mind. It reminds me of the relationship between elephant and piggy in the Mo Willems book Are You Ready to Play Outside? I read earlier. I would definitely recommend this book for a younger child’s library.

The People Could Fly

The People Could Fly

By Virginia Hamilton

Illustrated by Leo and Diane Dillon

Alfred A. Knopf

Copyright 1985

Pp . 28

The People Could Fly

Required

     The People Could Fly is a stirring mythical folktale about African slaves flying away to free-dom. The gorgeous illustrations help to complete this moving tale. The illustration of the people captured on the boat is heartbreaking. It is hard to believe that people could be so cruel to a fellow human being, When the overseer cracks his whip over Sarah’s back ,while she was carrying her baby. made me physically wince in pain. While the cruelty is unbelievable, this is also a tale of hope. Hope to escape. Hope for freedom. Hope for a better life. Hopefully, this folktale brought and will continue to bring a sense of comfort and faith to enslaved people awaiting their own escape. 

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

The Absolutely True Diary

of a Part-Time Indian

By Sherman Alexie

Art by Ellen Forney

Little, Brown and Company

Copyright 2007

pp. 230

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

Required

     This is a very moving and touching young adult novel. Nothing is sugar coated; the reader can definitely feel the characters’ pain and grief. The themes include prejudice, grief, alcoholism, poverty, determination, hope, friendship, and family. Junior, a fourteen year old boy, lives on the Indian reservation of Wellpinit and is the narrator of this novel. His observations are both humorous and heartbreaking. Junior is the designated punching bag of the reservation. He has one friend, Rowdy, who tries his best to protect Junior, alcoholic parents, and a sister who will not leave the basement. One day at school, Junior decides he has had enough of poverty and throws his thirty year old geometry book across the classroom, which hits his teacher in the face. This incident becomes a wake up call to Junior’s teacher, Mr. P. He visits Junior at home and encourages Junior to want more for himself. Junior then decides he wants to go to school in Reardon, the small white town outside the reservation. This decision leads to many obstacles for Junior, he becomes an outcast on the reservation and in his new school. However, Junior has one thing that no one can take away from him, hope.

     While reading this book, I did not know whether to laugh or cry. There were so many moving moments. For example, when Junior’s beloved grandmother died, I could feel his pain, frustration, and loneliness. It reminded me of my own grandfather’s funeral. Then there were parts that reminded me this is definitely a book narrated by a fourteen year old boy, such as when Junior and Gordy are discussing if a book should give someone a boner. The art work throughout the book is superb and definitely enhances the text. It helps the reader get a true sense of Junior and the world he lives in. I do not believe the book would be the same without the art work. I would certainly recommend this book for upper middle school students. I believe there are several life lessons to be learned by reading this terrific novel.

Harry Potter and The Sorcerer’s Stone

Harry Potter

and The Sorcerer’s Stone

By J. K. Rowling

Scholastic

Copyright 1997

pp.309

Harry Potter and The Sorcerer’s Stone

Required

     This is one of my all time favorite book series. There are also many layers and themes such as friendship, family, honor, scholarship, child abuse/neglect, and good versus evil.

I could not put this book down, each chapter left me wanting more. Harry Potter and The Sorcerer’s Stone includes adventure, mystery and fantasy, three of my favorite genres.

     Harry is an orphan living with his stodgy and neglectful aunt and uncle. On his eleventh birthday, Harry discovers he is a wizard. His adventures are just about to begin. Harry begins attending Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where he learns the value of friendship and to stand up for what he believes in.

     I feel this book offers many valuable lessons for the upper elementary to middle school student. Harry’s courage to stand up to Draco Malfoy by telling him, “I think I can tell who the wrong sort are for myself, thanks.”  This is a lesson I think every eleven year old needs to learn especially in time of tremendous peer pressure. I would encourage all my students to read this wonderful book.

When My Name Was Keoko

When My Name Was Keoko

By Linda Sue Park

Houghton Mifflin Company

Copyright 2002

pp. 199

When My Name Was Keoko

Required

     A compelling novel, When My Name Was Keoko, provides the reader with a remarkable historical description of a family during the Japanese occupation of Korea. I feel some background knowledge is definitely needed before reading this novel. Personally, I was not very familiar with many of the geographical locations discussed in the book and would have benefited from looking a map.

    After being “graciously allowed” to take Japanese names Sun-hee becomes Keoko. With her entire world turned upside down, Sun-hee tries to make sense of all the changes. The book is alternately told from the point of Sun-hee and her older brother, Tae-yul. I feel it is very helpful to see varying points of view in this story because it makes the story seem well-rounded and unbiased.

       I made several connections to this novel. First, when the Koreans’ radios were taken away it reminded me of what is happening in China with the restrictions of the Google website. By limiting informational access, governments feel they can keep their citizens under control. Secondly, I connected to the father’s belief of the importance of education because of my own families same beliefs. An educated citizen is a citizen with a mind of his or her own and dangerous to governmental control. I feel the father’s quiet resistance of the Japanese took a great deal of self-control and courage. In my opinion, this type of resistance is much harder than the uncle’s outward displays. The father did not agree with new ways, yet had to play the part for the safety of his family.

     This is a terrific book for the middle school student. The historical information is outstanding and the themes are plentiful, so each student should be able to make many connections to the world and to his or her self.

The 9/11 Report

The 9/11 Report

By Jacobson and Colon

Hill and Wang

Copyright 2006

pp. 133

The 9/11 Report

Required

     I was very hesitant about reading this book for a couple of reasons, first the graphic novel format and second, the content. While I did find the graphic novel format of this book hard to follow at times, I did like the visual permanence of the text. I often found myself flipping back to another page to review a fact or reread the text for a better understanding. I feel the pictures greatly helped to enhance the telling of the story, especially the timeline. I had three small children at the time of the attacks and did not watch any morning television except cartoons, so I personally did not hear about the attacks until after the second plane had crashed. The timeline helped me put into perspective the order of the actual events.

     I had a particularly hard time when 9/11 occurred, and I chose to focus on my small children, ignoring the constant news updates. While I realize this was probably not the best way of dealing with the events, it helped me at the time. Therefore, when I was reading this report, I had a difficult time following some of the chapters. While I was reading, I did have several concerns about our government officials and agencies. Why during transitions of government officials does there not seem to be any listening going on? Why are aides demoted due to political reasons, even though he or she is the best candidate for the job? Why do our government agencies not communicate with each other?  There appears to be more concern about who has more power than with the best interest of our county.

     I do believe this is an essential book to read. Our world has forever changed due to these horrific events and we must all realize that is our duty as Americans to be well-informed citizens.

Remember

Remember

The Journey to School Integration

By Toni Morrison

Houghton Mifflin Company

Copyright 2004

pp. 78

Remember

The Journey to School Integration

Required

     Remember The Journey to School Integration is a profound and moving book. Remembering is an important action one must do, as not to forget the past and repeat the same mistakes. Morrison helped me to realize the importance of taking responsibility for one’s own actions. How often does one tell his or her children one thing, but behave in the opposite manner? If children live with bullying, are they more likely to become a bully themselves? Are friends and their views more important than standing up for what one knows is right? These are all questions I had while reading this stirring picture book.

     I could not believe the hatred of many people shown in these emotional pictures. As Morrison asked, “Why are they afraid of me?” I feel people often label others because they are afraid of what they do not know. The picture and text on page twenty-three reminded me of my own children on their first day of school and their feelings of wanting to belong. I believe everyone wants to belong and everyone is afraid of not belonging. This book reminds us that we each want the very best for our children and sometimes it just takes one person to make the change.

The Wall

The Wall

By Peter Sis

Frances Foster Books

Copyright 2007

pp.50

The Wall

Required

      A visually powerful book! Sis’s use of line, space, and color is outstanding and very symbolic. The reader is taken on an incredible journey of communist Czechoslovakia through the eyes of a growing child. Along with the story, there is informational text next to each of the illustrations. The informational text helps to give the reader essential background information about the communist regime. I have often wondered how people could become dutiful servants of such a regime, now I realize they grew up not knowing anything different. There was no free will. Sis symbolizes this constraint through the use of the color red. The only other colors are shown when the boy is drawing for himself. He still has part of his spirit alive, a part the government try as they might can not take away.

      Sis also includes portions of his personnel journals in the text. These pages are full of color, enthusiasm, and hope. I thought it was interesting how music seemed to play such an important role in his life and in the spread of western thoughts and ideas. Many parents in the United States also thought the Beatles and Elvis were going to ruin society, but at least U.S. teenagers were able to freely make their own choices.

      I would definitely include this book in my middle school language arts, history or art library, as there are many lessons for students to discover within the layers of this outstanding book.

The Watsons Go to Birmingham 1963

The Watsons Go to Birmingham 1963

By Christopher Paul Curtis

Bantam Doubleday Dell

Copyright1995

pp.210

The Watsons Go to Birmingham 1963

Required

    This is a wonderful historical fiction novel about a family’s trials and their trip from Flint, Michigan to Birmingham in 1963. The book’s narrator is ten year old, Kenny. Kenny’s older brother, Bryon, an “official juvenile delinquent”, has just turned thirteen and is having many typical teenage rebellion issues. Kenny is somewhat of a misfit with his lazy eye and love of reading. His mother, father, and younger sister, Joetta, make up the rest of the weird Watsons, as Kenny called his family.

     The book deals with many themes such as bullying, friendship, family, respect, and prejudice. I feel upper elementary and middle school students can relate to many of these universal themes. At the start of the book Kenny has to deal with bullying because he is different. When he meets a new kid, who is an outsider being bullied, he must deal with his own emotions of what is “cool” or “uncool”. Should he follow the crowd or stand up for what he believes is right?

     After Bryon pushes his parents last button, they decide he needs to learn some life lessons and spend the summer with his grandmother in Birmingham, Alabama. Mr. and Mrs. Watson want their children to respect their heritage and realize the responsibility that goes along with that heritage.

      I thought this was a truly engaging book and I loved the author’s sense of humor throughout the book. It reminded me of the television show Everybody Hates Chris, which my children often watch. As an adult I could connect with the mother as she carefully planned the family trip to Birmingham, then her husband would not follow her directions. A typical occurrence within my household. I would definitely included this book in my classroom library.

The Lion & The Mouse

The Lion & The Mouse

By Jerry Pinkney

Little, Brown And Company

Copyright 2009

pp.36

The Lion & The Mouse

Award Winner (Caldecott)

     Absolutely Gorgeous! Jerry Pinkney tells the classic story of The Lion and The Mouse using only beautifully illustrated pictures. Each full page illustration is a watercolor image of the jungle brought to life. I felt as if I was actually in the jungle with the animals. This wordless book would be a great tool to use for a predicting lesson with students. By studying each illustration closely, students should be able to interpret the animals’ emotions and predict what each animal is thinking or what actions they will take. Students could also work in small groups to write their own story and/or dialogue to accompany the illustrations. The possibilities are endless. I would definitely recommend this beautiful picture book to readers of all levels.

Dear Mr. Henshaw

Dear Mr. Henshaw

By Beverly Cleary

Illustrated by Paul O. Zelinsky

William Morrow and Company

Copyright 198

pp. 134

Dear Mr. Henshaw

Award Winner (Newberry)

     A terrific book for older elementary school readers! The story is told through sequence of letters from a sixth grade boy, Leigh, to his favorite author, Mr. Henshaw. The reader only sees Leigh’s letters to Mr. Henshaw, but is able to predict from Leigh’s responses what Mr. Henshaw’s letters are about. Mr. Henshaw encourages Leigh to write in a diary, so part of the book is also in a journal format.

     Beverly Clearly has written a wonderful book with many layers for the reader to discover. Divorce, disappointment, loneliness, ingenuity, and perseverance are several of the themes running throughout the book. I could connect with Leigh’s feelings of disappointment because after my parents’ divorce my father was also absent much of the time. Like Leigh, I am also an only child and remember how hard it is not to have someone to share those feelings with. Cleary did an excellent job tapping into the true feelings of a child of divorce.

     I feel there are many ways a teacher could use this text in the classroom, especially with writing assignments. Since the reader does not know Mr. Henshaw’s exact responses to Leigh, students could create Mr. Henshaw’s letters based on the following letter Leigh writes. Students could also create journals or write to their favorite author. It is also a great book for a study on point of view. The reader only knows Leigh’s thoughts, what about his mother, father, Mr. Fridley, or Mr. Henshaw. How might they be feeling? I would certainly want this book in my classroom library.

Little Dog Poems

Little Dog Poems

By Kristine O’Connell George

Illustrated by June Otani

Clarion Books

Copyright 1999

pp.40

Little Dog Poems

Required

    Little Dog Poems is an adorable poem book for the younger elementary student. Each poem tells a story about the life of the little dog using very few, but powerful words. I feel these poems are meant to be read aloud because the tempo, rhythm, and junctures are important elements to the story of the poem. In the poem Mail Delivery, one can tell the author wants to reader to pause after each word by the spacing of the words on the page. This poem is meant to be very slow and deliberate, just like the dog bringing in the mail one   at   a   time. The illustrations are delightful and help tell the story of each poem. I particularly enjoyed the poem Morning Nap because of the way the author shaped the words of the poem into a circle. I could connect this to the times I have seen dogs turning in circle after circle before they lay down for a rest. I have always wondered why dogs to do this, maybe it is to be the same size as the sunny spot!

Bad News for Outlaws

Bad News for Outlaws

By Micheaux Nelson

Illustrated by R. Gregory Christie

Carolthoda Books

Copyright 2009

pp. 39

Bad News for Outlaws

Award Winner (King)

     Bad News for Outlaws is a biography of Bass Reeves, a Deputy U.S. Marshall during 1875-1900’s. At first, Reeves remarkable story seemed like a tall tale to me, but after reading the author’s note I realized I was wrong.

     Reeves overcame many difficulties throughout his life including being an illiterate, runaway slave, but most important he was a man of great convictions. He worked hard and treated people fairly. During his years as a Deputy U.S. Marshall, Reeves was extremely resourceful, often using disguises to trap outlaws. I was impressed in his thirty-two years on the job he only killed fourteen men in the line of duty. Reeves even had to turn in his son, Benjamin, to the court for after he committed a murder. 

      I believe this book is a great study in character traits, Reeves’ story is sure to inspire students that most difficulties can be overcome with respect, perseverance, and citizenship. I know my own children have different character traits every month at school and I would definitely recommend using this book during several months. I was truly inspired by Reeves’ story and could not believe all this man accomplished during his lifetime. I am surprised his story has not been told before.

   This book was full of metaphors and similes that were quite amusing because the author stayed true to the language of the time. I was glad she included a glossary in the back! The illustrations were magnificent and helped to bring the story to life. The book also included a timeline, further reading and websites suggestions, and information about others who were introduced in the book. I am so glad I chose this book, now I am very interested in finding out more about the unsung heroes of this era.

Scaredy Squirrel

Scaredy Squirrel

By Melanie Watt

Kids Can Press

Copyright 2006

pp. 36

Scaredy Squirrel

Award Winner (Monarch)

      As the name implies, Scaredy Squirrel is scared of just about everything. This book reminded me of my youngest daughter, who had a very hard time trying anything new. I feel this would be a wonderful book to read to younger elementary students at the beginning of school, when they are apprehensive about their new environment. I enjoyed the advantage and disadvantage charts Scaredy Squirrel’s had made about his life, because I often make such charts. Making advantage and disadvantage charts could be a great classroom activity also.

     Scaredy Squirrel’s predictable life is upset one day when he faces a “killer bee” in his normally safe environment. Scaredy Squirrel soon realizes that maybe change can be okay. Many students could definitely relate to this story.

Rhyming Dust Bunnies

Rhyming Dust Bunnies

By Jan Thomas

Atheneum

Copyright 2009

pp.36

Rhyming Dust Bunnies

Award Winner (Monarch)

     A thoroughly enjoyable and humorous picture book. Jan Thomas has definitely out done herself. The illustrations are simple, colorful, and sure to capture the attention of younger elementary school students. I had to chuckle at Bob, he reminded me of an older sibling, who has to be on the lookout for his younger brothers.

     There are many lesson plans a teacher can create with this charming and amusing tale, the possibilities are unlimited. I would love to read the rest of the dust bunny adventures.

Are You Ready to Play Outside?

Are you Ready to Play Outside?

By Mo Willems

Hyperion Books

Copyright 2008

pp. 57

Are You Ready to Play Outside?

Award Winner (Geisel)

     Piggy and Gerald are ready to play outside, but suddenly the weather is not cooperating, or is it. Piggy reminds me of a disgruntled child, who has trouble when things do not go his way. Gerald, on the other hand, is the calming adult or older sibling character. I believe his glasses even help to infer this attitude. Gerald lets Piggy believe it was his own idea to play in the rain and ends up coming up with a creative plan to make Piggy a happy pig.

     In the fashion of his Pigeon books, Mo Willems uses the size of his font to help readers identify with the characters emotions. His illustrations are simple yet effective and help to move the story along. I loved the rain; it made me feel as if I was actually in a downpour. I feel this is a great story to help students make the connection that their attitude influences the outcome of events.

Hi! Fly Guy

Hi! Fly Guy

By Ted Arnold

Scholastic

Copyright 2005

pp.30

Hi! Fly Guy

Award Winner (Geisel Honor)

          A great book for the beginning reader. The sentences are short and there are many high-frequency words that are repeated throughout the text students should recognize. As an adult, I enjoyed the humor of the fly “knowing” Buzz’s name. I also enjoyed the illustrations especially the eyes of the characters, I am sure they will capture the students’ attention. I know many students, especially boys, love the Fly Guy books.

Kennedy Through the Lens

Kennedy

Through the Lens

By Martin Sandler

Walker Publishing Co

Copyright 2011

pp.96

Kennedy Through the Lens

Nonfiction Biography

     This is a fascinating, modern book about the life of John F. Kennedy and the events that shaped his presidency. The book relives the events of Kennedy’s life through the use of many extraordinary photographs. Kennedy was one of the first Presidents to embrace the new technologies of the time, color photography and television. While there had been many photographs of previous Presidents, Kennedy was the first to appoint an official White House photographer. This national appointment led to many informal, candid photographs of the President and his family. These photographs allowed the public an up close and personnel view of the President’s life, and they became enchanted with his charming personality. Kennedy knew how to use the media to his advantage and thus endeared himself and his presidency to the American public for generations. After reading this book, I began to wonder if Kennedy’s use of the media was the beginning of the relentless media scrutiny that exists in our country now.

     The book briefly touches on Kennedy’s early life, but most of the focus is on his time as President of the United States and the events that occurred during this time. Each two page spread has a full page photograph on the right hand side and text, along with a smaller photograph on the left hand side. I believe this helps to illustrate the importance of the photographs. The iconic photographs helped me to better understand the text and gave me a deeper insight into the emotions of the time period. I particular enjoyed the photographs of his children in the oval office. Kennedy was not only a President, who was assassinated; he was also someone’s husband and father. Being a parent myself, I could feel the pain of everyone involved.

     The book also uses many of Kennedy’s famous and inspiring quotes under each section heading. Each quote is significant to the section and helped to give a better awareness and appreciation of text. The end of the book has several sections one can further his or her learning about Kennedy. The author mentions several websites, which is very beneficial to today’s twenty-first century learner. I feel this book is a must have for any project on John F. Kennedy because of its unique use of photographs, quotes, and additional resources provided.

Changes For Kirsten

Changes For Kirsten

By Janet Shaw

Scholastic

Copyright 1988

pp.65

Changes For Kirsten

Historical Fiction

     Changes For Kirsten is a book from The American Girls Collection. Kirsten, a ten-year old girl, and her family have moved from Sweden to America and are starting a new life on the American frontier. This story follows Kirsten and her family during a long winter in the year 1854.

     Kirsten’s papa is away trying to earn money for the family by working in a logging camp. Kirsten, her mother, two brothers, and baby sister are left at home, but close by are her Aunt Inger and her children. Kirsten, her brother, and his friend are setting traps for animals such as beaver and mink to help earn money for their families. One day, Kirsten finds a sickly, baby raccoon and decides to nurse it back to health at her home. The raccoon gets loose inside Kirsten’s home and starts a fire that burns down the small cabin her family lives in. The family is devastated and must move in with Aunt Inger and her daughters.

     As I was reading the book it reminded me of the television show Little House on the Prairie because of the time period. I believe there are many lessons students can learn from books set in this time period. For example, when the house was burning Kirsten tried to beat the flames with a rug and throw snow on the blaze. Students might think why didn’t she just turn on the sink and get some water, but on the frontier there was no running water. Students today have numerous technological advances, and I think they might not realize how difficult and challenging life was on the frontier. I feel The American Girl stories are a great way to present a thematic unit on frontier life, because the books allow the students feel as they are actually on the frontier with Kristen and her family. There are even a few moral dilemmas within the book that would be great discussions starter for a classroom.

Butterflies and Moths

Butterflies and Moths
By Nic Bishop
Scholastic
Copyright 2009
pp.48

Butterflies and Moths

Required

        This amazingly visual nonfiction book is a must for every classroom doing a thematic unit on butterflies. Besides the photographs which are absolutely fantastic, the author uses various fonts within each page to grab the reader’s attention. I also loved turning each page and finding a new, colorful background on each one. Mr. Bishop does a wonderful job of using academic vocabulary along with common vocabulary to enhance student understanding. An example of this is when he compares the butterflies and moths to an item with which students would be familiar, such as comparing nectar to an energy drink.
   I had to chuckle at the thought of reading his descriptions of caterpillars on page 18 to a classroom full of students. I am sure students would have no problem visualizing these descriptions. I believe many students will also connect to the information about a caterpillar’s appetite to the book the Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle, as I did. This is a terrific book to use for varying reading strategies such as questioning, predicting, and summarizing. Nic Bishop is definitely an author to remember for breathtaking, nonfiction texts.

To Dance

To Dance

A Ballerina’s Graphic Novel

By Siena Cherson Siegel

Illustrated by Mark Siegel

Atheneum

Copyright 2006

pp.59

To Dance

A Ballerina’s Graphic Novel

Nonfiction Biography

     To Dance is a unique memoir of Siena’s journey to become a ballerina using a graphic novel format. Before this class I was not a huge fan of graphic novels, but I cannot imagine Siena’s story being told any other way. The illustrations by Mark Siegel captivated me and help me to see and feel the pain a ballerina must go through to perfect his or her craft. The illustrations also help provide clues to reader, so he or she can make inferences on how Siena is feeling.

     The book uses every page, even the endpages to tell Siena’s story. Siena’s journey began in San Juan, Puerto Rico when she gave up her Saturday morning cartoons to take ballet lessons. After a summer program with the American Ballet Theatre in New York, Siena knew that dancing was her calling. At age eleven she auditioned for the School of American Ballet. This section of the novel retells her feelings and emotions mostly through pictures, which helped me to feel all of her anxiety and fear. It also brought back all those feelings of insecurity I had when growing up.

     Siena and her family eventually move to New York so she could attend ballet school. Her father is absent much of the time. Eventually the fighting between her parents escalated and they decided to divorce. This reminded me of my own parents before their divorced, and how I would do anything not to listen to their fighting. Siena was lucky she had a brother she to share her pain with, where as I had to deal with all my emotions by myself.

     I felt Siena’s sadness when her beloved instructor Mister B passed away; the emotions told through the illustrations were outstanding. I then became worried for her when she had a serious ankle injury and could not dance anymore. What would she do, she had spent almost all of her life in pursuit of her dream? When the novel ends, it uses the endpages to come full circle and show Siena once again dancing on the beach, but this time with a baby in her arms and the feet of a man in the background. I could infer from this illustration that Siena was content and happy with her life.

Magic Tree House #1

Magic Tree House #1

Dinosaurs Before Dark

By Mary Pope Osborne

Scholastic

Copyright 1992

pp. 68

Dinosaurs Before Dark

Fantasy

     This is a fantastic book for the younger elementary school student or an older student at a lower reading level. I believe this would make a great read aloud for students because of the author’s use of imagery. I felt like I was spinning in the tree house along with Jack and Annie. Students could shut their eyes and picture Annie befriending a Pteranodon and Jack nervously writing in his notebook. The illustrations are well drawn and arrive at important parts of the story.

     Besides the fantasy there is a mystery to hook the reader as well. The author ended each chapter with a bit of suspense, so I could not wait to find out what was going to happen next. At the conclusion of the book, many questions still lingered in my mind.  How did Jack and Annie arrive in this time period? What is the meaning of the gold medallion? Where did the tree house come from? All of these questions definitely help to entice the reader into reading the rest of the series. I can certainly see why this is such a popular series with elementary school students.

Otherwise Known as Shelia the Great

Otherwise Known as Shelia the Great

By Judy Blume

Scholastic

Copyright 1972

pp. 138

Otherwise Known as Shelia the Great

Realistic Fiction

     Shelia, a ten year old girl who lives in the city, is going to vacation in the country for the whole summer break with her family. At first, Shelia is disappointed because she had wanted to go to Disneyland instead. Eventually, she warms up to the idea because she will not have to share a bedroom with her twelve year old sister, Libby. That is until she meets Jennifer, a dog that comes with the house her family is renting. The reader soon finds out that Sheila is afraid of dogs, along with many other things such as swimming, spiders, noises, and the dark.

     Shelia meets a new friend, Mouse who is also a ten year old girl, while she is in the country. Shelia does not want to appear uncool, so she begins telling Mouse many half-truths about herself. Mouse soon realizes Shelia’s nonchalant attitude is a front she puts on when she is afraid of something. Mouse tries to make Shelia realize that is okay to admit one can not do something or if one is afraid of something. Shelia is not to sure about that, but she and Mouse become fast friends anyway.

     The author incorporates many subtle life lessons throughout the book. I believe this book would help many upper elementary students to realize the importance of these lessons in a humorous way. One lesson I connected with was when Shelia had her first sleepover and the girls made a slam book. Each of the girls at the sleepover thought it would be great fun to make the slam books and find out what each other girl at the party really thought, but did not have the courage to say out loud. As an adult, I knew this would be trouble, but it is a lesson to be learned, one I have had to watch my own daughters contend with. 

     The book helps to the reader to understand the power of friendship and the ability to laugh at oneself every now and then. Realizing that no one is perfect and everyone makes mistakes or is unsure about his or her world is a life lesson every student should learn. Judy Blume has done just that in this timeless tale.

Merlin and the Making of the King

Merlin and the Making of the King

By Margaret Hodges

Illustrated by Trina Schart Hyman

Holiday House

Copyright 2004

pp.39

Merlin and the Making of the King

Traditional Literature

     This retelling of tales of King Arthur includes three different stories, The Sword in the Stone, Excalibur, and The Lady of the Lake. I was only vaguely familiar with the Sword in the Stone and Excalibur and had never heard of the Lady of the Lake tale. The Sword and the Stone tale reminded me of a bit of Sleeping Beauty because she, like Arthur, was taken away and raised by others to hide her true identity. I had always thought that the sword in the stone was actually Excalibur, but I learned that this is not so. In the tale of Excalibur, the reader learns that the sword is actually from Vivien, the Lady of the Lake. She owned the sword and gave it to Arthur to use as long as he used it only for good.

     I found this retelling a bit difficult to follow without any prior background knowledge. I would most likely only use this retelling in conjunction with several other retellings as a compare and contrast literature lesson. This is an upper elementary to middle school level text because of the difficult vocabulary.

The Legend of Old Befana

The Legend of Old Befana

By Tomie De Paola

Harcourt Brace Jovanovich

Copyright 1980

pp.28

The Legend of Old Befana

Traditional Literature

          The Legend of Old Befana is a timeless tale of the birth of the Baby King of Bethlehem, who has come to change the world. After reading this book, I was reminded of my Italian grandmother who would always tell me that she could not take down her Christmas decorations until January sixth because that was the day of the feast for Baby Jesus. I can now connect her story to the Italian legend of Old Befana. Old Befana never found the Baby King.  To this day, she still runs across the sky on January sixth and visits all the children leaving them gifts because she never knows which child might be the King. I wonder if my grandmother heard this Italian folktale when she was little and was passing it on to me in her own way.

     I loved the color scheme of magenta, gold, and teal throughout the book and the author’s formatting of the text along the lower section of the page. This a wonderful book to supplement other traditional holiday stories.

Sally Ann Thunder Ann Whirlwind Crockett

Sally Ann Thunder Ann Whirlwind Crockett

By Steven Kellogg

Morrow Junior Books

Copyright 1995

pp.39

Sally Ann Thunder Ann Whirlwind Crockett

Traditional Literature

     This American folktale is retold and illustrated by Steven Kellogg. Mr. Kellogg combined several of the adventures of Davy Crockett’s wife from the almanac adventure entitled A Perilous Situation of Mrs. Crockett to form his tall tale. Like all tall tales, this beautifully illustrated picture book is full of exaggerations, super human abilities, and descriptive language. I enjoyed many of Sally Ann’s early accomplishments. Being a parent, it would have been wonderful to have a baby that could achieve remarkable success on the day she was born, especially the talking part.  It certainly would have made life so much easier.

       Sally Ann Thunder Ann Whirlwind is the tenth child of a couple who already has nine sons. When Sally Ann is born, she can immediately speak, run, swim, and hold her breath under water for over an hour. She instantly earns the respect and devotion of her nine brothers. What an entrance!  I am sure most students will appreciate and connect to these exaggerations. Sally Ann decides she is a grown up and leaves home at the age ripe old age of eight. She has several more unbelievable adventures including a rather funny way of dealing with a ferocious grizzly bear. Over the years Sally Ann grows tired of living alone and happens upon a handsome stranger stuck between two trees.  As she helps him escape his dire situation, she blasts the color off an eagle’s head and invents bald eagles. The handsome stranger turns out to be her future husband, Davy Crockett. They immediately fall in love and settle down.

     During next part of the tale Davy leaves for Congress, and Sally Ann is left to fend off an attack by gang of alligators. She defeats them in typical Sally Ann fashion by whipping up a tornado, which then rained alligators throughout a good portion of the United States. I believe that during this part of the story it would be helpful for the students to have some prior knowledge of Davy Crockett, so I would probably introduce his character prior to reading this book.

     With wonderful use of vivid language and illustrations, Steven Kellogg has crafted a humorous fantasy about life during the American Frontier that is sure to appeal to a wide variety of school aged children. I know I often found myself chuckling and smiling as I read many of the pages. 

      

The Relatives Came

The Relatives Came

By Cynthia Rylant

Illustrated by Stephan Gammell

Bradbury Press

Copyright 1985

pp.29

The Relatives Came

Caldecott Honor Award

     The Relatives Came is a timeless story of family love. Any reader who has had extended family come to their house will appreciate and connect to all the hugging, kissing, and sleeping arrangements illustrated in this story. This book reminded me of the way my children felt when they were small, and family from out of town would come to spend the weekend at our house, especially the illustration of all the relatives sleeping all over the room with their arms draped across each other. The beautiful pictures by Stephan Gammell help the reader feel as if he or she is right in the middle of the reunion with the relatives. Each relative has a unique personality that is expressed through his or her facial expressions, dress, and gestures. Young readers will definitely delight in this joyous story.

powerless

powerless

By: Matthew Cody

Alfred A. Knopf

Copyright 2009

pp. 277

powerless

2012 Rebecca Caudill Award Nominee

    powerless is an amazing book; I could not put it down! In my opinion, this book has it all: adventure, mystery and fantasy. This young adult novel has many universal themes that would appeal to a wide variety of readers such as friendship, belonging, bullying, and scholarship. powerless follows the story of Daniel, a new kid in the town of Noble Green and the group of children he meets there who just happen to have superhuman abilities. At times, Daniel has feelings of worthlessness because he does not have powers like his new friends, and he can not help his sick grandmother.  However, he soon discovers superhuman powers are not what make a person powerful. This book reminded me of the Harry Potter series because of the themes of friendship, loyalty, and good versus evil. Daniel and his new friends work together to overcome a mysterious, shadowy, evil villain who is out to steal the powers of the children for his own use. By banding together and using their own unique abilities, Daniel and his friends are dynamic forces in their battle for justice.  Matthew Cody has left the ending open to many future storylines, which I hope he will continue to write.

BABYMOUSE

BABYMOUSE

 Queen of the World

By Jennifer L. Holm & Matthew Holm

Random House

Copyright 2005

pp.96

BABYMOUSE

Queen of the World

Graphic Novel

     Babymouse is terrific! I personally am not a big fan of graphic novels, but Babymouse has changed my mind. The novel is beautifully illustrated in a simple black, white, and pink color scheme. The panels are large and the text is easy to see, read, and follow. I enjoyed how the background color of the panels changed from white to black when Babymouse was daydreaming. I believe this helps younger readers make the transition from Babymouse’s reality to her fantasy world.

     In this particular story, Babymouse fantasizes about belonging to the cool group at school but soon realizes she already has, despite her flaws, a great life. I feel this is a universal theme to which many elementary aged students can relate. Realizing that the “cool kids” do not always make better friends and learning to be true to one’s self are great life lessons. Babymouse helps readers learn this lesson in a humorous and entertaining way. I believe the Babymouse series would be a particularly great graphic novel to use to introduce girls to this genre of literature.

Basketball in Action

Basketball in Action

By John Crossingham and Sarah Dunn

Crabtree Publishing

Copyright 2000

pp.32

Basketball in Action

Nonfiction Informational

     This is a great informational book about the game of basketball. It has all the characteristics of a nonfiction book such as headings, bold words, photographs, illustrations, captions, and a word bank. The book begins with the basic vocabulary, positions, and equipment needed to understand the essentials of the game. I thought the full page diagram of the basketball court along with the captions of each area provided a great visual to a beginning player. The next section explains the basic skills needed to play the game such as dribbling, passing, and shooting. Each section provides tips and step by step instructions on how to perform each skill. There are also several drills the reader can practice to improve his or her skills. The book ends with the directions and rules to a few simple playground games students can try. These are very popular games with elementary students such as H-O-R-S-E, Twenty-one, and Around the World. While many students make up their own rules to these games, it would be nice as a teacher to have the information this book provides as the “official rules”, which would hopefully stop some playground squabbles. As the parent of three basketball players, I was hoping to learn a few essentials that I had missed over the years, and I did gain a new understanding of the basics of what each position is and what it requires. My daughters and husband will be extremely proud of me!

Finding The Titanic

Finding The Titanic

By Robert D. Ballard

Scholastic

Copyright 1993

pp.48

    

Finding The Titanic

Nonfiction Informational

     Finding The Titanic is a wonderful, informational book about a tragic accident in America’s history. The book is written by Robert D. Ballard, discoverer of the remains of the Titanic. Mr. Ballard explains in his book how he and his crew discovered the remains of the Titanic as it lay 12,000 feet below the sea. He begins his book in 1985 as he and his crews are getting ready to search for the Titanic. He gives some basic information about what made the ship so special, the sinking, and how and why he is looking for the remains of the ship.

     He then takes the reader on the personal journey of one of the surviving passengers of the ship. Through Rose Becker’s account, the reader can actually feel as if he or she were aboard the amazing ship with her. The description of the ship and the variety of the passengers on board are provided through richly detailed explanations and descriptions by the author. When he describes the sinking as the passengers awaited the arrival of rescue ships, I felt the panic Ruth and her mother must have felt not knowing if they would see each other again. I believe students could connect to this if they have ever been separated from their parents in a crowded place. On each page of the text there are either actual photographs from the time period or an artist’s rendering of the event. Each photograph or painting is accompanied by a caption describing it. The painting of the stern standing straight up in the water is shockingly realistic.

     The last two chapters of the book describe the author’s search and discovery of the ship below the sea. He describes the technology he used to uncover the remains and how careful the crew had to be not to disturb the wreckage. Throughout the chapter, there are actual photographs of him and his findings. In some he compares the photo of the wreckage to an actual photo of the ship before it sank. I think this helps the students to relate to what they are actually seeing below the surface of the ocean.

     Mr. Ballard ends the book with a note about the reverence and respect one should pay to the resting place of those who lost their lives aboard the ship. He was upset when another group of people brought some remains of the ship to the surface; he believes all remains should be left in peace at the site of the sinking. This made me think of the World Trade Center and the debate that has followed about what is now considered sacred ground. I believe I agree with Mr. Ballard that the remains of the Titanic, although historical and educational, should be left undisturbed at the bottom of the ocean to let those who lost their lives rest in peace. 

Lunch Money And Other Poems About School

Lunch Money And Other Poems About School

By Carol Diggory Shields

Illustrated by Paul Meisei

Puffin Books

Copyright 1995

pp.40

Lunch Money And Other Poems About School

Themed Poem Collection by a Single Author

     This collection of poems by Carol Diggory Shields is sure to become a favorite among the elementary set. The twenty-four humorous poems about all aspects of dealing with school are certain to tickle the funny bones of many students. Students will be able to easily grasp the meaning of each poem because the poems are about many familiar events and because they can draw on their personal experiences. When the poems are read aloud, the rhythm and tempo help to create vivid images in the listeners’ minds. I believe these poems would make a great lesson about how to read a poem. These poems would help students experiment with varying their reading by using rhythm, pitch, tempo, and expression. The illustrations are enchanting and colorful. Students will find them visually appealing because they are representative of their own lives and classrooms.

     Two of my favorites are Clock-watching and Code. When one begins reading Clock-watching, he or she assumes it is about a student waiting for the end of the day.  However, there is a twist at the end; it is really the teacher. I think students will truly get a laugh out of this poem when they figure it out. I also enjoyed Code, which is about a student who has to stay home from school because he has a code (cold). The play on words is sure to amuse when read aloud.