Friday, December 20, 2013
Sunday, December 15, 2013
The Choke-hold: Why Urban Schools in Public Education Are Failing!
A Librarian’s Retort: Why I Despise Urban Public Education
I am torn. Part of me believes that hard working poor Americans want an education for their child. Not just an education but all the successes that come along with it. Then there’s the other half…cynic row, as I like to call it. This part believes no matter how much we try to move forward and progress the urban poor, they are stuck in their tortoise shell. Hoodies on, Jays (Jordans tennis shoes) clean and tracks hidden—the woven tracks of hair in her head, the dried tracks of sorrowful tears or the tracks from drug use, your choice—and that’s where the tear in me occurs. Not all the students in urban neighborhoods are downtrodden. A few are thirsting for a quality educator. As positive as I want to be daily, the "bad apples" drain the positiveness, the joy and the grit needed to endure an urban school setting.
At the moment, I’m questioning my career choice, my country and my life-goals. I had the obvious warnings signs that spoke loud and clear to me before I moved to an urban, poverty ridden school—unreturned phone calls, no functioning computers in proximity to my location on campus, kids that curse educators and a principal that hadn’t had a librarian in at least five years-- but because of my militant conviction that I can make anything succeed, I’m now burned out a week before Christmas break, thankful my kid has the flu and praying something miraculous to happen to prove to me that the last 5 months were all worth it in the end.
To bring you up to speed, I’m a former English Language Arts teacher, who has taught everything from high school English, English as a Second Language and Literary & Creative Writing. That right there ought to show you how complex and diverse of a teacher I am. As an additional additive, I’m a young Black woman that grew up in a white middle-class suburb and attended a private university. I’ve had privileges, but by no means exhibited the status of wealthy. As a babe, I ran before I walked and electrocuted myself at 5 because I wanted more super-powers like the vacuum cleaner. Regarding education, I always wanted my answers to be different from my classmates and took like a songbird to the arts: cellist, chef, and creative writer. I despised (and still do) any structured box others tried to place me in. Who wouldn’t fight a choke-hold grip on your natural creativity?
However, those attributes are for not. As a recent article published by Slate.com –Inside the Box: People don’t like creativity—remarked, the powers that be “don’t like creativity.” They prefer agreeable, inside the box thinkers. Get as close to the boundaries of the box as you want to…hell we’ll even make you a star for that because you’re edgy! But once you cross that line, “your ass is toast!”
So naturally, as an original thinker, my creative arse was in violation of that rule and labeled uncooperative and resistant to coaching! Go figure that! You mean I went to college, inherited tens of thousands of dollars of debt, and can only achieve wide-range success to pay off those debts if I align my brain along the rest of the “No waves, Dave!” mentalities?
So my next best option was to get out of the classroom (while my test scores were still admirable) and go back to school for a masters degree. Hmm…how about I become a librarian? I can read my assets off and still enjoy influencing the minds of the future. Plus, NO DAMN STANDARDIZED TESTS! Fate brought me a grant opportunity and I seized it. In the mean time, I needed to exit suburbia hell and go to where I was needed.
Therefore, off to urban school! There, the need was great for creative and ambitious minds! I can inspire and assist the economically challenged but aspiring youth. Furthermore, I could be of great use. Leech from me as much knowledge as you can! But, what I found was oppression in its modern form. I jumped from one misery into the lair of hell. All I can tell you is read the article “Four Reasons Why Teachers Avoid or Leave High Poverty Urban Public Schools.” It is a bright light into the new hell I find myself in.
So after months of listening to students being cursed out by professional colleagues—“because that’s the only shit they respond to”—and covering classes for sick, depressed or newbie teachers—“because you’re a librarian, you don’t have a class right now and you’re such a strong teacher”—I’m hiding out in my home-office, nursing a flu-ridden son, hoping he stays ill for the remaining two days of this week so that I don’t have to return to Satan’s liar! Did I just wish for a SLOW recovery for my own child? Wth? And, by the way, all those quotes are literal remarks from co-workers! Again, wth?
So what’s the point? The point is this: corporations and districts alike want to blame educators for the flaws in public education, when the accountability is with one group, the American family…all of us. Corporations that lobby for standardized tests and refuse to raise minimum wage that keeps the rich rich and the poor struggling. Teachers, who learn several pedagogies, just to toss them all out the window in order to survive with urban hellions. Parents, who didn’t take advantage of an education when they had one, so now they work multiple jobs just to make ends meet and don’t have the proper time to bond and raise their children! Lawmakers, who forget those that elected them because the corporation’s lobbyist sweetened a sway in their favor, and school districts that cater to the laws established by agencies that are made up of non-educators or educators that have been out of the classroom for so long they don’t know the first thing about it. Voters that BLINDLY put these buffoons into office. And, the rich, who have enough money to remove their children from public education and let the “scavengers fight amongst themselves… where up here!”
Hell if I’m honest, I believe every decision maker, in the realm of education, should as part of their contract serve one paid week in an inner-city urban public school twice a year. They must be in the classroom and can have no assistance with lessons, classroom management and/or technology. Then, and only then will those haughty wanna-be intellects know the plight of my kind. Plus, it’d give those white-collar twits a bonafide reality check!
We all have accountabilities in public education. However, the only resolution I can come to grips with right now is to leave public education. Or, some kind of way, find an authentic version of the MIB (“Men in Black” movie) memory eraser and make everyone stare at the light. And, start the public education system all over again.
Nevertheless, I need to find some career that supports my desire to be around kids, as well as home-school my own. No buckets of cash over here! No money-bags husband! No faith in public education…at least not at the campus I work, presently. Perhaps, I will open my own private school one distant day. However, unless I win the lottery, I will still have to deal with opinionated investors, who want it done their way or the highway. Now, my arse is right back to those haughty wanna-be intellects! What a vicious circle!
P.S. It’s safe to say that these ideas are all my own, in case the powers that be connect the dots and fire me for having an honest refelection.
I am torn. Part of me believes that hard working poor Americans want an education for their child. Not just an education but all the successes that come along with it. Then there’s the other half…cynic row, as I like to call it. This part believes no matter how much we try to move forward and progress the urban poor, they are stuck in their tortoise shell. Hoodies on, Jays (Jordans tennis shoes) clean and tracks hidden—the woven tracks of hair in her head, the dried tracks of sorrowful tears or the tracks from drug use, your choice—and that’s where the tear in me occurs. Not all the students in urban neighborhoods are downtrodden. A few are thirsting for a quality educator. As positive as I want to be daily, the "bad apples" drain the positiveness, the joy and the grit needed to endure an urban school setting.
At the moment, I’m questioning my career choice, my country and my life-goals. I had the obvious warnings signs that spoke loud and clear to me before I moved to an urban, poverty ridden school—unreturned phone calls, no functioning computers in proximity to my location on campus, kids that curse educators and a principal that hadn’t had a librarian in at least five years-- but because of my militant conviction that I can make anything succeed, I’m now burned out a week before Christmas break, thankful my kid has the flu and praying something miraculous to happen to prove to me that the last 5 months were all worth it in the end.
To bring you up to speed, I’m a former English Language Arts teacher, who has taught everything from high school English, English as a Second Language and Literary & Creative Writing. That right there ought to show you how complex and diverse of a teacher I am. As an additional additive, I’m a young Black woman that grew up in a white middle-class suburb and attended a private university. I’ve had privileges, but by no means exhibited the status of wealthy. As a babe, I ran before I walked and electrocuted myself at 5 because I wanted more super-powers like the vacuum cleaner. Regarding education, I always wanted my answers to be different from my classmates and took like a songbird to the arts: cellist, chef, and creative writer. I despised (and still do) any structured box others tried to place me in. Who wouldn’t fight a choke-hold grip on your natural creativity?
However, those attributes are for not. As a recent article published by Slate.com –Inside the Box: People don’t like creativity—remarked, the powers that be “don’t like creativity.” They prefer agreeable, inside the box thinkers. Get as close to the boundaries of the box as you want to…hell we’ll even make you a star for that because you’re edgy! But once you cross that line, “your ass is toast!”
So naturally, as an original thinker, my creative arse was in violation of that rule and labeled uncooperative and resistant to coaching! Go figure that! You mean I went to college, inherited tens of thousands of dollars of debt, and can only achieve wide-range success to pay off those debts if I align my brain along the rest of the “No waves, Dave!” mentalities?
So my next best option was to get out of the classroom (while my test scores were still admirable) and go back to school for a masters degree. Hmm…how about I become a librarian? I can read my assets off and still enjoy influencing the minds of the future. Plus, NO DAMN STANDARDIZED TESTS! Fate brought me a grant opportunity and I seized it. In the mean time, I needed to exit suburbia hell and go to where I was needed.
Therefore, off to urban school! There, the need was great for creative and ambitious minds! I can inspire and assist the economically challenged but aspiring youth. Furthermore, I could be of great use. Leech from me as much knowledge as you can! But, what I found was oppression in its modern form. I jumped from one misery into the lair of hell. All I can tell you is read the article “Four Reasons Why Teachers Avoid or Leave High Poverty Urban Public Schools.” It is a bright light into the new hell I find myself in.
So after months of listening to students being cursed out by professional colleagues—“because that’s the only shit they respond to”—and covering classes for sick, depressed or newbie teachers—“because you’re a librarian, you don’t have a class right now and you’re such a strong teacher”—I’m hiding out in my home-office, nursing a flu-ridden son, hoping he stays ill for the remaining two days of this week so that I don’t have to return to Satan’s liar! Did I just wish for a SLOW recovery for my own child? Wth? And, by the way, all those quotes are literal remarks from co-workers! Again, wth?
So what’s the point? The point is this: corporations and districts alike want to blame educators for the flaws in public education, when the accountability is with one group, the American family…all of us. Corporations that lobby for standardized tests and refuse to raise minimum wage that keeps the rich rich and the poor struggling. Teachers, who learn several pedagogies, just to toss them all out the window in order to survive with urban hellions. Parents, who didn’t take advantage of an education when they had one, so now they work multiple jobs just to make ends meet and don’t have the proper time to bond and raise their children! Lawmakers, who forget those that elected them because the corporation’s lobbyist sweetened a sway in their favor, and school districts that cater to the laws established by agencies that are made up of non-educators or educators that have been out of the classroom for so long they don’t know the first thing about it. Voters that BLINDLY put these buffoons into office. And, the rich, who have enough money to remove their children from public education and let the “scavengers fight amongst themselves… where up here!”
Hell if I’m honest, I believe every decision maker, in the realm of education, should as part of their contract serve one paid week in an inner-city urban public school twice a year. They must be in the classroom and can have no assistance with lessons, classroom management and/or technology. Then, and only then will those haughty wanna-be intellects know the plight of my kind. Plus, it’d give those white-collar twits a bonafide reality check!
We all have accountabilities in public education. However, the only resolution I can come to grips with right now is to leave public education. Or, some kind of way, find an authentic version of the MIB (“Men in Black” movie) memory eraser and make everyone stare at the light. And, start the public education system all over again.
Nevertheless, I need to find some career that supports my desire to be around kids, as well as home-school my own. No buckets of cash over here! No money-bags husband! No faith in public education…at least not at the campus I work, presently. Perhaps, I will open my own private school one distant day. However, unless I win the lottery, I will still have to deal with opinionated investors, who want it done their way or the highway. Now, my arse is right back to those haughty wanna-be intellects! What a vicious circle!
P.S. It’s safe to say that these ideas are all my own, in case the powers that be connect the dots and fire me for having an honest refelection.
Friday, December 6, 2013
It's all a facade! Find out who OWNS the media!
Don't just glance at this...READ IT because it does matter. Perhaps because I'm a librarian or simply because my parents taught me to question everything in order to form my own opinion because "the Lord gave you your own brain, NOT someone else's!" but citizens, all folks alike, need to stop being apathetic and investigate what's presented to them. This is proof of hidden agendas by big corporations. Please, WAKE UP! Click here for a bigger image of below!
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Tuesday, November 26, 2013
Kevin Olusola: Cello Performance via Colorado Public Radio
Oh my...oh mercy, me...OH MY %$%^#%$^ GOODNESS!! This fella, Kevin Olusola, just make me want to snatch my cello from the corner of my bedroom, rosin up my bow, channel the 1996 me and...BUSTA FLOW!
I can't believe how RIDICULOUSLY awesome this video is! Thank you to Mal Collins (my Pinterest) friend for pinning/posting this treasure!
I can't believe how RIDICULOUSLY awesome this video is! Thank you to Mal Collins (my Pinterest) friend for pinning/posting this treasure!
4 Cooking Knives Every Chef Needs
Yes, I do want to run a food truck that sells stews..."Stew Boo!" Please don't steal my food truck name; that's just wrong!
However, first I need to acquire some tools! Please read this informative post on 4 Cooking Knives Every Chef Needs and get to chopping those Thanksgiving veggies! :)
However, first I need to acquire some tools! Please read this informative post on 4 Cooking Knives Every Chef Needs and get to chopping those Thanksgiving veggies! :)
4 Reasons Why Teachers Leave
This article sums up some of the feelings I've had lately. I made the transition from a suburban school district to a urban school district! I'm learning what it truly means to teach from the heart and learned more about myself than I ever knew! Please read: 4 Reasons Why Teachers Avoid, or Leave, High Poverty Urban School Districts.
Dr. Maya Angelou Inspires Me Again!
Yes, I do ADORE Dr. Maya Angelou as a poet, writer, director, performer, soul sister and the "Grandmother I always wanted!" I saw her at the Houston Hobby Center in 2009 and that experience catapulted me to grab the reins of my life and start going and growing in the direction of my dreams!
Now, she's done it again. Please read this article from Huffington Post. Not only does it discuss a woman being president--which will only succeed when both the House and Senate are more gender diverse...one person can start the change, but the TEAM has to work together--but this article also enlightens the audience on the true value of character: COURAGE!
Sunday, August 25, 2013
Miss Nelson is Missing...
Yes, it's a classic children's book: Miss Nelson is Missing. It was my favorite book because I loved my kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Anderson (Fraizer Elementary, Pasadena ISD). She was a sweet as Miss Nelson and when Mrs. Anderson missed school, I felt like finding her because the classroom was madness.
Because the start of the school year is buzzing through the air, I thought tenderly on my first day of Kindergarten. My own almost 5 yr. old will attend Kindergarten on Tuesday. I found this wonderful re-enactment video of a Kindergarten class making a "Miss Nelson is Missing Video!" BRAVO, to the performers and please enjoy!
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
Tuesday, August 13, 2013
"Nobody Cares"
Today, my son was being rude to his younger brother. There's a six year age difference, repsectively 10 and 4. The younger brother nagged the eldest and his response was "nobody cares."
After lecturing the eldest on the power in the comment "nobody cares," I wrote this poem. It consists of my tirades as I tried to reason the power in the comment, "Nobody Cares."
"Nobody Cares"
Yes, it's mean and the little brother of "I don't care!" But let me tell you what else it is.
Nobody cares is how things get broken. How projects get formed. How disasters aren't prevented. How children lose hope.
Nobody cares is real. It's urban. It's statistics. It's a feeling. It's ignorance.
Now care.
-Jean Darnell
After lecturing the eldest on the power in the comment "nobody cares," I wrote this poem. It consists of my tirades as I tried to reason the power in the comment, "Nobody Cares."
"Nobody Cares"
Yes, it's mean and the little brother of "I don't care!" But let me tell you what else it is.
Nobody cares is how things get broken. How projects get formed. How disasters aren't prevented. How children lose hope.
Nobody cares is real. It's urban. It's statistics. It's a feeling. It's ignorance.
Now care.
-Jean Darnell
Wednesday, July 3, 2013
Monday, April 29, 2013
United States Board on Books for Young People (USBBY)
Hooey Higgins and the Shark by Steve Voake with illustrations by Emma Dodson
Voake, S. (2012). Hooey Higgins and the Shark. London, England: Candlewick Press.
This delightful story centers around Hooey and his best friend, Twig, who has more quirks than a branch has twigs! This collection of adventures recount everything from how to catch a shark with ketchup as well as how Twig becomes obsessed with buying a humongous chocolate egg—a oeuf en chocolat (French translation of a chocolate egg)! With a crazed plan to help Twig purchased the “egg of the golden goose” they plan to catch a shark using ketchup, a cricket bat and a blanket! A classic combination of male-aloofness and determination makes this a side-cracking humorous read! All fans of the Diary of the Wimpy Kids series will find this comedic book, the new rookie! I would definitely use this brief chapter/picture book as a class read. Notation must be made to the British quirks that American students might miss, but that should assist in the Twiggy hilarity that becomes this book!
Lulu and the Duck in the Park by Hilary McKay with illustrations by Priscilla Lamont
McKay, H. (2012). Lulu and the Duck in the Park. Chicago, IL: Albert Whitman & Company.
Every young girl needs a heroine to model. Whether it’s Clementine chopping off her hair or Lulu collecting every animal she can care for, girls are the stronger, smarter sex, not because of obvious factors—giver of life, nurturer and care-giver—but because no matter what, they can out-smart the boys! And that alone should be legal tender! The title will catch the eye of a reader, but it’s Lulu’s heart to save her duck egg that will win over the audience. A tender-hearted third grade girl, Lulu’s determined to give her pet-less teacher the perfect pet and keep out of trouble for acquiring another pet, even if it is an egg. This book’s great for teaching children how to problem-solve, as well as cleverly outwit a grown-up! In everyday instances, Lulu’s obstacles present a lesson-to-be-learned! Children will relate well to her getting in trouble!
Just Ducks by Nicola Davies with illustrations by Salvatore Rubbino
Davies, N. (2012). Just Ducks. New York, NY: Candlewick Press.
Ducks have a certain charm and elegance about them. Though they offer only one discernible sound—quack—the variation in a duck’s “quack” can come with vigor, anger, sweetness and inquisition. The watercolor visions Rubbino created calmed and supported the movement of the ducks with fluidity and grace. Children identify with ducks; perhaps because they’re small and approachable, much like children themselves, or because aside from a peck, they really can’t do a child any harm. Whatever the reason, Davies captures the imagination with these fine feathered friends. She instills an appreciative understanding of a duck’s way of life that offers enriched vocabulary. One can imagine that Davies is in fact the observant little girl in the story for she paid such attention to detail. Any school that has a duck pond nearby should carry this book, a loaf of bread or sleeves of crackers and become one with mallards, swans, and brown flappers and perching ducks alike.
Voake, S. (2012). Hooey Higgins and the Shark. London, England: Candlewick Press.
This delightful story centers around Hooey and his best friend, Twig, who has more quirks than a branch has twigs! This collection of adventures recount everything from how to catch a shark with ketchup as well as how Twig becomes obsessed with buying a humongous chocolate egg—a oeuf en chocolat (French translation of a chocolate egg)! With a crazed plan to help Twig purchased the “egg of the golden goose” they plan to catch a shark using ketchup, a cricket bat and a blanket! A classic combination of male-aloofness and determination makes this a side-cracking humorous read! All fans of the Diary of the Wimpy Kids series will find this comedic book, the new rookie! I would definitely use this brief chapter/picture book as a class read. Notation must be made to the British quirks that American students might miss, but that should assist in the Twiggy hilarity that becomes this book!
Lulu and the Duck in the Park by Hilary McKay with illustrations by Priscilla Lamont
McKay, H. (2012). Lulu and the Duck in the Park. Chicago, IL: Albert Whitman & Company.
Every young girl needs a heroine to model. Whether it’s Clementine chopping off her hair or Lulu collecting every animal she can care for, girls are the stronger, smarter sex, not because of obvious factors—giver of life, nurturer and care-giver—but because no matter what, they can out-smart the boys! And that alone should be legal tender! The title will catch the eye of a reader, but it’s Lulu’s heart to save her duck egg that will win over the audience. A tender-hearted third grade girl, Lulu’s determined to give her pet-less teacher the perfect pet and keep out of trouble for acquiring another pet, even if it is an egg. This book’s great for teaching children how to problem-solve, as well as cleverly outwit a grown-up! In everyday instances, Lulu’s obstacles present a lesson-to-be-learned! Children will relate well to her getting in trouble!
Just Ducks by Nicola Davies with illustrations by Salvatore Rubbino
Davies, N. (2012). Just Ducks. New York, NY: Candlewick Press.
Ducks have a certain charm and elegance about them. Though they offer only one discernible sound—quack—the variation in a duck’s “quack” can come with vigor, anger, sweetness and inquisition. The watercolor visions Rubbino created calmed and supported the movement of the ducks with fluidity and grace. Children identify with ducks; perhaps because they’re small and approachable, much like children themselves, or because aside from a peck, they really can’t do a child any harm. Whatever the reason, Davies captures the imagination with these fine feathered friends. She instills an appreciative understanding of a duck’s way of life that offers enriched vocabulary. One can imagine that Davies is in fact the observant little girl in the story for she paid such attention to detail. Any school that has a duck pond nearby should carry this book, a loaf of bread or sleeves of crackers and become one with mallards, swans, and brown flappers and perching ducks alike.
Sunday, April 28, 2013
Audio Book Kit from ALA Children's Recording
Lon Po Po: A Red-Riding Hood Story from China by Ed Young
1989 Caldecott Winner
Young, E. (1989). Lon Po Po: A Red-Riding Hood Story from China. New York, NY: Philomel Books.
A retelling of a traditional story handed down, the audio version of Lon Po Po doesn't disappoint. Voice by. The illustrations remind the reader of the screen separators common in Asian cultures. The story beginning high in the sky, almost surrounded by clouds, also reiterates the notion of this story being passed down from generations. As the children ask their grandmother, who's truly a wolf in disguise, some questions, the illustrations signal what can take place, especially as the children converse with their "grandmother" before opening the door; this provides the reader with foreshadow and prediction skills, necessary for building inferencing and story-line skills. This is a great lesson to teach in cross-cultural connections, for American and Chinese children have a folk-tales about wolves pretending to be grandmothers. If it wasn't for Shang's quick wit, to get the wolfish like grandmother up a tree, then Shang and her siblings (Tao & Paotze) would not have escaped with their lives. The clever use of the basket to drop the wolf out of will offer an additional comparison to the importance of the basket compared to the American version of Red-Riding Hood. Young, who also designed the penguin for Penguin Book Publishing, did a fantastic job capturing the danger and mysticism associated with this folktale. The whispering and slightly blurred images almost create the hazy state needed before a bedtime reading.
John, Paul, George and Ben by Lane Smith
Smith, L. (2006). John, Paul, George and Ben. New York, NY: Hyperion Books for Children.
Any history buff will appreciate this kid-friendly telling of the the four big-whigs in American history. What makes this audio reading even better is the voice characterization by James Earl Jones! Yes, the voice of Darth Vader, with its depth and svelte baritone, carries the reader back in time to when John Adams was a writing wizard, Paul Revere was a noisy child bellowing out to the universe, George Washington was as honest as the morning sun, Ben Franklin the "know-it-all" sap who annoyed everyone with his yap! The 1960s Beattles-mania music, intermingled with a country banjo offered a earache more than pleasantry. But then again, James Earl Jones can make listening to a wayward yodel sound delightful. This subtle history lesson makes American trailblazers enjoyable, without the drill and kill of facts and dates! It kind of unsettles one that Tom's--Thomas Jefferson--name missed out on the title, but considering his quest for independence and liberty, it's doubtful he wanted to share the limelight! The illustrations are entertaining and insightful, with sharp edges. Use this as a cross-over lesson before the inevitable state standardize exam in history. If nothing else, reading how a successful revolution took course could prohibit another revolution against core curriculum annihilation.
Dooby, Dooby Moo by Doreen Cronin and illustrated by Betsy Lewin
Cronin, D. (2006). Dooby, Dooby Moo. New York, NY: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division.
Duck, determine to win the fair's talent show, enters the cows, sheep and pig into the talent show. A romp-roaring sequel to CLICK, CLACK, MOO: Cows That Type readers will enjoy the wonderful audio of this picture book. Of course, Lewin has rejoined her with her watercolor illustrations that bulge with surprise and tease with indicative plot support. Determined to catch his rascals in action, Farmer Brown takes to disguising himself as a scare-crow, peeping high and low. Charming us with country twang and familiar song, the audio readings lassos home the wholesome charm of Cornin's text, down to the fine print everyone should ALWAYS read, no matter what! Use this in support of the Go Texans Day that happens annually. If your state doesn't have one, designate a day and dust off your boots! Coupled along with a western theme and a social study into the wild frontier of young America, this book will certainly bring about unheard of laughter!
Martina, the Beautiful Cockroach: A Cuban Folklore by Carmen Agra Deedy and illustrated by Michael Austin
Deedy, C. (2007). Martina, the Beautiful Cockroach: A Cuban Folklore. Atlanta, GA: Peachtree Publishers.
Perhaps, it's because of her strong accent or colorful dialect, but Carmen Deedy does a FANTASTIC audio reading of her picture book. In addition to providing authentic grunts of Don Cerdo, the sss-sizzling hiss of Don Largato and the cock-o-doodle doo of Don Gallo, Deedy as the timid, but beautiful Martina, who has a witty sarcastic tone, steals the show. As a teacher of sixteen year olds and WITHOUT the book, my students rolled with laughter and held a delightful discussion about what made the book enjoyable--
When prompted with the question, “What part of the story did you like the most?” these were their responses:
Jennifer: The cockroach was funny and very descriptive. Her theory of finding a man was interesting. Plus, she reminds me of you (meaning me, Ms. Darnell)!
Suzy: She had a hard time to find a guy. She wanted a guy to treat her like a princess.
Robert: The ending because the little Perez mouse had a Cuban grandmother too and he stopped the test!
Jesus: Where Martina finds her true love.
Adrian: When Martina’s heart started beating fast and the author made the sound!
Sabina: When the grandmother told Martina to give the coffee test to the mouse and Martina didn’t want to!
Laura: When the lizard was mean and said that Martina was ugly!
Jesus: I liked it when each of the guys snapped and started yelling at her!
Gonzalo: Where she’s getting sick of hearing her name.
And when prompted with the question, “What made you laugh?” they followed up with these responses:
Suzy: You know what else was funny? When Martina’s grandmother told her to be nice; that was difficult when she had the stinky pig that smelled like old cheese and rotten eggs.
Sabina: Yeah, I like the pig part too!
Jennifer: Their reactions to the “coffee tests” made me laugh. Men are so fake!
Suzy: Oh! Also, when the characters said her name…what was it?
Ms. Darnell (happily): Martina Josephina Catalina Cucaracha…beautiful muchacha!
Suzy: Yeah that’s it! Miss...you have too much fun saying that!
Book Review:This wonderful picture book is about a coming-of-age young cockroach girl, who must “give her leg” in marriage. After receiving gifts from her mother and aunts, Martina’s Cuban grandmother imparts the best wisdom she can give her granddaughter: know what your gentleman’s like when he’s angry before you marry him and be yourself. In order to test the suitors of her “marrying leg,” Martina’s grandmother instructs her to spill coffee on the shoes of her suitors to judge their temperament. It is through these tests that the joy and humor captures the reader’s attention. The illustrations scream the culture of Cuban, with vibrant colors and pompous depictions of the various animal suitors. Austin took a step away from the pungent primary colors and made movement in the illustration by using curvier lines and subdue colors that reflected a Cuban sunset--magenta, fuchsia, indigo, jaded greens. Because the folklore is the life of a "cucaracha" (a roach) Austin did a remarkable job injecting imagination. For instance, he used stacked Cuban cigar boxes (steps), a discarded comb (handrail) and a salt shaker (banister) to create a stairway. His attention to detail made the story believable and quaint, for roaches are never lovable and embraced by the human race.
1989 Caldecott Winner
Young, E. (1989). Lon Po Po: A Red-Riding Hood Story from China. New York, NY: Philomel Books.
A retelling of a traditional story handed down, the audio version of Lon Po Po doesn't disappoint. Voice by. The illustrations remind the reader of the screen separators common in Asian cultures. The story beginning high in the sky, almost surrounded by clouds, also reiterates the notion of this story being passed down from generations. As the children ask their grandmother, who's truly a wolf in disguise, some questions, the illustrations signal what can take place, especially as the children converse with their "grandmother" before opening the door; this provides the reader with foreshadow and prediction skills, necessary for building inferencing and story-line skills. This is a great lesson to teach in cross-cultural connections, for American and Chinese children have a folk-tales about wolves pretending to be grandmothers. If it wasn't for Shang's quick wit, to get the wolfish like grandmother up a tree, then Shang and her siblings (Tao & Paotze) would not have escaped with their lives. The clever use of the basket to drop the wolf out of will offer an additional comparison to the importance of the basket compared to the American version of Red-Riding Hood. Young, who also designed the penguin for Penguin Book Publishing, did a fantastic job capturing the danger and mysticism associated with this folktale. The whispering and slightly blurred images almost create the hazy state needed before a bedtime reading.
John, Paul, George and Ben by Lane Smith
Smith, L. (2006). John, Paul, George and Ben. New York, NY: Hyperion Books for Children.
Any history buff will appreciate this kid-friendly telling of the the four big-whigs in American history. What makes this audio reading even better is the voice characterization by James Earl Jones! Yes, the voice of Darth Vader, with its depth and svelte baritone, carries the reader back in time to when John Adams was a writing wizard, Paul Revere was a noisy child bellowing out to the universe, George Washington was as honest as the morning sun, Ben Franklin the "know-it-all" sap who annoyed everyone with his yap! The 1960s Beattles-mania music, intermingled with a country banjo offered a earache more than pleasantry. But then again, James Earl Jones can make listening to a wayward yodel sound delightful. This subtle history lesson makes American trailblazers enjoyable, without the drill and kill of facts and dates! It kind of unsettles one that Tom's--Thomas Jefferson--name missed out on the title, but considering his quest for independence and liberty, it's doubtful he wanted to share the limelight! The illustrations are entertaining and insightful, with sharp edges. Use this as a cross-over lesson before the inevitable state standardize exam in history. If nothing else, reading how a successful revolution took course could prohibit another revolution against core curriculum annihilation.
Dooby, Dooby Moo by Doreen Cronin and illustrated by Betsy Lewin
Cronin, D. (2006). Dooby, Dooby Moo. New York, NY: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division.
Duck, determine to win the fair's talent show, enters the cows, sheep and pig into the talent show. A romp-roaring sequel to CLICK, CLACK, MOO: Cows That Type readers will enjoy the wonderful audio of this picture book. Of course, Lewin has rejoined her with her watercolor illustrations that bulge with surprise and tease with indicative plot support. Determined to catch his rascals in action, Farmer Brown takes to disguising himself as a scare-crow, peeping high and low. Charming us with country twang and familiar song, the audio readings lassos home the wholesome charm of Cornin's text, down to the fine print everyone should ALWAYS read, no matter what! Use this in support of the Go Texans Day that happens annually. If your state doesn't have one, designate a day and dust off your boots! Coupled along with a western theme and a social study into the wild frontier of young America, this book will certainly bring about unheard of laughter!
Martina, the Beautiful Cockroach: A Cuban Folklore by Carmen Agra Deedy and illustrated by Michael Austin
Deedy, C. (2007). Martina, the Beautiful Cockroach: A Cuban Folklore. Atlanta, GA: Peachtree Publishers.
Perhaps, it's because of her strong accent or colorful dialect, but Carmen Deedy does a FANTASTIC audio reading of her picture book. In addition to providing authentic grunts of Don Cerdo, the sss-sizzling hiss of Don Largato and the cock-o-doodle doo of Don Gallo, Deedy as the timid, but beautiful Martina, who has a witty sarcastic tone, steals the show. As a teacher of sixteen year olds and WITHOUT the book, my students rolled with laughter and held a delightful discussion about what made the book enjoyable--
When prompted with the question, “What part of the story did you like the most?” these were their responses:
Jennifer: The cockroach was funny and very descriptive. Her theory of finding a man was interesting. Plus, she reminds me of you (meaning me, Ms. Darnell)!
Suzy: She had a hard time to find a guy. She wanted a guy to treat her like a princess.
Robert: The ending because the little Perez mouse had a Cuban grandmother too and he stopped the test!
Jesus: Where Martina finds her true love.
Adrian: When Martina’s heart started beating fast and the author made the sound!
Sabina: When the grandmother told Martina to give the coffee test to the mouse and Martina didn’t want to!
Laura: When the lizard was mean and said that Martina was ugly!
Jesus: I liked it when each of the guys snapped and started yelling at her!
Gonzalo: Where she’s getting sick of hearing her name.
And when prompted with the question, “What made you laugh?” they followed up with these responses:
Suzy: You know what else was funny? When Martina’s grandmother told her to be nice; that was difficult when she had the stinky pig that smelled like old cheese and rotten eggs.
Sabina: Yeah, I like the pig part too!
Jennifer: Their reactions to the “coffee tests” made me laugh. Men are so fake!
Suzy: Oh! Also, when the characters said her name…what was it?
Ms. Darnell (happily): Martina Josephina Catalina Cucaracha…beautiful muchacha!
Suzy: Yeah that’s it! Miss...you have too much fun saying that!
Book Review:This wonderful picture book is about a coming-of-age young cockroach girl, who must “give her leg” in marriage. After receiving gifts from her mother and aunts, Martina’s Cuban grandmother imparts the best wisdom she can give her granddaughter: know what your gentleman’s like when he’s angry before you marry him and be yourself. In order to test the suitors of her “marrying leg,” Martina’s grandmother instructs her to spill coffee on the shoes of her suitors to judge their temperament. It is through these tests that the joy and humor captures the reader’s attention. The illustrations scream the culture of Cuban, with vibrant colors and pompous depictions of the various animal suitors. Austin took a step away from the pungent primary colors and made movement in the illustration by using curvier lines and subdue colors that reflected a Cuban sunset--magenta, fuchsia, indigo, jaded greens. Because the folklore is the life of a "cucaracha" (a roach) Austin did a remarkable job injecting imagination. For instance, he used stacked Cuban cigar boxes (steps), a discarded comb (handrail) and a salt shaker (banister) to create a stairway. His attention to detail made the story believable and quaint, for roaches are never lovable and embraced by the human race.
Charlotte Zolotow Award Books
Kitten's First Full Moon by Kevin Henkes
2005 Award Winner
Henkes, K. (2004). Kitten’s First Full Moon. New York, NY: Greenwillow Books.
This story would work well to teach character building traits and would work well in a pre-kindergarten or kindergarten class. Kitten mistakes the moon for a bowl of milk one evening. She earnestly tries to capture that bountiful bowl in the sky. On an adventure that carries her to a pond, kitten believes she finally has the bowl of milk within her grasp. Mistaking the moon’s reflection in the pond, she jumps in to quench her thirst. “Tired, wet and hungry” she turned home; her persistence unrewarded. However, much to her surprise, a loving bowl of milk waited on the porch for her. Imagination, adventure and determination soar up to the heavens and across the pages in the illustrations. Whether the text spilled across the open pages, mimicking the distance to the moon, or a page spread was divided into four sections to compliment kittens multiple efforts to “drink” the moon, Henkes locks the readers with his verbiage and visual images.
Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale by Mo Willems
2005 Honor Book
Willems, M. (2004). Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale. New York, NY: Hyperion Books for Children.
What immediately transfixes the readers is that Willems uses realistic photographs with cartoon inserts. It's the best of both worlds because readers are able to insert imagination in an everyday background setting that they're familiar with and can recognize instantly, while on an errand with their parents. Additionally, the end papers are visual hints of what will happen to the beloved Knuffle Bunny. As a child and more like "Linus" from "Charlie Brown," I lost my "wubbie" (a purple blanket with silk ribbons on the end) on a daily basis, staging World War III for my mother every night when I couldn't find it. Security blankets and stuff animals are crucial to a child because it belongs to them, especially when most of the time they hear multitudinous variations of "No!" There's something about ownership and losing it that truly rocks a child's world, and sends parents on a panicky, maniacal search. Use this to visualize how innovation and imagination can interject itself into everyday life. Willems side-cracking humor is evidence in the expressions of the cartoon illustrations, as well as before the story begins.
When Sofie Gets Angry--Really, Really Angry... by Molly Bang
2000 Award Winner
Bang, M. (1999). When Sofie Gets Angry--Really, Really Angry... . New York, NY: Blue Sky Press.
Every child has to learn to effectively deal with anger and Molly Bang has eloquently designed and verbalized the this emotion to a "tee." A natural and one of the first emotions to encounter, children must learn to control and demonstrate anger in a socially acceptable manner. I adore the way Bang used figurative language to express Sofie's "red, red roar." The illustrative colors of red and purple provided a cool (purple) and hot (red) background, offering a subliminal balance in handling the emotions of anger. When Sofie calms herself down, watching the movement of water, the calming colors of green and blue tempers the tempest inside reducing the raging, feverish typhoon that consumed her before. The illustrations emphasizes the importance of removing yourself from the volatile situation and finding a quiet place to soothe oneself. As I child, my mother knew she'd "pushed my button" when I retreated to my bedroom to bellow out my frustrations on my cello. The words I couldn't or wouldn't formulate screamed from my bow strokes and released the physical damage that holding my anger within probably caused. Bang teaches that it's okay to become angry, but that you also must deal with it in a non-destructive manner, preferably alone which is self-sufficient and healthy!
2005 Award Winner
Henkes, K. (2004). Kitten’s First Full Moon. New York, NY: Greenwillow Books.
This story would work well to teach character building traits and would work well in a pre-kindergarten or kindergarten class. Kitten mistakes the moon for a bowl of milk one evening. She earnestly tries to capture that bountiful bowl in the sky. On an adventure that carries her to a pond, kitten believes she finally has the bowl of milk within her grasp. Mistaking the moon’s reflection in the pond, she jumps in to quench her thirst. “Tired, wet and hungry” she turned home; her persistence unrewarded. However, much to her surprise, a loving bowl of milk waited on the porch for her. Imagination, adventure and determination soar up to the heavens and across the pages in the illustrations. Whether the text spilled across the open pages, mimicking the distance to the moon, or a page spread was divided into four sections to compliment kittens multiple efforts to “drink” the moon, Henkes locks the readers with his verbiage and visual images.
Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale by Mo Willems
2005 Honor Book
Willems, M. (2004). Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale. New York, NY: Hyperion Books for Children.
What immediately transfixes the readers is that Willems uses realistic photographs with cartoon inserts. It's the best of both worlds because readers are able to insert imagination in an everyday background setting that they're familiar with and can recognize instantly, while on an errand with their parents. Additionally, the end papers are visual hints of what will happen to the beloved Knuffle Bunny. As a child and more like "Linus" from "Charlie Brown," I lost my "wubbie" (a purple blanket with silk ribbons on the end) on a daily basis, staging World War III for my mother every night when I couldn't find it. Security blankets and stuff animals are crucial to a child because it belongs to them, especially when most of the time they hear multitudinous variations of "No!" There's something about ownership and losing it that truly rocks a child's world, and sends parents on a panicky, maniacal search. Use this to visualize how innovation and imagination can interject itself into everyday life. Willems side-cracking humor is evidence in the expressions of the cartoon illustrations, as well as before the story begins.
When Sofie Gets Angry--Really, Really Angry... by Molly Bang
2000 Award Winner
Bang, M. (1999). When Sofie Gets Angry--Really, Really Angry... . New York, NY: Blue Sky Press.
Every child has to learn to effectively deal with anger and Molly Bang has eloquently designed and verbalized the this emotion to a "tee." A natural and one of the first emotions to encounter, children must learn to control and demonstrate anger in a socially acceptable manner. I adore the way Bang used figurative language to express Sofie's "red, red roar." The illustrative colors of red and purple provided a cool (purple) and hot (red) background, offering a subliminal balance in handling the emotions of anger. When Sofie calms herself down, watching the movement of water, the calming colors of green and blue tempers the tempest inside reducing the raging, feverish typhoon that consumed her before. The illustrations emphasizes the importance of removing yourself from the volatile situation and finding a quiet place to soothe oneself. As I child, my mother knew she'd "pushed my button" when I retreated to my bedroom to bellow out my frustrations on my cello. The words I couldn't or wouldn't formulate screamed from my bow strokes and released the physical damage that holding my anger within probably caused. Bang teaches that it's okay to become angry, but that you also must deal with it in a non-destructive manner, preferably alone which is self-sufficient and healthy!
Sunday, April 21, 2013
Orbis Pictus Award
Spiders by Nic Bishop
2008 Orbis Pictus Honor Book
Bishop, N. (2007). Spiders. New York, NY: Scholastic, Inc.
Little Miss Muffet, here's your new black book! No longer do you have to be scared, for you know the types, habitats and mannerisms of SPIDERS! Next time, sit and chat with that icky, spiky 8 legged insect. Determine if he's a she! Or whether instead of scaring you, that a wolf spider was a mother that wanted the leaf stuck to the bottom of your dress to feed the baby sack she carried on her back. Bishop has gathered a most invasive and detailed depiction of children's most feared little creature. The ease of using this in a science class is obvious. But I would love to use this in a creative writing class. The students could create dating-profiles for each of the spiders mentioned and then try to match mates. Overall the illustrations (pictures) freaked me out. I had to close my eyes and have my 10 year old read this book to me, so I can fulfill this requirement. EWW! YELCH! AAHHH! And, nightmares to come.
When Marian Sang: The True Recital of Marian Anderson by Pam Muñoz Ryan and illustrated by Brian Selznick
2003 Orbis Pictus Award Winner
Ryan, P. (2002) When Marian Sang: The True Recital of Marian Anderson. New York, NY: Scholastic, Inc.
One of the greatest gifts of life is love. Love in all it's grandeur and genre is amazing. Yet, a close second place to almost everyone is music. Whether blaring out of an IPOD or floating through the air before Lincoln's Washington monument, music is beautiful, angelical and healing to briefly sum it up. And, when fortune has smiled upon you, as it did Marian Anderson, you can change the world. Ryan and Selznick collaborated to create a vibrantly beautiful book about majesty of Marian Anderson and her phenomenal voice. With such pride and poise, Anderson stood before her nation, that shunned and revered her, and bellowed out via broadcast and bottomless might. Facing a 1939 crowd of 75,000 participants, she closed her eyes to the rejection of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and Mrs. Elenaor Roosevelt's morning resignation, and sang "America." Nobody knew the trouble she saw as a 12 year old girl, losing her father. The world heard a earth-dwelling songbird, resting on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, before she returned to heaven at a later call. Selznick captures the mahogany richness of her skin and the heavenly spotlight that beamed upon her as she sang for the Metropolitan Opera. The consistent use of honeyed and marbled shades of brown, melting the racially dividing lines of injustice, like treasured chocolate of the finest creation, focuses the reader on her racial plight without flagrantly assaulting the audience. In the words of Interior Secretary, Harold L. Ickes, who introduced Marian Anderson as she stood in front of the Lincoln Memorial in 1939, "Genius draws no color line." Marian, through the blessing of music, erased the fault line in America. *Use this picture book in music class, during the social study of prejudice or in a character building class over perseverance.
Rosie the Riveter: Women Working on the Home Front in World War II by Penny Colman
1996 Honor Book
Colman, P. (1995). Rosie the Riveter: Women Working on the Home Front in World War II. New York, NY: Crown Publishers, Inc.
American women won equality regarding the right to vote in 1920. Hard fought and well deserved, women equaled men in voting power. Yet, when the male-dominance vacated the country to fight in World War II, women jumped into action, running households, rationing goods and drilling the rivets needed on the planes their husbands, brothers and sons flew overseas. An authentic depiction of the 1940s and the struggles of women, Colman captures the strength of those women who had to work for "three months, ten hours a day, six days a week and slap three-eighth or three-quarter inch rivets by hand that no one else would do (Colman, 84)." These domesticated dollies turned battered and bruised pioneers took the helm and kept America's factories smoking. The authentic photographs of lipsticked welders, smiling like beacons of light on a European battle shore, made the text genuine. Three and a half million women answered the call to arms in the mid 1940s. Whether women wore pink dress or had their hair tied up in a handkerchief, ready for their drill, women put to rest their ability to stand in support and toe-to-toes with their men. Use this immediately after a classic fairy-tale, where the princess awaits rescue. Then ask the students, "What would Rosie do?" This selection should definitely find usage with an older, high school, audience as it deals with sensitive topics such as sexual discrimination.
2008 Orbis Pictus Honor Book
Bishop, N. (2007). Spiders. New York, NY: Scholastic, Inc.
Little Miss Muffet, here's your new black book! No longer do you have to be scared, for you know the types, habitats and mannerisms of SPIDERS! Next time, sit and chat with that icky, spiky 8 legged insect. Determine if he's a she! Or whether instead of scaring you, that a wolf spider was a mother that wanted the leaf stuck to the bottom of your dress to feed the baby sack she carried on her back. Bishop has gathered a most invasive and detailed depiction of children's most feared little creature. The ease of using this in a science class is obvious. But I would love to use this in a creative writing class. The students could create dating-profiles for each of the spiders mentioned and then try to match mates. Overall the illustrations (pictures) freaked me out. I had to close my eyes and have my 10 year old read this book to me, so I can fulfill this requirement. EWW! YELCH! AAHHH! And, nightmares to come.
When Marian Sang: The True Recital of Marian Anderson by Pam Muñoz Ryan and illustrated by Brian Selznick
2003 Orbis Pictus Award Winner
Ryan, P. (2002) When Marian Sang: The True Recital of Marian Anderson. New York, NY: Scholastic, Inc.
One of the greatest gifts of life is love. Love in all it's grandeur and genre is amazing. Yet, a close second place to almost everyone is music. Whether blaring out of an IPOD or floating through the air before Lincoln's Washington monument, music is beautiful, angelical and healing to briefly sum it up. And, when fortune has smiled upon you, as it did Marian Anderson, you can change the world. Ryan and Selznick collaborated to create a vibrantly beautiful book about majesty of Marian Anderson and her phenomenal voice. With such pride and poise, Anderson stood before her nation, that shunned and revered her, and bellowed out via broadcast and bottomless might. Facing a 1939 crowd of 75,000 participants, she closed her eyes to the rejection of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and Mrs. Elenaor Roosevelt's morning resignation, and sang "America." Nobody knew the trouble she saw as a 12 year old girl, losing her father. The world heard a earth-dwelling songbird, resting on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, before she returned to heaven at a later call. Selznick captures the mahogany richness of her skin and the heavenly spotlight that beamed upon her as she sang for the Metropolitan Opera. The consistent use of honeyed and marbled shades of brown, melting the racially dividing lines of injustice, like treasured chocolate of the finest creation, focuses the reader on her racial plight without flagrantly assaulting the audience. In the words of Interior Secretary, Harold L. Ickes, who introduced Marian Anderson as she stood in front of the Lincoln Memorial in 1939, "Genius draws no color line." Marian, through the blessing of music, erased the fault line in America. *Use this picture book in music class, during the social study of prejudice or in a character building class over perseverance.
Rosie the Riveter: Women Working on the Home Front in World War II by Penny Colman
1996 Honor Book
Colman, P. (1995). Rosie the Riveter: Women Working on the Home Front in World War II. New York, NY: Crown Publishers, Inc.
American women won equality regarding the right to vote in 1920. Hard fought and well deserved, women equaled men in voting power. Yet, when the male-dominance vacated the country to fight in World War II, women jumped into action, running households, rationing goods and drilling the rivets needed on the planes their husbands, brothers and sons flew overseas. An authentic depiction of the 1940s and the struggles of women, Colman captures the strength of those women who had to work for "three months, ten hours a day, six days a week and slap three-eighth or three-quarter inch rivets by hand that no one else would do (Colman, 84)." These domesticated dollies turned battered and bruised pioneers took the helm and kept America's factories smoking. The authentic photographs of lipsticked welders, smiling like beacons of light on a European battle shore, made the text genuine. Three and a half million women answered the call to arms in the mid 1940s. Whether women wore pink dress or had their hair tied up in a handkerchief, ready for their drill, women put to rest their ability to stand in support and toe-to-toes with their men. Use this immediately after a classic fairy-tale, where the princess awaits rescue. Then ask the students, "What would Rosie do?" This selection should definitely find usage with an older, high school, audience as it deals with sensitive topics such as sexual discrimination.
Schenider Family Book Award
My pal Victor,MÃ amigo VÃctor by Diane Gonzales Beltran and illustrated by Robert L. Sweetland
Beltran, D. (2004). My pal Victor, MÃ amigo VÃctor. Green Bay, Wisconsin: Raven Tree Press.
As the title suggests, this dual-language picture book exemplifies the importance of friendship as a foundation for a sense of belonging and acceptance. I can see using this book in a beginning Spanish class. Native English speakers can compare/contrast similarities between English and Spanish and familiarize themselves with the proper accents and spellings their second language. In case readers run into “stumbling blocks,” the can resource the glossary index. This book is a great for a precursor for an expository essay. The prompt should read “explain the importance of a best friend.” But what’s more exciting is that the illustrations Robert Sweetland offers resemble the brainstorming needed to begin the writing process. The images spread across the page and go from “in focus” (large images) to “out of focus” (small images). Another noticeable illustrative feature is the inclusion of seven different illustrations as a collage, when the speaker elaborates in the text that “My pal, Victor, and I do so many fun things.” Furthermore, the hand-drawn imaginative images offer obtainable mimicking. If the reader’s a drawer, these illustrations would provide the proper focus to copy and develop their skills. Lastly, what should impress the readers most is the fact that the narrator’s role-model is his best friend. Victor is the superstar…not a Hollywood movie star or a professional athlete.
Looking Out for Sarah by Glenna Lang
Lang, G. (2003) Looking Out for Sarah. Watertown, MA: Charlesbridge Publishing.
Perry's brilliant. He knows how to cross the street, get to the post office, and turn a sheet of music. Perry's black and his best friend is Sarah. Sarah teaches music, walked 300 miles to Boston and running errands flawlessly because of Perry. Sarah is blind. Without Perry's eyes and guidance, typical life would be harder for Sarah. But with a black Labrador as a best friend, Sarah moves through life "seeing" all obstacles in her way. This picture book is proof positive that just because your sight's absent, that doesn't mean a fulfilling life has to disappear as well. Sarah and Perry proves that partnership and perseverance pays off. Lang's illustrations are not ornate in detail, more like colorful shadows. The images almost mimic what most would imagine a blind person might see; for they don't have the definition as everyone, but can see the difference between daylight and darkness. Stevie Wonder declared long ago that music notes made colors in his mind. Perhaps there may be a connection between music notes and colors; many of those that are blind become remarkable musicians--a sort of consolation for not seeing in a predictable manner. This book would work well in an elementary music class. It's a great way to bridge music, blindness and braille. It would also work well for a class project: being blind for a day. Two partners decide who will be blind (via a blindfold), and for the next 8 school hours, the blind student and their "seeing eye-person" will journey throughout the day. At the conclusion of the lesson, the partners will journal their experience.
Rules by Cynthia Lord
Lord, C. (2006). Rules. New York, NY: Scholastic, Inc.
Catherine’s a 12 yr. old Joan of Arc for her autistic brother. Through her dedication and dependable nature, she devises a set of rules to help her brother better transition into society. Yes, he embarrasses her by his outbursts and uncontrollable antic in front of her cool and beautiful new neighbor to whom Catherine desperately wants to become best friends with, but it's when she finds herself budding with affection for a disabled young man that Catherine truly has to face what it means to show acceptance. It is through her loving her brother, David, that she learns true compassion and insight about herself, as well as her new friend Jason. Over one summer, Catherine grows from a young girl, budding in the mistakes of youth, to a young woman, understanding the acceptance of life. This books models the traits of egalitarianism and self-awareness beautifully. Through her determination for equality and with her undeterred dedication to her brother, Catherine blooms into a wonderful “poster-child” for an autism advocate and best friend. This would work well as a cross-curricular lesson with those students suffering from disabilities unfamiliar to the mainstream students. Though it's for older students, it challenges kids to re-evaluate their thinking. It'd be great to read this to a fourth grade class and then plan an enrichment activity that would include autistic peers. Familiarizing themselves would awaken the empathy in young children and possibly stop the stares, when watching autistic or any special needs student go to lunch early. Avoidance isn't the answer. Acceptance and compassion is the beginning.
Beltran, D. (2004). My pal Victor, MÃ amigo VÃctor. Green Bay, Wisconsin: Raven Tree Press.
As the title suggests, this dual-language picture book exemplifies the importance of friendship as a foundation for a sense of belonging and acceptance. I can see using this book in a beginning Spanish class. Native English speakers can compare/contrast similarities between English and Spanish and familiarize themselves with the proper accents and spellings their second language. In case readers run into “stumbling blocks,” the can resource the glossary index. This book is a great for a precursor for an expository essay. The prompt should read “explain the importance of a best friend.” But what’s more exciting is that the illustrations Robert Sweetland offers resemble the brainstorming needed to begin the writing process. The images spread across the page and go from “in focus” (large images) to “out of focus” (small images). Another noticeable illustrative feature is the inclusion of seven different illustrations as a collage, when the speaker elaborates in the text that “My pal, Victor, and I do so many fun things.” Furthermore, the hand-drawn imaginative images offer obtainable mimicking. If the reader’s a drawer, these illustrations would provide the proper focus to copy and develop their skills. Lastly, what should impress the readers most is the fact that the narrator’s role-model is his best friend. Victor is the superstar…not a Hollywood movie star or a professional athlete.
Looking Out for Sarah by Glenna Lang
Lang, G. (2003) Looking Out for Sarah. Watertown, MA: Charlesbridge Publishing.
Perry's brilliant. He knows how to cross the street, get to the post office, and turn a sheet of music. Perry's black and his best friend is Sarah. Sarah teaches music, walked 300 miles to Boston and running errands flawlessly because of Perry. Sarah is blind. Without Perry's eyes and guidance, typical life would be harder for Sarah. But with a black Labrador as a best friend, Sarah moves through life "seeing" all obstacles in her way. This picture book is proof positive that just because your sight's absent, that doesn't mean a fulfilling life has to disappear as well. Sarah and Perry proves that partnership and perseverance pays off. Lang's illustrations are not ornate in detail, more like colorful shadows. The images almost mimic what most would imagine a blind person might see; for they don't have the definition as everyone, but can see the difference between daylight and darkness. Stevie Wonder declared long ago that music notes made colors in his mind. Perhaps there may be a connection between music notes and colors; many of those that are blind become remarkable musicians--a sort of consolation for not seeing in a predictable manner. This book would work well in an elementary music class. It's a great way to bridge music, blindness and braille. It would also work well for a class project: being blind for a day. Two partners decide who will be blind (via a blindfold), and for the next 8 school hours, the blind student and their "seeing eye-person" will journey throughout the day. At the conclusion of the lesson, the partners will journal their experience.
Rules by Cynthia Lord
Lord, C. (2006). Rules. New York, NY: Scholastic, Inc.
Catherine’s a 12 yr. old Joan of Arc for her autistic brother. Through her dedication and dependable nature, she devises a set of rules to help her brother better transition into society. Yes, he embarrasses her by his outbursts and uncontrollable antic in front of her cool and beautiful new neighbor to whom Catherine desperately wants to become best friends with, but it's when she finds herself budding with affection for a disabled young man that Catherine truly has to face what it means to show acceptance. It is through her loving her brother, David, that she learns true compassion and insight about herself, as well as her new friend Jason. Over one summer, Catherine grows from a young girl, budding in the mistakes of youth, to a young woman, understanding the acceptance of life. This books models the traits of egalitarianism and self-awareness beautifully. Through her determination for equality and with her undeterred dedication to her brother, Catherine blooms into a wonderful “poster-child” for an autism advocate and best friend. This would work well as a cross-curricular lesson with those students suffering from disabilities unfamiliar to the mainstream students. Though it's for older students, it challenges kids to re-evaluate their thinking. It'd be great to read this to a fourth grade class and then plan an enrichment activity that would include autistic peers. Familiarizing themselves would awaken the empathy in young children and possibly stop the stares, when watching autistic or any special needs student go to lunch early. Avoidance isn't the answer. Acceptance and compassion is the beginning.
Saturday, April 20, 2013
Bank Street College Best Books for Children List
Corduroy by Don Freeman
Freeman, D. (1968). Corduroy. New York, NY: Puffin Books.
National Friendship Day is the first Sunday in August. What better way to emphasize the importance of a friendly embrace than reading Corduroy. The innocence of Corduroy makes him not only a lovable bear, but the best thing to embrace at the end of the day. Noticed by a lovely girl, Lisa, Corduroy believes he’s found someone to treasure and take him home. But when Lisa’s mother shuns his damage appeal—he’s missing a button for his overall trousers—Corduroy decides to make himself more attractive and find the best button for his overalls. On an adventure to discover the perfect fastener, he learns he lives in a grand palace (a department store). Though it’s a lovely place, Corduroy craves a home. As his button-searching adventures ceases with the night watchman noticing his out-of-place location, he gives up; discourage that no one will love him just as he is. When Lisa returns to choose him, imperfections and all, he learns the importance of sharing a home with someone who loves and cares for him; the importance of a friend. Freeman teaches acceptance and having someone to love you, despite your “missing button” and simplistic nature. This illustration demonstrates the value in white space, watercolors and hand-drawn grace. Corduroy also challenged the turbulent times of the 1960s, when most children’s book did not feature diverse faces. The “against the tide” feature of a young Black girl as Corduroy’s heroine added to the endearing lovability of acceptance—and that’s just the right love for Corduroy.
Madeline by Ludwig Bemelmans
Bemelmans, L. (1998). Madeline. New York, NY: Puffin Books.
"Mad Maddie"
A pioneer before her time
was a little girl named Madeline.
Yellow was the color for the heroine,
a petite and pungent French dandelion.
Madeline made her nun, Miss Clavel,
worry with regret and come unraveled.
Madeline's dalliance on the edge of Pont Neuf
almost make Miss Clavel shout "ENOUGH!"
For Madeline, with her audacious behavior,
never once found a challenge not her favor.
Until one unghastly night,
Madeline woke in such a fright.
Her tummy turned taut with a twist
because her unruly appendix had come unfixed.
After days of rest and visits from friends,
Madeline's adventure came to an end.
-Penned by Jean Darnell
Madeline has received many awards and has stood the test of time. Whether you take this book, as an accompaniment for your 4 year old little girl on a trip to France OR whether you take your class on a virtual trip through Paris on the computer, this picture book will connect to the hearts of those young and old.
Blueberries for Sal by Robert McCloskey
McCloskey, R. (1976). Blueberries for Sal. New York,NY: Puffin Books.
A long loved book, McCloskey captures the hungry, sweetness in a young girl assisting her mother with "picking to preserve" blueberries. More interested in munching than collecting, Sal loses track of her mother but finds another blueberry picking mother to suffice. An innocent and comical switching of places: Sal and her mother, separate and are mismatched; a bear cub following Sal's mother and Sal trotting along behind mother bear. It's only when mother bear realizes that instead of her blueberry munching cub following behind her, she has a berry munching girl, that both mothers calmly panic! McCloskey's detailed depiction of the landscape in a perfectly matched berry inked blue. The endpapers reflect the remembrance of a life not too long ago, when canning and preserving your food for the winter was just as important as a bear store up fat and food for hibernation. This book would work well in a science class, when the discussion centered on the importance of eating natural foods, free of harmful pesticides, and growing your own garden. There's something connective in going into the earth to pull or pick nourishment. It's a connect lost to many that needs retribution and Blueberries for Sal will simply take you to that frame of mind, simply naturally.
Parade by Donald Crews
Crews, D. (1987). Parade. New York, NY: Mulberry Books.
Parades have a fascinating way of turning adults into children and little ones into awe-struck statues. The anxiety waiting for the big floats, marching bands and waving participants just stuns most crowd-goers. I recall when I took my son to Disneyworld and Mickey Mouse waved and danced before him, the bottle rocket of energy that is my son became a statuary dud, stuck in a stupor. Crews captures the many facets to pulling off a parade. The gathering of vendors, the police barricading and establishing order and the lining of the crowds, everything a child fails to notice when stunned into awe. Crews illustrations are vibrantly enriched with faceless crowds of diverse races, which mimics all the beautiful colors beside a parade watcher and before him, marching and rolling in celebratory fashion. Use this book when teaching the importance of steps and chronology. See if the children can accurately dictate all the steps involved in pulling off a parade. The unbeknownst winner has the most steps!
Freeman, D. (1968). Corduroy. New York, NY: Puffin Books.
National Friendship Day is the first Sunday in August. What better way to emphasize the importance of a friendly embrace than reading Corduroy. The innocence of Corduroy makes him not only a lovable bear, but the best thing to embrace at the end of the day. Noticed by a lovely girl, Lisa, Corduroy believes he’s found someone to treasure and take him home. But when Lisa’s mother shuns his damage appeal—he’s missing a button for his overall trousers—Corduroy decides to make himself more attractive and find the best button for his overalls. On an adventure to discover the perfect fastener, he learns he lives in a grand palace (a department store). Though it’s a lovely place, Corduroy craves a home. As his button-searching adventures ceases with the night watchman noticing his out-of-place location, he gives up; discourage that no one will love him just as he is. When Lisa returns to choose him, imperfections and all, he learns the importance of sharing a home with someone who loves and cares for him; the importance of a friend. Freeman teaches acceptance and having someone to love you, despite your “missing button” and simplistic nature. This illustration demonstrates the value in white space, watercolors and hand-drawn grace. Corduroy also challenged the turbulent times of the 1960s, when most children’s book did not feature diverse faces. The “against the tide” feature of a young Black girl as Corduroy’s heroine added to the endearing lovability of acceptance—and that’s just the right love for Corduroy.
Madeline by Ludwig Bemelmans
Bemelmans, L. (1998). Madeline. New York, NY: Puffin Books.
"Mad Maddie"
A pioneer before her time
was a little girl named Madeline.
Yellow was the color for the heroine,
a petite and pungent French dandelion.
Madeline made her nun, Miss Clavel,
worry with regret and come unraveled.
Madeline's dalliance on the edge of Pont Neuf
almost make Miss Clavel shout "ENOUGH!"
For Madeline, with her audacious behavior,
never once found a challenge not her favor.
Until one unghastly night,
Madeline woke in such a fright.
Her tummy turned taut with a twist
because her unruly appendix had come unfixed.
After days of rest and visits from friends,
Madeline's adventure came to an end.
-Penned by Jean Darnell
Madeline has received many awards and has stood the test of time. Whether you take this book, as an accompaniment for your 4 year old little girl on a trip to France OR whether you take your class on a virtual trip through Paris on the computer, this picture book will connect to the hearts of those young and old.
Blueberries for Sal by Robert McCloskey
McCloskey, R. (1976). Blueberries for Sal. New York,NY: Puffin Books.
A long loved book, McCloskey captures the hungry, sweetness in a young girl assisting her mother with "picking to preserve" blueberries. More interested in munching than collecting, Sal loses track of her mother but finds another blueberry picking mother to suffice. An innocent and comical switching of places: Sal and her mother, separate and are mismatched; a bear cub following Sal's mother and Sal trotting along behind mother bear. It's only when mother bear realizes that instead of her blueberry munching cub following behind her, she has a berry munching girl, that both mothers calmly panic! McCloskey's detailed depiction of the landscape in a perfectly matched berry inked blue. The endpapers reflect the remembrance of a life not too long ago, when canning and preserving your food for the winter was just as important as a bear store up fat and food for hibernation. This book would work well in a science class, when the discussion centered on the importance of eating natural foods, free of harmful pesticides, and growing your own garden. There's something connective in going into the earth to pull or pick nourishment. It's a connect lost to many that needs retribution and Blueberries for Sal will simply take you to that frame of mind, simply naturally.
Parade by Donald Crews
Crews, D. (1987). Parade. New York, NY: Mulberry Books.
Parades have a fascinating way of turning adults into children and little ones into awe-struck statues. The anxiety waiting for the big floats, marching bands and waving participants just stuns most crowd-goers. I recall when I took my son to Disneyworld and Mickey Mouse waved and danced before him, the bottle rocket of energy that is my son became a statuary dud, stuck in a stupor. Crews captures the many facets to pulling off a parade. The gathering of vendors, the police barricading and establishing order and the lining of the crowds, everything a child fails to notice when stunned into awe. Crews illustrations are vibrantly enriched with faceless crowds of diverse races, which mimics all the beautiful colors beside a parade watcher and before him, marching and rolling in celebratory fashion. Use this book when teaching the importance of steps and chronology. See if the children can accurately dictate all the steps involved in pulling off a parade. The unbeknownst winner has the most steps!
Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award
Mufaro's Beautiful Daughters: An African Tale by John Steptoe
1988 Coretta Scott King Illustrator Winner
Steptoe, J. (1987). Mufaro's Beautiful Daughters: An African Tale New York, NY: Lorhtrop, Lee & Shepard Books.
Sibling rivalry has existed since the beginning of life. Whether it's lion cubs on their first hunt, trying to impress mother lioness, or Cain and Abel presenting sacrifices for acceptance, every civilization has a story of jealousy, good vs. evil and so forth. Mufaro's Beautiful Daughters is no different. But what makes this picture book spectacular is its elaborate illustrations. From the title page, the reader's breath is swept away by the luscious attention to detail. Instantly transported into the jubilant jungles of Africa, the illustrations illuminate the text, breathing reality into the quarrelsome nature of Manyara with her docile sister Nyasha. Determined to become queen, Manyara races ahead of her sister to present herself to the king. It's on her journey that Manyara fails a series of tests to determine the caliber of her character. When Manyara has to be rescued by Nyasha, the reader learns who will inherit the crown and why. Using philosophy to teach the difference between selfish and selfless is a lesson that can find use everywhere for any reason. Children need to learn at an early age the value of charity and ambition, for in order to succeed in life, you need a little bit of Nyasha and Manyara within yourself. This picture-book would be great to use in a Socratic discussion about self-worth, selfishness and self-effacing.
My People by Langston Hughes and with illustrations by Charles R. Smith
2010 Illustrator Award Winner
Hughes, L. (2009). My People. New York, NY: Atheneum Books for Young Readers.
Langston Hughes has consistently captured and immortalized Black life. He gave beauty to the dark pigmented stain of America's longest enslaved. He gave sunlight in the midst of storms that silenced the souls of so many. Charles Smith visualized the once unappreciated ebony faces of the world, whether in the complexity of their hair or the complex vexation of a Black man's stare, Smith makes sure that the simple phenom that is Black edges beyond stereotypes, ascends pass European depictions of beauty and lands on the promised rock of acceptance. It's not "in your face" or militant, "I'm black and I'm proud." It's just a light of focus into the dark beauty of America. Use it to redefine beauty, to reform stereotypes or just to embrace American faces 237 years in the making.
Here in Harlem: Poems in Many Voices written by Walter Dean Myers
1998 Illustrator Honor Book
Myers, W. (2004) Here in Harlem: Poems in Many Voices. New York, NY: Holiday House.
Sure as the day is long, most Americans know the plight of the same Americans with darker tone. But what makes Myers' Here in Harlem: Poems in Many Voices sing joyously beyond obvious struggle and strife, are the perspectives her offers from all characters in life. Everyone knows a students, an unemployed worker and a hustler. We can tell the party-goers from the church-goers, but we can't all voice their thoughts. Myers offers a fantastic lesson in tone and insight through this wonderful collection of Harlem-esque neighbors from his youth. One of the favorite from this collection is from the perspective of Betty Pointing, 64 years old and a clerk. Her husband gets upset when she says "I love you" with a smile. He thinks she's disingenuous. She "can't help smiling when I say it. I truly can't. I smiled the first time I ever seen that man standing at the back of the church, trying to ease out before the service is over." The book is a window into the lives of Harlem's residents. The photographs are of the corner-stoops, newsstand dealers, blues singers pulsating life into the delicious brownie of New York's Manhattan Island.
1988 Coretta Scott King Illustrator Winner
Steptoe, J. (1987). Mufaro's Beautiful Daughters: An African Tale New York, NY: Lorhtrop, Lee & Shepard Books.
Sibling rivalry has existed since the beginning of life. Whether it's lion cubs on their first hunt, trying to impress mother lioness, or Cain and Abel presenting sacrifices for acceptance, every civilization has a story of jealousy, good vs. evil and so forth. Mufaro's Beautiful Daughters is no different. But what makes this picture book spectacular is its elaborate illustrations. From the title page, the reader's breath is swept away by the luscious attention to detail. Instantly transported into the jubilant jungles of Africa, the illustrations illuminate the text, breathing reality into the quarrelsome nature of Manyara with her docile sister Nyasha. Determined to become queen, Manyara races ahead of her sister to present herself to the king. It's on her journey that Manyara fails a series of tests to determine the caliber of her character. When Manyara has to be rescued by Nyasha, the reader learns who will inherit the crown and why. Using philosophy to teach the difference between selfish and selfless is a lesson that can find use everywhere for any reason. Children need to learn at an early age the value of charity and ambition, for in order to succeed in life, you need a little bit of Nyasha and Manyara within yourself. This picture-book would be great to use in a Socratic discussion about self-worth, selfishness and self-effacing.
My People by Langston Hughes and with illustrations by Charles R. Smith
2010 Illustrator Award Winner
Hughes, L. (2009). My People. New York, NY: Atheneum Books for Young Readers.
Langston Hughes has consistently captured and immortalized Black life. He gave beauty to the dark pigmented stain of America's longest enslaved. He gave sunlight in the midst of storms that silenced the souls of so many. Charles Smith visualized the once unappreciated ebony faces of the world, whether in the complexity of their hair or the complex vexation of a Black man's stare, Smith makes sure that the simple phenom that is Black edges beyond stereotypes, ascends pass European depictions of beauty and lands on the promised rock of acceptance. It's not "in your face" or militant, "I'm black and I'm proud." It's just a light of focus into the dark beauty of America. Use it to redefine beauty, to reform stereotypes or just to embrace American faces 237 years in the making.
Here in Harlem: Poems in Many Voices written by Walter Dean Myers
1998 Illustrator Honor Book
Myers, W. (2004) Here in Harlem: Poems in Many Voices. New York, NY: Holiday House.
Sure as the day is long, most Americans know the plight of the same Americans with darker tone. But what makes Myers' Here in Harlem: Poems in Many Voices sing joyously beyond obvious struggle and strife, are the perspectives her offers from all characters in life. Everyone knows a students, an unemployed worker and a hustler. We can tell the party-goers from the church-goers, but we can't all voice their thoughts. Myers offers a fantastic lesson in tone and insight through this wonderful collection of Harlem-esque neighbors from his youth. One of the favorite from this collection is from the perspective of Betty Pointing, 64 years old and a clerk. Her husband gets upset when she says "I love you" with a smile. He thinks she's disingenuous. She "can't help smiling when I say it. I truly can't. I smiled the first time I ever seen that man standing at the back of the church, trying to ease out before the service is over." The book is a window into the lives of Harlem's residents. The photographs are of the corner-stoops, newsstand dealers, blues singers pulsating life into the delicious brownie of New York's Manhattan Island.
Robert F. Sibert Award
My Season with Penguins: An Antarctic Journal by Sophie Webb
2001 Robert F. Sibert Honor Book
Webb, S. (2000). My Season with Penguins: An Antarctic Journal. Boston, MA: Houghton Mifflin Company.
A wonderful introduction into "how to journal" effectively, Webb's chronology of her extensive and fascinating trip to Antarctic will instantly hook the reader. This picture book would work phenomenally within a science or social studies class. The book encompasses geography, the study of animals, writing, the components of weather, survival techniques, picture captions, the study of the human body and how we burn calories, etc. Every class, no matter the subject, can find reward and usage with this vivid account of an extraordinary experience.Through her own journal, the audience also discovers the step-by-step life process of the Adéline Penguins, from how they're incubated as baby chics in a brooding pouch of vascularized skin to how they toboggan on their bellies, as though they're competing in a Winter Olympics! What will truly amaze readers is not the fact that Webb willing campaigned this expedition as a scientist, but it's her drawings, depicting not just the life of the Adélie penguins, but the landscape that is the Antarctic. The dynamic duo or artist and scientist makes My Season with Penguins: An Antarctic Journal a captivating learning book for all. Who knew the Antarctic still had active volcanoes?
Walt Whitman: Words for America written by Barbara Kerley, illustrated by Brian Selznick
2005 Robert F. Sibert Honor Book
Kerley, B. (2004). Walt Whitman: Words for America. New York, NY: Scholastic Press.
America knows the poet, Walt Whitman; many have recited "Oh Captain, my Captain" standing in a chair, as a youth did in the movie Dead Poet's Society, but what will amaze you is Mr. Whitman's passion for the common American, whether President or slave. Kerley has rejuvenated a love for Mr. Whitman through a wonderfully researched recollection of his personal plight for wounded and broken Civil War soldiers. As he watched and wondered the land he loved so much, he gave of himself hours of accompaniment to dying brothers, whose family was beyond affordable travel. Unbeknownst to most Americans, Mr. Whitman shared intimately the sorrows of President Abraham Lincoln in just a morning bow. Often crossing paths with the President in his morning walk to work, Mr. Whitman, a psuedo-civilian Vice President, shouldered the burden of the President's, noting how Lincoln's face was "inexpressibly sweet" and how he "love[d] the President personally." Brian Selznick's illustrations captured the horror, grief and despair through pencil drawings so vivid, that the hearts of Americans, now and then, thumps to the beat of those military drums left on the battlefields so long ago. Finding a natural use in a Language Arts class, teacher should draw attention not so much to the poetry but to the metaphor of Mr. Whitman, the unlisted soldier, that battled both sides of the Civil War and carried the wounds of every soldier's injury through pen, paper and plight.
2001 Robert F. Sibert Honor Book
Webb, S. (2000). My Season with Penguins: An Antarctic Journal. Boston, MA: Houghton Mifflin Company.
A wonderful introduction into "how to journal" effectively, Webb's chronology of her extensive and fascinating trip to Antarctic will instantly hook the reader. This picture book would work phenomenally within a science or social studies class. The book encompasses geography, the study of animals, writing, the components of weather, survival techniques, picture captions, the study of the human body and how we burn calories, etc. Every class, no matter the subject, can find reward and usage with this vivid account of an extraordinary experience.Through her own journal, the audience also discovers the step-by-step life process of the Adéline Penguins, from how they're incubated as baby chics in a brooding pouch of vascularized skin to how they toboggan on their bellies, as though they're competing in a Winter Olympics! What will truly amaze readers is not the fact that Webb willing campaigned this expedition as a scientist, but it's her drawings, depicting not just the life of the Adélie penguins, but the landscape that is the Antarctic. The dynamic duo or artist and scientist makes My Season with Penguins: An Antarctic Journal a captivating learning book for all. Who knew the Antarctic still had active volcanoes?
Walt Whitman: Words for America written by Barbara Kerley, illustrated by Brian Selznick
2005 Robert F. Sibert Honor Book
Kerley, B. (2004). Walt Whitman: Words for America. New York, NY: Scholastic Press.
America knows the poet, Walt Whitman; many have recited "Oh Captain, my Captain" standing in a chair, as a youth did in the movie Dead Poet's Society, but what will amaze you is Mr. Whitman's passion for the common American, whether President or slave. Kerley has rejuvenated a love for Mr. Whitman through a wonderfully researched recollection of his personal plight for wounded and broken Civil War soldiers. As he watched and wondered the land he loved so much, he gave of himself hours of accompaniment to dying brothers, whose family was beyond affordable travel. Unbeknownst to most Americans, Mr. Whitman shared intimately the sorrows of President Abraham Lincoln in just a morning bow. Often crossing paths with the President in his morning walk to work, Mr. Whitman, a psuedo-civilian Vice President, shouldered the burden of the President's, noting how Lincoln's face was "inexpressibly sweet" and how he "love[d] the President personally." Brian Selznick's illustrations captured the horror, grief and despair through pencil drawings so vivid, that the hearts of Americans, now and then, thumps to the beat of those military drums left on the battlefields so long ago. Finding a natural use in a Language Arts class, teacher should draw attention not so much to the poetry but to the metaphor of Mr. Whitman, the unlisted soldier, that battled both sides of the Civil War and carried the wounds of every soldier's injury through pen, paper and plight.
Texas 2 x 2 Reading List
Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa by Erica Silverman and painted by Betsy Lewin
2006 Texas 2 x 2 Reading List
Silverman, E. (2005). Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa. Orlando, FL: Harcourt, Inc.
I love this book because as a child, I always wanted a horse. But my parents said “No!” An emphatic “no” is what they offered me. Now that I’m older, I realized the responsibility involved with caring for an animal and Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa does not shy away from the daunting and exhausting care needed cherish a horse as a pet. As the test of time can vouch for, children love having a pet. Kate, a witty and brave young cowgirl, knows how to herd cows and reprimand her always hungry horse, Cocoa. I can use this book to teach accountability and kindness towards others. This four chapter book models friendship well and exemplifies personification, giving Cocoa a voice. The illustrations entice young readers eyes to visualize the harmony between people and animals, whether the creature’s your friend or your responsibility.
Birds written by Kevin Henkes and illustrated by Laura Dronzek
2010 Reading List
Henkes, K. (2009) Birds. New York, NY: Harper Collins Publishers.
Most children are fascinated by anything that has aerodynamics and birds fit the bill. Much to the amazement of children, birds sing, fly, peck, hunt and eat. The fact that they come in a variety of colors is icing on the cake. Therefore, Henkes' book will soar high in likability within the classroom. Within this picture, children can learn the power of unity and individuality because birds demonstrate the power of both traits wonderfully. Whether one studies the science behind a bird's swiftness of how their hollow bone and dense feathers protect them from human created and natural element, birds baffles us. Dronzek illuminates the page with just a single red bird (or leaf) and captures the ascension of a flock fluttering flawlessly high in the sky. Whether eagle or robin, birds are gender neutral creatures that astonish the human race. We share similarities, but their one ability alludes us--flying. Yes, it caused the Wright Brothers to take flight, but it also charmed the heart of a little girl, who knew she had more in common with a bird than just song and admiration.
Dog and Bear: Three to Get Ready by Laura Vaccaro Seeger
2010 Texas 2 x 2 Reading List
Seeger, L. (2009). Dog and Bear: Three to Get Ready. New York, NY: Roaring Press Books.
This is a charming first book for an adventuresome two year old. Seeger uses innocent, yet simple narration that a new toddler speaker can master in no time, soon to narrate to Mom and Dad, instead of vice-versa. The illustrations are primary color supportive and offer a variety of sizes to mimic the dialogue and action in the text. For instance, when bear gets a bucket hilariously stuck on his head and dog has resolved how to removed the buck--tying one end of a string to an open door knob while the remaining end of the string is tied to the bucket on bear's head and running to "jump-kick" the door with "doggie paw power"--the illustrations duplicate into six progressive pictures that denote the excitement of bear to be free of the bucket...and also the foreshadowing and delightful end to the first of three dog and bear adventures within the book. This collection encourages problem-resolution, foreshadowing, anticipation and reasoning, which are the foundations for critical thinking, all while using tummy-tickling adventures that most little ones find themselves getting into, exploring this exciting and enchanting new world!
Kitten's First Full Moon by Kevin Henkes
2005 Texas 2 x 2 Reading List
Henkes, K. (2004). Kitten’s First Full Moon. New York, NY: Greenwillow Books.
This story would work well to teach character building traits and would work well in a pre-kindergarten or kindergarten class. Kitten mistakes the moon for a bowl of milk one evening. She earnestly tries to capture that bountiful bowl in the sky. On an adventure that carries her to a pond, kitten believes she finally has the bowl of milk within her grasp. Mistaking the moon’s reflection in the pond, she jumps in to quench her thirst. “Tired, wet and hungry” she turned home; her persistence unrewarded. However, much to her surprise, a loving bowl of milk waited on the porch for her. Imagination, adventure and determination soar up to the heavens and across the pages in the illustrations. Whether the text spilled across the open pages, mimicking the distance to the moon, or a page spread was divided into four sections to compliment kittens multiple efforts to “drink” the moon, Henkes locks the readers with his verbiage and visual images.
CLICK, CLACK, MOO: Cows that Type by Doreen Cronin and pictures by Betsy Lewin
Cronin, D. (2000). CLICK, CLACK, MOO: Cows that Type. New York, NY: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers.
Animal owners will vouch that at some point in time, their animals will give them a look that speaks volumes as to what they're thinking. Even more peculiar, is that they owners will respond and talk back, as though they're having a conversation with a human and dare a naysayer to say anything to the contrary. Well CLICK, CLACK, MOO: Cows That Type has blown the top right off of that rationale. Cronin has charmed the readers will witty remarks, "Sorry. We're closed. No milk today." all given from the "moo-perspective." The joyous illustrations Lewin provides span the pages with colors and humor. The eyes squint with detest and bulge with shock, when appropriate. This would find great placement in a history lesson during civil rights, when strikes were commonplace and need. Equality, whether chicken or cow, black or white, meant business. Any other unacceptable injustice sought a swift compliance, using reason and words not violence. The cows and chickens prevailed because they had Farmer Brown by the pail. What stole the show, however, were the ducks! "Clickety, clack, quack!"
2006 Texas 2 x 2 Reading List
Silverman, E. (2005). Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa. Orlando, FL: Harcourt, Inc.
I love this book because as a child, I always wanted a horse. But my parents said “No!” An emphatic “no” is what they offered me. Now that I’m older, I realized the responsibility involved with caring for an animal and Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa does not shy away from the daunting and exhausting care needed cherish a horse as a pet. As the test of time can vouch for, children love having a pet. Kate, a witty and brave young cowgirl, knows how to herd cows and reprimand her always hungry horse, Cocoa. I can use this book to teach accountability and kindness towards others. This four chapter book models friendship well and exemplifies personification, giving Cocoa a voice. The illustrations entice young readers eyes to visualize the harmony between people and animals, whether the creature’s your friend or your responsibility.
Birds written by Kevin Henkes and illustrated by Laura Dronzek
2010 Reading List
Henkes, K. (2009) Birds. New York, NY: Harper Collins Publishers.
Most children are fascinated by anything that has aerodynamics and birds fit the bill. Much to the amazement of children, birds sing, fly, peck, hunt and eat. The fact that they come in a variety of colors is icing on the cake. Therefore, Henkes' book will soar high in likability within the classroom. Within this picture, children can learn the power of unity and individuality because birds demonstrate the power of both traits wonderfully. Whether one studies the science behind a bird's swiftness of how their hollow bone and dense feathers protect them from human created and natural element, birds baffles us. Dronzek illuminates the page with just a single red bird (or leaf) and captures the ascension of a flock fluttering flawlessly high in the sky. Whether eagle or robin, birds are gender neutral creatures that astonish the human race. We share similarities, but their one ability alludes us--flying. Yes, it caused the Wright Brothers to take flight, but it also charmed the heart of a little girl, who knew she had more in common with a bird than just song and admiration.
Dog and Bear: Three to Get Ready by Laura Vaccaro Seeger
2010 Texas 2 x 2 Reading List
Seeger, L. (2009). Dog and Bear: Three to Get Ready. New York, NY: Roaring Press Books.
This is a charming first book for an adventuresome two year old. Seeger uses innocent, yet simple narration that a new toddler speaker can master in no time, soon to narrate to Mom and Dad, instead of vice-versa. The illustrations are primary color supportive and offer a variety of sizes to mimic the dialogue and action in the text. For instance, when bear gets a bucket hilariously stuck on his head and dog has resolved how to removed the buck--tying one end of a string to an open door knob while the remaining end of the string is tied to the bucket on bear's head and running to "jump-kick" the door with "doggie paw power"--the illustrations duplicate into six progressive pictures that denote the excitement of bear to be free of the bucket...and also the foreshadowing and delightful end to the first of three dog and bear adventures within the book. This collection encourages problem-resolution, foreshadowing, anticipation and reasoning, which are the foundations for critical thinking, all while using tummy-tickling adventures that most little ones find themselves getting into, exploring this exciting and enchanting new world!
Kitten's First Full Moon by Kevin Henkes
2005 Texas 2 x 2 Reading List
Henkes, K. (2004). Kitten’s First Full Moon. New York, NY: Greenwillow Books.
This story would work well to teach character building traits and would work well in a pre-kindergarten or kindergarten class. Kitten mistakes the moon for a bowl of milk one evening. She earnestly tries to capture that bountiful bowl in the sky. On an adventure that carries her to a pond, kitten believes she finally has the bowl of milk within her grasp. Mistaking the moon’s reflection in the pond, she jumps in to quench her thirst. “Tired, wet and hungry” she turned home; her persistence unrewarded. However, much to her surprise, a loving bowl of milk waited on the porch for her. Imagination, adventure and determination soar up to the heavens and across the pages in the illustrations. Whether the text spilled across the open pages, mimicking the distance to the moon, or a page spread was divided into four sections to compliment kittens multiple efforts to “drink” the moon, Henkes locks the readers with his verbiage and visual images.
CLICK, CLACK, MOO: Cows that Type by Doreen Cronin and pictures by Betsy Lewin
Cronin, D. (2000). CLICK, CLACK, MOO: Cows that Type. New York, NY: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers.
Animal owners will vouch that at some point in time, their animals will give them a look that speaks volumes as to what they're thinking. Even more peculiar, is that they owners will respond and talk back, as though they're having a conversation with a human and dare a naysayer to say anything to the contrary. Well CLICK, CLACK, MOO: Cows That Type has blown the top right off of that rationale. Cronin has charmed the readers will witty remarks, "Sorry. We're closed. No milk today." all given from the "moo-perspective." The joyous illustrations Lewin provides span the pages with colors and humor. The eyes squint with detest and bulge with shock, when appropriate. This would find great placement in a history lesson during civil rights, when strikes were commonplace and need. Equality, whether chicken or cow, black or white, meant business. Any other unacceptable injustice sought a swift compliance, using reason and words not violence. The cows and chickens prevailed because they had Farmer Brown by the pail. What stole the show, however, were the ducks! "Clickety, clack, quack!"
Pura Belpre Award
Fiesta Babies! by Carmen Tafolla and illustrated by Amy Cordova
2011 Honor Book for Illustration
TaFolla, C. (2010). Fiesta Babies. New York, NY: Tricycle Press.
This is a great book for an elementary Spanish class. More school districts are using a bilingual program to instill at an early age the importance speaking more than your native language. What better way to introduce a new culture than through a colorful party and beautiful babies. The illustrator, Amy Cordova, used primary colors in a festive and enticing manner to allure the reader into the Mexican culture. Introduced to the food, music, language and dances of the Latino culture, the reader can’t help but to enjoy the reading experience. The text seamlessly weaves Spanish words into the text, denoting immediate meaning and visualization. This book would also serve well in a social studies class, perhaps around Cinco de Mayo, a Mexican holiday celebrating Mexico’s independence from France.
MartÃn de Porres: The Rose in the Desert by Gary Schmidt and illustrated by David Diaz
2013 Medal Winner for Illustration
Schmidt, G. (2012). Martin de Porrés: The Rose in the Desert. New York, NY: Clarion Books.
This fascinating picture (biography) book tells of the first Black Saint, Martin de Porrés, who astonished the Peruvian city of Lima with his healing, Christ-like persona, and wondrous ability to communicate with and enhance the lives of all, whether creature or human. Born of a slave and a Spaniard, Martin was given to the church by his mother and apprenticed as dentist and doctor. Martin, earning the label his mother gave him—the rose in the desert—Martin shuns no one, even when he was shunned against. Shocking his community by appearing in multiple places and having a citrus tree that bore fruit year around, it wasn’t until upon his death that the community rallied in true love by joining hands and singing him off into heaven. The mosaic drawings subliminally recall the stained glass windows of most churches during the 16th century. David Diaz, the illustrator, transports the readers back in time to visualize the impact of Martin in Lima, as followers reaffirmed their religious beliefs due to his healing and humble nature. I picture using this lesson in a social studies class, perhaps around Christmas, to symbolize the power of love and the true meaning of giving.
Martina, the Beautiful Cockroach: A Cuban Folklore by Carmen Agra Deedy and illustrated by Michael Austin
Deedy, C. (2007). Martina, the Beautiful Cockroach: A Cuban Folklore. Atlanta, GA: Peachtree Publishers.
This wonderful picture book is about a coming-of-age young cockroach girl, who must “give her leg” in marriage. After receiving gifts from her mother and aunts, Martina’s Cuban grandmother imparts the best wisdom she can give her granddaughter: know what your gentleman’s like when he’s angry before you marry him and be yourself. In order to test the suitors of her “marrying leg,” Martina’s grandmother instructs her to spill coffee on the shoes of her suitors to judge their temperament. It is through these tests that the joy and humor captures the reader’s attention. The illustrations scream the culture of Cuban, with vibrant colors and pompous depictions of the various animal suitors. Austin took a step away from the pungent primary colors and made movement in the illustration by using curvier lines and subdue colors that reflected a Cuban sunset--magenta, fuchsia, indigo, jaded greens. Because the folklore is the life of a "cucaracha" (a roach) Austin did a remarkable job injecting imagination. For instance, he used stacked Cuban cigar boxes (steps), a discarded comb (handrail) and a salt shaker (banister) to create a stairway. His attention to detail made the story believable and quaint, for roaches are never lovable and embraced by the human race.
2011 Honor Book for Illustration
TaFolla, C. (2010). Fiesta Babies. New York, NY: Tricycle Press.
This is a great book for an elementary Spanish class. More school districts are using a bilingual program to instill at an early age the importance speaking more than your native language. What better way to introduce a new culture than through a colorful party and beautiful babies. The illustrator, Amy Cordova, used primary colors in a festive and enticing manner to allure the reader into the Mexican culture. Introduced to the food, music, language and dances of the Latino culture, the reader can’t help but to enjoy the reading experience. The text seamlessly weaves Spanish words into the text, denoting immediate meaning and visualization. This book would also serve well in a social studies class, perhaps around Cinco de Mayo, a Mexican holiday celebrating Mexico’s independence from France.
MartÃn de Porres: The Rose in the Desert by Gary Schmidt and illustrated by David Diaz
2013 Medal Winner for Illustration
Schmidt, G. (2012). Martin de Porrés: The Rose in the Desert. New York, NY: Clarion Books.
This fascinating picture (biography) book tells of the first Black Saint, Martin de Porrés, who astonished the Peruvian city of Lima with his healing, Christ-like persona, and wondrous ability to communicate with and enhance the lives of all, whether creature or human. Born of a slave and a Spaniard, Martin was given to the church by his mother and apprenticed as dentist and doctor. Martin, earning the label his mother gave him—the rose in the desert—Martin shuns no one, even when he was shunned against. Shocking his community by appearing in multiple places and having a citrus tree that bore fruit year around, it wasn’t until upon his death that the community rallied in true love by joining hands and singing him off into heaven. The mosaic drawings subliminally recall the stained glass windows of most churches during the 16th century. David Diaz, the illustrator, transports the readers back in time to visualize the impact of Martin in Lima, as followers reaffirmed their religious beliefs due to his healing and humble nature. I picture using this lesson in a social studies class, perhaps around Christmas, to symbolize the power of love and the true meaning of giving.
Martina, the Beautiful Cockroach: A Cuban Folklore by Carmen Agra Deedy and illustrated by Michael Austin
Deedy, C. (2007). Martina, the Beautiful Cockroach: A Cuban Folklore. Atlanta, GA: Peachtree Publishers.
This wonderful picture book is about a coming-of-age young cockroach girl, who must “give her leg” in marriage. After receiving gifts from her mother and aunts, Martina’s Cuban grandmother imparts the best wisdom she can give her granddaughter: know what your gentleman’s like when he’s angry before you marry him and be yourself. In order to test the suitors of her “marrying leg,” Martina’s grandmother instructs her to spill coffee on the shoes of her suitors to judge their temperament. It is through these tests that the joy and humor captures the reader’s attention. The illustrations scream the culture of Cuban, with vibrant colors and pompous depictions of the various animal suitors. Austin took a step away from the pungent primary colors and made movement in the illustration by using curvier lines and subdue colors that reflected a Cuban sunset--magenta, fuchsia, indigo, jaded greens. Because the folklore is the life of a "cucaracha" (a roach) Austin did a remarkable job injecting imagination. For instance, he used stacked Cuban cigar boxes (steps), a discarded comb (handrail) and a salt shaker (banister) to create a stairway. His attention to detail made the story believable and quaint, for roaches are never lovable and embraced by the human race.
ALA Notable Children's Book
Officer Buckle and Gloria by Peggy Rathman
1996 ALA Children's Notable Book
Rathman, P. (1995) Officer Buckle and Gloria. New York, NY: Scholastic Inc.
Officer Buckle and Gloria has a regular spot in my life, nightly. My 4 year old enjoys Gloria's antics and has them committed to memory. This picture book has wonderful teaching tools, specifically inferring. Aside from the direct teaching of safety tips, the body language for both Officer Buckle and Gloria would work well in a Language Arts class, as well as a social studies class. When submerging into a new culture, body language and facial expressions provide the non-verbal content needed to convey meaning to words and expressions that are otherwise unfamiliar. The fantastic illustrations that contain poignant placements of inferences in the book's lay-out ensures that the overall theme-always respect and support your friends in a safe manner-get transferred to the reader.
Black Swan, White Crow by J. Patrick Lewis, woodcuts by Chris Manson
1996 ALA Children's Notable Book
Lewis, J. (1995). Black Swan, White Crow. New York, NY: Antheneum Books for Young Readers.
Haikus are a gift of poetry from the Japanese cultures. The 3-lined, 17 syllable poem is a great way to introduce poetry and teach the importance of syllables (especially for new language learners) and the natural rhythm in words. The abstract edges in the woodcut illustrations echoes the brevity needed in creating Haikus--short and to the point of a knife. In haikus, every verbal usage must carry the meaning back to the natural state of earth. The usage of one page for the haiku and the matching spread for the illustrations allows the reader to focus attention on each for its own importance.The vast usage of white-space denotes the simplicity that is the fung shui (translated as "wind-water") that is prominent in Asian culture. Fung shui in its own meaning is a Haiku, for it asks for the balance of energy between humans, nature and the universe. This Haiku picture book is poetry for the minimalist and an even-handed balance between words and illustrations in the most natural and simple manner.
The Lightship by Brian Floca
2008 ALA Children's Notable Book
Floca, B. (2007) Lightship. New York, NY: Antheneum Books for Young Readers.
Upon opening the book, the reader’s attention transfixes on the end-pages. The illustration of all the components of the lightship immediately announces to the reader the importance and many facets of a lightship. Furthermore, the anticipation is set for the historical value the lightship once provided. The chosen illustrative format of watercolors compliments the boat’s anchored position out at sea, lighting the way home for ships big and small. The simplified text communicates how sailors relied heavily on lightships, before the creation of the National Coast Guard and especially when lighthouses weren’t available. The crew and cat guide the ship against torrents and chills. I would use this book in a science class when we discussed weather elements. The movement in the pictures and words will provide the visuals needed to reinforce the constant change in the environment.
Twist with a Burger, Jitter with a Bug by Linda Lowery with pictures by Pat Dypold
1996 ALA Children's Notable Book
Lowery, L. (1995). Twist with a Burger, Jitter with a Bug. New York: Houghton Miffling Company.
This picture, concept, colors and dance book creates a lively and culturally acceptable environment to move and groove to similes, metaphors and scenery galore! The felt background gives a crafty and homeliness to the storyline. The freedom to get up and boogie is a great way to circulate the blood and re-energize the body. I would use this book during a lesson over figurative language. However, to incorporate the dance moves, I would use it towards the end of the day, preferably the last 10 minutes. We would read the story and note the exaggeration, artistic elements and figures of speech. Then, I would play a few seconds of some mambo/Latin beat at the end, concluding the day on an uplifting moment and allowing heart-racing moment of DANCING! It would be a cross-curricular assignment: art, analysis, creativity, exercise and spontaneity. This picture book screams fun and so should the lesson used along with it!
Dimity Dumpty: The Story of Humpty's Little Sister by Bob Graham
2007 ALA Children's Notable Book
Graham, B. (2006). Dimity Dumpty: The Story of Humpty’s Little Sister. Cambridge, MA: Candlewick Press.
Upon opening this picture book, the stars denote the idealism of fantasy and fairy-tales. The revered nursery rhyme of Humpty Dumpty has a sequel through a sibling. Still holding to the storyline of Humpty falling down, it’s his flute-playing sister that rescues him. This wonderfully illustrated book varies the sizes of the drawings to emphasize the symmetry in the storyline and page-turns. The white space is effective in drawing the readers focus to the significance of the events in the story. For example, when describing how Dimity’s brother, mother and father performed their acrobatic feats in the circus, Graham used ¾ of the spread to illustrate how “her mother looked beautiful, transformed like a butterfly…” This is a great story to answer the question, “What happened next?” From the book-cover, the line of continuity establishes root and tells the story of a heroine. The pinks and pastels subtly lay the foundation for readers of the female prowess. Go Dimity!!
1996 ALA Children's Notable Book
Rathman, P. (1995) Officer Buckle and Gloria. New York, NY: Scholastic Inc.
Officer Buckle and Gloria has a regular spot in my life, nightly. My 4 year old enjoys Gloria's antics and has them committed to memory. This picture book has wonderful teaching tools, specifically inferring. Aside from the direct teaching of safety tips, the body language for both Officer Buckle and Gloria would work well in a Language Arts class, as well as a social studies class. When submerging into a new culture, body language and facial expressions provide the non-verbal content needed to convey meaning to words and expressions that are otherwise unfamiliar. The fantastic illustrations that contain poignant placements of inferences in the book's lay-out ensures that the overall theme-always respect and support your friends in a safe manner-get transferred to the reader.
Black Swan, White Crow by J. Patrick Lewis, woodcuts by Chris Manson
1996 ALA Children's Notable Book
Lewis, J. (1995). Black Swan, White Crow. New York, NY: Antheneum Books for Young Readers.
Haikus are a gift of poetry from the Japanese cultures. The 3-lined, 17 syllable poem is a great way to introduce poetry and teach the importance of syllables (especially for new language learners) and the natural rhythm in words. The abstract edges in the woodcut illustrations echoes the brevity needed in creating Haikus--short and to the point of a knife. In haikus, every verbal usage must carry the meaning back to the natural state of earth. The usage of one page for the haiku and the matching spread for the illustrations allows the reader to focus attention on each for its own importance.The vast usage of white-space denotes the simplicity that is the fung shui (translated as "wind-water") that is prominent in Asian culture. Fung shui in its own meaning is a Haiku, for it asks for the balance of energy between humans, nature and the universe. This Haiku picture book is poetry for the minimalist and an even-handed balance between words and illustrations in the most natural and simple manner.
The Lightship by Brian Floca
2008 ALA Children's Notable Book
Floca, B. (2007) Lightship. New York, NY: Antheneum Books for Young Readers.
Upon opening the book, the reader’s attention transfixes on the end-pages. The illustration of all the components of the lightship immediately announces to the reader the importance and many facets of a lightship. Furthermore, the anticipation is set for the historical value the lightship once provided. The chosen illustrative format of watercolors compliments the boat’s anchored position out at sea, lighting the way home for ships big and small. The simplified text communicates how sailors relied heavily on lightships, before the creation of the National Coast Guard and especially when lighthouses weren’t available. The crew and cat guide the ship against torrents and chills. I would use this book in a science class when we discussed weather elements. The movement in the pictures and words will provide the visuals needed to reinforce the constant change in the environment.
Twist with a Burger, Jitter with a Bug by Linda Lowery with pictures by Pat Dypold
1996 ALA Children's Notable Book
Lowery, L. (1995). Twist with a Burger, Jitter with a Bug. New York: Houghton Miffling Company.
This picture, concept, colors and dance book creates a lively and culturally acceptable environment to move and groove to similes, metaphors and scenery galore! The felt background gives a crafty and homeliness to the storyline. The freedom to get up and boogie is a great way to circulate the blood and re-energize the body. I would use this book during a lesson over figurative language. However, to incorporate the dance moves, I would use it towards the end of the day, preferably the last 10 minutes. We would read the story and note the exaggeration, artistic elements and figures of speech. Then, I would play a few seconds of some mambo/Latin beat at the end, concluding the day on an uplifting moment and allowing heart-racing moment of DANCING! It would be a cross-curricular assignment: art, analysis, creativity, exercise and spontaneity. This picture book screams fun and so should the lesson used along with it!
Dimity Dumpty: The Story of Humpty's Little Sister by Bob Graham
2007 ALA Children's Notable Book
Graham, B. (2006). Dimity Dumpty: The Story of Humpty’s Little Sister. Cambridge, MA: Candlewick Press.
Upon opening this picture book, the stars denote the idealism of fantasy and fairy-tales. The revered nursery rhyme of Humpty Dumpty has a sequel through a sibling. Still holding to the storyline of Humpty falling down, it’s his flute-playing sister that rescues him. This wonderfully illustrated book varies the sizes of the drawings to emphasize the symmetry in the storyline and page-turns. The white space is effective in drawing the readers focus to the significance of the events in the story. For example, when describing how Dimity’s brother, mother and father performed their acrobatic feats in the circus, Graham used ¾ of the spread to illustrate how “her mother looked beautiful, transformed like a butterfly…” This is a great story to answer the question, “What happened next?” From the book-cover, the line of continuity establishes root and tells the story of a heroine. The pinks and pastels subtly lay the foundation for readers of the female prowess. Go Dimity!!
Theodore Seuss Geisel Award
A Splendid Friend Indeed by Suzanne Bloom
2006 Theodore Seuss Geisel Honor Book
Bloom, S. (2005) A Splendid Friend, Indeed. Pennsylvania, PA: Boyds Mills Press.
The illustrations in this book drives home the old adage “kill them with kindness.” Without stating angry, frustration and agitation, the audience can discern that bear does not want to be bothered by goose. The squint of his eyes and the turning of his back all say “go away” though bear never utters the phrase. The body language is imperative to the quirky, winning over of grumpy bear. Also, goose’s lovable eyes and persistence softens the heart of the angriest child. Sometimes a kind word can go a long way, even when it appears your audience doesn't care. I imagine using this book in honor of friendship day or to reinforce body language and stereotypes. Non-verbal communication is communication and children pick on this type for communication first, much like they did when they were babies.
Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa by Erica Silverman and painted by Betsy Lewin
2006 Theodore Seuss Geisel Honor Book
Silverman, E. (2005). Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa. Orlando, FL: Harcourt, Inc.
I love this book because as a child, I always wanted a horse. But my parents said “No!” An emphatic “no” is what they offered me. Now that I’m older, I realized the responsibility involved with caring for an animal and Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa does not shy away from the daunting and exhausting care needed cherish a horse as a pet. As the test of time can vouch for, children love having a pet. Kate, a witty and brave young cowgirl, knows how to herd cows and reprimand her always hungry horse, Cocoa. I can use this book to teach accountability and kindness towards others. This four chapter book models friendship well and exemplifies personification, giving Cocoa a voice. The illustrations entice young readers eyes to visualize the harmony between people and animals, whether the creature’s your friend or your responsibility.
Hi! Fly Guy by Tedd Arnold
2006 Theodore Seuss Geisel Honor Book
Arnold, T. (2005). Hi! Fly Guy. New York, NY: Scholastic, Inc.
This book relates well to young children because it’s quirky, creative and appeals to that which every child wants: a pet. Arnold has innovatively made a fly the perfect pet to a boy named Buzz. Impressed that his pet can say his name, he enters the pet into a competition. What’s view as a pest actually turns into a contender. I would share this book in support for bullying. Flies have the bad reputation of being a nuisance. In this case, the fly is revered. It gives a whole new meaning to the underdog having his say. The illustrations are big-eyed, silly exaggerations of characters, which complements the storyline well. This three chapter books is a wonderful introduction to BME ways of writing—beginning, middle and end.
Mercy Watson Goes for a Ride by Kate DiCamillo and illustrated by Chris Van Dusen
2007 Theodore Seuss Geisel Honor Book
Di Camillo, K. (2006) Mercy Watson Goes for a Ride. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press.
Say what you want, but pigs are cute. I had one as a pet for a summer, and I still think fondly of my pig. But my piggy paled in comparison to Mercy Watson—the pink porcine, who’s a slave to buttered toast and a speed racer! This book should be used to introduce chapters, but nothing more. It should be left as a joyous, pleasure book. The delightful illustrations in this picture, chapter book encourage all to smile and they reinforce the joy in having a personified pig as a pseudo child! The emphasis paid to the senses (eyes, nose, cheeks and mouth) draws the eyes to the facial expressions of each character as they endure the adventure of a driving pig. Even Officer Tomilello enjoys the chase in discovering who’s behind the wheel of that speeding pink Cadillac! This book relates to children the exuberance and wonder in having a marvelous pig as a pet. It’s a rendition of Charlotte’s Web Wilbur, perhaps his quirky cousin, who dreams come true one Saturday afternoon!
2006 Theodore Seuss Geisel Honor Book
Bloom, S. (2005) A Splendid Friend, Indeed. Pennsylvania, PA: Boyds Mills Press.
The illustrations in this book drives home the old adage “kill them with kindness.” Without stating angry, frustration and agitation, the audience can discern that bear does not want to be bothered by goose. The squint of his eyes and the turning of his back all say “go away” though bear never utters the phrase. The body language is imperative to the quirky, winning over of grumpy bear. Also, goose’s lovable eyes and persistence softens the heart of the angriest child. Sometimes a kind word can go a long way, even when it appears your audience doesn't care. I imagine using this book in honor of friendship day or to reinforce body language and stereotypes. Non-verbal communication is communication and children pick on this type for communication first, much like they did when they were babies.
Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa by Erica Silverman and painted by Betsy Lewin
2006 Theodore Seuss Geisel Honor Book
Silverman, E. (2005). Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa. Orlando, FL: Harcourt, Inc.
I love this book because as a child, I always wanted a horse. But my parents said “No!” An emphatic “no” is what they offered me. Now that I’m older, I realized the responsibility involved with caring for an animal and Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa does not shy away from the daunting and exhausting care needed cherish a horse as a pet. As the test of time can vouch for, children love having a pet. Kate, a witty and brave young cowgirl, knows how to herd cows and reprimand her always hungry horse, Cocoa. I can use this book to teach accountability and kindness towards others. This four chapter book models friendship well and exemplifies personification, giving Cocoa a voice. The illustrations entice young readers eyes to visualize the harmony between people and animals, whether the creature’s your friend or your responsibility.
Hi! Fly Guy by Tedd Arnold
2006 Theodore Seuss Geisel Honor Book
Arnold, T. (2005). Hi! Fly Guy. New York, NY: Scholastic, Inc.
This book relates well to young children because it’s quirky, creative and appeals to that which every child wants: a pet. Arnold has innovatively made a fly the perfect pet to a boy named Buzz. Impressed that his pet can say his name, he enters the pet into a competition. What’s view as a pest actually turns into a contender. I would share this book in support for bullying. Flies have the bad reputation of being a nuisance. In this case, the fly is revered. It gives a whole new meaning to the underdog having his say. The illustrations are big-eyed, silly exaggerations of characters, which complements the storyline well. This three chapter books is a wonderful introduction to BME ways of writing—beginning, middle and end.
Mercy Watson Goes for a Ride by Kate DiCamillo and illustrated by Chris Van Dusen
2007 Theodore Seuss Geisel Honor Book
Di Camillo, K. (2006) Mercy Watson Goes for a Ride. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press.
Say what you want, but pigs are cute. I had one as a pet for a summer, and I still think fondly of my pig. But my piggy paled in comparison to Mercy Watson—the pink porcine, who’s a slave to buttered toast and a speed racer! This book should be used to introduce chapters, but nothing more. It should be left as a joyous, pleasure book. The delightful illustrations in this picture, chapter book encourage all to smile and they reinforce the joy in having a personified pig as a pseudo child! The emphasis paid to the senses (eyes, nose, cheeks and mouth) draws the eyes to the facial expressions of each character as they endure the adventure of a driving pig. Even Officer Tomilello enjoys the chase in discovering who’s behind the wheel of that speeding pink Cadillac! This book relates to children the exuberance and wonder in having a marvelous pig as a pet. It’s a rendition of Charlotte’s Web Wilbur, perhaps his quirky cousin, who dreams come true one Saturday afternoon!
Monday, February 11, 2013
CALDECOTT AWARD
Frog Went A-Courting by John Langstaff and illustrated by Feodor Rojankovsky
1956 Caldecott Winner
Langstaff, J. (1955) Frog Went A-Courting. New York, NY: Scholastic, Inc.
The quaint simplicity of this book touches the heart strings of young love. Since this book is also a song passed down from generation to generation, it has a gaiety and bounce that makes it easily memorable for young children. Furthermore, the innocent rhyme and sweet disposition of the harmonious country critters shows us just how simple love and happiness can be for us, young and old. Langstaff took an oral ballad and charmed our hearts, but Rojankovsky's hand drawn illustrations could be used to connect a children's art class to the "before computer animation" drawings. This would also work well during "Rodeo/Go-Texan" week, but of the guitar and cowboy boots genteel nature of the story. Lastly, the illustration and alteration between lively color and the complacent green reminds the audience of the one costly price of color print in 1955.
Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
1964 Caldecott Winner
Sendak, M. (1963) Where the Wild Things Are. New York, NY: Harper Collins Children's Book.
When this book hit the Hollywood screens, a rejuvinated love for all things weird and scary bounced back into the imaginations of children. Sendak's illustration captured the young and dauting spirit of "Monster Max." Though he's not quite the Mel Gibson "Mad Max" of the 1980s sci-fi fame, Wild Max's zest in becoming the scariest, most terrible, untamed monster there is definitely mimics the bravery needed to face any monster, science fiction or fantasy. I can envision using this book in a kindergarten class, where teaching successful character building traits and cultivating imagination reigns supreme. The wood-grain like texture of the illustrations and sharp teeth/claws on every monster adds the cool and tough factor needed to rope in even the most mischievious of boys, who just DON'T want to sit still for story-time. Furthermore, I think Sendak's book would also work as a great teaching tool in a social studies class. The instructor could entice his class to study a globe to find the perfect location for Max's Monster island. Also, a science instructor can relate it to the study of dinosaurs and other prehistoric monsters in an almost "Jurassic Park Meet Wild Things: Search for the Island King" scavenger hunt. Is it a dinosaur or wild thing?
The Owl Moon by Jane Yolen with illustrations by John Schoenherr
1988 Caldecott Winner
Yolen, J. (1987) The Owl Moon. New York, NY: First Scholastic.
All English/Language Arts teachers desperately need to have a copy of this book to teach figurative language--NO SUBSTITUTIONS! Yolen's choice of rhyme and rhythm intermingles itself with the enriching examples of similes, metaphors and imagery with seamless ease. Using this picture book as a way to introduce imagery, poetry, figurative language, plot summary, you name it! Additionally, this book could aid as a wonderful teaching tool for character building (i.e. bonding, courage, vulnerability, etc.) and the importance of following rule and procedures. The allure of the night has mesmerized us all, sometimes for the better and other times because of childhood fears. The adventure seeking soul of a young boy on his first owl hunt with his father pulls the reader into the nocturnal mystery of nature.
Sam, Bangs & Moonshine written and illustrated by Evaline Ness
1967 Caldecott Winner
Ness, E. (1966). Sam, Bangs & Moonshine. New York, NY: Henry Holt and Company.
This book took me back to my childhood because I told a lot of inventive stories that added to my quirkiness. Easily, Sam and I could have shared so much “moonshine” together that the best child psychologist would join the realm of our universe versus deciphering the madness in our stories. Evaline Ness delivers the nutrients of imagination & creativity in this delightful story. The end-papers invite the reader out to shore signaling the adventures of a fisherman's daughter, who has the most inventive imagination. The illustrations evoke a dreamlike state, with minimal color and slight distortion of concrete lines. The watercolor shading snatches the reader’s attention to the allure and mystery of a dreary, wintry day facing the harbor! Inevitably, young children will sell their teachers a bottle of "moonshine" when unnecessary. This book will work well as reinforcement of DESIRED behavior. Use it during a kindergarten circle time, on a day where a child sipped some "moonshine" and everyone knows it!
Zin! Zin! Zin! a Violin! by Lloyd Moss with illustration by Majorie Priceman
1996 Caldecott Honor Book
Zin! Zin! Zin! a Violin teaches the proper etiquette and members of an orchestra. A wonderful concept book about the numerical organization for musical instruments--i.e. solo, trio, quintet and so forth. The illustrations and words curve and bend like notes on a sheet of music. With the rhyme and rhythm of the text, the audience can feel the beat of the musical score just by reading the words. As long as the reader raises and lowers their voice appropriately, the crescendo and decrescendos, the musical score has morphed into a literary opera! All jokes aside, this book would work wonderfully in a cross-curricular activity with the band and ELA classes. I can further envision presenting this book, the chamber ten orchestra included, to an elementary school for music appreciation day. My imagination already notices the awe and inquisitive stares of the youthful audience as they zin and bend on the music adventure of Zin! Zin! Zin! a Violin!
1956 Caldecott Winner
Langstaff, J. (1955) Frog Went A-Courting. New York, NY: Scholastic, Inc.
The quaint simplicity of this book touches the heart strings of young love. Since this book is also a song passed down from generation to generation, it has a gaiety and bounce that makes it easily memorable for young children. Furthermore, the innocent rhyme and sweet disposition of the harmonious country critters shows us just how simple love and happiness can be for us, young and old. Langstaff took an oral ballad and charmed our hearts, but Rojankovsky's hand drawn illustrations could be used to connect a children's art class to the "before computer animation" drawings. This would also work well during "Rodeo/Go-Texan" week, but of the guitar and cowboy boots genteel nature of the story. Lastly, the illustration and alteration between lively color and the complacent green reminds the audience of the one costly price of color print in 1955.
Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
1964 Caldecott Winner
Sendak, M. (1963) Where the Wild Things Are. New York, NY: Harper Collins Children's Book.
When this book hit the Hollywood screens, a rejuvinated love for all things weird and scary bounced back into the imaginations of children. Sendak's illustration captured the young and dauting spirit of "Monster Max." Though he's not quite the Mel Gibson "Mad Max" of the 1980s sci-fi fame, Wild Max's zest in becoming the scariest, most terrible, untamed monster there is definitely mimics the bravery needed to face any monster, science fiction or fantasy. I can envision using this book in a kindergarten class, where teaching successful character building traits and cultivating imagination reigns supreme. The wood-grain like texture of the illustrations and sharp teeth/claws on every monster adds the cool and tough factor needed to rope in even the most mischievious of boys, who just DON'T want to sit still for story-time. Furthermore, I think Sendak's book would also work as a great teaching tool in a social studies class. The instructor could entice his class to study a globe to find the perfect location for Max's Monster island. Also, a science instructor can relate it to the study of dinosaurs and other prehistoric monsters in an almost "Jurassic Park Meet Wild Things: Search for the Island King" scavenger hunt. Is it a dinosaur or wild thing?
The Owl Moon by Jane Yolen with illustrations by John Schoenherr
1988 Caldecott Winner
Yolen, J. (1987) The Owl Moon. New York, NY: First Scholastic.
All English/Language Arts teachers desperately need to have a copy of this book to teach figurative language--NO SUBSTITUTIONS! Yolen's choice of rhyme and rhythm intermingles itself with the enriching examples of similes, metaphors and imagery with seamless ease. Using this picture book as a way to introduce imagery, poetry, figurative language, plot summary, you name it! Additionally, this book could aid as a wonderful teaching tool for character building (i.e. bonding, courage, vulnerability, etc.) and the importance of following rule and procedures. The allure of the night has mesmerized us all, sometimes for the better and other times because of childhood fears. The adventure seeking soul of a young boy on his first owl hunt with his father pulls the reader into the nocturnal mystery of nature.
Sam, Bangs & Moonshine written and illustrated by Evaline Ness
1967 Caldecott Winner
Ness, E. (1966). Sam, Bangs & Moonshine. New York, NY: Henry Holt and Company.
This book took me back to my childhood because I told a lot of inventive stories that added to my quirkiness. Easily, Sam and I could have shared so much “moonshine” together that the best child psychologist would join the realm of our universe versus deciphering the madness in our stories. Evaline Ness delivers the nutrients of imagination & creativity in this delightful story. The end-papers invite the reader out to shore signaling the adventures of a fisherman's daughter, who has the most inventive imagination. The illustrations evoke a dreamlike state, with minimal color and slight distortion of concrete lines. The watercolor shading snatches the reader’s attention to the allure and mystery of a dreary, wintry day facing the harbor! Inevitably, young children will sell their teachers a bottle of "moonshine" when unnecessary. This book will work well as reinforcement of DESIRED behavior. Use it during a kindergarten circle time, on a day where a child sipped some "moonshine" and everyone knows it!
Zin! Zin! Zin! a Violin! by Lloyd Moss with illustration by Majorie Priceman
1996 Caldecott Honor Book
Zin! Zin! Zin! a Violin teaches the proper etiquette and members of an orchestra. A wonderful concept book about the numerical organization for musical instruments--i.e. solo, trio, quintet and so forth. The illustrations and words curve and bend like notes on a sheet of music. With the rhyme and rhythm of the text, the audience can feel the beat of the musical score just by reading the words. As long as the reader raises and lowers their voice appropriately, the crescendo and decrescendos, the musical score has morphed into a literary opera! All jokes aside, this book would work wonderfully in a cross-curricular activity with the band and ELA classes. I can further envision presenting this book, the chamber ten orchestra included, to an elementary school for music appreciation day. My imagination already notices the awe and inquisitive stares of the youthful audience as they zin and bend on the music adventure of Zin! Zin! Zin! a Violin!
Reader's Choice
The Turtle and the Moon by Charles Turner
Turner, C. (1991) The Turtle and the Moon. New York, NY: Penguin Books.
For any little boy who had a pet turtle, this will instantly earn a place as a nightly bedtime read. Turner gives a lonesome turtle the moon as a playmate. For the sole child of a family, the child will immediately identify themselves as the turtle. Consequently, this book will serve as a much needed hug for not having siblings. The soothing shades of greenand the whisps of the paint brushes makes the illustration complimentary to the wild freedom of nature. The mystic power of the moon transcends in this delightful book. This books would make a wonderful accompany to the class pet or in a science class that studies biology and plant life.
Doctor De Soto by William Steig
Steig, W. (1982) Doctor De Soto. New York, NY: Farrar Straus Giroux.
After thirty years, Doctor De Soto is a wonderful picture book that still entertains children with a clever story line. Doctor De Soto reminds readers of the old Aesop Fables that used animals to teach lessons applicable to a successful life. Dr. De Soto is a mouse dentist that begrudgingly treats a scoundrel fox for a toothache. As a dentist, who declines to render aid to those animals dangerous to mice (i.e. foxes, cats and elephants), Dr. De Soto and his wife finds themselves having to use their quick wit to outsmart the otherwise hungry fox. The illustrations are colorful and authentic, reminiscent of a time when children chalked the sidewalks of a busy metropolis and society had a sense of wholesomeness. Furthermore, this book harks back to the days when children pretended, and wanted, to be doctors when they grew up. I would use this book for “Career Day.” Now days, children want to become movie stars and professional athletes. This picture book holds tender the days when the imaginations of children were more realistic.
Turner, C. (1991) The Turtle and the Moon. New York, NY: Penguin Books.
For any little boy who had a pet turtle, this will instantly earn a place as a nightly bedtime read. Turner gives a lonesome turtle the moon as a playmate. For the sole child of a family, the child will immediately identify themselves as the turtle. Consequently, this book will serve as a much needed hug for not having siblings. The soothing shades of greenand the whisps of the paint brushes makes the illustration complimentary to the wild freedom of nature. The mystic power of the moon transcends in this delightful book. This books would make a wonderful accompany to the class pet or in a science class that studies biology and plant life.
Doctor De Soto by William Steig
Steig, W. (1982) Doctor De Soto. New York, NY: Farrar Straus Giroux.
After thirty years, Doctor De Soto is a wonderful picture book that still entertains children with a clever story line. Doctor De Soto reminds readers of the old Aesop Fables that used animals to teach lessons applicable to a successful life. Dr. De Soto is a mouse dentist that begrudgingly treats a scoundrel fox for a toothache. As a dentist, who declines to render aid to those animals dangerous to mice (i.e. foxes, cats and elephants), Dr. De Soto and his wife finds themselves having to use their quick wit to outsmart the otherwise hungry fox. The illustrations are colorful and authentic, reminiscent of a time when children chalked the sidewalks of a busy metropolis and society had a sense of wholesomeness. Furthermore, this book harks back to the days when children pretended, and wanted, to be doctors when they grew up. I would use this book for “Career Day.” Now days, children want to become movie stars and professional athletes. This picture book holds tender the days when the imaginations of children were more realistic.
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