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.
Monday, April 29, 2013
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,Mí amigo Víctor by Diane Gonzales Beltran and illustrated by Robert L. Sweetland
Beltran, D. (2004). My pal Victor, Mí amigo Víctor. 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, Mí amigo Víctor. 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.
Martín 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.
Martín 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!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)