new posts in all blogs
Viewing Blog: , Most Recent at Top
Results 1 - 25 of 119
Statistics for
Number of Readers that added this blog to their MyJacketFlap:
By: Nicole L.,
on 10/23/2016
Blog:
(
Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags:
Add a tag
Books I Read This Week:
Also an Octopus by Maggie Tokuda-Hall, illustrated by Benji Davies
Candlewick Press, 2016
32 pages
Recommended for all!
You know how all pictures books are great for reading aloud? Well this one seems to NEED to be read aloud. Teach reading? Then read this book to your students, no matter the age. Humorous, whimsical-eye catching art, and a perfect tie in to how stories are set up. My favorite page: when the octopus sits down to play the ukulele, "because music is good for the heart."
Du Iz Tak by Carson Ellis
Candlewick Press, 2016
48 pages
Recommended for all!
I love a good mystery and a good puzzle, and this book is a little of both. All the text is told in a language created by author/illustrator, Carson Ellis; who, by the way, creates some amazing artwork.
I imagine myself sharing this story with my students, asking them to imagine what is being said. Are there patterns in the language? How does the text connect to the images? What do you think is being said? Curious and creative readers will enjoy!
I love the spider. Well, I detest spiders, but I love what the presence of the spider does to the story.
We Found a Hat by Jon Klassen
Candlewick Press, 2016
56 pages
Recommended for all!
So it ends. The trilogy comes to a close as you turn the final page in this story. Remember the bear and the rabbit...and how the bear solved the problem of his hat being stolen? Some say smush, some say chomp, all agree, it didn't end well for the hat stealing rabbit. And remember the fish, that tiny hat stealing fish that brags about how clever and shifty he is. No remorse. Well, remember what happened to him? With thoughts of hat stealers getting what comes to them, readers will be delightfully curious about how two of the same creature will end this latest conundrum around one hat and two wanna be hat wearers. I mean, this thought will come to mind: Does that tortoise EAT his companion?! Or is that just me that thought that...?
I'm Currently Reading:
I have more books to read than I can make a dent in, and I'm not ashamed to admit that I chose this one based on its awesome title and fantastic cover art. Not ashamed at all! And much to my delight, I discovered by very own hometown featured in the first few pages! Thankfully I have yet to cross paths with the Evil Wizard Smallbone in real life...eek.
Thanks for visiting!
Autumn in New England is one of my most favorite things. And this weekend I breathed in the fall air, reveling in the feeling of crisp cool air, and warm comforting sunshine. The balance was perfect today. Which made it a wonderful day to break in the new sandbox!
Books I've Recently Read:
Pug Meets Pig by Sue Lowell Gallion
Illustrated by Joyce Wan
Beach Lane Books, 2016
Recommended for ages 0-7
Adorable pictures compliment this story of a pug that is put out by the new addition to the family!
Want to win the book or grab some resources to use with kids, check out this
post.
Quirk's Quest: Into the Outlands by Robert Christie & Deborah Lang
First Second, 2016
Fantasy/Graphic Novel
127 pages
Recommended for grades 4-6
This story will appeal to readers that like high fantasy and stories with action packed pace.
When Quirk and his crew are shipwrecked on unknown lands, danger is high and a way out is unknown. The crew is surrounded by new creatures, unsure of who is safe to trust, and who is out to get them. The illustrations remind me of fraggles (does this date me?) with a touch of the Simpsons. The story sets itself up to lead right into the second book in the series. I do have some qualms about the book though: many of the words used and names chosen might trip up some readers. The story is not as deep as the language might play up. The cursive script used in the Captain's log is also a potential pitfall for some readers.
Anything But Ordinary Addie: The True Story of Adelaide Herrmann Queen of Magic by Mara Rockliff, illustrated by Iacopo Bruno
Candlewick Press, 2016
Picture Book Biography
44 pages
Recommended for grades 2+
Stunning illustrations! The author explains how this book was born after she went looking for books on female stage magicians for her daughter to read, and discovered that none existed! From that sad fact comes a gorgeous tribute to one of the greatest female magicians of all time. Addie is an inspiration in more than her magic-she is a survivor, a woman that perseveres through hardship, coming out stronger on the other side. A biography to be shared!
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: Parts One and Two
by J.K. Rowling, John Tiffany & Jack Thorne
Arthur A. Levine Books, 2016
Fantasy/Play
Recommended for anyone who didn't love the original books
I don't have much I want to share on this. I wish I hadn't read it, that's sort of the extent of it. I wanted so much more from my reunion with the original characters. I do NOT think scripts are my preferred style of writing. I want the meaty descriptions, not some stage notes. Aside from that, the story was flatter than I'd hoped for as well. The idea is excellent, the execution fell flat for me.
I'm Currently Reading:
Still...I was sidetracked by my ghost story!
Loving it!
Have a great week, thanks for stopping by!
Pug Meets Pig by Sue Lowell Gallion
illustrated by Joyce Wan
Beach Lane Books, 2016
Oh how I love this little story. A strong message about the power of emotions, particularly jealousy, is wrapped up in a package of sweet and charming illustrations.
How will Pug react when a new pet moves in? One look at the cover tells it all! But will he come around?
Visit the author's website for a complete list of books, resources, and more.
Or jump directly to the following two links:
Sue Lowell Gallion is a printer's daughter, so she has a life-long love of type, paper, and the aroma of ink. Her work has been published in magazines including Highlights and High Five, and she loves sharing books with kids as a volunteer tutor. Pug Meets Pig is her debut picture book. A second Pug and Pig adventure, Pug & Pig Trick or Treat, is coming in fall 2017. Sue lives with her family in Leawood, Kansas. Visit her at suegallion.com. and @SueLGallion
Loading...
One winner will be shipped this awesome prize package! Perfect for book and dog lovers!
*Contest Closes 10-13-16 at 10:00pm*
Guest Post & Giveaway!
I love being asked to feature new books on my blog. There is something so exciting about being part of an author/illustrator's latest work. When asked to review and feature Busy Builders, Busy Week! I was also asked if there was anything in particular I wanted the author to write about in her guest post. So I tossed out a couple of ideas, and love the one she went with. Because, you see, I have a sweet spot for truck loving kids. The post below brought a huge smile to my face and had me nodding away to my computer screen.
WHAT I LOVE ABOUT KIDS AND TRUCKS
By Jean Reidy
When kids meet up with a crane or a digger or a dump truck, something important happens. You can tell by a kid’s furrowed brows, focused eyes and full-throated roars and crashes and beeps and bangs voiced in concert with the machine. The encounter is never frivolous. Because construction trucks mean business—serious business. They’re big. They’re cool. They’ve got the moves. And they make noise. What’s not to love? It’s why so many tots know an excavator from a back hoe. Why they celebrate a cement mixer sighting. And why a pint-sized bulldozer and a sandbox can keep kids busy for hours.
When kids have trucks, they have work to do. Important work. Call it play. But (I think) you’d be mistaken. Because trucks are powerful and purposeful and they put that power and purpose in a kid’s hands. Kids are in charge. And there’s energy. Awesome, positive energy moved from kid to machine and machine to the earth or the brick or the board. Visible, viable energy. For my kids, there was always a blurring of kid and machine. When they played “construction” you never quite knew if they were driving the truck or actually WERE the truck. Amazing!
Sure, it doesn’t hurt that when kids meet up with trucks, they’re introduced to the science of simple machines. Whether studying a construction site or working with their own equipment, kids absorb the phenomena of physics. And they’re making these discoveries on their own.
But perhaps what I love most is that when kids and trucks get together there might be an end creation in sight, but often there isn’t. Because kids can love the process—the digging, the dumping, the ‘dozing—more than the product itself. And, so, the wonder-filled work continues for another day.
Peek inside!
What a perfectly vibrant and lively cover! Take a look at some interior shots to feel the vibrations of the action, and to hear the rumbles of engines and tires! Beware, you might want to go play in the dirt after!
My thoughts on the book: I couldn't wait to share this book with my two-year-old son. My boy loves everything truck, car, construction, farm, etc. If it has wheels it's cool in his book. The latest obsession of his are traffic cones found at job sites or...anywhere. I often hear an enthusiastic "Cone! Cone!" from the backseat of the car.
I wish I had filmed the moment I showed the cover of the book to my son.
It went something like this:
"Rory, want to read this new book with me?"
"Whhhooooooooaaaaaaaaa! Whoa, whoa, wow!"
Seriously.
The text bounces off your tongue in a delightful way. Full of rhymes and vivid verbs, alliteration and (of course) onomatopoeia, the book begs to be read aloud. And just try to read it without smiling. Impossible! Follow these inner-city builders as they create something special out of a drab plot of land. Four enthusiastic thumbs up from the boy and I!
Author Bio: Jean Reidy is a two-time winner of the Colorado Book Award. Especially gifted at
writing for very young children, Jean is a frequent presenter at national and local literacy, writing,
and education conferences and at schools across the country—in person and via Skype. She is a
member of the Colorado Council International Reading Association and the Society of Children’s
Book Writers and Illustrators, and she serves on the board of Reach Out and Read Colorado. Jean writes from her home in Colorado where she lives right across the street from her neighborhood library, which she visits nearly every day. Visit her atwww.jeanreidy.com and on Twitter: @JeanReidy.
Follow Jean on the BUSY BUILDERS, BUSY WEEK! tour!
Mon, Aug 22 | |
Tues, Aug 23 | |
Wed, Aug 24 | |
Thurs, Aug 25 | |
Fri, Aug 26 | |
Sat, Aug 27 | |
Mon, Aug 29 | |
Tues, Aug 30 | |
Wed, Aug 31 | |
Thurs, Sept 1 | |
Fri, Sept 2 | |
Click here for a free classroom curriculum guide and storytime kit!
Enter to win!
One lucky winner will receive a copy of BUSY BUILDERS, BUSY WEEK! (U.S. addresses.)
Loading...
Thanks for stopping by!
By: Nicole L.,
on 8/22/2016
Blog:
(
Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags:
Add a tag
This Friday my district has our first inservice day. Next week is my first full week back to work since having my second son. So many emotions! I love teaching. I love the people I work with, and my building is full of energy. Work is a good place to be for me. It energizes me and gives me creative outlets. But boy will I miss my kids! I've taken these long summer days for granted, as we do so many things. I sure am one lucky lady.
Books I Read this Week:
Be Light Like a Bird
by Monika Schroder
Capstone, 2016
Realistic Fiction
240 pages
Recommended for grades 4-8
Last week I posted briefly about this book because I knew there was more on the way. Monika Schroder was kind enough to write a guest post for my blog earlier this week,
and she is giving away a copy of the book to one lucky reader! You can read her post and enter to win the book
here.
Applesauce Weather
by Helen Frost, illustrated by Amy June Bates
Candlewick Press, 2016
Poetic Narrative/Realistic Fiction
112 pages
Recommended for grades 3-5
Helen Frost writes some of my students' favorite poetic narratives. Salt is an historical fiction novel they can enter without feeling overwhelmed with length. Hidden is a book that I am lucky to end the year still owning. Once I book talk that book it barely has a chance to hang out with the other novels in verse. And now we have Applesauce Weather. I can't say that it tops either of the previously mentioned titles, it's gentler and slower, with an old timey feel. I am suspecting that the cover will be a hard sell. I will share this story of an elderly uncle visiting family and spinning his tales for their entertainment, but I am just not sure my students will be as fond of it as an adult reader might be. But the good news is that I will only have to wonder so long, I can put this one to the test in a few short weeks.
The Case of the Starry Night
by Yvonne Jones
LHC Publishing, 2016
Mystery/Science Fiction
36 pages
Recommended for grades 3-5
Wen Amser is back in action, this time to use his amulet to travel back in time to save van Gogh's Starry Night from a group of bandits. There is a bit of information about Starry Night and van Gogh, though most of the story is centered around Wen. The book is short, and felt rushed to me. To appeal to younger readers (that may be better suited for the brevity of this story) I would have expected the text sizing and white space to be more substantial.
The Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo
by Drew Weing
First Second, 2016
Graphic Novel/Fantasy
128 pages
Recommended for grades 3-6
By far, the star of my reading week! This book is cool and funny, a winning combination!
When Charles' parents move to Echo City to fix up an old hotel, Charles is less than impressed. And things go from boringly bad to excitingly dangerous when Charles discovers an actual monster in his closet. Turns out there is only one person fit for the job of keeping kids safe from monsters, Margo Maloo. Lucky for Charles, she eventually lets him tag along on her missions, making Charles' move to Echo City far from boring!
I love the drawings, the story is fresh, and the main characters are excellently developed. My grandmother would have called Margo "One Hot Ticket." And she would have been exactly right! And Charles cracked me up on many occasions. Kids are going to love this one!
I'm Currently Reading:
Thanks for stopping by!
By: Nicole L.,
on 8/20/2016
Blog:
(
Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags:
Add a tag
I am delighted to feature a special new middle grade novel on the blog today, and even more excited about one of you winning a copy!!
Available September 1, 2016
Thank you, Nicole, for inviting me to write a short piece about Be Light Like a Bird for your blog.
When people ask me, "What is your new book about?" I often retell the plot. But I think Be Light Like a Bird is also about forgiveness and relates to a fundamental question most people, young and old, have to deal with at some point in their life: How do we forgive those who hurt us? Wren is devastated and hurt after the loss of her father. Her mother's distant and cold behaviour adds to her pain and out of her desperation she even wants to lash out against her mother. It takes a long time for Wren to finally learn what causes her mother to act the way she does. Her mother had kept a secret from her and the truth had to come out for Wren to be able to forgive.
Finally, knowing the truth enables Wren to see her mother with more empathy and be less judgmental. It may not be possible for a 12-year old to see past her own emotions when judging a parent but I hope that reading about Wren and her mother helps young readers to realize that adults have their own struggles to deal with, and these may cause them to act in ways children might find inexplicable.
~Monika Schroder
Loading...
Good luck!
By: Nicole L.,
on 8/15/2016
Blog:
(
Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags:
Add a tag
I've been busy setting up my delightful new classroom space. I am so excited about all the storage (not clutter out and about) and the greenhouse off the corner! This makes a beautiful little work space and will of course home many plants, both things will bring joy to my students!
As with every year, the hardest thing about setting up my classroom is setting up the perfect classroom library. I want the books arranged in a way that is easy for students to access, makes sense in order, and looks nice. I have too many books. I have been making decisions on what to remove year after year, and it never gets easier. This year I was finally able to part with the Animorphs series. I read some of these books as a kid, but since I have been teaching (10 years) only one student has read them. He was in third or fourth grade, my first group of looping students, and he just graduated from high school. Nate, I'm talking about you. I held on to those books for so long just in case another student wanted to read them. I mean, Nate liked them, so someone else might want to read them! And so it goes. I, and many of us, can vividly picture that certain student that read that certain book, and though no one else has loved it since, we don't want to part with it. This is our curse and our blessing. We love books and kids. You're my people.
Books I've Recently Read:
Lucy
by Randy Cecil
Candlewick Press, 2016
Realistic Fiction
144 pages
Recommended for grades 1+
Told in short sections of text with a sweet illustration on each page, we follow a father, a girl and a lost dog. They each want something, and we follow to watch them find it.
Be Light Like a Bird
by Monika Schroder
Capstone, 2016
Realistic Fiction
240 pages
Recommended for grades 4-8
More to come on this later. But for now, this story will be welcomed by readers that want to explore feelings of loss from the safety of a book.
I'm Currently Reading:
On Deck:
Thanks for stopping by!
It's August, which means teachers everywhere are feeling a mix of
and
Right?!
Blogging has been harder than ever this summer with a toddler and a new baby, plus the general summer days of no schedule (sigh). And though the reviews have been slower to come, the reading is still happening. And when I do get a chance to type, at lease I have cute company...
And at least my older distraction is irresistible...
A mom can't complain!
Books I've Recently Read:
The
Journey trilogy! Check out my
post this past week to see some thoughts and enter to win the first two books!!
All three books are gorgeous and thoughtful. I love them!
Just Like Me
By Nancy J. Cavanaugh
Sourcebooks Jabberwocky, 2016
Realistic Fiction
256 pages
Recommended for grades 4+
A story about an adopted Chinese girl trying to identify with who she is while not giving in to pressure from others to be "more Chinese."
The writing is so easy to read, it's just natural. I can truly picture a cabin of young teen girls acting this way. Aside from the heavy themes of adoption (two other main characters are also adopted from China) and feeling different from peers, there are strong messages about conflict resolution. I know, you didn't expect there to be conflicts among a group of teen girls...
I loved it, and highly recommend it!
Hour of the Bees
By Lindsay Eager
Candlewick Press, 2016
Realistic Fiction/Fantasy
368 pages
Recommended for grades 5+
I brought this book with me to the hospital when I had my son. This book was company when I needed to sleep and couldn't, the characters became close friends of mine over the days I was stuck in a small quiet room. Let's face it, I loved being still and calm when home is rarely that!
I say the book is realistic and also fantasy. There are two storylines here that meld in the end. You decide the genre for yourself, it doesn't really matter, it's beautiful no matter what we call it.
Give this book to readers that need hope in the face of dementia taking a loved one. Give it to readers that believe strongly in magic. And read it yourself, you'll be glad you did.
Julius Zebra: Rumble with the Romans!
By Gary Northfield
Candlewick Press, 2016
Fantasy
288 pages
Recommended for grades 3-6
Look at the cover. You know this book is going to be a little bit weird, and you have high hopes that it's also a little bit smart and a big bit funny. I'd say it must have hit the mark because I read it fairly quickly, which isn't the case when I'm dying of boredom!
I'm thinking my fourth graders will get a kick out of this character. Were there many, many things that made me scratch my head? Yes. Like, how does a fake mustache make the zebra unrecognizable by others? Suspend reality for this one!!
Pax
By Sara Pennypacker, illustrated by Jon Klassen
Balzer + Bray, 2016
Fantasy
288 pages
Recommended for grades 4+
My son's namesake.
This book is not new to us, if you're reading children's lit blogs, you are more than familiar with Pax.
And it lived up to all the hype for me.
Quiet
True
Vulnerable
Trusting
Solid
Hurt
Love
The only problem is that I'm running out of days in the school year to fit all the novels I want to read aloud.
Curse of the Were-Hyena
By Bruce Hale
Disney-Hyperion, 2016
Fantasy
224 pages
Recommended for grades 3-6
Two best friends notice that their favorite teacher is acting rather strange all of a sudden.
There are monsters in the night and a strange new museum exhibit in town.
When the kids seek help from the owner of the comic book store, she has lots of insight into what might be happening to their teacher.
Things were a bit too convenient for my liking, and the illustrations were too cartoony for me.
I'm sure I can find some eager hands to put it in to in September though!
I'm Currently Reading:
Thanks for stopping by!
This fall Aaron Becker and Candlewick Press will deliver the conclusion to the gorgeous Journey trilogy.
Remember Journey? It begins with a young girl sitting outside a house with rooms full of people: a sister playing with a tablet, a multitasking mother on the phone and cooking dinner, and a father at work in his office. Though family is home, the girl feels alone.
Can I have a bite?
What are you working on?
Can I have a turn?
...
Alone in her room, when even her cat abandons her, she discovers a red crayon. And draws a door. An escape. Thus begins the journey.
When we meet the girl again she has with her the friends she made on her journey. In Quest the friends set out to collect the crayons needed to free a captive king. He provides them with a map and clues, the rest is up to the friends' imaginations.
Color, action, danger and quick thinking! Gratitude, magic, perseverance and wonder.
Return opens with the same busy father, and the same girl. This time when she returns to her magic world, her father follows! Readers with a sharp eye will enjoy spotting connections to the first two installments.
Books with no words can say so much to us. Perhaps they can say more than books full of words.
What I perceive and what you notice can be wonderfully different.
Beyond enjoying this book alone, consider delving in with one or many children. Writing teachers will see worlds of possibility between the pages. I know I do.
Enjoy!
Pre-order
Return, or order any of Becker's other books-signed(!)
here.
And be sure to enter below for a chance to win the first two books in the trilogy,
Journey and
Quest!
Thank you to Candlewick press!
Contest closes Tuesday, August 2nd.
Loading...
It has been about a month since I read Ms. Bixby's Last Day. Since then I have welcomed my second baby boy into our family. Before Baby #2 I was asked to take part in this blog tour, and I naively agreed. With two boys under two I am...tired. And the wonderful coordinator of this blog tour assured me that if I felt like this was too much once the day arrived, that I could opt out. No pressure. And opting out is tempting the night before the post goes up, when drowsiness is setting in. But then I heard myself reminding my toddler of some family truths. We don't bite. We don't kick. We don't grab the baby. And this one trickled in: We don't back out of our commitments. I don't want to let down Walden Pond Press. I want to honor a commitment to John David Anderson's kick off to his latest work. But mostly, I truly love this book, and I want to show up for that.
When I was getting the details for this post it was suggested that I write about my own Ms. Bixby, the teacher that inspired me, touched me, made me explore the world and myself, etc., etc., etc. It got me thinking about my teachers. And you know what, my Ms. Bixby came to me later in life as a colleague. My Ms. Bixby is my former teammate/teaching partner/friend, Mrs. Hartley.
Mrs. Hartley taught me to slow down. To breathe deeply. To appreciate nature and poetry and music. She let me be myself, let loose, joke, laugh, question, push boundaries and sometimes buttons. She worked so, so hard on little things, things that no one would notice she worked so hard on. But she did it anyway, because it's the little things that matter.
And while I thought about my own Ms. Bixby, I also thought about kids. There cannot be a Ms. Bixby that makes an impact without students that are open to what a teacher has to offer. So, while this story is a tribute to the gift of an amazing teacher, it is also a tribute to the kinds of kids that have open eyes. I feel so lucky to have cultivated relationships with some amazing students over the years. It's the right kind of students that energize a teacher, keep her seeking out new books to share, driving her to continue thinking up new projects and writing assignments, and that make her lose sleep over which read aloud to share next because that time is so precious and there are only so many books we can get through in a year.
So that's what this book is to me. It's a tribute to wonderful teachers. It's a tribute to students that have open eyes and large hearts. It's also a tribute to friendship.
I loved this story, and I hope you do too!
Want to own copy? Enter at the bottom of this post. Contest closes July 5th.
Tour Stops:
6/28/2016 Educate.Empower.Inspire…Teach
Loading...
Thanks for stopping by!
I'm writing this in bed tonight, stretching far around my belly to reach the keys. In a few hours baby #2's due date will arrive. I am going to fall asleep tonight with positive vibes focused around his arrival tomorrow! There have been a few "signs" that the time is upon us. Like a car at my husband's work today with the baby's name on the license plate (that's a pretty solid one), my almost 2 year old giving the "baby" three kisses before bed (does NOT happen every night) and finally, my best friend, and delivery room champion, texting me just now to say her work schedule miraculously cleared up for tomorrow. Fingers crossed!
And, if no such luck, at least I'm in the middle of a good book.
Books I Read this Week:
Ms. Bixby's Last Day
by John David Anderson
Walden Pond Press, 2016
Realistic Fiction
320 pages
Recommended for grades 4-7
I am delighted to be a part of this book's blog tour next month. I will save my thoughts until then, but I will say this much: If you have a special educator in your life, send this book to them as a thank you.
More to come on this one!
Cody and the Mysteries of the Universe
by Tricia Springstubb
illustrated by Eliza Wheeler (She illustrated one of the best books ever: Dollbones!)
Candlewick Press, 2016
Realistic Fiction
144 pages
Recommended for grades 2-4
I missed out on the first book, Cody and the Fountain of Happiness, so thank goodness this one came my way! I doubt you could read this book and not fall in love with Cody. She is loyal, thoughtful, blundering and real. I would highly recommend this new series to grades 2-4. I am always on the lookout for books that will interest my striving fourth grade readers. The short length, interesting story, supporting illustrations, and great white space on the pages will make this book appealing to readers. I will be adding this (and the first) to my classroom library!
I'm Currently Reading (and loving):
Thanks for stopping by!
By: Nicole L.,
on 5/16/2016
Blog:
(
Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags:
Add a tag
Books I've Recently Read:
Candlewick Press, 2016
Short stories/realistic fiction
224 pages
Recommended for grades 4+
The back of the ARC lists some marketing opportunities around Father's Day. This seems like a logical time to push a title like this. Until you read it. And then you see that the fathers and grandfathers in this book are not all figures to look up to. There is disappointment, abandonment, selfishness and loss. However, while this might not be a "Hey Dad, read this and thought of you!" type of gift, there is deep merit in sharing this book between father and son. The large question posed throughout is, "What is the most important thing a father can do for his son?" And this question is one not answered easily. I've spent some time thinking about it as I have one (soon to be two) son. My own relationship with my father was never a positive one, and now no longer exists. I get an occasional update from my younger sister on what's going on in my father's life, but we are strangers now. So these powerful, and sometimes sad, stories are as realistic to me as they are to many who are growing up, or have grown up, with a father figure that doesn't fit the bill of: World's Best Dad.
What IS the most important thing a father can do for his son?
Walden Pond Press, 2016
Adventure/Humor
352 pages
Recommended for grades 5+
See my complete post about this book
here.
Atheneum, 2016
Fantasy
272 pages
Recommended for grades 4+
You would expect nothing but extraordinary from these two powerhouse writers. And you would be fulfilled in reading this book. I requested this title without knowing anything at all about the plot, the authors were enough. Not knowing what you are getting in to is actually quite fun for me, I often don't read jacket flaps before reading the book! And because I went in blindly, I was reacting raw to each footfall of this story. So much pain. And so much hope and beauty.
After teaching for ten years, I know that there are kids out there that love getting their hands on stories that evoke powerful emotions. This book is one to place in the hands of those readers. The reader that is willing to be vulnerable. The reader that grows his or her understanding of the human journey through each powerful book they read. This is a keeper.
I'm Currently Reading:
Thanks for stopping by!
By: Nicole L.,
on 4/18/2016
Blog:
(
Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags:
Add a tag
Books I Read this Week:
Science Comics:
Dinosaurs: Fossils and Feathers
By MK Reed & Joe Flood
First Second, 2016
Nonfiction Graphic Novel
120 pages
Recommended for grades 3-8
This is a new series to watch for! There are two books out right now, with a third on the way. The artwork is vibrant and alive, colorful and detailed, and the text is rich with information. What I particularly like about this book is how it points out our ever-changing understanding of what we once knew for fact in the field of science. This continues to the very last page when the writer admits that some of the information they included in the book has now been disproven just two weeks before printing! So cool! Includes the early male and female scientists discovering fossils and bones, who took credit and who had it robbed. Go buy this one!
Forgotten Bones: Uncovering a Slave Cemetery
By Lois Miner Huey
Millbrook Press, 2016
Nonfiction
56 pages
Recommended for grades 4+
When workers uncover human remains while digging for a new pipeline, a slave cemetery is discovered. The cemetery was a burial grounds for the slaves at the Schuyler in Albany, New York.
The book gives readers a look at what steps are taken to excavate and protect the remains, how they are handled and what story they have to tell. The photographs let us join the scientists at work. The book also includes information about the different lifestyles of Northern and Southern slaves in America, well before the Civil War.
Sweater Weather
By Sara Varon
First Second, 2016
Short Stories: Graphic Novel
127 pages
Recommended for: fans of Sara Varon
So different from her previous titles, this book includes short stories with Sara's introduction to each telling where the idea came from, it's purpose, etc. I can't say I love it as much as I love her previous books, and I'm not really sure of which reader I might hand it to. I think the book would fare best in the hands of a Sara Varon fan, or in the hands of an artist.
I'm Currently Reading:
On Deck: On Desk
I was so excited to start reading this one, but I left it at school (and I'm on vacation). I will get to it soon!
Thanks for stopping by!
By: Nicole L.,
on 4/10/2016
Blog:
(
Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags:
Add a tag
Jacket Art by Ben Whitehouse
Roald Dahl meets The Penderwicks in this quirky, humorous, whimsical, and heartwarming middle grade debut about two siblings who run away from home to escape working in the family coffin business.
John Coggin is no ordinary boy. He is devising an invention that nobody has ever seen before, something that just might change the world, or at least make life a little bit better for him and his little sister, Page. But that’s only when he can sneak a break from his loathsome job—building coffins for the family business under the beady gaze of his cruel Great-Aunt Beauregard.
When Great-Aunt Beauregard informs John that she’s going to make him a permanent partner in Coggin Family Coffins—and train Page to be an undertaker—John and Page hit the road. Before long, they’ve fallen in with a host of colorful characters, all of whom, like John and Page, are in search of a place they can call home. But home isn’t something you find so much as something you fight for, and John soon realizes that he and Page are in for the fight of their lives. -Walden Pond Press
Enter for a chance to win a signed copy below! But first, a few of my thoughts:
Get ready for a wild ride, no kidding, hold on tight! But also make sure to pack a dictionary...you're going to be glad you did! John and Page make a sweet sibling pair, though I wouldn't call this story "sweet"! The women in this book are determined, fierce, and undoubtable. This describes the good and the not so good female characters!
So, the dictionary. You'll be glad you have it close by, as there will be MANY new words to add to your vocabulary. Truly, I don't think I would fare well in a conversation with Ms. Teele...
To wrap things up, what will young readers take away? Well, that anything is possible, you never know what awaits you next, and that hard work, crazy ideas and loyal companions are a strong combination!
Loading...
Thanks for stopping by, and good luck!
Visit all the tour stops:
Books I've Recently Read:
Feeding the Flying Fanellis: And Other Poems from a Circus Chef by Kate Hosford
Illustrated by Cosei Kawa
Carolrhoda Books, 2015
Poetry
32 pages
Recommended for grades 2-6
A collection of poems that leads readers into a whimsical lives of a group of circus performers. The poems are quirky yet flowing, full of upbeat language. Though all the poems center around the foods that are going to be served at a feast, I didn't become tired of the theme, nor did it feel forced. The illustrations are incredibly intricate and fun to look at.
Feel inspired to make one of the recipes? :) Try The Flying Fanellis Lemon Cake (and send me a piece)!
The Marvels by Brian Selznick
Scholastic, 2015
Fiction/Mystery
672 pages
Recommended for grades 5+
From the moment I picked up Hugo Cabret I have been in awe of Selznick. The works of art he creates are so unlike any other literary experience. With his latest book, Selznick is writing to an older reader than Hugo was aimed at. Selznick has kept with his style of half illustration, half text, but unlike both Hugo and Wonderstruck, The Marvels continues to use that technique in yet a different way. Once I finished reading about the real people and places that inspired the story, I immediately looked up the house at 18 Folgate Street...and you should, too!
Avis Dolphin by Frieda Wishinsky
Illustrated by Willow Dawson
Groundwood Books/House of Anansi Press, 2015
Historical Fiction
164 pages
Recommended for grades 3+
Here is the story of a girl aboard the Lusitania, the ill fated ship that met its end on a final voyage from New York to England. So many students I've taught have had an obsession-or strong interest-in The Titanic, but many young people have yet to be exposed to the Lusitania. Though the story is simple, the day to day doings of a young girl, Avis, on board, there is the side story that develops as a fellow passenger begins sharing a story with Avis. This second story is told through wordless graphic novel style pages. I found myself to be oddly interested in what Avis would do each day, and was sorry to see the story end!
I'm Currently Reading:
(Listening To)
Thanks for stopping by!
Where Do Fairies Go When It Snows?
By Liza Gardner Walsh
Illustrated by Hazel Mitchell
Down East Books, 2015
Fairy loving people, both young and old, enjoy making fairy houses in the warm months, but do they remember their fairy friends in the blustery months of winter? This sweet story poses all sorts of possibilities around how fairies keep warm and what they might be up to when the days turn cold. I especially like the ending of the book where ideas are given to children on how they can help fairies in the winter: make dried fruit and seed garland, is one sweet idea.
I'm teaming up with illustrator Hazel Mitchell to give one lucky reader a copy of the book as well as a winter fairy kit! Good luck!
Loading...
Liza Gardner Walsh lives on the coast of Maine with her husband and two young daughters. There they are surrounded on one side by forested mountains and on the other by Penobscot Bay. They make the most of their own fairytale: she and her family can often be found making tiny houses for fairies, mice, trolls, and other small creatures, or constructing forts and other hideaways in the woods. Liza has worked as a preschool teacher, children’s librarian, writing teacher, museum educator, and holds a master’s in writing from Vermont College. She is the author of several books including, Fairy House Handbook, Treasure Hunter’s Handbook, Muddy Boots and her latest, Where Do Fairies Go When It Snows? Above all, she hopes that her books inspire wonder, appreciation, and exploration of the world around us.
Author and illustrator Hazel Mitchell is originally from England, now she lives and works in Maine. Her childhood was spent in a seaside town in Yorkshire. She can't remember a time when she wasn't drawing and still can't be left reliably alone with a pencil. When she wasn't making art, she was riding horses or rambling along the beautiful coast. After attending art college in the UK, she spent several years in the Royal Navy and then worked as a graphic designer. Now she's doing what she always dreamed of - creating books for children. Her first book was published in 2011 and latest books include Where Do Fairies Go When It Snows?, Animally, Imani's Moon, One Word Pearl and 1,2,3 by the Sea. Her first book as author and illustrator, Toby, will be published in 2016 by Candlewick Press. Her work has been recognized by Bank Street's Best of Children's Books, Reading is Fundamental, Society of Illustrator's of Los Angeles, Foreword Reviews, Learning Magazine and Maine Libraries 'Cream of the Crop' 2015. She is represented by Ginger Knowlton, Curtis Brown Ltd., NYC.
By: Nicole L.,
on 10/25/2015
Blog:
(
Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags:
Add a tag
I've let my reviews pile up on me! I will be brief this time.
Books I've Recently Read:
As usual, Preus writes a historical fiction that pulls you in straight away. This is a follow-up novel to the amazing Heart of a Samuri. This story takes place in Japan and follows a new young man. There were places in the book where the perspective changed to that of a young American sailor, I didn't find that it added much to the story, and instead muddled it a bit. Give this one to your readers that love digging in to historical texts, it's not light, but it will be fun for the right reader!
Recommended for grades 5+
A fun mystery! I listened to this one, and would readily recommend the audio version. This title is on the 2015-16 Maine Student Book Award list.
Recommended for grades 4-8
Fable Comics Edited by Chris Duffy
First Second, 2015
Traditional Literature-Graphic Novel
124 pages
Recommended for grades 3+
A diverse collection of fables from around the world. Some of the fables are well known, others might sail right over the heads of some readers. As usual with this series, the art styles are wonderfully different, which creates a fun collection.
Another 2015-16 Maine Student Book Award title. I listened to the audio version of this book and enjoyed it. There is so much to this story, and reading it aloud to a class would provide so many discussion points. How do we feel about zoos, what are the pros and cons? Can you imagine not being able to speak your mind because a stutter holds you back? Although the animals can communicate with the main character, sending this story into the fantasy realm, there are so many other real issues to solidly ground the story.
Recommended for grades 4-8
Bayou Magic by Jewel Parker Rhodes
Little Brown Books, 2015
Fantasy
256 pages
Recommended for grades 3-6
Maddy visits her Grandmére in Bon Temps, spending the summer learning about how magical Granmére thinks Bon Temps is. When Maddy sees the magic first hand when she meets Mami Wata, a legendary mermaid. Though there is a mythical mermaid in this story, there are also hard and heavy issues like alcoholism, oil spills and loss. At times I felt like there were too many things going on.
The Trouble with Ants by Claudia Mills
Illustrated by Katie Kath
Knopf, 2015
Realistic Fiction
164 pages
Recommended for grades 3-5
Nora studies ants and wants to have an article published in a nature magazine so that she can be the youngest girl published in a scientific journal. Though Nora's motivation to publish an article isn't only stemming from her passion for studying ants, you can forgive her for it as she truly does have a passion for the tiny beings. Great book to add to collections of girls shining in the field of science. The writing has a nice flow, the characters are believable and entertaining.
The Last of the Sandwalkers by Jay Hosler
First Second, 2015
Fantasy- Graphic Novel
312 pages
Recommended for grades 4-8
Told in black and white drawings, we follow a family of beetles as they seek to discover what is beyond their city. Driven by their passion for science and exploration, the beetles call on each others' various strengths. Lots of danger, a good helping of humor and many facts about insects and animals make this a multidimensional story. I have a fourth grade student reading this now, and every day when I check in with him he has new facts to tell me or humorous parts to relate to me-he's loving it!
The Imaginary by A.F. Harrold
Illustrated by Emily Gravett
Bloomsbury, 2015
Fantasy
224 pages
Recommended for grades 4-6
Opens heavy, though I don't think young readers will grab hold of the depth of the Christina Rossetti poem that sets the tone for the beginning of the story.
I do think kids will find the idea of imaginary friends being real, and having a secret gathering place to be a cool idea. The illustrations add a great element to the story. Some parts are down-right creepy, and the accompanying illustrations only heighten the feeling!
And now for two that I absolutely love:
The Blackthorn Key by Kevin Sands
Aladdin, 2015
Historical/Mystery
374 pages
Recommended for grades 5-8
Christopher Rowe is an apothecary apprentice to Benedict Blackthorn, the man that saved Chris from Cripplegate Orphanage. Christopher deeply cares for his master and has a true appreciation for people and also for home. When apothecaries are being found murdered all throughout the city, Christopher has good reason to be worried about his and his master's safety. Benedict knows something powerful, and soon that information will be passed down through a series of clues to Christopher.
The story has tragedy and sadness, friendship and loyalty, action and intrigue. I am recommending it for grade 5 and up due to some of the graphic descriptions.
Paper Things by Jennifer Richard Jacobson
Candlewick Press, 2015
Realistic Fiction
376 pages
Recommended for grades 4+
Arianna Hazard and her older brother, Gage, bounce around from couch to couch, storage unit to shelter, anywhere offered as they find themselves homeless. Ari wants to fulfill her mother's dying wish of getting into Carter Middle School for gifted students, which is slipping away as Ari's grades and behaviors change. A touching and raw story, with characters that are so real. I would love to read this story aloud to students.
I'm Currently Reading:
Thanks for stopping by!
Have a great week!
I'm thrilled to be sharing That's (Not) Mine with readers today! Husband and wife team Christopher Weyant (illustrator) and Anna Kang (author) have collaborated again to bring us characters you first met in You Are (Not) Small-which won the Theodore Seuss Geisel Award!
Here's what I wanted to ask the duo (enjoy!):
First off Anna and Christopher, congratulations on the success of You Are (Not) Small. I know that was an important story for you to write, Anna, with some important personal connections. I am sitting here looking at the (very expressive) cover of That’s (Not) Mine and I just have to know, do you two have trouble sharing things?!
Anna: Thank you for your kind words! Yes, as with You Are (Not) Small, the idea for That’s (Not) Mine came from my childhood, specifically, growing up with a brother with whom I learned to share, or not share. Truth be told, my brother was a much better sharer than I was, but fortunately for Chris, I’ve matured since then and I’m much better at it now. As a couple, I think Chris and I share pretty well, considering that we share the responsibilities of taking care of our children and household, our workspace, and our book projects. Of course, there are definitely moments when sharing is really a challenge, but having a sense of humor helps. A lot.
Chris: When I was a child, my older brother and I were so terrible at sharing that my parents would mark everything with our initials to clearly mark which toys belonged to whom. We had a coveted set of wooden blocks—in the corner of each piece, written in blue pen, were either the initials, “C” for Chris or “G” for Glenn. One day, I noticed that all of the really important pieces were gone and I discovered that my brother had found my father’s pen and turned my “C’s” into “G’s!” Luckily, Anna and I don’t have to use this system as we share much better than I did with my brother. Plus, it’s much harder to turn a “C” into an “A.”
Every parent and teacher that reads this story is going to have a major sense of deja vu. Ok, every person who was ever a child is going to have that sense. This is such a real point in the lives of young people! This time when we want to stake claim to something, anything, to show that we are here and we matter. What power do you see in the pages of your book? How do you hope and imagine young readers reacting to your story?
Anna: I hope young readers identify with the characters and the story and see that sharing is difficult for everyone, even between friends. As you said, children naturally stake claim to things that help define them. But first and foremost, I hope they will enjoy the story and illustrations and laugh, because I believe that if kids are drawn to a book, they will want to have it read to them repeatedly, and then try to read it independently.
Chris: Conflict is such a big part of growing up (and being a grown-up, as well!). I enjoyed how Anna created a story that allows our characters to fight, work their way through the conflict, and come out on the other side as friends. The chair is just a thing, and it’s the friendship that matters in the end. I think that’s an important message which I hope readers take away with them.
I think it is special that author and illustrator are working collaboratively, what is that like for you both?
Anna: Chris and I have known each other for twenty years, so we understand each other’s sensibilities and perspective and try to give constructive criticism within that context, which helps a lot. Of course, as I said before, sometimes sharing (ideas, opinions, criticism, etc., along with everything else) can be really challenging, so having a sense of humor always helps. Also, I try to keep in mind what our purple and orange guys are teaching us: everyone has their own valid perspective, even if you don’t agree with it.
Chris: It’s by far the most collaborative project that I’ve ever been a part of and I’ve learned so much from it. Anna and I discuss every aspect of the book—the illustrations, the character creation, story, message, humor, color, etc. Amazingly, we have been able to provide input into each other’s side of things and yet preserve our own voice, too. For me, it makes a much stronger book and I feel lucky that I get to have Anna as my creative partner.
Thank you so much for stopping by Bluestocking Thinking! I look forward to spreading the book love for That’s (Not) Mine!
From the publisher:
Husband-and-wife team Anna Kang and Christopher Weyant are the creators of You Are (Not) Small, which won the Theodor Seuss Geisel Award and was named a Notable Children’s Book by the American Library Association. They live in New Jersey with their two daughters, Kate and Lily, a guinea pig named Athena, and a hermit crab named Olaf.
Anna, a native New Yorker, grew up believing everything was hers until one day she realized it was her brother’s, too. She received a master’s degree in fine arts from the USC School of Cinematic Arts, where the visual storyteller in her was awakened, forever changing the way she saw art, life, and everything in between. In addition to writing, Anna loves to read, travel, laugh, eat, and nap. Visit her online at www.annakang.com.
Christopher is a cartoonist and illustrator. His work can regularly be seen in the New Yorker. His cartoons are syndicated worldwide and have been featured on the Today Show, Meet the Press, and World News Tonight. Christopher likes to share everything but his personal space on the subway. Visit him online at www.christopherweyant.com. Twitter: @annakang27 @chrisweyant05
Follow the tour!
Mon, Aug 31 | Watch.Connect.Read. | |
Tues, Sept 1 | Jean Little Library | |
Wed, Sept 2 | Teach Mentor Texts | |
Thurs, Sept 3 | Kid Lit Frenzy | |
Fri, Sept 4 | Unleashing Readers | |
Mon, Sept 7 | The Children's Book Review | |
Tues, Sept 8 | proseandkahn | |
Wed, Sept 9 | The Library Fanatic | |
Thurs, Sept 10 | Sharpread | |
Fri, Sept 11 | Bluestocking Thinking | |
Want a copy?! Enter to win a copy of That's (Not) Mine and an adorable full-color poster! Entries must be received by Sunday, September 13th.
Loading...
Thanks for stopping by!
Check out this graphic full of literary statistics, and be thankful that you can read and comprehend it!
In honor of International Literacy Day:
In promoting this graphic, Grammarly will donate $10 to Reading is Fundamental, the literacy promoting charity of my choice!
As my son would say, WooooW!, the weather in New England was gorgeous this Labor Day weekend!
Books I've Recently Read:
Space Boy and his Sister Dog by Dian Curtis Regan
illustrated by Robert Neubecker
Boyds Mill Press, 2015
32 pages
Recommended for grades pre-k-2
The perfect book for children that love to imagine, which is to say, the perfect book for kids!
Niko (one such imaginative boy), his robot copilot and his pet dog, travel to outer space for adventure. It's important to note that Niko does not want his sister, Posh, to be in this story. But, as sisters sometimes do, she crashes the party and finds herself smack dab in the middle of the book.
Strong colors and engaging images add to the appeal of this story.
Niko makes a rocket from a cardboard box, that's something many kids can relate to:
Fletcher and the Falling Leaves by Julia Rawlinson
illustrated by Tiphanie Beeke
Greenwillow Books, 2006
28 pages
Recommended for grades k+
Simple, yet whimsical illustrations give this story a soft feel. I came across this story online, with a recommendation to use it as a mentor text in writing. With phrases like: "The rich green of the forest was turning to dusty gold, and the soft, swishing sound of summer was fading to a crinkly whisper." "The leaves shivered and shook themselves and began to wriggle free. They tossed and turned and twitched and twirled and tumbled to the ground." it isn't a wonder that people are using it as a mentor text.
I'm Currently Reading:
(Listening to)
Thanks for stopping by!
I haven't written my own children's book yet, so in the meantime, I can highlight the work of others!
~featuring Rufus and the Flying Carpet by Pauli Murphy
The Series of adventures with "Rufus and The Flying Carpet" are an invitation. An invitation to Children of ALL ages (i.e.humans) to leap into the furthest reaches of imagination and join Rufus and his Friends as they engage in wonderful and exciting experiences with the help of their Magical Flying Carpet.
The wonder that young children are naturally drawn to is addressed from the start, with Rufus' ability to see Faeries and Angelic Beings and such-like. To Rufus, as to most of the young, this facility is entirely normal and he is surprised to find that not everybody has it. His belief that you can "Be, Do or Have anything that you wish" is what fuels the intentions of the adventurers and "the sky", as you will see, is by no means "the limit"!
The stories skip along, ever more expansive and imaginative, inviting the reader (or listener) to begin to guess what could happen next. The illustrations, by Sandra Ingham and Ellie Grant of Truro, add a delight and focus, whilst never detracting from the reader's own ability and desire to imagine the amazing scenes for themselves.
Mentored, with regard to structure, flow and direction, by Tomos Turtle (15, who won the Barefoot Books, nationwide First Prize for story-telling at the age of 8) Pauli Murphy's series picks the reader up and puts you right there on the Carpet, with the adventurous little rabbits, to travel to places so unknown, peopled by beings of astounding contrast that you will find yourself holding your breath from time to time !
This 'benevolent' series will not dismay as it builds upon the wonderful inter-relationships of the main characters, each with their delightful humour, strengths, weaknesses and their courage as well as vulnerabilities clearly evident. Beautiful, carefully embedded life lessons pop up and are clarified by the characters and the circumstances, but never "saccharine" or imposing, with choice and free will being paramount.
The mark of good fiction, leaving the reader very much wanting more, is distinctive in Pauli Murphy's writing. You can tell from the start that he truly enjoys creating these books.We suggest ($3.08 on Kindle) that you might enjoy reading them, perhaps even more so when reading them to children.
"Rufus and The Flying Carpet - The Beginning" is the 1st in the series. Pauli is currently at work on the 2nd (outer space is mentioned !) and there is a ($1.53) on Kindle, soon to be in print) lovely little booklet, "Rufus' Lessons for Children of ALL ages - How to tie a Bowline" (pronounced "Bo-Lin") The MOST important knot in the World ! Could be a life-saver, while the Flying Carpet Series is a "Life Savour !"
The new classroom space is feeling a lot more like home now that the books are settled. There are still some adjustments to be made, but I am feeling ready for school to start. My new school community has been wonderfully welcoming, helping in any and all ways possible. And everyone is so ambitious, I am loving it! I would like to share some classroom pictures-soon!
Books I've Recently Read:
A Curious Tale of the In-Between by Lauren DeStefano
Bloomsbury, 2015
Fantasy
224 pages
Recommended for grades 5-7
This book opens with force. The recommended age range in the ARC is 3-6. I find myself often wondering if I am too conservative, am I censoring??!! my classroom library, or are some books simply being pushed too soon on readers too young? What do you think: The book opens with a scene in which our main character's mother hangs herself outside the hospital from the branch of a dogwood tree. Pram's mother is pregnant, and as a result Pram also dies, and is then revived. This dying and reviving is part of the backstory to where Pram's ability to communicate with the dead, and to move between the space of the living and the dead, comes from.
Black Dove, White Raven by Elizabeth Wein
Disney-Hyperion, 2015
Historical Fiction
368 pages
Recommended for grades 7+
Set in the 1920s-1940s, first in America and then in Ethiopia, we are taken on a journey with Emilia and Teo, the children of pilots Rhoda (White Raven) and Delia (Black Dove). This book offers a different perspective on what was taking place as WWII gained momentum in Ethiopia, not our typical American and European views. Of course the war is only one piece of this story. It is so much more, a story of family and courage, of being true to yourself and also finding who that self is.
I'm Currently Reading:
Thanks for stopping by! Happy back to school time :)
By: Nicole L.,
on 8/17/2015
Blog:
(
Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags:
Add a tag
I'm deep in the middle of the giant undertaking that is: moving and setting up a new classroom! Classrooms come in so many different shapes and sizes, each school has different things they allow you to do or have in your classroom, and moving in to a new school means getting comfortable and familiar with both aspects. Hopefully before school begins ;)
Books I've Recently Read:
Like a River: A Civil War Novel by Kathy Cannon Wiechman
Calkins Creek, 2015
Historical Fiction
336 pages
Recommended for grades 6+
A moving novel that follows two unlikely soldiers in the Civil War, a young boy trying to fill his brother's shoes, and...well the other one doesn't want you to know why he isn't your typical soldier!
As the novel changes perspective, readers will be given a broader view of what was going on in the war at the time the novel takes place. A large focus turns to experience many prisoners had at Camp Sumter, which is a setting I don't think I have come across in another children's book.
Half a Man by Michael Morpurgo, illustrated by Gemma O'Callaghan
Candlewick Press, 2015 (First U.S. Edition)
Realistic Fiction
53 pages
Recommended for grades 4+
I love this short story about how young Michael comes to know the whole man inside his grandfather. Michael was always told not to stare at his grandfather when he came to London to visit Michael's family. Much later, Michael goes to stay with his grandfather on the small island of Bryher, and it is during this summer stay that Michael and his grandfather grow closer than they have ever been. Michael learns what his grandfather lost, which is so much more than the missing skin and bones that grabs the attention from onlookers. The relationship Michael grows with his grandfather just might be one of the most important his grandfather has known since he was in a fiery ocean explosion.
Under the dust jacket is a different, yet similar cover. I love the hidden cover so much more than the exterior cover. Coincidence? I doubt it.
Little Robot by Ben Hatke
First Second Books, 2015
Graphic Novel/Science Fiction
135 pages
Recommended for grades 2+
A sweet story of a (nameless) little girl that finds a robot floating down a stream in a box. The robot becomes the girl's friend, perhaps her only friend. But when the robot yearns to be around others like himself, the girl becomes jealous. A classic battle between trying to keep our friends close and ultimately pushing them away. Will the girl be able to come to terms with the robot being his own being, with his own preferences and friends? Well, has Ben Hatke let us down yet?
Other things worth noting: young female mechanic, living in a trailer park, feeling like an outcast.
The fluid and vivid panels are wordless for stretches, as the girl is the only human character with much presence. I picture using the beginning of the book with a document camera to talk with a class about how to read graphic novels and how to read and process the story with no words-and to remind readers to slow down and take in the art!
I'm Currently Reading:
Thanks for stopping by!
By: Nicole L.,
on 7/27/2015
Blog:
(
Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags:
Add a tag
I've got a chunk of reading to report out on, so I will keep things brief!
Books I've Recently Read:
Adventures with Waffles by Maria Parr
Candlewick Press, 2015 (US edition)
Realistic Fiction
232 pages
Recommended for grades 3-6
Set in the fictitious Mathildewick Cove in Norway, we follow young Trille and his best friend Lena on some crazy, some heartfelt and some downright sad adventures in their lives. The title is a strange one to me. Waffles have a significant part to the story, but I wouldn't say the adventures are centered around waffles...an interesting choice for the story's name. I think the cover and interior art match the nostalgic feel the story gave me. These kids have the kinds of outdoor adventures many kids miss out on today, and that makes me love this story.
Catch you Later, Traitor by AVI
Algonquin Young Readers, 2015
Historical Fiction
296 pages
Recommended for grades 4-8
It's AVI, so whether you love him (of course) or don't care for his work (who would that be?), you are already excited about (of course) or not interested in (who would that be?) reading this book!
Based loosely on some of AVI's own experiences during childhood, this story is set in the early 50s. Pete's father is accused of being a communist and Pete is shamed at school by his teacher for it. Pete becomes a total outcast, even forbidden to talk to his best friend anymore and she is ultimately sent away to boarding school (in part) to be separated from Pete.
While historical fiction is known to be a tough sell, and knowing that many of our youth are unfamiliar with communism in America and what it meant to average families, I would imagine teachers and librarians are going to have to sell this one to many readers. And that cover, it gives the perfect feel for the detective stories and radio shows Pete enjoys in the book, but will it attract or deter young readers? Time to find out!
The Astounding Broccoli Boy by Frank Cottrell Boyce
Walden Pond Press, 2015
Science Fiction/Realistic Fiction (?)
372 pages
Recommended for grades 4-6
I wanted to LOVE this book, as I have a special affinity for the main character's name: Rory :)
A strange affliction has struck Rory and turned him green. He is hospitalized with another kid with the same condition, his arch nemesis, the school bully. The boys now suspect they are green AND have superpowers. Rory can teleport and the bully, Tommy-Lee, can open any lock. Do they really have superpowers? Who knows. The book is wild and crazy as the kids sneak out at night to take on the evil of London-though really they just add much more chaos.
The author's note at the end of the story was one of my favorite parts of the entire novel!
Guys Read: Terrifying Tales Edited by Jon Scieszka
Walden Pond Press, 2015
Horror/Fantasy/Short Stories
229 pages
Recommended for grades 4+
Creepy cool! Awesome authors-as usual-come together to scare the pants off their readers. Beware, Gidwitz is in here and things get bloody and...well, terrifying! Dav Pilkey has a short comic, which I thought would be Diaper Baby silly, but was actually a great addition to the collection! I think my favorite tale is Nikki Loftin's "Licorice Needles". What if.... ;)
The War that Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
Dial Books for Young People, 2015
Historical Fiction
320 pages
Recommended for grades 4+
Hands down my favorite book of 2015 thus far. I am itching to read this book to students, to talk and share the experience, to bring it to life with others. So much emotion-pain and hope-blended into a WWII story unlike any other I have read. What a great addition to collections as students study this era in history. I could have kept reading about Ada forever. Though Ada's story might seem so specific to her experience as an unwanted girl with a clubfoot, so many children will relate to being let down by the very ones that are meant to love us unconditionally, our parents. As readers step inside Ada's story and feel her pain and understand her distrust, they might also learn to let someone in, one tiny step at a time.
The Way to Stay in Destiny by Augusta Scattergood
Scholastic, 2015
Historical Fiction
179 pages
Recommended for grades 4-7
Also another of my favorites of 2015! I fell straight in love with Theo and so longed for him to find a speck of happiness in his upturned life. After losing his parents in a car accident at age four, Theo was raised by his grandparents. When his grandparents are placed in a home, Theo's gruff uncle Raymond is the only family he has left. When they land in a boarding home in Florida Theo is out of his element and has to cope with his uncle's awful moods. Uncle Raymond holds tightly to anger over his experiences in the Vietnam War.
A beautiful story of finding yourself even when you are far from all you know.
Lost in the Backyard by Alison Hughes
Orca Publishing, 2015
Adventure/Survival
136 pages
Recommended for grades 4+
A boy gets lost in the woods behind the house of family friends. Relying on his limited knowledge of an outdoor class he has been taking in school, and tidbits of survival novels he was supposed to read but didn't, Flynn stumbles around until he is out of the woods. Short and accessible, there is certainly a readership for this one.
Ms. Rapscott's Girls by Elise Primavera
Dial Books, 2015
Fantasy
263 pages
Recommended for grades 3-5
So strange....Ms. Rapscott takes in girls that parents ignore. She supposedly teaches them what they would otherwise not learn. She also has corgi helpers that walk and dress like humans but don't speak. I could have passed on ever reading this one, just too out there for me.
Button Hill by Michael Bradford
Orca Publishing, 2015
Fantasy/Horror
253 pages
Recommended for grades 4+
Yup, this one is creepy and complicated. Kids will learn that they never want to journey to Nightside through the old grandfather clock in the basement. Nightside is scary and unpredictable and the widly unraveling plot will wow some and perhaps lose others. I LOVE scary books, so I'm a tough judge. This was no Night Gardener, it wasn't bad though ;)
I'm Currently Reading:
It's summer time, and the reading is great!
It's been a few weeks since I've last shared my reading week. A lot has happened in that time. I wrapped up my short lived career as a private school teacher and happily accepted a new position as a fourth grade teacher in a public school. I am looking forward to the next school year already! (This might be because I've already have a couple of weeks of summer vacation by now and have taken my big "Ahhhh, it's summer time" sigh of relief!) If you're not on vacation yet, hang in there, it's coming!!
Books I've Recently Read:
The Chronicles of the Black Tulip: The Vanishing Island, Book One by Barry Wolverton
Walden Pond Press, 2015
352 pages
Fantasy
Recommended for grades 5-8 (publisher recommends 3-7)
Follow this
link to visit my second post of the day, the first stop on The Vanishing Island Blog Tour! Read the publisher's summary, meet author Barry Wolverton, get to know main character Bren Owen, and enter to win a signed ARC of the book before it comes out this September!
When I was asked to participate in the blog tour for The Vanishing Island I was thrilled! I brought the ARC to school and handed it off to one of my most voracious readers, knowing she would devour it and give me some great student feedback. Well, I handed the book off to a third grader before having read it myself. Forehead slap. Her initial comment as she handed it back: "It was more gory than I thought it would be. I mean, I expect that from A Tale Dark and Grimm, but this one just caught me off guard! It was so gross in the vomitorium!".... I was intrigued. And luckily, she was not truly bothered by the story, but after reading it myself I would hesitate adding it to a third grade classroom library.
Is the story gross and gory, yeah it is. But it also has rich layers of loss and longing. Of being the one that feels isolated and put down. Of having the need to leave behind a former self and set out to find who you are meant to be. Lots of action, mystery, murder, and of course, a wide open door at the end for book two!
Hypnotize a Tiger: Poems about just about everything by Calef Brown
Christy Ottaviano Books, 2015
Poetry
138 pages
Recommended for grades 2+
I am so thankful for this blogging community, as it was on Carrie's blog
There's a Book for That that I came across this title! I love the whimsical illustrations, and got a kick out of the poetry. Younger readers will enjoy the artwork and the way the poems bounce around in their mouths. Older readers will enjoy the artwork (of course!) and will pick up on all the word play throughout! I especially enjoyed: Bubble Crumbs :)
"P.S. And remember: words are like friends. It helps to know lots- for sentences, paragraphs, stories and thoughts. (Not to mention sonnets, speeches, and choruses.) Hooray for dictionaries and thesauruses!" pg. 138
A Dragon's Guide to the Care and Feeding of Humans by Laurence Yep and Joanne Ryder
Illustrated by Mary GrandPre
Crown Books, 2015
Fantasy
152 pages
Recommended for grades 2-5
Hmmm. I'm at a loss of how to begin. To keep it simple, this one wasn't for me. I couldn't buy into this story at all, it just never came to life for me. There are some heavy issues in this little story, but they weren't given the attention I felt they deserved. Perhaps this was on purpose, or perhaps the authors didn't want to take their young readership there. I don't know.
The Maine Coon's Haiku: and other poems for cat lovers by Michael J. Rosen
Illustrated by Lee White
Candlewick Press, 2015
Poetry
56 pages
Recommended for grades 2+
I love this book! Each poem is about a different breed of cat, with a gorgeous illustration to treat our eyes. I want this book in my classroom! This collection feels so different from Rosen's The Cuckoo's Haiku: and Other Birding Poems. I love little things like: mud daises (muddy paw prints on cars). I brought a copy into school, and a student came up to me with book and hand and said: "I just want to curl up and read this in a quiet and dark room! The setting sun is such a good ending for the book." She then proceeded to tell me about her favorite poem, turned the page and told me that was another favorite, and the one on the next page was a favorite...etc, all while reading aloud favorite lines. That's solid feedback!
enormous Smallness: A story of E. E. Cummings by Matthew Burgess
Illustrated by Kris Di Giacomo
Enchanted Lion Books, 2015
Picture Book Biography
64 pages
Recommended for grades 2+
Perfect in the simplistic, yet well fleshed out, telling of poet e.e. cummings. I have a new found fondness for the beloved American poet, and will certianly be sharing not only this book with future students, but more of his poems as well. I also adore the artwork in this book.
Blue Birds by Caroline Starr Rose
G. P. Putnam Sons., 2015
Historical Fiction/Novel in Verse
393 pages
Recommended for grades 4-8
Oh how I loved this book. I couldn't get enough of it! I have always had a fascination with Roanoke, and love a good historical novel. Written in verse readers are whisked alongside Alis, and English girl, and Kimi, a Roanoke native. The relationship the girls form is a deep and powerful one, though they don't speak the same language or understand each other's customs. When the girls' bond is put to the test readers will be desperate to know the outcome. This being said, I was pretty upset with the book's ending. I can't get into why as it would absolutely ruin it for others, but I'm waiting for friends to read it so I can hear their thoughts and share mine! Each time I think of the ending I fume a little bit... ;)
I'm Currently Reading:
Thanks for stopping by!
View Next 25 Posts
