Invaluable Resource for Teachers and Homeschooling Parents

I've been meaning to post about this for a couple of weeks, but time has slipped away from me. Anyhow, please check out the blog, Open Wide, Look Inside.

This is Tricia Stohr-Hunt's (The Miss Rumphius Effect) blog that features a wealth of resources that primarily include recommendations for children's books that can be used across math, science, and social studies curricula.

Starting at the end of August and running into mid-November, Tricia's preservice teachers are posting tons of book reviews (more than 100!) and teaching recommendations teachers can use for science and social studies classrooms.

Great stuff!

Children's Literature and Muffin Tins?

Do you want a fun way to get kids involved with books? Then check this out!

Via Amy at Let's Explore, I learned about "Muffin Tin Mondays," at Sycamore Stirrings. Basically, Katy challenges readers each week to make a lunch in a muffin tin based on a theme. This week's theme was children's literature. Read more about Muffin Tin Monday here.

First check out the adorable and creative lunch muffin tin lunch Amy made for her daughters based on Pinkalicious by Victoria & Elizabeth Kann. Then head on over to Sycamore Stirrings for more fun muffin tins based on lots of great children's books, including The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Goodnight Moon, Bananas in Pyjamas, and many many more.

By the way, if you're a parent or teacher of young children and are looking for ways to be creative and crafty with your child, do subscribe to Let's Explore. Amy offers tons of wonderful activities for parents and young children.

Splat the Cat by Rob Scotton

Splat the Cat written and illustrated by Rob Scotton (HarperCollins, 2008)

Bueller? Bueller? If you're a parent or guardian of a school-aged child, chances are that you've already experienced the day (or days) when your child just does not want to go to school. Maybe he's sick; maybe she's scared; or maybe he just wants a day off.

In Splat the Cat's case, he's afraid of his first day of school, and he tries every excuse to get out of it, but his mother is persistent. He must go to school. Splat reluctantly goes, but decides to take his mouse friend Seymour along in his lunch box. At school, Splat's teacher, Mrs. Wimpydimple talks about all of the AMAZING things cats can do, and he is very surprised to hear that cats chase mice. As you can only expect in these sorts of situations, Seymour escapes from the lunch box, and a chase pursues. Luckily, Mrs. Wimpydimple intervenes, and Splat realizes that school may not be so bad after all.

This is the type of book that can help ease a child's fear of school through a very funny story with equally funny illustrations. I can't find information about what medium Scotton used to create the illustrations, but to me, they look digitally rendered. Splat is a big fuzzball, and his facial expressions are hilarious. The illustrations are also richly detailed, and I keep finding new things each time I read the book. For example, when his mom combs Splat's hair, Seymour is holding a comb, peeking out from behind a jar of "Fur Gloop." On another page, you can see Splat's bookshelf with a picture of his dad and books that include such titles as, "I Love Fish." It's a book that I think both parents and children will enjoy reading over and over again.



Check out the author's site to see more of his work, including a cute Splat the Cat trailer, resources, and more.

• Reading level: Ages 4-8
  
• Hardcover: 40 pages
• Publisher: HarperCollins (July 1, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0060831545
• ISBN-13: 978-0060831547
• Source: Bought at local bookstore
  

What Other Bloggers are Saying:

Renee's Reading Corner: "...a wonderful, funny tale and the illustrations are vibrant and colorful." (read more...)

Reader Views: “Splat the Cat” was an entertaining book with a fun storyline for preschoolers. The names in the book, like Splat the Cat and Mrs. Wimpydimple, made my children laugh out loud. The book is filled with wonderfully detailed illustrations that I enjoyed as much as my children. " (read more...) Note: I especially enjoyed the commentary the reviewer's children had on the book. Totally cute.

Books for Kids Blog: "Rob Scotton's edgy illustrations of Splat the quirky cat are a real hoot, and his positive message about surviving the first day of school should help ease that first-day anxiety." (read more...)

Miss Deb's Youth Fiction: "Splat has a soft, gently disheveled look, making him the perfect cat for this book. " (read more...)

Cheryl Rainfield: "...a throughly enjoyable and satisfying read, one that brings good feeling. It lets kids know that being scared is okay, that things can work out, that being different is okay, and that we can all behave differently than how we’re expected to–for the better." (read more...)

Young Readers: "This one is fun. Pure and simple. It's fun. It covers a wide range of emotions. And it's one that parents, children, and teachers can all relate to in one way or another." (read more...)

Young Adult (& Kids) Books Central: " For a book with humorous appeal that will have young readers returning again and again, check this one out! " (read more...)


The Reading Tub: "This is one of those rare first-day-of-school books that has year-round value. Yes, it is a great book to have for those first-day-of-school jitters for preschool and Kindergarten. First graders who read it for themselves will also find the story helpful." (read more...)

BBAW Voting Booth

Voting for Book Blogger Appreciation Week at My Friend Amy is now open through September 12th. I've had fun exploring lots of great blogs on the list that are new to me.

Good luck finalists!

Finalist in Book Blogger Appreciation Week!

I just learned The Well-Read Child is a finalist in the Best Kidlit Blog category for Book Blogger Appreciation Week at My Friend Amy. I'm honored to be included among such wonderful blogs!




Finalists:

• A Patchwork of Books
• Christian Children's Book Review
• Jen Robinson's Book Page
• The Well-Read Child
• Young Readers

Voting starts tomorrow, and do go check out all of the other categories and finalists.

Thanks so much to those who nominated me. This truly made my day!

"Older" Favorites

I'm busy catching up after the holiday weekend and will post new book reviews this weekend. In the meantime, check out some older favorites my daughter and I are enjoying.

Stellaluna by Janell Cannon
A heartwarming story of a baby fruit bat, Stellaluna, who lands in a nest of baby birds when her mother is attacked by an owl and falls out of her grip. The mama bird says Stellaluna can stay if she behaves like a baby bird, so Stellaluna has to stop sleeping upside down and start eating bugs. But baby bats will utimately follow their instincts, and Stellaluna shows her bird siblings what it's like to be a bat. Not only does this book send the message of the importance of accepting and celebrating difference, it's also a great way to teach about bats and birds as well as the concept of compare/contrast.


Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale by Mo Willems
If you haven't read Mo Willems, what are you waiting for? His books make me snort, and Knuffle Bunny is no exception. Little Trixie goes to the laundry mat with her daddy and loses her beloved Knuffle Bunny. The book focuses on the search for the toy. The sepia-toned photographs with the hilarious cartoon cartoons superimposed upon them are AMAZING. I bought copy of this book and the follow-up, Knuffle Bunny Too: A Case of Mistaken Identity because of the unique illustrations and hilarious story.


Llama, Llama Red Pajama Anna Dewdney
When Mama Llama tucks baby llama into bed and leaves the room, baby llama experiences a bit of separation anxiety that gradually grows into a full-blown meltdown. When panic-ridden Mama Llama runs into the room and realizes what's wrong with him, she assures him that she's "always near, / even if she's / not right here." The colorful illustrations are humorous, and the book could help provide comfort to kids who are experiencing their own bit of separation anxiety.

Do your reading choices reveal who you are?

I'm always fascinated to see what people are reading, which is why I've become a big fan of the blog, People Reading. The author goes around San Francisco, finds people who are reading, interviews them, takes their photograph, and blogs about it. I like to see what people are reading because I think you can learn a lot about a person just by seeing what they're reading.

I went to the library today and picked up these books, and I have to say, it's kind of scary to see how much these choices reflect who I am. I'm curious. Can you figure out what these books say about me, or do you have to really know me to figure it out?

1. Farewell, I'm Bound to Leave You by Fred Chappell










2. The Crossing by Cormac McCarthy











3. A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess










4. One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez










5. Napoleon's Privates: 2,500 Years of History Unzipped by Tony Perrottet

Elizabeth Leads the Way by Tanya Lee Stone, illustrated by Rebecca Gibbon

Elizabeth Leads the Way: Elizabeth Cady Stanton and the Right to Vote
by Tanya Lee Stone, illustrated by Rebecca Gibbon

"What would you do
if someone told you
you can't be what you want to be
because you're a girl?

What would you do
if someone told you
your vote doesn't count,
your voice doesn't matter
because you're a girl?

Would you ask why?
Would you talk back?
Would you fight...
for your rights?

Elizabeth did. "

This is the intro to Tanya Lee Stone's thought-provoking biography for younger readers that highlights Elizabeth Cady Stanton's life story and focuses on her pivotal role in the Women's Suffrage Movement. What is most impressive about this biography is that Stone effectively conveys a clear picture of Cady Stanton's personality and spirit AND gives a great overview of the beginning of the movement using clear and concise language. Rebecca Gibbon's illustrations are rendered in gouache and colored-pencil on paper and compliment the story's vibrant and fast-paced tone.

Readers are not overwhelmed with facts and leave with this message: Cady Stanton was a courageous, determined, and well-respected person whose efforts and persistence inspired others to continue in her footsteps and ultimately win the right to vote for women. It's a very inspiring and engaging story.



Learning Opportunities:

• This would work well in both social studies' and language arts classrooms with lessons on biography, women's suffrage, famous women in history, equality, and more
  
• Pair the book with Jennifer Fosberry's My Name is Not Isabella to give children a glimpse of influential women in history
  
• Download a teacher's guide with a variety of questions and activities from Henry Holt's website
  

What Other Bloggers are Saying:

Picture Book of the Day: "This book begins with a series of questions and then shows how ONE person answered those questions. Use this pattern as a model as students write about what they think needs to change." (read more...)


Shelf-Employed: "It has minimal text that is easy to understand but captures the essence of Cady Stanton's role in the Women's Suffrage movement, along with the more mundane details of her daily life." (read more...)


More info:

• Reading level: Ages 9-12
  
• Hardcover: 32 pages
• Publisher: Henry Holt and Co. (BYR) (April 29, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0805079033
• ISBN-13: 978-0805079036
• Source: Library
  

Other books of interest:
The Hope Chest by Karen Schwabach
With Courage and Cloth: Winning the Fight for a Woman's Right to Vote by Ann Bausum
You Want Women to Vote, Lizzie Stanton? by Jean Fritz

Wild Tracks! A Guide to Nature's Footprints by Jim Arnosky

Wild Tracks!: A Guide to Nature's Footprints by Jim Arnosky

Now THIS is a book that I would recommend to any parent of a child who loves nature and animals, reluctant readers, and science teachers.

Wild Tracks!: A Guide to Nature's Footprints is just what the title says it is, a guide to nature's footprints. Arnosky introduces the book saying, "When you learn to recognize and read animal tracks, you are learning an ancient language of shapes and patterns. The shapes of the footprints reveal the identity of the track maker. The pattern of the tracks tells a story about what the animal was doing."

The book sets out to show readers HOW to tell animals' stories through the tracks they leave behind. The short narratives in each section provide interesting information about animals found in the wild and their tracks, but the showpieces of the book are the pencil and acrylic illustrations of life-size animal prints, from moose and bears to beavers and geese. These are what will draw readers in, and with the simple captions by each set of tracks, readers don't even have to read the narratives that accompany each section to learn the animals' stories. What's more, there are four pull-out sections that show the life-size prints of deer, other hoofed animals, felines, and canines.

What does Aronsky mean about animals stories? Here's an example,

"When deer run, their sharp hoofs cut deeply into the ground and their small back toes, called dewclaws, can often be seen in their tracks...Reverse hoofprints indicate the deer made an abrupt turnabout to run away." (p. 9)

The foldout section of life-size prints includes illustrations of deer both walking and running to show readers how they can determine the difference. Pretty darn cool.

The style and approach used in this book really is the perfect way to engage readers and keep them coming back again and again. I highly recommend it.


Learning Opportunities:

• If you live near a wooded area, take your child on an animal tracking adventure. See how many tracks you can find, and try to determine the animal's story. It may be helpful to some initial research on the types of animals that live in your region so that you will be able to better identify the tracks. For example, if you don't live in the Florida Keys, you won't find Florida Key Deer tracks, but if you live in the eastern woodland region, you may find White-Tailed Deer tracks.
  
• Have children draw images of the prints they found. Put them on a bulletin board to show the variety of animals that live in your region.
  
• For science units on habitats and species, this book could serve as a perfect jumping-off point for learning about the different wildlife you're planning on studying.
  

More Info:

• Reading level: Ages 4-8
  
• Hardcover: 32 pages
• Publisher: Sterling (April 4, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1402739850
• ISBN-13: 978-1402739859
• Source: Library
  

What Other Bloggers Are Saying:

I don't see any other blog reviews of this title, but I do see that the Allen County Public Library Mock Sibert blog has it listed as one of this year's contenders, and two readers have given it five star reviews on Amazon.

Greater Estimations by Bruce Goldstone

Greater Estimations by Bruce Goldstone.

When it comes to guessing how many jellybeans are in a jar, I've always been WAY off, but after reading Bruce Goldstone's Greater Estimations, I might have a standing chance. A follow-up to Goldstone's 2006 Great Estimations, this book gives three strategies for making estimations that are as close to the actual number as possible: eye training, clump counting, and box and count.

The book starts out with a page full of rubber duckies lined up above the text, "The ducks are coming! About how many rubber ducks are marching toward you?" This is the same image that you see on the cover.

When you flip the page, you see 100 ducks in groups of 10, and on the opposite page, there are 100 more ducks in a mambo line. These two pages serve as the introduction to the "eye training" strategy, showing readers how to train their eyes to see 100 ducks. And on the next page, we see 1,000 ducks and 10,000 on the opposite page.

Throughout the book, Goldstone demonstrates the three estimation strategies using pictures of popcorn kernels, groups of skydivers, bees, plastic animals, glow-in the dark stars, red blood cells, and more to estimate number, length, height, weight, and volume.

While all of this estimating can be fun for kids, Goldstone points out in his author's note in the back of the book that estimation is a very helpful tool in real life for many professionals like doctors, astronomers, carpenters, scientists, and even event planners.

This would be a helpful and fun book in math and science classrooms!


More info:

• Reading level: Ages 9-12
  
• Hardcover: 32 pages
• Publisher: Henry Holt and Co. (BYR); 1st edition (August 5, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0805083154
• ISBN-13: 978-0805083156
• Source: Library
  

What Others Are Saying:

Lysc's Weblog: "The picture book would support the topic which is difficult for many to comprehend.Students will be mesmerized by the illustrations as the number of items increase on the pages an optical illusion effect is perceived." (read more...)

The Hour Online: "Math dude Goldstone follows up his 2006 "Great Estimations" with this fact-packed collection that shouts: 'Numbers are fun!'" (read more...)

Children of the U.S.A.

Children of the U.S.A. by Maya Ajmera, Yvonne Wakim Dennis, Arlene Hirschfelder, and Cynthia Pon

Here's another book by The Global Fund for Children team that makes a wonderful classroom resource. Children of the U.S.A. takes readers on a journey across the United States, stopping at 51 cities, one in each state, plus Washington, D.C. In each city, we learn more about the city and state and the diverse children who live there. On the two-page spread for each city, there is also a box that gives more information about it, including population, year founded, nicknames, and sister cities in other parts of the world. There are also beautiful full-color photographs of children in the city.

Along the way, we're introduced to a number of religions, cultures, customs, and a brief history of the immigrants who've made our country a unique place rich in culture and diversity. Not only does the book present fun facts and interesting information, but it also helps promote tolerance and an appreciation for diversity.


Teacher Recommendations:

• Use in social studies, language arts, and geography classes for lessons on US history, immigration, the 50 states, world religions, different cultures, and more
• Map all of the countries mentioned in the book to demonstrate the diversity that is present in the US
  
• You can also adapt my suggestions for Children from Australia to Zimbabwe:
  
• Have children create their own books featuring other cities in the United States or the sister cities from around the world that are listed in the book
• For a classroom book, assign a different city to each child, each one being responsible for creating a spread for the book. For teachers with the resources and access to a computer lab, you could even create a template with something as simple as Microsoft Word and have students drop in their own information. Children could even take home their own copies of the book if resources allow.
• Assign children to create posters for their assigned city
  
• Have children write a short article or essay about their assigned city
• Have children research and write about the diversity in their own city or state; if you live in a particularly diverse area, assign different cultures to individuals or a group of students to research
  
• Children can write a story or create a piece of art representing their assigned city, state, culture, etc.

More Info:

• Reading level: Ages 9-12
  
• Hardcover: 128 pages
• Publisher: Charlesbridge Publishing (January 15, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1570916152
• ISBN-13: 978-1570916151
• Source of book: Review copy from The Global Fund for Children
  

Learn more about The Global Fund for Children!

Seven Miles to Freedom: The Robert Smalls Story

Seven Miles to Freedom: The Robert Smalls Story by Janet Halfmann, illustrated by Duane Smith

Continuing with this week's theme of nonfiction children's books for classrooms, today, I'm bringing you a biography of a hero about whom I'd never heard until I read Betsy Bird's review at Fuse #8. So, when I saw this book sitting on the "new nonfiction for kids" shelf at my library last week, I immediately picked it up.

The book tells the story of Robert Smalls, who was born a slave in 1839 on a South Carolina plantation. All his life, he dreamed of freedom. When his daughter, Elizabeth was born in 1858, he worked out a deal with his master to buy his wife's and daughter's freedom for $800 even though he would remain a slave. It would take a long time, but when the Civil War begins and Robert becomes a wheelman on a Confederate steamer, he devises a plan to escape, knowing that if he's caught, he, his entire family, and every other slave on the steamer would be killed. The rest of the book focuses on Smalls' daring escape that will leave readers on the edge of their seats. The back of the book includes an afterword with more information about Smalls, including a photograph, as well as a list of sources.

I really love Lee & Low's books because they choose to publish books that tell the stories of virtually unknown heroes and role models. I've been impressed with every one of their biographies that I've read: A Song for Cambodia (my review), Louis Sockalexis: Native American Baseball Pioneer (my review), Hiromi's Hands (my review), Surfer of the Century: The Life of Duke Kahanamoku (my review).


Seven Miles to Freedom: The Robert Smalls Story is no exception. From the moment I opened the book, I was drawn into Smalls' story, and by the time, I got to the escape, I was tense and nervous and almost afraid to turn the page. What if he got caught? What if his wife and children were killed?

On my first read, I was so entranced with the story that I didn't even look at Duane Smith's oil paint impressionistic illustrations, and as I looked at the book a second time, I have to say that they really aren't my favorite. Don't get me wrong. They're not bad; it's just that I couldn't really tell what the story was about by just looking at the illustrations. They merely accompanied the story rather than tell it.

Image courtesy of Lee & Low

That aside, the story is fascinating, and I think children will truly admire Robert Smalls' courage and tenacity. They'll also appreciate learning about a Civil War hero they may have never heard of, and I'm sure teachers will also find this refreshing.

Classroom Recommendations:

• This would go nicely with units on biography, the Civil War, African American history, heroes, slavery, US history, and more
  
• While it's a true account, the story itself is an excellent example of building excitement and tension and developing conflict and could be used in a writers' workshop or creative writing class
  

More info:

• Reading level: Ages 4-8
• Hardcover: 40 pages
• Publisher: Lee & Low Books (April 30, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1600602320
• ISBN-13: 978-1600602320
• Source of book: Local Library

You can also purchase this book and all others mentioned in this post directly from
Lee & Low's website.

What Other Bloggers are Saying:
Fuse #8: "As it happens, the story of Smalls' escape and bravery is particularly ideal for a picture book. There's danger and suspense and a clear-cut hero involved. Now all that remains is for someone to write a full-length biography of the man for kids." (read more...)

It's NONFICTION MONDAY!!!! Get more nonfiction choices at Picture Book of the Day.

Family Reading Challenge, Week 7

There is officially only one more week of summer left, and this is officially the last full week of the Family Reading Challenge. Next week, I'll post some important lessons I've learned and hold the final giveaway.

This week, I thought I would do something a bit different and give the winner a choice of five books from a list of ten. What the winner doesn't pick will be available to next week's winner.

So, Karen, from Mommy's Favorite Children's Books, you get to choose five of the following books! (Click on the link for more details!)

Hot Mess: Summer in the City by Julie Kraut and Shallon Lester (Young Adult Fiction)

Flight Explorer, Volume One edited by Kazu Kibuishi (a compilation of comics by various artists

The Discovery And Mystery of a Dinosaur Named Jane by Judith Williams (middle grade nonfiction)

Chess Rumble by G. Neri (middle grade fiction)

Pompeii (Unearthing Ancient Worlds) by Liz Sonneborn (middle grade nonfiction)

A Song in Bethlehem by Marni McGee (fiction picture book w/ Christmas theme)

The Scrambled States of America Talent Show by Laurie Keller (fiction picture book)

Cat by Mike Dumbleton (fiction picture book)

Tera's Dawn by Susan K. Schank (autographed copy/ fiction picture book)

We by Alice Schertle (fiction picture book)


Karen, please email your address to thewellreadchild AT gmail DOT com, and I'll send your choices out to you!

Children from Australia to Zimbabwe: A Photographic Journey Around the World

Note: Starting today, and for the rest of the week, I'm going to be sharing a variety of nonfiction children's books that would make excellent classroom resources. All of the books, aside from today's selection, have been published this year.

Now, with today's selection:



Children from Australia to Zimbabwe: A Photographic Journey Around the World by Maya Ajmera and Anna Rhesa Versola

Even though this book has been around for a while, it's chock full of learning opportunities for children. Brought to us by The Global Fund for Children, the book introduces children to 25 countries around the world and one imaginary land, Xanadu. Starting with Australia, the book presents a different country for each letter of the alphabet. For each country, children can read fun and interesting facts, information about the children in the country, and even how to say and pronounce that country's world for hello. In addition to the narrative about the country, each spread also contains a section that lists the country's flag, capital, languages spoken, population, number of children, favorite sports, an environmental fact, and names of other countries that begin with the same letter. Each spread also includes a map of the country, showing where it is in the world along with its neighbors.

In addition to all of the information you can learn, each spread includes beautiful full-color photographs of children in that particular country. For example, in the Philippines spread, we see smiling children on the beach covered in black sand, girls dancing to the music of gongs and bamboo flutes, boys playing basketball, and a young girl weaving colorful fabric on a loom.

The information in the book is well-organized and presented in an easy-to-read, conversational tone. Unlike similar books in this genre, kids are not overwhelmed with facts. In fact, the authors selected information that really appeals to children.

Most importantly, the book introduces children to diverse cultures and demonstrates the similarities among children regardless of where they're from, what they look like, and what language they speak.

This would make an excellent addition to any home, school, or classroom library.

Research Project Ideas:
Have children create their own alphabet books featuring countries from the "other countries" list on each page. For a classroom book, assign a different country to each child, each one being responsible for creating a spread for the book. For teachers with the resources and access to a computer lab, you could even create a template with something as simple as Microsoft Word and have students drop in their own information. Children could even take home their own copies of the book if resources allow.

Variations:

• Assign children to create posters for their assigned country
• For language arts, have children write a short article or essay about their assigned country
• For the creative types, children can write a story or create a piece of art representing their assigned country
• If children know someone who is from their assigned country, they could even conduct an interview with that person
  
• Invite community members who are from the countries you're covering to come speak to the class
  

More information about the book:

• Reading level: Ages 4-8
  
• Hardcover: 64 pages
• Publisher: Charlesbridge Publishing; 2 Revised edition (July 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1570914788
• ISBN-13: 978-1570914782
• Source: Review copy from The Global Fund for Children
  

Learn more about The Global Fund for Children!

The Road by Cormac McCarthy

The Road by Cormac McCarthy

While this is a book that is officially designated for adults, I believe that it will appeal to many teens, and if you, parents, have not read it, I encourage you to do so. And please don't let the fact that it's an Oprah's Book Club selection thwart you from reading it. (She does alright sometimes.) I rank this book among the best I've ever read.


The opening passage of Cormac McCarthy's Pulitzer Prize-Winning novel literally took my breath away:

“When he woke in the woods in the dark and the cold of the night he’d reach out to touch the child sleeping beside him. Nights dark beyond darkness and the days more gray each one than what had gone before. Like the onset of some cold glaucoma dimming away the world. His hand rose and fell softly with each precious breath. He pushed away the plastic tarpaulin and raised himself in the stinking robes and blankets and looked toward the east for any light but there was none. In the dream from which he’d wakened he had wandered in a cave where the child led him by the hand. Their light playing over the wet flowstone walls. Like pilgrims in a fable swallowed up and lost among the inward parts of some granitic beast. ” (p. 3)

As I read this, I was immediately drawn in and overcome with a sense of dread and hopelessness. What horrific event has happened? What is this granitic beast these pilgrims are running from, and where are they headed? It's obvious that the man loves this child and is consumed with fear for the child's life. Otherwise, why would he wake up in the middle of the night to check to see if the child is still living? Is the child sick?

These questions were soon answered as I continued reading. The man and the child, his son, are perhaps one of the few survivors of a cataclysmic event, one of which is never really described in the book, but we get an all too close look at its aftermath. Realizing that he and his son cannot survive another winter in their current location, the man has planned a journey to the south. As they travel the roads of a post-apocalyptic United States, we get a glimpse into the horror of what humanity has become. Many of the survivors have banded together and have become cannibals, rapists, murderers.

The man and the boy live in constant fear of being caught, and the man has instructed the child to commit suicide if they are ever caught. Adding to this danger is the threat of starvation, exposure to the elements, illness, and exhaustion. Needless to say, you can see why the man awakens in fear every night. But his all-consuming fear is having to kill his son himself if his son is unable to commit suicide if it ever gets to that.

The boy, who was born soon after the destruction, has never known any other life, but he is the epitome of good surrounded by so much evil. During their journey, events happen that seem to eat away at his soul, and he is devastated when they cannot help others they meet along the way, even the ones who have every intention of killing them.

This is an extremely powerful book...so much so that it's very hard to describe in words. It's about the love between a parent and child, the horrors of what humanity can be capable of, the struggle for survival, and even the quest for good.

I didn't want to put it down, yet sometimes it was so emotional and gut-wrenching that I just wanted to throw it across the room. As a parent, I identified with the man, and now, the question that keeps running through my head is, "how far would I go to save my child from pain, from terror, from a fate where death is the best option?"

Speechless....I...am....

I See a Kookaburra! by Steve Jenkins and Robin Page

I See a Kookaburra!: Discovering Animal Habitats Around the World by Steve Jenkins and Robin Page (Houghton Mifflin, 2005)

Parents, teachers, and homeschool parents, here is a great resource for animal lovers and for lessons covering geography, ecosystems, species, habitats, colors, adjectives, and much much more. The superstar husband and wife team, Steve Jenkins and Robin Page, introduce children to interesting information about animals and their habitats around the world in a very fun hide-and-seek format.

The book covers animals in six different habitats:

• Desert (American Southwest)
  
• Tide Pool (southern coast of England)
• Jungle (Amazon River basin of South America)
• Savanna (central Africa)
• Forest (eastern Australia)
• Pond (American Midwest)

Jenkins and Page introduce each habitat with a spread of eight animals hiding in the flora of the habitat illustrated with Jenkins' familiar cut and torn paper collages.

For example, on the page that covers the desert, we see a kit fox's nose and ears hiding behind a cactus, the rattle of a diamondback rattlesnake poking up behind a rock, the legs and eyes of a trapdoor spider peeking out of its tunnel in the ground, and more. Here, the only text on the page is, "In the desert I see... This desert is in the American Southwest.

When you flip the page, all of the flora has disappeared, and you see where all eight animals were hiding on the previous page. Beside each animal is a short passage that completes the "In the desert I see..." sentence. For example, "...a sharp-eyed kit fox leaving its burrow," "...an angry diamondback rattlesnake buzzing a warning," "...a trapdoor spider waiting patiently in its tunnel."

As an added surprise, somewhere in each habitat is an ant because as the authors explain in the book's introduction, "they live almost everywhere on earth."

The back of the book includes a longer paragraph about each animal featured in the book and more information about the habitat in which they live.

I'm a huge fan of Page and Jenkins because they really do make nonfiction and learning fun, and I See a Kookaburra!: Discovering Animal Habitats Around the World is no exception. The interactive hide-and-seek element engages children and encourages them to turn the page and find out where the animals are hiding. Without even realizing it, they're learning and having fun at the same time.

While some of the critics have said that the disproportionate sizes of the animals may confuse kids, I think kids are smart enough to see that these are just depictions of animals. They know that a jaguar is bigger than an iguana and won't mind that the animals are not drawn to scale. I often think adults don't give kids enough credit when I see comments like these.

As I mentioned earlier, the teaching possibilities are endless and can be used across curricula. If you're looking for interesting and engaging nonfiction, you can't go wrong with Jenkins and Page.




What other bloggers are saying:

Fossil Hill Book Blog: "This dynamic, captivating book encourages critical thinking and influences readers to take a closer look at the world around them." (read more...)

awwilcox: "I believe this book would be an excellent choice for a study on ecosystems, animals, camouflaging, and habitats." (read more...)

Betzen Book Reviews: "The colorful double-page spread design of cut and torn paper collage creates attractive, but accurate renditions of the habitats and animals discussed." (read more...)


More Information:

• Reading level: Ages 4-8
  
• Hardcover: 32 pages
• Publisher: Houghton Mifflin; 1 edition (May 30, 2005)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0618507647
• ISBN-13: 978-0618507641
• Source of book: Library
  

Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder

Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder

I've decided to devote some of my reading time to re-reading some classic books that I loved as a child and to reading some books that I've always wanted to read. For example, did you know that I've never read a Lemony Snicket book? The horror!

Well, the Little House series is a series that I did read and LOVE as a child, and I was also an avid fan of the TV show. It's been so long since I've read the books that I wanted to start my "classics re-reading adventure" with this series.


Little House in the Big Woods is the first book in the series and told from the third-person limited point of view of five-year old Laura Ingalls. Laura and her family, Ma, Pa, Mary, and baby Carrie, characters who were near and dear to my heart growing up, live in a long cabin on the edge of a Wisconsin forest. The pioneer life is a hard one, and the days are full of difficult and time-consuming chores. However, there is always time at the end of the day for Pa to play his fiddle and to tell Laura and Mary lots of stories, like the time he mistook a tree stump for a bear. However hard the day, it's quickly apparent that what's lacking in luxury is made up in love.

As soon as I picked up the book and started reading, I immediately got the "warm fuzzies," as memories of Laura came flooding back. Believe it or not, I was delighted that I had forgotten so many details of the books, and it really felt like I was reading them for the first time. I was especially interested in Laura's accounts of killing the pig and curing the meat, churning butter, the maple syrup and cheese-making processes, and more descriptions of how pioneers lived and made things.

There were, however, some instances in the book where I thought the details were sparse and didn't provide a clear picture of what was going on. For example, when Ma and Laura encounter the bear outside the barn, I just couldn't figure out where the bear was standing, even after reading the passage over a few times. Or in the cheese-making process, I couldn't understand exactly WHY the rennet from the calf was so crucial to making cheese. Granted, we are getting an account from a five-year old girl's point of view, but other stories are filled with details.

That aside, I do think that this book will appeal to many young children, especially girls, even after all these years. It really is a wholesome, down-to-earth book about love, family, hard work, and a time long ago. I also think it would make a great read aloud for the entire family, and I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the books in the series and watching Laura grow.

What about you? Were you a Little House fan?




More info:

• Reading level: Ages 9-12
  
• Paperback: 256 pages
• Publisher: HarperFestival (October 18, 2005)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0060797509
• ISBN-13: 978-0060797508
• Source of book: Library
  

My Name is Not Isabella by Jennifer Fosberry, illustrated by Mike Litwin

My Name is Not Isabella by Jennifer Fosberry, illustrated by Mike Litwin

When I saw Terry's summary of this book at Scrub-a-Dub-Tub, I knew I had to have it for my daughter, my own Isabella. I immediately pre-ordered a copy and was delighted when it arrived a few weeks ahead of the official publication date.

The story begins when Isabella's mother wakes her:

"Good morning, Isabella," the mother said.

"It's time to get up and out of bed."

"My name is not Isabella," said the little girl.

"Then who has been sleeping in my daughter's bed?" asked the mother.

The little girl exclaims that she is Sally, and we see a picture of an astronaut in space. As the day goes on, she pretends to be many famous women who've made history including Rosa Parks, Annie Oakley, and Marie Curie. Each time the little girl proclaims her new identity, the reader learns a little about how each woman impacted history.

This is an exceptional book on so many levels. First, the patient and caring mother encourages her child to dream big and use her imagination. Second, as the book progresses, we see how this has instilled confidence in the little girl as she proudly reclaims her real name before she goes to sleep. Next, near the end of the book, the little girl says her name is "mommy," showing how much she adores and admires her own mother as puts her in the ranks of such powerful female figures. Finally, children are introduced to many influential and inspirational women from history. You can't have enough books about admirable female figures, imho.


My Name is Not Isabella is not only a perfect choice for young girls, but it would make an excellent resource in a social studies classroom. As a fan of literature-based instruction, I can see this being used as a supplementary resource in lessons about biographies, famous women from history, the civil rights movement, famous scientists, and more. The back of the book provides short biographical information about each featured woman as well as an extensive list of resources where you can find lots more information. Highly recommended.


More info:

• Reading level: Ages 4-8
  
• Library Binding: 32 pages
• Publisher: Monkey Barrel Press (September 9, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0980200075
• ISBN-13: 978-0980200072
• Source of book: Bought it
  

What other bloggers are saying:

Young Readers: "For any girl who has imagined herself being many people, having many jobs, doing many different wonderful things, this one will be a satisfying read." (read more...)

Laura Williams Musings: "I can definitely see this book as a launching pad in a homeschool setting. Take off on studying about astronauts, the wild wild west, the Civil Rights Movements, and more. Many possibilities." (read more...)

The Reading Tub: "This picture book is driven by dialogue, which immediately engages kids in the story. It is the perfect format for introducing children to women who changed the world and the biography genre." (read more...)

The Scrambled States of America Talent Show by Laurie Keller

The Scrambled States of America Talent Show by Laurie Keller

Oh my...Laurie Keller is one funny lady, and she's back with The Scrambled States of America. This time, the crazy states are putting on a talent show.

Who knew geography could be so fun?



The book lures readers in from the very beginning:


"It all started simply, really.
In the middle of the night,
New York woke up from a dream and shouted,
HEY,
EVERYONE--
LET'S
HAVE
A TALENT
SHOW! "

You flip the page, and all of the states are donning top hots and dancing "Fred Astaire," style. The rest of the book covers all of the preparation and practice that leads up to the big show itself. Indiana is the director, Arizona is the costume designer, and Washington D.C. is the emcee. Georgia has a severe case of stage fright, and Dr. Globe has to perform a number of tests, including performing x-rays of her counties and cities, to make the diagnosis. His "prescription" will make kids chuckle.

The talent itself is varied. Some is predictable (Kentucky plays the banjo, and Pennsylvania plays the liberty bell), and some is downright hilarious. "Minnesota the Magnificent" saws South Dakota in half. The boy-band, the New States on the Block (New York, New Jersey, etc.) wow the ladies with their charm. Iowa, who looks like Rodney Dangerfield, tells some "corny" jokes. I could go on and on.

Along with the funny text, there is commentary among the states. For example, when the New States on the Block are performing, Missouri, who is in the crowd exclaims, "He's pointing at ME" while Colorado rolls his eyes and says, "Oh, brother." Very very funny. Keller's illustrations are just as hilarious as the text, and I find something new and funny each time I look at the book.

The end papers include two charts, one with statehood dates and the other with state abbreviations. Scattered all around the charts are various states commenting and asking questions.

This book is an excellent way for kids to have fun learning about the different states, and it's perfect as a read aloud. Actually, you HAVE to read it aloud. The first time I read it, I read it to myself, and it was funny. But the second time, I read it aloud, and I cracked myself up. I especially had fun using a Georgia drawl.

I highly highly recommend this book.

More information:

• Reading level: Ages 9-12
  
• Hardcover: 40 pages
• Publisher: Henry Holt and Co. (BYR); 1st edition (August 5, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0805079971
• ISBN-13: 978-0805079975
• Source of book: Review copy from publisher
  

Nonfiction Monday: Amazing Things Animals Do by Marilyn Baillie, illustrated by Romi Caron

Amazing Things Animals Do by Marilyn Baillie, illustrated by Romi Caron

All four titles in the award-winning series, Amazing Things Animals Do, are now available under one cover with the same name, giving young readers an encyclopedia of fascinating facts about animals.




The book is divided into four sections:

1. Side by Side: Animals Who Help Each Other
2. Little Wonders: Animal Babies and Their Families
3. Time to Eat: Animals Who Hide and Save Their Food
4. Wild Talk: How Animals Talk to Each Other
   

Each section features 13 full-color spreads, presenting information about animals around the world.

For example,

• Baby sea otters are born in the ocean and live in kelp beds
• Some female cuckoo birds lay eggs in other birds' nest, leaving others to raise and nurture her young
• Ring-tailed lemurs claim their territories by leaving a smelly scent
• Elephants communicate long-distance using deep rumbling sounds that human ears can't hear

In addition to Romi Caron's captivating and realistic watercolor illustrations, a small photograph of the featured animal is on most spreads.

Image courtesy Maple Tree Press

In the back of the book is a "Who's Who" guide giving more information about the animals and their habitats.

This would make an excellent choice for kids who are interested in animals, and would also make a great resource for science teachers, especially when covering species and habitats. Because Ms. Baillie does not overwhelm the reader with content, this would make a perfect choice for reluctant readers.


Visit the Nonfiction Monday roundup at Picture Book of the Day.

More information about the book:

• Reading level: Ages 5-8
  
• Hardcover: 128 pages
• Publisher: Maple Tree Press (January 22, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1897066864
• ISBN-13: 978-1897066867
• Source of book: Review copy from publisher