Book 27 The Name Jar

Title:  The Name Jar

Author: Yangsook Choi

Year Published:  2001

Ages: Ages 4-8  years old

Why I chose this book:  I was introduced to this book in class during a student teaching lesson of making connections.  The book was read to us and we were to list out text to self, text to text and text to world connections that made impressions on us.  It was a great exercise and really helped enhance my perspective of the book by introducing other’s perspectives. 

Reaction:  This book, like many books that I find awesome, is awesome.  Unhei the main character, a little girl from Korea who moves to the US with her family is confronted with the cultural challenges of fitting in.  After her name is made fun of in the school bus, she decides she’s going to adopt an American name.  Her classmates help her by putting different names they like in the name jar.  She meets Joey, a little boy who likes her for who she is.  He takes the name jar because he’s afraid that she’s going to change her name.   That very same day Joey returns the name jar to her and explains that he likes her name because it suits her.  This book is a sweet book and attests to the beautiful honest of children and true friendship.  I would definitely recommend this quality book to be used in the classroom.  I would even suggest that this book be used to help teach children that differences are to be celebrated!  Or maybe when there's a new student that book can be read to help reassure them that we've all been new students at one point or another and everything is going to work out just fine. 

Book 26 Who Stole Mona Lisa?

Title:  Who Stole Mona Lisa?   

Author:  Ruthie Knapp  

Year Published:  2010

Ages: 4-9 years old

Why I chose this book:  I went to France for the first time in 1999.  It was astonishing.   I never knew how rich the culture is.  I had of course heard about the infamous Mona Lisa.  But know nothing about who she was and the scandals that surrounded her legacy.  When I marched up the decadent marble staircase at the Louvre I was expecting a massive chef-d'œuvre (master piece).  In stead I was face to glass with a teeny-tiny Mona Lisa.  How on earth could that tiny piece of paint cause so much mystery, so much mischief, and so much misery?   My obsession with French, the Louvre, the Mona Lisa and the scandals of the Mona Lisa drove me to this book.

Reaction: Loved the book.  It was an adventurous retelling of the time the Mona Lisa was stolen.  It was told from the painting Mona Lisa’s point of view, which was an interesting perspective.  There was ample factual information for students to have a solid understanding of who was Leonardo da Vinci, Mona Lisa and why the painting became so famous.   I think this book would be a great introduction of art and art history for students.  It captures the attention and the illustrations are fantastic.

Book 25 Art & Max

Title: Art & Max

Author: David Wiesner    

Year Published: 2010

Ages: 4-8 years old

Why I chose this book: I am familiar with David Wiesner's interesting work and love art projects.  This cover made me laugh, I very much relate to the lizard on the right side, more of a free-spirit.

Reaction: Art & Max, a beautifully crafted book with amazing illustrations. The relationship between the two was very heart-warming.  Seeing the two completely opposite lizards, interact was a delight.  I think it would be a great lesson on celebrating differences and learning how to cooperate with people who do things differently.  ( I would know, as I am one of those people who operates differently).  I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Art's emotional evolution of letting go.  That is one life lesson that children understand however adults need to remember.

Many reviews of this book suggest that Wiesner is inviting dialogues of "What is art?" in this creation.  I would agree with that statement.  I find that Art's character represents the traditional approach of defining art and Max's character represents a more modern approach.  Interestingly, both approaches are neither the wrong or right answer.  (I am a huge believer in all shades of gray!)

I plan to read this book every time I embark upon a crafting session, to remind myself that art does not have to follow a strict set of rules or standards.

Book 24 Swimmy

Title:  Swimmy

Author: Leo Lionni   

Year Published:  1973

Ages: Baby-Preschool

Why I chose this book: I chose Swimmy because of the title and the cover.  I found the cover to be beautiful and it reminded me of swimming.  Swimming is one of my favorite summer things to do, especially since I moved to the sweltering heat of Texas from glorious summer weather in Wisconsin.  I love the freeing feeling of being weightless and flowing in the water.  When I am emotionally stirred, I head towards a body of water, or my backyard which has a fountain.  Water is safe, beautiful, majestic, and ought to be respected.

Reaction: Swimmy is a quaint story with amazing illustrations that inspires and teaches "little fish" that when they work together they can accomplish anything.  Swimmy the fish's differences weren't mentioned in the text.  At first I wasn't sure why he was black and the other fish were red; if it was a symbol of diversity or had another meaning.  His differences ended up being very useful.  

Book 23 Olivia Goes to Venice

Title: Olivia Goes to Venice

Author: Ian Falconer

Year Published: 2010

Ages: 4-8 years old

Why I chose this book:  I originally indulged in Olivia Goes To Venice, because I was planning a trip to Italy.  Well, that's part of the reason why I chose the book, I was also intrigued by the protagonist.  A pig!  I had heard about the movie Olivia and how they had to put a snout on someone.  So I wanted to investigate keeping my Italian agenda a priority as well.

Reaction:  Olivia is darling.  She's feisty and she's a proud pretty pig.  When her family visits Venice, they eat gelatto every chance they can and nearly sink a gondola!  I hope they tipped that gondola driver well ;-)  Olivia is in search of the perfect souvenir and goes on quite the adventure to find it.

This book is charming and pretty accurate in my opinion.  I haven't been to Venice, however I have visited Milan.  I ate a metric ton of gelato and had to dodge a gazillion pigeons which had me worried I was going to be poo'ed on.  The illustrations are hilarious.  I can see this book being part of the library for fun reading and also being used to practice making predictions.   Andiamo!!

Book 22 What Can You Do With a Paleta?

Title:  What Can You Do With a Paleta?   

Author:Carmen Tafolla and Magaly Morales    

Year Published: 2009 

Ages: 4-8 years old

Why I chose this book:  I am dying to find out what one can do with a paleta!  I also would like to know what is a paleta.

Reaction: This vivacious summery fun book was awesome.  A paleta is a popsicle, well not just any popsicle, it's a Latin American frozen treat, made with fruit.  Some say it is an intensely awesome fruit flavor that hits you in the face when you take a bite.  I have yet to try a paleta, but with summer right around the corner, I'm hoping I will have plenty of opportunities to test them out.  

The colors in this book are so inviting and friendly.  Those who have been to Mexico say the illustrations feel like Mexico.  Again, something I hope to experience soon.

I can absolutely see this book being used in classrooms to bridge cultural gaps.  Who doesn't love a popsicle or excuse me a paleta?  This could also be an engaging introduction into a science lesson.  In my opinion this is a great authentic read, which speaks the truth about the many creative things you can do with a paleta!  Enjoy!

Book 21 The First Part Last

Title: The First Part Last  

Author:  Angela Johnson  

Year Published: 2003

Ages: Young Adult

Why I chose this book: I have always wanted children of my own, however only when the time is right.  I cannot fathom being a teenage mom or dad, living at home, going to high school, learning who I am, who I want to be, what I want to do with my life.  Sadly, many of our teens face this.  I chose the first part last to understand what these teens and their families go through.


I wanted to share an excerpt from The First Part Last by Angela Johnson:

From Part I

now

My mom says that I didn't sleep through the night until I was eight years old. It didn't make any difference to her 'cause she was up too, listening to the city. She says she used to come into my room, sit cross-legged on the floor by my bed, and play with my Game Boy in the dark.

We never talked.

I guess I thought she needed to be there. And she must have thought her being there made everything all better for me.

Yeah.

I get it now. I really get it.

We didn't need to say it. We didn't have to look at each other or even let the other one know we saw each other in the glow of the Game Boy.

So last week when it looked like Feather probably wasn't ever going to sleep through the night, I lay her on my stomach and breathed her in. My daughter is eleven days old.

And that sweet new baby smell...the smell of baby shampoo, formula, and my mom's perfume. It made me cry like I hadn't since I was a little kid.

It scared the hell out of me. Then, when Feather moved on my stomach like one of those mechanical dolls in the store windows at Christmas, the tears dried up. Like that.

I thought about laying her in the middle of my bed and going off to find my old Game Boy, but I didn't.

Things have to change.

I've been thinking about it. Everything. And when Feather opens her eyes and looks up at me, I already know there's change. But I figure if the world were really right, humans would live life backward and do the first part last. They'd be all knowing in the beginning and innocent in the end.

Then everybody could end their life on their momma or daddy's stomach in a warm room, waiting for the soft morning light.

then

And this is how I turned sixteen....

Skipped school with my running buddies, K-Boy and J. L., and went to Mineo's for a couple of slices. Hit a matinee and threw as much popcorn at each other as we ate. Then went to the top of the Empire State Building 'cause I never had before.

I said what everybody who'd ever been up there says.

"Everybody looks like ants."

Yeah, right....

Later on that night my pops, Fred, made my favorite meal -- cheese fries and ribs -- at his restaurant. I caught the subway home and walked real slow 'cause I knew my mom had a big-ass cake for me when I got there, and I was still full. (In my family, special days mean nonstop food.)

I never had any cake though 'cause my girlfriend Nia was waiting on our stoop for me with a red balloon. Just sittin' there with a balloon, looking all lost. I'll never forget that look and how her voice shook when she said, "Bobby, I've got something to tell you."

Then she handed me the balloon.

Copyright © 2003 by Angela Johnson

Reaction: The First Part Last, was an emotionally challenging book to digest, that does not sugar coat anything.  That is one aspect of the book that I love. 

Book 20 Tar Beach

Title:  Tar Beach  

Author: Faith Ringgold

Year Published: 1991

Ages:  4-9 years old

Why I chose this book:  Tar Beach was introduced in my Children's Lit class one lovely Wednesday evening over a hot cup of tea and a crispy crumbly cookie.  I was drawn to the illustrations, the pieces of art. 

Reaction:This treasure of art and the celebration of dreams and family should be read to every child.  The main character dreams that she flies over 1939 Harlem, the George Washington bridge and the Tar Beaches what are the rooftops in NYC.  This book is part autobiographical, part historical, and part multicultural.  I had used this book in a class to demonstrate how to use visualization techniques as a tool to improve comprehension.  The vivid words lent well to the demonstration.  In fact as a class we made a Visualization quilt based on this book.  Each class member was  given a page to  illustrate what they envision based on the text alone.  Then we gathered and shared our art and described what our inspiration was.  After we all presented our square, we compiled them (and tape them together) making a Quilt of our own illustrations.  I'll post the pic tomorrow.  It was an awesome activity.   This book was fun, beautiful and made the activity possible.

Book 19 Teen Vogue

Title:   Teen Vogue

Author:  Many

Year Published: 2010

Ages: teens 

Why I chose this:  I enjoy magazines, certain ones.  I like Health and Better Homes and Gardens (you better not be laughing, they have cool garden ideas!)  I wanted to see what magazines were geared for teens.  What better than teen vogue.  To be honest I don't know who Jessica Szhor is. The teens in this mag look older than I do too.  What's going on?!?  Here I go...

My Reaction:  I do not recommend this as suitable quality reading material for teens.  The images are of all extremely thin models, the content is overly mature, and it does not promote critical thinking or in my opinion rational thinking in any measure.  I like the idea of having a teen magazine for adolescents who are interested in fashion.  If there were more articles of genuine nature which were more appropriate for adolescents and if more photographs of real women were included in the magazine I would have a better reaction to it.

Book 18 The Cat’s Pajamas

Title: The Cat’s Pajamas  

Author: Wallace Edwards

Year Published: 2010

Ages: 9-12 years old

Why I chose this book:  I originally thought this was a picture book of cats wearing pajamas.  Yes, I'm one of those people who delight in dressing my dogs and cat up in Halloween costumes, however they do not have pajamas.   My second guess was it was a story similar to the Emperor's New Clothes, but with a kitty twist.  To sum up why I chose this book, I chose this book because I like animals and I enjoy stories where animals have been personified.   So let's see which hypothesis is correct.

Reaction: I have embarrassingly proven how unfamiliar with the idiomatic expression the Cat's Pajamas I am....  this book is not about cats in pajamas nor is it a fairy story about a kitty version of the Emperor's New Clothes.  It is a book about expressions!   And of the 26 expressions in the book, which are depicted by wonderful paintings... I knew 19 of them!  This would be GREAT for English Language Learners, what am I saying, this book appeals to anyone who speaks or is learning English.  I bet there is a French version of this book out there too.  

Book 17 Pie in the Sky

Title:  Pie in the Sky    

Author:  Lois Ehlert  

Year Published: 2004

Ages: baby - preschool

Why I chose this book: I had presented Lois Ehlert in my class as an illustrator and fell deeply in love with her work.  Additionally, I discovered that she's from my home state of Wisconsin which was a fun fact to discover.  I chose this book because I am a huge pie fan.  For my birthday cake, I request Door County Cherry Pie.  I chose this book. because I am a pie aficionado and it spoke to my soul, I mean stomach ;-)
  

Reaction:  This book makes me yearn for summers in Wisconsin.  Drinking a steamy hot cup of coffee in the crisp cool mornings followed by a slice of Door County Cherry Pie for breakfast is the best way to start the day.  This book screams, "Go on an adventure hike. Get outside, go appreciate and explore nature!"

This book would be great in an ecology science lesson of studying how fruit trees grow, her other book Leaf Man could be a perfectly suited companion book.  The pictures are attractive and provide ample detail and are a lot of fun.

Book 14, 15, and 16 The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, The Girl that Played with Fire, The Girl that Kicked the Hornet's Nest

Title: The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, The Girl that Played with Fire, The Girl that Kicked the Hornet's Nest.

Author: Stieg Larsson    

Year Published: 2008

Ages: Young Adult- Adult (with mature content) but a thrilling whirlwind read.

Why I chose this book: For the longest time I didn't want to be a "The Girl that..." reader.  Not sure why.  Maybe because after the infamous and stupendous Harry Potter series, no other series could top that and I wasn't willing to set myself up for disappointment.  My former boss suggested I give it a whirl, so I loaded it up on my iPad and didn't blink or look back for a whole week.

Reaction: WOW. speechless. enthralled. I was hooked.  There was some mature content in the books, however for the right audience (a mature, mystery lover) this series would definitely be recommended.  

Book 13 Les Oeufs Verts au Jambon

Title:  Les Oeufs Verts au Jambon     

Author:  Dr. Seuss and Anne-Laure Fournier Le Ray (Translator)

Year Published: 2009

Ages: 4-8 years old (French speakers or French language learners)

Why I chose this book:  The French.  To see how the translations worked in a Dr. Seuss book.

Reaction:  Still super fun!!  This would be great in a French class.  To give the students an authentic reading/ language experience, well one outside of the text book and language tapes.  Heck, when I have kids, I'm going to read this to them to help expose them to new languages.  

Book 12 Boy Meets Boy

Title: Boy Meets Boy  

Author:   David Levithan

Year Published:  2009

Ages: Young adult

Why I chose this book:   A year ago, my little sister switched sides.  I wanted to read about what she was going through and gain perspective.   I also thought that some of my students may have similar experiences and being able to offer a resource to them would be invaluable.


Reaction: This heart-warming book is a testament of how a society should function.  I am so glad that I read this book.   In Boy Meets Boy, it doesn’t matter what sexual orientation someone choses.  What matters are the people and the relationships.  The author does a spectacular job of describing what teens go through, with realistic scenarios.   David Levithan has been able to capture in print how one of the characters paints music.  I think everyone ought to read this so we can remember what is important... people.

I'm sending a copy to my sister.

I found another review of this book that is wonderfully written:

http://wereadtoknow.wordpress.com/2010/01/12/review-boy-meets-boy/  

Book 11 Tikki Tikki Tembo

Title: Tikki Tikki Tembo     

Author: Arlene Mosel, Blair Lent (Illustrator)   

Year Published:  2007

Ages: 4-8 years old

Why I chose this book:  The name Tikki Tikki Tembo has been stuck in my head for 23 years now.  Thank goodness that Google was able to guess at my spelling so that I could find the book.   As I was in 2^nd grade when I first learned his full name, my rendition turned into an interesting chant “Tikki Tikki Tembo no serembo sorry lorry (skip a word) pip-perry pembo.“  Thank goodness I have been corrected, because that sounded ridiculous…. Tikki Tikki Tembo, No Sa Rembo, Chari Bari Ruchi, Pip Peri Pembo. 

Reaction: Who would name their child Tikki Tikki Tembo No Sa Rembo, Chari Bari Ruchi, Pip Peri Pembo?   My imagination runs away with this scenario and I’m visioning a poor little kindergartener trying to remember how to write his name.  This story happens to be the story of how the Chinese came to give their newborns shorter name.  Form follows function. 

I would paire this book up with The Name Jar and have my students talk about differences in cultures, especially differences in names.  We could make comparisons and notice differences.  For example Pierre, Peter, Pedro.

Book 10 Knights of the Kitchen Table (The Time Warp Trio Series #1)

Title: Knights of the Kitchen Table (The Time Warp Trio Series #1)

Author: Jon Scieszka, Lane Smith (Illustrator)

Year Published:  1991

Ages: 7- 10 years old

Why I chose this book:  In 5^th Grade Mrs. C’s class read, wrote a play, and performed the Knights of the Kitchen Table (The Time Warp Trio Series #1).  It was an remarkable experience.  When Mrs. C told us what she envisioned, I had a hard time believing that we would be able to accomplish all that was involved.  We worked hard as a class.  We read and re-read the book.  There was a small team of 5^th graders who would were responsible for adapting the book to our play.  They did a bang-up job.  I wanted to re-read Knights of the Kitchen Table (The Time Warp Trio Series #1) to reflect on how daunting the task of reading a book, adapting it to a play and preforming the play seemed at the time.

Reaction:  That is not a dull read at all, and if you say so, then you read the wrong book. This book appealed to my inner child.  The author accomplished this by tapping into what children find humorous… foul odors.  Just kidding…sorta.  The book involves classic characters like Sir Lancelot, Queen Guinevere King Arthur, in addition to a foul smelling giant and a fire-breathing dragon.  However, it is modernized with a twist of childish humor. It's a fast paced book; one may think about using this to practice fluency.   When re-reading it I was startled by how well I was still entertained. A teacher could use this as an introduction to fairy tales and stories of knights and queens to introduce some of the characters.

Book 9 Four Little Old Men: A (Mostly) True Tale from a Small Cajun Town

 Title: Four Little Old Men: A (Mostly) True Tale from a Small Cajun Town    

Author: Burton P. Brodt, Luc Melanson (Illustrator)   

Year Published: 2005 

Ages: 5-7 years old

Why I chose this book: The cover and title.  I have been fortunate enough to attend the 2009 and 2008 Jazz Fest in New Orleans which is an amazing music fest with soul drenching music, food that'll make your taste buds dance and people who are so lovely that you wouldn't believe they lost everything in Katrina and are still capable of being so kind.

Reaction:  This book hit the spot.  If you have ever been to NOLA and want to relive some of your time there, open this book and reminisce.  The hilarious characters, the musicality of their expressions, the laissez-faire attitudes reek of NOLA lifestyle and add to the humor of these four crazy cats.  I think this book is not only fun but really thought provoking.  It makes us wonder why aren't we happy with what we have now.  I feel this book would be fantastic in a classroom to talk about different cultural expressions or also to teach one of the most important lessons in life, enjoy life.  Who dat!

Book 8 Tale of Despereaux: The Graphic Novel

Title: Tale of Despereaux: The Graphic Novel    

Author:  Candlewick Candlewick Press, David Tilton  

Year Published:  2008

Ages: 8 years old

Why I chose this book:  I have never read a graphic novel before.  The concept of a comic book in novel form simply was not appealing to me.  I wanted to try reading one to see what I thought.  Truthfully, I chose Tale of Despereaux, because of the French name in the title.  I'm drawn to French things.  I also chose this tale becuase the main character is a mouse and An American Tail with Fievel Mousekewitz ( a heroic mouse) was a favorite story of mine growing up.

Reaction: This was a fun easy rendition of Kate DiCamilllo's Tale of Despereux, which I think has to appeal to a wider audience.   I have to admit that it was challenging sometimes to know which direction to read the boxes, however not so challenging to where it took away from my enjoyment.  I loved the characters a mouse, a rat, and a princess.  The mouse was honorable and kept his word.   He always acted how a knight should act.  The rat, a good-hearted rat that liked the light was imprisoned in darkness, but ended up back in the light.   I really liked these metaphors to compare the rat’s nature from when he was free versus when he was imprisoned, brainwashed, and forced to do evil deeds.   This book could be a great book in a social studies class when discussing wars or different political parties and what happens to someone when they are surrounded by negative influences.  Great read, fun, easy, provides ample opportunity for discussion of points of view.

Book 7 Strega Nona

Title: Strega Nona  

Author: Tomie dePaola, Tomie dePaola (Illustrator)   

Year Published:  1979

Ages: 4-8 years old

Why I chose this book: One of my classmates introduced me to Strega Nona.  At first I thought it was a Swedish dish, which sounded quite interesting. Then I learned it was a book based on an Italian folk-tale.  Strega Nona means "Grandma Witch".  Another interesting point for me to want to investigate further this Italian Granny Witch story.  Oh and this story is about a magic cauldron that makes pasta.   Thus really making me want 

to read the story.  So I did.

Reaction:  This book was hilarious.  The names of the characters like Big Anthony, Strega Nona add to the humor.  Tomie dePaola says that he writes for the 4 year old living in side of him.  I feel this book is best appreciated and understood by individuals who have youthful hearts and can see the humor in his writing.  Additionally, this book would be a fun read when talking to your class about what is expected of them and consequences... Not that your class would have to eat the never ending bowl of pasta, but understanding that our choices have consequences.  

One more point, the illustrations are incredible, which explains why Tomie dePaola won the Caldecott for this book.

Book 6 The Mighty Asparagus

 Title: The Mighty Asparagus    

Author: Vladimir Radunsky

Year Published:  2004

Ages: 5-9 years old 

Why I chose this book:  I honestly chose this book because I love asparagus.  Where I grew up asparagus grew wild.  We would ride out bikes along the trails picking asparagus.  It was the most fun summer activity my family did together.  So to answer why I chose the book, I would say because of the title.  Also after flipping through the pages, the pictures were fun and intriguing. 

Reaction:  I am rather disappointed in the text.  Nothing really happened in the story other than a huge asparagus sprouted in the king’s yard.  He didn’t like it so he got his rhino, the Queen and a brave knight to try and pull it down. Which was a failed attempt.  Then the king went to his mother who told him to ask the sweet singing bird how to get the asparagus plant down.  The sweet singing bird simply fluttered his wings and the asparagus collapsed.  Then there was a song written about the mighty asparagus.   To sum up I am not sure what the moral of the story was.  I do not think this would be a good quality text for students to read, however they may enjoy the absurdity of the story, which baffled me.  It does not speak about the truth; it does not speak about anything really.   The problem was ridiculous. I’d be honored if a gigantic asparagus grew in my backyard.  

Book 5 The Nightingale

Title:  The Nightingale    

Author: Hans Christian Andersen ; retold by Stephen Mitchell ; illustrated by Bagram Ibatoullin

Year Published:  2002

Ages: 4-8 years old

Why I chose this book:  I remember reading this book in elementary school.  Sadly I did not remember what it was about.  I have always enjoyed Hans Christian Andersen stories and wanted to refresh my memory.  The book itself is beautiful.  The artwork drew me to this particular version.  It is set in China and the illustrations are exquisitely ornate.  Even though you can tell the artwork is paintings they really help set the mood, you can feel the atmosphere change from page to page.

Reaction:  I did in deed remember the story from when I read it in elementary school.  I think though I had a stronger reaction to it.  This book made me feel a wide variety of emotions.  The beautiful setting and the Nightingale enchanted me. The emperor’s greed enraged me.  The loyalty and humility of the Nightingale inspired me.  The book talks about how the Nightingale’s song brings peace and joy, to me that is how music makes me feel.  It is a gift, an art form that is shared and experienced.  I think that if the Nightingale had lived in the Porcelain palace to sing for the Emperor on demand, the emperor would take less joy from the Nightingale’s music.  I’m really glad the Nightingale stayed true to itself and also was loyal to the Emperor.   This book could be a great discussion tool for talking about the instant-gratification society in which we live and how we may enjoy more if we took a less is more approach.

Book 4 Oh, the Places You'll Go!

Title: Oh, the Places You'll Go!     

Author:  Dr. Seuss

Year Published:  1990

Ages: 3-8 years old.  Personally, I think it's for all ages

Why I chose this book: This book is a often a included in celebrations.  It was read at my high school graduation and symbolizes the wonders of new places. It had been a long time since I read the book, so I thought I would refresh my memory.  I also thought it might be nice to have the words available to "my readers" so they could enjoy.  So enjoy!

Oh! The Places You’ll Go! by the incomparable Dr. Seuss Congratulations! Today is your day. You’re off to Great Places! You’re off and away! You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the guy who’ll decide where to go. You’ll look up and down streets. Look’em over with care. About some you will say, “I don’t choose to go there.” With your head full of brains and your shoes full of feet, you’re too smart to go down a not-so-good street. And you may not find any you’ll want to go down. In that case, of course, you’ll head straight out of town. It’s opener there in the wide open air. Out there things can happen and frequently do to people as brainy and footsy as you. And when things start to happen, don’t worry. Don’t stew. Just go right along. You’ll start happening too. Oh! The Places You’ll Go! You’ll be on your way up! You’ll be seeing great sights! You’ll join the high fliers who soar to high heights. You won’t lag behind, because you’ll have the speed. You’ll pass the whole gang and you’ll soon take the lead. Wherever you fly, you’ll be best of the best. Wherever you go, you will top all the rest. Except when you don’t. Because, sometimes, you won’t. I’m sorry to say so but, sadly, it’s true that Bang-ups and Hang-ups can happen to you. You can get all hung up in a prickle-ly perch. And your gang will fly on. You’ll be left in a Lurch. You’ll come down from the Lurch with an unpleasant bump. And the chances are, then, that you’ll be in a Slump. And when you’re in a Slump, you’re not in for much fun. Un-slumping yourself is not easily done. You will come to a place where the streets are not marked. Some windows are lighted. But mostly they’re darked. A place you could sprain both your elbow and chin! Do you dare to stay out? Do you dare to go in? How much can you lose? How much can you win? And if you go in, should you turn left or right…or right-and-three-quarters? Or, maybe, not quite? Or go around back and sneak in from behind? Simple it’s not, I’m afraid you will find, for a mind-maker-upper to make up his mind. You can get so confused that you’ll start in to race down long wiggled roads at a break-necking pace and grind on for miles across weirdish wild space, headed, I fear, toward a most useless place. The Waiting Place…for people just waiting. Waiting for a train to go or a bus to come, or a plane to go or the mail to come, or the rain to go or the phone to ring, or the snow to snow or waiting around for a Yes or No or waiting for their hair to grow. Everyone is just waiting. Waiting for the fish to bite or waiting for wind to fly a kite or waiting around for Friday night or waiting, perhaps, for their Uncle Jake or a pot to boil, or a Better Break or a string of pearls, or a pair of pants or a wig with curls, or Another Chance. Everyone is just waiting. No! That’s not for you! Somehow you’ll escape all that waiting and staying. You’ll find the bright places where Boom Bands are playing. With banner flip-flapping, once more you’ll ride high! Ready for anything under the sky. Ready because you’re that kind of a guy! Oh, the places you’ll go! There is fun to be done! There are points to be scored. There are games to be won. And the magical things you can do with that ball will make you the winning-est winner of all. Fame! You’ll be famous as famous can be, with the whole wide world watching you win on TV. Except when they don’t. Because, sometimes, they won’t. I’m afraid that some times you’ll play lonely games too. Games you can’t win ‘cause you’ll play against you. All Alone! Whether you like it or not, Alone will be something you’ll be quite a lot. And when you’re alone, there’s a very good chance you’ll meet things that scare you right out of your pants. There are some, down the road between hither and yon, that can scare you so much you won’t want to go on. But on you will go though the weather be foul. On you will go though your enemies prowl. On you will go though the Hakken-Kraks howl. Onward up many a frightening creek, though your arms may get sore and your sneakers may leak. On and on you will hike. And I know you’ll hike far and face up to your problems whatever they are. You’ll get mixed up, of course, as you already know. You’ll get mixed up with many strange birds as you go. So be sure when you step. Step with care and great tact and remember that Life’s a Great Balancing Act. Just never forget to be dexterous and deft. And never mix up your right foot with your left. And will you succeed? Yes! You will, indeed! (98 and ¾ percent guaranteed.) Kid, you’ll move mountains! So…be your name Buxbaum or Bixby or Bray or Mordecai Ale Van Allen O’Shea, you’re off to Great Places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So…get on your way!

Reaction:

Nothing beats Dr. Seuss.  His books are extremely well written. His playfulness, charm and willingness to bend the rules make his books appealing to a wide range of audiences.  Universal issues such as self-esteem and change are discussed in this book in a hopeful manner, which allows the tough topics to reach the audience and gives the audience a safe platform to explore those ideas.  The text super fun, but so is the artwork. Dr. Seuss created a wonderful world where creatures large and small celebrate differences and encourage one another.  This book is a classic, a fun go to book for when my self-esteem needs a boost.  

Book 3 Tuesday

Title:  Tuesday    

Author:  David Wiesner

Year Published:  1997

Ages: 4-8 years old

Why I chose this book: This book was presented in my Children's Literature class.  Even though the presenter only showed a few pictures, I was hooked.  I had to find out more about the story.  So I made a small purchase at amazon.com and anxiously awaited the arrival of Tuesday.  

Reaction: Tuesdays at 8 pm seem to be magical time in the animal kingdom. How curious that frogs on lily pads flew around town, watched tv, chased a dog.  I wonder if it was some sort of rite of passage, or a migration or an animal rebellion.  What if the animals are trying to send us humans a message...

I wonder what the inspiration was for the animal organization.

First frogs then pigs... What's next?  Is there symbolism?

Needless to say this book made the wheels turn in my head.  It's a great read with amazing perspective.

Book 2 The Librarian of Basra: A True Story from Iraq

Title: The Librarian of Basra: A True Story from Iraq

Author:  Jeanette Winter   

Year Published:  2005

Ages: 4-8 years old

Why I chose this book:  I have mixed feelings about Iraq, which makes me very sad because I want to be like Switzerland.  Being neutral like Switzerland will let me have an open mind about places that have negative images such as Iraq. I know there are so many wonderful things we don't know about Iraq, but all we hear about is the war, the Taliban and negative things.  I was curious about the positive things that happen in the country and about the country.  I know for a fact that Iraq has some good in it and I wanted to explore that. 

Reaction: There are wonderful things and people in Iraq!  A librarian named Alia and her small community risked their lives to save the library in a town called Basra.  The library was a place for people to gather and have conversations.  The librarian felt the books were so important to save, they dared to move 20, 000 books during a time of much violence and turmoil.  I am especially saddened that the book is essentially a cliffhanger, not for the satisfaction of my own curiosity, but to know if the books and Alia are safe and if the town of Basra is on it's way to be restored. Books are powerful and the fact that we in the United States have free access to any book should not be taken for granted.

Book 1 Giraffes Can’t Dance

Title: Giraffes Can’t Dance

Author: Giles Andreae

Year Published: 2009

Ages: 3-6 years old

Why I chose this book:  The cover intrigued me.  Firstly, I do not like to be told I cannot do something (even though I will admit there are many things that I cannot do and should not do). Secondly, the thought of a long gangly giraffe dancing made me giggle.

Reaction: I connected with Gerarld in the sense that I get laughed at when I dance, but I really enjoy dancing.  I have discovered my own manner in which to bust a move and I stopped caring what others think (for the most part).  I think that Gerald showed courage and I respect that.  The cricket in the story (those crickets sure are wise) gave Gerald some good advice; do things (eg dance, cook, dress, etc) true to our true nature. Don't be something you're not.   I like the idea of someone (or something) not traditionally thought able to do something and finding a way of making it happen, especially on their own terms.  This story brightened my day and reminded me to be proud of my true nature.

The Task

I never want to stop learning.  Two years ago, I finally embarked upon a personal goal of getting a Master's Degree in Secondary Education.  A year into the program, I was inspired to add Reading Specialist to that Master's Degree in Secondary Education program.  I have absolutely enjoyed all of the classes that I have taken and really love the excitement and inspiration that education brings me (my own education and that of others).

This spring semester I enrolled in Children's Literature.  A class of which I am thrilled to be a member!  The first day of class, I excitedly got to class early.  This was mainly to ensure that I made it to the correct classroom.  I checked my schedule at least 5 times to verify I had the correct room #.  I arrive to the overly verified room and open the door.   To my surprise and confusion, there is soft lovely music playing, the lights are dimmed, there are cookies and tea and beautiful books everywhere!  I either was in the wrong place or dreaming.  I hurriedly shut the door, feeling as though I had accidentally done something wrong and went to sit in the hallway.  Closer to class time, I went back to the "dream" room and discovered that was MY classroom.  How lovely!

The personality of that class fits right along with that of my own; sharing, happiness, wonderment, enjoyment, growing, loving.  A silent mantra resonated in my head "Enjoy reading, enjoy sharing.  Connect with the text, grow with it.  Read, let the words marinate in your head and heart.  Learn how to spread the joy of reading."

The task (A.K.A. the assignment) is to read 25 books this semester and document my reaction to the text.  What a cool assignment!  This past weekend, I did some research, and hit up a couple of bookstores.  So here goes my metamorphosis into a book worm :-)