Bobbitt. N. (2007). Tuck everlasting. New York: Square Fish.
Tuck Everlasting addresses the idea of whether or not eternal life is a blessing and torture. Winnie Foster is kidnapped a odd family that supposedly owns a youth of young. Winnie begins to actually enjoy her time with the family, but soon finds out the family's secret. I preferred to read the book, rather than the movie. There was not a significant differences between the book and the morning. However, I envisioned Winnie to be younger than she was depicted in the movie. Children will enjoy the adventure aspect of the book and movie.
Dicamille, K. (2004). Because of Winn Dixie. New York: Candlewick Press.
Opal moves to Florida with her father, the preacher. Shew soon finds a dog that she names Winn Dixie. Opal begins to make many unlikely friends, one being Gloria Dump. Cicely Tyson was perfect as Gloria Dump and added so much to the movie. The story and book both recounts the life and experiences of Opal and her new friends. I again prefer to read the book first, rather than watching the movies.
Bayne, J. (2007). The boy in striped pajamas. New York: Random House Children's Books.
The book and movie both recounts the story of two children who become unlikely friends- a German and Jewish boy. The story takes place during the Holocaust and was a very dangerous time for Jewish people. Neither of the boys really understand why they are not treated the same. However, despite everything they manage to play checkers through the barbed wire fence. I think that the movie helps children to visualize the concentration and the reality of the events that occurred during the Holocaust. However, I feel that the movie and book are more suited for upper elementary students.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Yoshiko Uchida
Uchida, Y. (1993). The best bad thing. New York: Aladdin Paperbacks.
Rinko spent the summer helping Mrs. Hata. She was sure that this would be the end to her summer. Rinko learns a lesson that many people must learn as the grow older, things do not always seem as bad as we think they are. It takes many things to go wrong that summer in order for her to learn this important life lesson.
Other Books by Yoshiko Uchida:
Jar of dreams. (1993). New York: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing.
Journey home. (1992). New York: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing.
Journey to Topaz. (2005). CA: Heyday Books.
Rinko spent the summer helping Mrs. Hata. She was sure that this would be the end to her summer. Rinko learns a lesson that many people must learn as the grow older, things do not always seem as bad as we think they are. It takes many things to go wrong that summer in order for her to learn this important life lesson.
Other Books by Yoshiko Uchida:
Jar of dreams. (1993). New York: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing.
Journey home. (1992). New York: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing.
Journey to Topaz. (2005). CA: Heyday Books.
Laurence Yep
Yep, L. (1995). Hiroshima. New York: Scholastics.
On the morning of August 6, 1945, Sachi and her classmates listen to the deafen sound of air raid alarms, signaling the retaliation for the attack on Pearl Harbor, that had occurred four years previously. Many years after the attack, Sachi arrives in the United States to get plastic surgery to repair the many scars and burns that she received that dreadful day in 1945.
I did like the book simply because it reflects the true implications of war and the effects of violence. Many of our children have never experience the tragedy of war and violence. This books allows children to experience war and violence through the eyes of others who lived during the effect.
I think what mainly influenced my discussion to chose this book is because my brother is in the military and even though I do not always support reasons for war, I do support my brother and my country. The events of Hiroshima was a tragic time in the history of our country. In allowing children to read literature such as this, maybe events like this will never happen again.
Laurence Yep also wrote other books that reflected his cultural and ethnicity. One book that was totally different from Hiroshima is The Magic Paintbrush. Unlike Hiroshima, this book promote life and the beauty with it. Steve gets a new paintbrush, in which, everything that he paints comes to life. This book is a refreshing reflection of life and displays Laurence Yep's versatility as an author.
Yep, L. (2000). The magic paintbrush. New York: Harper Collins Publishers.
On the morning of August 6, 1945, Sachi and her classmates listen to the deafen sound of air raid alarms, signaling the retaliation for the attack on Pearl Harbor, that had occurred four years previously. Many years after the attack, Sachi arrives in the United States to get plastic surgery to repair the many scars and burns that she received that dreadful day in 1945.
I did like the book simply because it reflects the true implications of war and the effects of violence. Many of our children have never experience the tragedy of war and violence. This books allows children to experience war and violence through the eyes of others who lived during the effect.
I think what mainly influenced my discussion to chose this book is because my brother is in the military and even though I do not always support reasons for war, I do support my brother and my country. The events of Hiroshima was a tragic time in the history of our country. In allowing children to read literature such as this, maybe events like this will never happen again.
Laurence Yep also wrote other books that reflected his cultural and ethnicity. One book that was totally different from Hiroshima is The Magic Paintbrush. Unlike Hiroshima, this book promote life and the beauty with it. Steve gets a new paintbrush, in which, everything that he paints comes to life. This book is a refreshing reflection of life and displays Laurence Yep's versatility as an author.
Yep, L. (2000). The magic paintbrush. New York: Harper Collins Publishers.
Jerry Pinkney
Levitin, S. (1991). The man who kept his heart in a bucket. New York: Dial Books for Young Readers.
The Man Who Kept His Heart in a Bucket was illustrated by Jerry Pinkney. The illustrations were detailed and added to the overall appeal of the story. The story is about a man, who evidently, had his heart broken and therefore carries his heart everywhere he goes, in a bucket. He makes his way through the town and encounters different villagers. With each person he met, it was clear that he did not see beauty in anything around him. In his shop, he worked with metal and made many beautiful items. One day he meets a lovely, magical maiden that took his heart and promised to give it back when he solves a riddle. She then turns into a fish and swims away with his heart. He made his way from villager to villager as before, but without his heart in a bucket he was able to laugh and dance. On his last stop, a fisherman has a sparkling fish in his net. The man figures out the riddle and the fish immediately turns into the beautiful maiden. He gets his heart back and the hand of the maiden.
Jerry Pinkney illustrated many other books, such as The Sunday Outing, The Patchwork Quilt and The Talking Eggs. Each of these books illustrations are similar to the illustrations found in The Man Who Kept His Heart in a Bucket. His work positively reflects the African-American culture.Coretta Scott King Award
Thomas, C.J. (2008). The blacker the berry. New York: Harper Collins Publishers.
"Colors, without black couldn't sparkle so bright", is a quote that reflects the true message of the author. The book contains poems that promotes a sense of cultural pride and an appreciation of the African-American heritage. The poems reflect the many variations of black, not only in the African-American but in the world, as a whole. The use of imagery heightens the message of the poems and add to the beauty of the authors words and skillful illustrations.
I was delighted to read a book that portrays the true beauty of the African-American culture, that may not always be reflected to children. The Blacker the Berry provides all children with an insight of a different ethnic group, to emphasize its beauty.
"The blacker the berry, the sweeter the juice" was a saying that I heard throughout my childhood from adults. As a child, I did not totally understand its meaning, but as an adult I learned to embed this into my thoughts and feelings about my culture.
Joyce Carol Thomas have written an array of books that acknowledges the beauty in the African-American culture, such as Water Girl, The Bowlegged Rooster and Marked By Fire. These are just a few of books that has a positive influence of its readers and African-American children.
I was impressed with how skillfully the author used imagery. It was done in a manner that can be understood by younger readers. Poetry is often avoided by children because of its difficulty to understanding; however, The Blacker the Berry will re-introduce the language of poetry in a manner that children can understand and appreciate.
"Colors, without black couldn't sparkle so bright", is a quote that reflects the true message of the author. The book contains poems that promotes a sense of cultural pride and an appreciation of the African-American heritage. The poems reflect the many variations of black, not only in the African-American but in the world, as a whole. The use of imagery heightens the message of the poems and add to the beauty of the authors words and skillful illustrations.
I was delighted to read a book that portrays the true beauty of the African-American culture, that may not always be reflected to children. The Blacker the Berry provides all children with an insight of a different ethnic group, to emphasize its beauty.
"The blacker the berry, the sweeter the juice" was a saying that I heard throughout my childhood from adults. As a child, I did not totally understand its meaning, but as an adult I learned to embed this into my thoughts and feelings about my culture.
Joyce Carol Thomas have written an array of books that acknowledges the beauty in the African-American culture, such as Water Girl, The Bowlegged Rooster and Marked By Fire. These are just a few of books that has a positive influence of its readers and African-American children.
I was impressed with how skillfully the author used imagery. It was done in a manner that can be understood by younger readers. Poetry is often avoided by children because of its difficulty to understanding; however, The Blacker the Berry will re-introduce the language of poetry in a manner that children can understand and appreciate.
Caldecott Award versus Newbery Award
Both the Caldecott and Newbery Award are awarded by Library Services of Children, which is a division of the American Library Association. The Newbery and Caldecott Awarda are both awarded to books published in English.
The Newbery Award was named after English bookseller, John Newbery. This is awarded each year to an author or illustrator that is considered to have made the "most distinguished contribution to children's literature", published in the preceding year.
The Caldecott Award was named after Randolph Caldecott. This award is giving to the author or illustrator that is recognized as the "most distinguish American picture book in children's literature,"published in the United States during the preceding year.
I do not think that one award is better than the other, but rather recognize a different form of creativity. The criteria for both acknowledges creative and quality literature for children. Children's books both need story lines that can successful convey its message, but skillful and creative illustrations to catch the reader's eye. Illustration are simply visual presentations of the story. For beginning readers, illustrations allow to them enjoy literature, due to their lack of acquisition of reading skills. This is also true for students who are not proficient English. Illustrations become the opens the world of literature to these children. Also, some books that are considered to be quality literature are wordless, but yet effectively conveys the message. Sometimes book selections are based on the the front cover, which actually advertised the book. But it is also the create writing skills that captivates and maintains the reader's interest. I think that both awards acknowledge authors and illustrators that has contributed to creating lifelong readers and instill a true appreciation and admiration of literature.
The Newbery Award was named after English bookseller, John Newbery. This is awarded each year to an author or illustrator that is considered to have made the "most distinguished contribution to children's literature", published in the preceding year.
The Caldecott Award was named after Randolph Caldecott. This award is giving to the author or illustrator that is recognized as the "most distinguish American picture book in children's literature,"published in the United States during the preceding year.
I do not think that one award is better than the other, but rather recognize a different form of creativity. The criteria for both acknowledges creative and quality literature for children. Children's books both need story lines that can successful convey its message, but skillful and creative illustrations to catch the reader's eye. Illustration are simply visual presentations of the story. For beginning readers, illustrations allow to them enjoy literature, due to their lack of acquisition of reading skills. This is also true for students who are not proficient English. Illustrations become the opens the world of literature to these children. Also, some books that are considered to be quality literature are wordless, but yet effectively conveys the message. Sometimes book selections are based on the the front cover, which actually advertised the book. But it is also the create writing skills that captivates and maintains the reader's interest. I think that both awards acknowledge authors and illustrators that has contributed to creating lifelong readers and instill a true appreciation and admiration of literature.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Dr. Suess
The Cat in the Hat has stole the heart of young and old alike for many years. This book can probably be found in just about every classroom. The tension that occurred during the story between the fish and the Cat creates a storyline that has captivated children and adults for many years. Another book that reflects tension similar to that of The Cat in the Hat is I Ain't Gonna Paint No More by Karen Beaumont. This light-hearted tale depicts the will of a little boy to paint, after his mother hides his paint from him. The baby tells the mom "there's no way that I ain't gonna paint no more." This was the beginning of the battle, as the baby devises a plan to build a pyramid to get to the paint. Even with mom's good efforts the will of the baby was stronger. At the end of the story, the baby reclaims "But I'm such a nut, gonna paint my ___, what? This single sentence reflects the determination of the baby and is sure to be a huge hit among children.
Jones, C.R. (2001). Salmon stream. CA: Dawn Publications.
The Cat in the Hat still appeals to children and will probably always remain a classic. With movies of the book, this book will continue to span across generations. The Cat in the Hat will remain on the top of children's most popular books.
The Lorax was possibly the most controversial books at the time in 1971. It attempts to educate children about the ecological issues that face our planet. It does it in a powerful manner and maybe somewhat to powerful for children. The single word "unless" was written on a rock and total destruction in the background. The message that this is what your world will look like if children do not take care of the Earth. Some critics think that this was a message that was too strong for children.
Today, there are still children's book that attempts to teach a lesson, but they are not as strong as The Lorax. One book that promotes love and appreciation for our world is Salmon Stream by Carol Reed-Jones. Jones uses powerful illustrates to convey the message of how important nature and life is to everyone. After reading the book, the poetry and illustrations will hopefully inspire the reader to take action in helping save the environment. Jones promotes ecological issues but in a manner that is not overwhelming, but one of appreciation.
Jones, C.R. (). Salmon stream. CA: Dawn Publications.
Jones, C.R. (2001). Salmon stream. CA: Dawn Publications.
The Cat in the Hat still appeals to children and will probably always remain a classic. With movies of the book, this book will continue to span across generations. The Cat in the Hat will remain on the top of children's most popular books.
The Lorax was possibly the most controversial books at the time in 1971. It attempts to educate children about the ecological issues that face our planet. It does it in a powerful manner and maybe somewhat to powerful for children. The single word "unless" was written on a rock and total destruction in the background. The message that this is what your world will look like if children do not take care of the Earth. Some critics think that this was a message that was too strong for children.
Today, there are still children's book that attempts to teach a lesson, but they are not as strong as The Lorax. One book that promotes love and appreciation for our world is Salmon Stream by Carol Reed-Jones. Jones uses powerful illustrates to convey the message of how important nature and life is to everyone. After reading the book, the poetry and illustrations will hopefully inspire the reader to take action in helping save the environment. Jones promotes ecological issues but in a manner that is not overwhelming, but one of appreciation.
Jones, C.R. (). Salmon stream. CA: Dawn Publications.
2001 Newbery Honor Award
Peck, R. (2000). A year down yonder. New York: Puffins Books.
A Year Down Yonder was a very heart-warming story. Mary Alice must go to live with her Grandma Dowdel because her family's money problems. The story takes place during a time when the Depression had many people wondering where their meal would come from. Mary Alice regrets having to leave Chicago to go to a small, rural town in Illinois. She enrolls in school and her nightmare begins. This will not be the last time that she will encounter bad situations, but each time Grandma Dowdel is close by to help out. Mary Alice learns so many life skills from her, even though she does not always behave ladylike, she is still as positive influence. Mary Alice and Grandma Dowdel learn to love each other, but not necessarily through words.
When I started reading the book, I thought that I had made a bad choice, but when Grandma Dowdel was introduced into the story it inspired me to read on. The title and the front cover actually caught my eye and curiosity got the best of me and I had to buy it. A Year Down Yonder is the sequel to A Long Way From Chicago, which will probably be as inspiring as this one. This book was very touching and packed with memories and experiences that will allow many readers to make connections and even cherish their family memories.
I think what influenced my reaction to the book is that I have many fond memories of loved ones that are no longer with me. Those memories become more and more precious as I get older. Sometimes, you really do not know what you have until it is gone. This book just reiterates the idea that you need to cherish everyday, good or bad and that everyday is a new opportunity to create memories.
A Year Down Yonder is the first book that I have read from Richard Peck. I am sure that all of Richard Peck's book will be as inspiring and clearly reflects quality literature. My next Richard Peck book will be A Long Way From Chicago and Remembering the Good Times, which is also a Newbery Honor book.
This book would be a great story to share with upper elementary student. Mary Alice made a tremendous transformation because of the time that she spent with her Grandma Dowdel. Children and adult sometimes need to be reminded that situations and people do not always turn out like you think. Mary Alice was dreading spending time with her Grandma, but in the end that was the place that she wanted to be the most. Not all situations that we think might be bad turn out the way we think they will. Sometimes, you will be amazingly surprise how situation work out, so seize each day and live it as if it was your last.
A Year Down Yonder was a very heart-warming story. Mary Alice must go to live with her Grandma Dowdel because her family's money problems. The story takes place during a time when the Depression had many people wondering where their meal would come from. Mary Alice regrets having to leave Chicago to go to a small, rural town in Illinois. She enrolls in school and her nightmare begins. This will not be the last time that she will encounter bad situations, but each time Grandma Dowdel is close by to help out. Mary Alice learns so many life skills from her, even though she does not always behave ladylike, she is still as positive influence. Mary Alice and Grandma Dowdel learn to love each other, but not necessarily through words.
When I started reading the book, I thought that I had made a bad choice, but when Grandma Dowdel was introduced into the story it inspired me to read on. The title and the front cover actually caught my eye and curiosity got the best of me and I had to buy it. A Year Down Yonder is the sequel to A Long Way From Chicago, which will probably be as inspiring as this one. This book was very touching and packed with memories and experiences that will allow many readers to make connections and even cherish their family memories.
I think what influenced my reaction to the book is that I have many fond memories of loved ones that are no longer with me. Those memories become more and more precious as I get older. Sometimes, you really do not know what you have until it is gone. This book just reiterates the idea that you need to cherish everyday, good or bad and that everyday is a new opportunity to create memories.
A Year Down Yonder is the first book that I have read from Richard Peck. I am sure that all of Richard Peck's book will be as inspiring and clearly reflects quality literature. My next Richard Peck book will be A Long Way From Chicago and Remembering the Good Times, which is also a Newbery Honor book.
This book would be a great story to share with upper elementary student. Mary Alice made a tremendous transformation because of the time that she spent with her Grandma Dowdel. Children and adult sometimes need to be reminded that situations and people do not always turn out like you think. Mary Alice was dreading spending time with her Grandma, but in the end that was the place that she wanted to be the most. Not all situations that we think might be bad turn out the way we think they will. Sometimes, you will be amazingly surprise how situation work out, so seize each day and live it as if it was your last.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
2000 Newbery Award Book
dePaola, T. (1999) 26 Fairmount avenue. New York: Penguin Group.
26 Fairmount Avenue depicts the early life of author, Tomie dePaola. In 26 Fairmount Avenue, dePaola introduces his wacky family to his readers, in a personal narrative. The dePaola family is very excited about the building of their new home. But problem after problem delay the family from moving into their new home. Holidays, like Christmas and New Year Eve are celebrated in the old house, instead of the unfinished home sitting empty on a hill. Tomie goes to the movie and has a difficult time with the movie Snow White because it was not like the book. He becomes so upset that he voices his opinion during the movie and had to be removed by his mother. Tomie was definite that Mr. Walt Disney evidently did not read the book. Finally, after many holidays and special times with his family, the dePaola family finally get to move in and Tomie gets the room he already wanted.
I enjoyed how the author opens parts of his life to his readers. 26 Fairmount Avenue enables children to make connections with Tomie and to see their similar experiences portrayed in a piece of literature. Using personal situations, common to most children and humorous illustrations, dePaola was able to share his personal life experiences with his readers.
One reason that I enjoyed this book was because I named one of my grandparents Tall Nanny and the other "Short Nanny". These memories are important now because they both died early in my childhood. Even though, I do not vividly remember anything about them, but I do remember naming them. Touching situations that Tomie revealed in the story reminded me of cherished moments that I shared with my family members. I am sure that other readers will be able to make this connection with the story, as well as, other personal experiences depicted in the story.
Tomie dePaola wrote a story that featured his two grandmothers that he introduced in 26 Fairmount Avenue. Nana Upstairs, Nana Downstairs The story goes the reasoning for naming his grandmothers as did. This aspect of the story if very appropriate for children because he is using his reasonings when he was a child. Most children have used this same type of reasoing to name family members and even pets. Nana Upstair, Nana Downstair address difficult topics, such as dealing with elderly family members and death, in a manner that was appropriate for children.
This book reiterated to me just how important all how our experiences and memories are and how they can be inspiring to others. 26 Fairmount Avenue reminded me to cherish and hold fast to everyday and every experience.
26 Fairmount Avenue depicts the early life of author, Tomie dePaola. In 26 Fairmount Avenue, dePaola introduces his wacky family to his readers, in a personal narrative. The dePaola family is very excited about the building of their new home. But problem after problem delay the family from moving into their new home. Holidays, like Christmas and New Year Eve are celebrated in the old house, instead of the unfinished home sitting empty on a hill. Tomie goes to the movie and has a difficult time with the movie Snow White because it was not like the book. He becomes so upset that he voices his opinion during the movie and had to be removed by his mother. Tomie was definite that Mr. Walt Disney evidently did not read the book. Finally, after many holidays and special times with his family, the dePaola family finally get to move in and Tomie gets the room he already wanted.
I enjoyed how the author opens parts of his life to his readers. 26 Fairmount Avenue enables children to make connections with Tomie and to see their similar experiences portrayed in a piece of literature. Using personal situations, common to most children and humorous illustrations, dePaola was able to share his personal life experiences with his readers.
One reason that I enjoyed this book was because I named one of my grandparents Tall Nanny and the other "Short Nanny". These memories are important now because they both died early in my childhood. Even though, I do not vividly remember anything about them, but I do remember naming them. Touching situations that Tomie revealed in the story reminded me of cherished moments that I shared with my family members. I am sure that other readers will be able to make this connection with the story, as well as, other personal experiences depicted in the story.
Tomie dePaola wrote a story that featured his two grandmothers that he introduced in 26 Fairmount Avenue. Nana Upstairs, Nana Downstairs The story goes the reasoning for naming his grandmothers as did. This aspect of the story if very appropriate for children because he is using his reasonings when he was a child. Most children have used this same type of reasoing to name family members and even pets. Nana Upstair, Nana Downstair address difficult topics, such as dealing with elderly family members and death, in a manner that was appropriate for children.
This book reiterated to me just how important all how our experiences and memories are and how they can be inspiring to others. 26 Fairmount Avenue reminded me to cherish and hold fast to everyday and every experience.
2002 Caldecott Medal Book
Rohmann, E. (2002). My friend rabbit. Brookfiled, CT: Roaring Book Press.
"Rabbit means well, but wherever he goes trouble follows" is a sentence that is repeat throughout the book. A brand-new airplane of Rabbit's friend, Mouse, begins the source of his trouble. Rabbit tries to correct the problem with the brand-new airplane, but only causes more and more problems. Even though, Rabbit is a friend and means well he can certainly cause problems, but Mouse stands by his friend, Rabbit.
The illustration
s on the front cover grabbed my attention. Using bright colors and the image of a rabbit, with a perplexed look on his face, all appeal to my curiosity. The title and the perplexed look on Rabbit's face seem to contradict each other, which peaked my interest and inspired me to read the story. Readers who enjoy and love animal stories, like myself, will enjoy this story and will soon add this book to their list of favorites.
Time Flies is one of Eric Rohmann's Caldecott Honor Award book. Its wordless features, adventurous storyline and detailed and captivating illustrations hold the interest of its readers. A Kitten Tale is another light-hearted and humorous story that will appeal to younger readers.
Even though the story consists of very few sentences and a simple plot, it successfully conveyed its message of overlooking flaws of best friends. Rohmann achieved this by incorporating a situation common to most children and humorous illustrations.
"Rabbit means well, but wherever he goes trouble follows" is a sentence that is repeat throughout the book. A brand-new airplane of Rabbit's friend, Mouse, begins the source of his trouble. Rabbit tries to correct the problem with the brand-new airplane, but only causes more and more problems. Even though, Rabbit is a friend and means well he can certainly cause problems, but Mouse stands by his friend, Rabbit.
The illustration
s on the front cover grabbed my attention. Using bright colors and the image of a rabbit, with a perplexed look on his face, all appeal to my curiosity. The title and the perplexed look on Rabbit's face seem to contradict each other, which peaked my interest and inspired me to read the story. Readers who enjoy and love animal stories, like myself, will enjoy this story and will soon add this book to their list of favorites.Time Flies is one of Eric Rohmann's Caldecott Honor Award book. Its wordless features, adventurous storyline and detailed and captivating illustrations hold the interest of its readers. A Kitten Tale is another light-hearted and humorous story that will appeal to younger readers.
Even though the story consists of very few sentences and a simple plot, it successfully conveyed its message of overlooking flaws of best friends. Rohmann achieved this by incorporating a situation common to most children and humorous illustrations.
2002 Caldecott Medal Book
Simont, M. (2001). Stray dog. New York: Harper Collins Publishers
A family goes out for picnic and encounters a scruffy, hungry dog. The children name the dog Willy. All day long, Willy and the children play, run and eat. When it was time to go, mother and father tell the children that Willy probably belonged to someone else and they leave him. Over the next week, Willy crosses the mind of the family, so much that they have to go back to the park, hoping to see Willy again. Sure enough, they see Willy but this time he's running from the dog warden. Quickly, the boy takes off his belt to make a leash and the girl uses her ribbon, from her hair, to make a collar. Willy leaves the picnic with the family and learns that the family was were he belonged.
Stray Dog captured my attention because I enjoy reading stories about animals, particularly strays. As a child, I always got in to trouble for feeding stray cats and dogs. This past summer, I took in a stray cat and have enjoyed every minute with him. This book will also be appealing for children with a love of animals.
A Tree Is Nice, written by Janice May Udry and illustrated by Marc Simont. Simont's illustrations were similar to that of Stray Dog. Simple illustrations and storyline allow the readers to understand the author's message. The Philharmonic Gets Dressed, written by Karla Kushin was illustrated by Marc Simont. Simont's humorous illustrations accompanied Karla Kushin comical storyline to create a story that holds the interest of its readers.
This story reflects to children that everyday experiences can possibly turn into a quality piece of literature. Stray Dog can inspire children to write about their childhood experiences and learn the importance of their words and experiences.
To experience this story, click here and browse the book.
A family goes out for picnic and encounters a scruffy, hungry dog. The children name the dog Willy. All day long, Willy and the children play, run and eat. When it was time to go, mother and father tell the children that Willy probably belonged to someone else and they leave him. Over the next week, Willy crosses the mind of the family, so much that they have to go back to the park, hoping to see Willy again. Sure enough, they see Willy but this time he's running from the dog warden. Quickly, the boy takes off his belt to make a leash and the girl uses her ribbon, from her hair, to make a collar. Willy leaves the picnic with the family and learns that the family was were he belonged.
Stray Dog captured my attention because I enjoy reading stories about animals, particularly strays. As a child, I always got in to trouble for feeding stray cats and dogs. This past summer, I took in a stray cat and have enjoyed every minute with him. This book will also be appealing for children with a love of animals.
A Tree Is Nice, written by Janice May Udry and illustrated by Marc Simont. Simont's illustrations were similar to that of Stray Dog. Simple illustrations and storyline allow the readers to understand the author's message. The Philharmonic Gets Dressed, written by Karla Kushin was illustrated by Marc Simont. Simont's humorous illustrations accompanied Karla Kushin comical storyline to create a story that holds the interest of its readers.
This story reflects to children that everyday experiences can possibly turn into a quality piece of literature. Stray Dog can inspire children to write about their childhood experiences and learn the importance of their words and experiences.
To experience this story, click here and browse the book.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
2004 Caldecott Award Book
Gerstein, M. (2003). The man who walked between the towers. Brookfield, CT: Roaring Book Press.
This book was a tribute to the Twin Towers in New York City, on September 11; as well as, a tribute to Philippe Petit. The story takes places during the construction of the Twin Towers. Happily, Philippe Petit danced, walked, and juggled with great agility on a rope only seven-eights of an inch thick, stretching from building to building. One day, as he stretched the rope high in the air imagining what was going to be his challenge, the magnificent Twin Towers came into view. With the assistance of three loyal friends ,Philippe set his plan into action. The four worked diligently through the night, awaiting the dawn light to begin his amazing feat for all to see. High above the ground among the birds, Philippe is at peace. Finally, coming down awaiting his punishment, Philippe was arrested and sentenced to perform in the park for children. A punishment fitting for Philippe Petit.
The first thing that attracted me to the book was the title. An image of someone walking high above the ground, on a rope, also peaked my interest and sparked my curiosity about The Man Who Walked Between the Towers. In previewing the book, the extra long pages added to the appeal of the story and mimicked the rope that spanned from tower to tower. Simple and clear language, accompanied ink paintings, allowed the reader to focus on the story line.
Unfortunately, I have not read any other book by Mordicai Gerstein. However, I have read other books illustrated by Gerstein. The Principal's on the Roof, written by Elizabeth Levy. The book's illustration mirrored that of The Man Who Walked Between the Towers. The story was comical with humrous, light-hearted illusrtations.
This book supported the idea that book with a historical edge do not have to be boring. The Man Who Walked Between the Towers is captivating and adventurous in nature. This book would be perfect for readers searching for adventurous story.
This book was a tribute to the Twin Towers in New York City, on September 11; as well as, a tribute to Philippe Petit. The story takes places during the construction of the Twin Towers. Happily, Philippe Petit danced, walked, and juggled with great agility on a rope only seven-eights of an inch thick, stretching from building to building. One day, as he stretched the rope high in the air imagining what was going to be his challenge, the magnificent Twin Towers came into view. With the assistance of three loyal friends ,Philippe set his plan into action. The four worked diligently through the night, awaiting the dawn light to begin his amazing feat for all to see. High above the ground among the birds, Philippe is at peace. Finally, coming down awaiting his punishment, Philippe was arrested and sentenced to perform in the park for children. A punishment fitting for Philippe Petit.
The first thing that attracted me to the book was the title. An image of someone walking high above the ground, on a rope, also peaked my interest and sparked my curiosity about The Man Who Walked Between the Towers. In previewing the book, the extra long pages added to the appeal of the story and mimicked the rope that spanned from tower to tower. Simple and clear language, accompanied ink paintings, allowed the reader to focus on the story line.
Unfortunately, I have not read any other book by Mordicai Gerstein. However, I have read other books illustrated by Gerstein. The Principal's on the Roof, written by Elizabeth Levy. The book's illustration mirrored that of The Man Who Walked Between the Towers. The story was comical with humrous, light-hearted illusrtations.
This book supported the idea that book with a historical edge do not have to be boring. The Man Who Walked Between the Towers is captivating and adventurous in nature. This book would be perfect for readers searching for adventurous story.
2008 Caldecott Award Book
Kadir. (2007). Henry's freedom box. New York: Scholastic.
Henry has a child had to endure the struggles that enslaved children experienced. As an adult, Henry marries and decides that he needs his freedom that he dreamed of as a child. He devises a plan to mail himself in a crate North. He endures a dangerous trip to finally reach freedom.
I loved the illustrations of this book. Henry's Freedom Box addresses the affects that slavery had on children. It celebrates the will and determination of individuals has they try to make a better life for their families and themselves.
I love multicultural books because they give others of a different ethnic groups a chance to experience the lives and struggles of others. This book also exposes children to controversial issues in a manner that hey can understand.
I think that this book reflects to children how slavery affected even children. This book will allow children to take a walk through slavery through the eyes of children and realize what enslaved individuals were willing to do in order for them to be free, as all humans were intended to be.
Henry has a child had to endure the struggles that enslaved children experienced. As an adult, Henry marries and decides that he needs his freedom that he dreamed of as a child. He devises a plan to mail himself in a crate North. He endures a dangerous trip to finally reach freedom.
I loved the illustrations of this book. Henry's Freedom Box addresses the affects that slavery had on children. It celebrates the will and determination of individuals has they try to make a better life for their families and themselves.
I love multicultural books because they give others of a different ethnic groups a chance to experience the lives and struggles of others. This book also exposes children to controversial issues in a manner that hey can understand.
I think that this book reflects to children how slavery affected even children. This book will allow children to take a walk through slavery through the eyes of children and realize what enslaved individuals were willing to do in order for them to be free, as all humans were intended to be.
Randolph Caldecott Award/Caldecott Honor Books
Weisner, D. (2006). Flotsam. New York: Clarion Books.
The vibrant colors and sea life immediately drew me to this book. Opening the book to the first few pages was as intriguing as the front cover. The wordless pages ,with detailed watercolored illustrations, perfectly set the beach setting for the story. David Wiesner ingeniously used sea life in the illustrations that would appeal to young readers, like a puffin fish used as a hot-air balloon. The wordless feature of this book allows the reader to create a unique storyline using the detailed illustrations and allows them to add their own details, based on their prior knowledge of sea life.
The older model camera that played an intricate role in the story,allowed me to immediately connect to this story. As a child, my grandparents had many things, like a camera, that I was intrigued with and wanted to know how they worked. As I read the book, images of my grandfather's camera came to mind. Just as I was intriqued by my grnadparent's, I was now intriqued by the camera in Flotsam. As I read the story, the manner in which the author used the camera was mysteriously and masterfully done. This very aspect of the story will definitely hold the attention of its readers. The camera washes ashore and is amazingly found to hold pictures of previous beach goers from many years prior. He then realizes like the many lucky finders of this camera, that he too make take his picture and return it to the ocean and allow the magnificent sea life to assist it to its next destination.
David Wiesner was an unknown author to me until I researched recent Caldecott Award books. In conducting further research about David Wiesner, I can now understand why he is an astounding and respected Caldecott Award winning author. His website for Flotsam,www.thefishknowthesecret.com, gave the book new life and allow others to experience their own Flotsam. This book is certain to spark the interest of reluctant readers.
From reading this book, I have learned wordless book can do what some books with page after page of words cannot do-hold the interest of its reader. David Wiesner is an author that has the ability to inspire children to continue to read with enthusiasm and appreciation.
The vibrant colors and sea life immediately drew me to this book. Opening the book to the first few pages was as intriguing as the front cover. The wordless pages ,with detailed watercolored illustrations, perfectly set the beach setting for the story. David Wiesner ingeniously used sea life in the illustrations that would appeal to young readers, like a puffin fish used as a hot-air balloon. The wordless feature of this book allows the reader to create a unique storyline using the detailed illustrations and allows them to add their own details, based on their prior knowledge of sea life.
The older model camera that played an intricate role in the story,allowed me to immediately connect to this story. As a child, my grandparents had many things, like a camera, that I was intrigued with and wanted to know how they worked. As I read the book, images of my grandfather's camera came to mind. Just as I was intriqued by my grnadparent's, I was now intriqued by the camera in Flotsam. As I read the story, the manner in which the author used the camera was mysteriously and masterfully done. This very aspect of the story will definitely hold the attention of its readers. The camera washes ashore and is amazingly found to hold pictures of previous beach goers from many years prior. He then realizes like the many lucky finders of this camera, that he too make take his picture and return it to the ocean and allow the magnificent sea life to assist it to its next destination.
David Wiesner was an unknown author to me until I researched recent Caldecott Award books. In conducting further research about David Wiesner, I can now understand why he is an astounding and respected Caldecott Award winning author. His website for Flotsam,www.thefishknowthesecret.com, gave the book new life and allow others to experience their own Flotsam. This book is certain to spark the interest of reluctant readers.
From reading this book, I have learned wordless book can do what some books with page after page of words cannot do-hold the interest of its reader. David Wiesner is an author that has the ability to inspire children to continue to read with enthusiasm and appreciation.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Julius Lester
Lester, J. (2008). Let's talk about race. New York: Harper Collins Publishers.
I enjoyed reading this story for a number of reasons. The front cover is appeal and the statement on the front cover peaked my interest about the book. The illustrator Karen Barbour accompanied the inspirational words of Lester with vibrant paintings.
I have always enjoyed reading books of various cultures. When I was in elementary school, I did not have the opportunity to read multicultural literature of this nature. Every chance that I get, I read multicultural literature to my students. This exposure can create student's that are culturally sensitive , as well as, appreciative of their own.
Other books by Julius Lester include John Henry, Pharaoh's Daughter: A Novel of Ancient Egypt, and To Be A Slave all have multicultural values. Let's Talk About Race attempts to show how we are more alike than different. "We write because our lives are stories," should be emphasized to children, because everyone has a unique story.
The one most idea that I took from this book was that our lives are full of stories. Oftentimes, children say that they have nothing to write about, without understanding that they have a lifetime of stories to share with others. This maybe the book that will inspire and encourage children to tell their own stories and to understand that their story's are unique and important.
I enjoyed reading this story for a number of reasons. The front cover is appeal and the statement on the front cover peaked my interest about the book. The illustrator Karen Barbour accompanied the inspirational words of Lester with vibrant paintings.
I have always enjoyed reading books of various cultures. When I was in elementary school, I did not have the opportunity to read multicultural literature of this nature. Every chance that I get, I read multicultural literature to my students. This exposure can create student's that are culturally sensitive , as well as, appreciative of their own.
Other books by Julius Lester include John Henry, Pharaoh's Daughter: A Novel of Ancient Egypt, and To Be A Slave all have multicultural values. Let's Talk About Race attempts to show how we are more alike than different. "We write because our lives are stories," should be emphasized to children, because everyone has a unique story.
The one most idea that I took from this book was that our lives are full of stories. Oftentimes, children say that they have nothing to write about, without understanding that they have a lifetime of stories to share with others. This maybe the book that will inspire and encourage children to tell their own stories and to understand that their story's are unique and important.
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