Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Steve Jenkins' Birthday

Author and illustrator Steve Jenkins was born in Hickory, NC on March 31, 1952. Jenkins attributes his love of books to the lifestyle he lived as a young child. With a father in the military, Jenkins traveled around a lot and didn't have many friends. On his website, he states that his ideas for children's books stemmed mostly from the questions his own children asked him when they were little. I've decided to share with you today, three of Jenkins' works.

Jenkins, Steve.
Actual Size.
2004.
Houghton Mifflin Company.
Guided Reading Level: L


Immediately, Jenkins introduces readers to the concept of this book - allowing readers to see what the actual size of animals looks like in comparison to ourselves. The illustrations are simple, torn paper pieced together to form the animals or insects mentioned throughout. Coupled with the illustrations, Jenkins provides very basic details about the animals, typically how big they are and how much they weigh. At the end of the book, more details are provided for the avid animal/insect lovers! This book will be a hit for any child who shows an interest in animals and bugs!

Lesson Plans/Reading Activities:

Jenkins, Steve and Robin Page.
Sisters & Brothers.
2008.
Houghton Mifflin Company.


In yet another non-fiction picture book, Jenkins shares with youngsters more information about animals and insects. How many are born in each litter? How do they work together? How do they stay together? Why are some only children while others are identical quadruplets? The book answers all these questions... and a whole lot more, including basics about each animal: where they live, how big they are, how much they weigh, etc.

This book would be wonderful to have for any child who is an animal love, curious and inquisitive by nature or even for a classroom to introduce students to an animal research project!

Jenkins, Steve and Robin Page.
What Do You Do With a Tail Like This?
2003.
Houghton Mifflin Company.
Guided Reading Level: J

Another wonderful book by Steve Jenkins! This might even have been my favorite of the three! Children will learn quickly that different animals have different uses for their body parts. Not only will they learn that different body parts have different uses, they'll be able to tell you what each animal uses that body part for! This would be perfect in perhaps a K-2 classroom when students are learning about how animals can adapt to their environments to live.

Lesson Plans/Reading Activities:
If you're interested in finding out more information about any of the books reviewed or if you'd like to purchase the books, click the cover image for a link to Amazon.com.

Monday, March 30, 2009

Anniversary: Pencil Patented

Did you know that on March 30, 1858 the first pencil with the eraser top was patented by Hyman Lipman? So, along those lines, I've got two pencil-related books to share today!



Moncure, Jane Belk.
Word Bird's Magic Wand.
2003.
The Child's World, Inc.

This book would make for a great introduction at the preschool level. Word Bird shares with readers the magic produced by his "magic wand," his pencil. The book allows readers to make a connection between objects and print, as readers are asked several times, What did Word Bird make? This allows students to look at an object and see how the object is spelled/written in print. I think the concept of the book is wonderful, and the idea of calling a pencil a "magic wand" for young children, will inspire them to pick up a pencil and start making some magic of their own (start writing)!

Lesson Plans/Related Articles:

Ahlberg, Allan.
The Pencil.
2008.
Candlewick Press.

This is an adorable story! Allan Ahlberg allows readers to take a journey along side an "almost" magic pencil, showing just how much power a pencil allows someone! As the journey begins, the pencil is all alone, lonely in the world. He quickly draws a world in which he will no longer be lonely - a boy, a dog, a cat. The creatures quickly become unhappy because their world doesn't seems as though it should - since when are apples, bones and cat food black and white? The pencil must think quickly and that he does! Soon enough, the pencil has created a paintbrush - a paintbrush that adds color to the world. Things get out of hand quickly and the pencil is again left to decide how to handle this mess he has created. An eraser!

In a way, I found the story teaching me a lesson! Don't take for granted what you have, because the more you want (and get), the more you'll feel you'll need later on in life! This definitely was a great read and I think you'll that you enjoy it as much as the children!

If you're interested in finding out more information about any of the books reviewed or if you'd like to purchase the books, click the cover image for a link to Amazon.com.

Sunday, March 29, 2009

Giveaway Winners!

I wanted to share with all my readers the results of my giveaway, If Tomorrow Never Comes. I guess because it is adult literature and my blog mostly focuses on kidlit, I only had two entries for the giveaway. Because of this, I have decided to pass along my own copy of the book as well, so that both participants will be receiving a copy! Congratulations goes out to Ibeeeg and MJ. I have sent you both an email, so please contact me back with your mailing information and I'll get the book out to you this week!

Weekly Blog Plan, March 30-April 3

Here’s the weekly blog plan! Again, please remember this is subject to change and is dependent upon whether or not my materials come in from the library as planned. I realize that this may fall too late for you to use in your classroom this year, but the activities will definitely swing from year-to-year! If you see something you really wanted to incorporate into your classroom, leave me a comment on this post or send me an e-mail, kateh12783@hotmail.com. I’d be glad to provide you with the links I have, if nothing more!

Monday, March 30 – Doctor’s Day or Pencil Patented Anniversary

  • The Pencil, Allan Ahlberg
  • Word Bird’s Magic Wand, Jane Belk Moncure

Tuesday, March 31 – Steve Jenkins’ Birthday (57)

  • What Do You Do With a Tail Like This?
  • Actual Size
  • Sisters & Brothers

Wednesday, April 1 – April Fool’s Day

  • April Foolishness, Teresa Bateman
  • Arthur’s April Fool, Marc Brown


Thursday, April 2 – National Kite Month

  • The Emperor and the Kite, Jane Yolen
  • Let’s Fly a Kite, Stuart J. Murphy
  • Kite Flying, Grace Lin
  • Henry and the Kite Dragon, Bruce Edward Hall


Friday, April 3 – National Autism Awareness Month

  • Ian’s Walk, Laurie Lears
  • Keisha’s Doors, Marvie Ellis

If you're interested in finding out more information about any of the books reviewed or if you'd like to purchase the books, click the cover image for a link to Amazon.com.

Friday, March 27, 2009

An Update...



I know, I know! I've been MIA for the majority of the week, but I do have a fairly good reason! With the overabundance of children's books that have been scattered across the bedroom floor recently, I took on a project that I've been working on since last Saturday - a bookshelf border around the entire top of the bedroom!!! It turned out amazing, and I've posted some photos so you can see what I did! However, now that the shelves are done, I have to organize my books somehow. I will not let that keep me from my posts though! Next week, I'll be back on track as far as posting goes!


And, just a reminder, you have until 12:00 AM tonight to leave a comment on Monday's post to try and get your hands on the giveaway book! Sometimes we all need to sit down and read a good adult read, so this is the perfect opportunity!

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Word Study Wednesday - #3!

I received in the mail, 4 books from the Sounds Like Reading series, published by Lerner Publishing. 8 of the books in the series will be released this coming April. I have previously posted a review for Book 1, The Bug in the Jug Wants a Hug and Book 2 in the series, Stop, Drop, and Flop in the Slop. Today's post focuses on The Nice Mice in the Rice, a long vowel sounds book.

Cleary, Brian P.
The Nice Mice in the Rice.
April 2009.
Lerner Publishing.


This book in the "Sounds Like Reading" series stresses long vowel sounds. The book will not only familiarize students with long vowel sound words, but will allow them the opportunity to become familiar with the different ways in which long vowel sound words are formed (e.g. oa, i_e, ai, ea, ay, a_e, ee, o_e).

This book, just like the first two in the series places three words with the spelling rule on the left hand side of the page. The page that follows then repeats the words, asking for children to find the words that sound the same, and in some cases, asking them to pick out a 4th word that sounds like the first three. Of the three books I have reviewed so far, this is perhaps my favorite!

Other Related Books:
Teaching Activities:
If you're interested in finding out more information about any of the books reviewed or if you'd like to purchase the books, click the cover image for a link to Amazon.com.

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Music in Our Schools Month

Did you know that March is National Music in Our Schools Month? I've got a few music related reviews today... originally I had planned on posting reviews for three books, but after reading The Music Teacher from the Black Lagoon, I just couldn't bring myself to spend time writing up a review of it - I just didn't care for it.

McPhail, David.
Mole Music.
1999.
Henry Holt and Company.
Guided Reading Level: K
Mole, who has always led a simple life, suddenly has the urge to try something different. After hearing a man on television playing the violin, Mole sends away to order a violin of his own and goes on to teach himself to play. Sometimes he plays alone, sometimes he imagines playing the violin for the whole world, all the while, he's playing in his underground burrow. What mole doesn't realize though, is that he's not just imagining playing for the whole world, for the illustrations show us just how much the whole world really is enjoying his music! This is a cute, simple story that would be a hit in an early elementary classroom or in a music classroom.

Seskin, Steve and Allen Shamblin.
Don't Laugh at Me.
2002.
Tricycle Press.
Anyone educator or parent will find this story close to their heart, as they hate to see children who are teased or picked on because they are "different." Isn't that what makes us individuals? Our differences? This book definitely holds a place in any home or classroom! The CD that's included with the book closely resembles Mark Wills' country song, Don't Laugh at Me, which you can listen to here.
The story reminds children very simply that every child needs and deserves friends. That we shouldn't take pleasure in causing pain to others and that we need to respect the differences among ourselves. I truly loved this one and the fact that there's music that matches the text is just an added bonus!
If you're interested in finding out more information about any of the books reviewed or if you'd like to purchase the books, click the cover image for a link to Amazon.com.

Monday, March 23, 2009

Review AND a Giveaway!

I stopped reading my e-mail as soon as I saw the title of the book, If Tomorrow Never Comes. As a country music fan, Garth Brooks' hit instantly came to mind and I could only imagine at this point how Schalesky could be passing along the same lesson to readers of her newest Christian Fiction novel, that Garth Brooks passed along to his avid fans!

Schalesky, Marlo.
If Tomorrow Never Comes.

2009.
Multnomah Books.




After meeting on the beach as young children, you could say, in every since of the phrase, Kinna and Jimmy truly are childhood sweethearts. However, throughout their years of marriage they have endured more than their share of trials and tribulations - Jimmy dealing with the aftermath of losing his mother at a young age, his father's alcoholism and lifestyle which ultimately lands him in jail and Kinna trying to live up to the expectations of her Pastor father while still trying to find her way in the world.

The challenges they have faced do not end there though. Since a young girl, the only thing Kinna has really wanted in life is children. However, after a dozen years of trying, she's deemed barren, a fate she can't quite come to terms with and refuses to give up hope. Her inability to accept a childless life pushes Jimmy to the edge causing him to feel like a failure, as he isn't able to provide his wife with what she wants most in life. The infertility struggle that Kinna and Jimmy face leads to Kinna and Jimmy both becoming someone not true to themselves and leading to both being fired from their respective jobs.

As the story progresses and we see what Kinna and Jimmy are up against, we are given constant reminders... What If Tomorrow Never Comes? Could we live with ourselves and how we lived today? Fate (in the face of an elderly woman, Thea, who Kinna rescues from the sea) steps in and helps Jimmy and Kinna remember how they made each other feel back in the days of fairytales and sand castles, forcing them to consider how their lives will be lived tomorrow based on the actions of today.

The story truly was incredible! It made me realize that when times seem desperate I need to take a step back and look at the bigger picture - when you feel like giving up, you have to step back and look at what's most important in your life at that time, all that you do have right in front of you and live for that, because you truly never do know what tomorrow will bring. On that note, I'm going to share with you a little bit about my personal life, so you can see how much this story really did touch me!

For almost seven years now, my grandmother has been living with the family. When she moved in I was a freshman in college, heading down the path to reaching my dream - becoming an elementary school teacher. After my grandfather passed away in 1995, she never really overcame her grief and moved in with an aunt, not wanting to be on her for the first time in her life. Well, my aunt passed away in May of 2002, and Grandma moved in here. It was a very challenging time for the family as for the past 7 years we have very limited contact with her (approximately 5 hours of visitation per year). Since moving in with us, her health has gone downhill (I believe mostly in part due to her lack of interest in life). After breaking her hip (the replacement surgery went perfectly, but she has it drilled in the back of her mind that she can no longer stand up, let alone walk) in October 2007, my mother and I have given up basically everything to keep her here with us, where she desperately wants to be (bathing her, preparing her meals, doing her laundry, etc.), despite her being a difficult patient, to say the least!

Throughout all of this, I have worked to earn a Bachelor's Degree in Childhood Education, a Master's Degree in Childhood Literacy, three teaching certificates and three years of substitute teaching. However, I have been unable to land a job. I often ask myself what I've done so wrong in my life that I can't get a job and have things go my way for once. It's very hard to be here, taking care of my grandma when she she's no longer able to even express herself to me when I so desperately want to be out starting my career. I have good days and bad, dealing with all of this, but I try to remain positive and remind myself that looking back on it someday, I'll be thankful that I wasn't able to land that teaching job and was able to stay here with my grandma when she needed me the most, but for the time being, I do, occasionally, need some reminders! If Tomorrow Never Comes did a great job reminding me that I need to embrace what I have and to live for today, with as a few regrets as possible.



Okay, so now that you've read patiently through my rambling... Kelly Blewett, Schalesky's publicist for If Tomorrow Never Comes sent me an extra copy of the book to pass along to one lucky reader! All you have to do to stand a chance at getting your hands on this tremendously written story is leave a comment on this post by 12:00 midnight, Eastern-Standard Time on Friday, March 27!

If you're interested in finding out more information about any of the books reviewed or if you'd like to purchase the books, click the cover image for a link to Amazon.com.

National Puppy Day!

It's National Puppy Day! So, whether your children wish for a puppy, have a new puppy or just love to read about puppies, this post is for you to share with them!


Lee, Spike and Tonya Lewis Lee.
Please, Puppy, Please.
2005.
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers.

Mom and Dad are likely to be laughing along-side their kids, as two young children, a boy and girl, finally meet their match-up in a mischevious puppy, who gives the children a run for their mommy - almost as much as the children probably give Mom and Dad!

After what I imagine to be some begging, a new puppy has a new home. The children try desperately to keep "puppy" inside and when they finally relent and allow him outside to play, he heads for the gate and sends the children on a high-speed chase through the yard. He's amused by their chase though, and when they finally get near him, he throws himself down in the mud. The result? A sudsy bath in the kiddie-pool, but even that promises adventure, as the cat suddenly appears and the puppy hops out of the pool, shakes off all over the children. The day ends well though, as the puppy finally comes when the children call him and even fetches a ball!


O'Connor, Jane.
Fancy Nacny and the Posh Puppy.
2007.
HarperCollins Publishers.

In another of O'Connor's Fancy Nancy series, the girls will be delighted as Fancy Nancy sets out on an adventure to convince the family that the dog for them is the papillon.
You say it like this: pappy-yawn. In French it means
butterfly.
As always, Nancy will be introducing your little girl to a whole new world of vocabulary that she'll surely try out in a sentence of her own before day's end!

My dear friend Amanda, over at A Patchwork of Books, got me hooked on this series from the very first book and I was certainly not disappointed in this one! Look for more of these books to be highlighted in the future!

Willems, Mo.
The Pigeon Wants a Puppy!
2008.
Hyperion Books for Children.

This is my second attempt at understanding the thought behind Mo Willems' Pigeon series, and I appreciated this one a bit more! The little pigeon is allowing readers to enter his mind and feel exactly what his thoughts are regarding wanting a puppy. The pigeon goes on to explain everything that he promises he'll do to make sure that a puppy is taken care of (watering it, giving it sunshine). He's dead set that he's got to have that puppy! Until... he hears a woof and comes face-to-face with what else, but a puppy!
The teeth! The hair! That wet nose! The slobber! The
claws! I mentioned the teeth, right? Really, I had no idea!
I've changed my mind.
I'll let you read on to find out what the pigeon wants next! It might just surprise you!

The one-sided dialogue allows readers the opportunity to imagine their responses to what the pigeon is saying/asking and might make for an interesting writing assignment for younger children or act as a good introduction to writing dialogue with older students.

If you're interested in finding out more information about any of the books reviewed or if you'd like to purchase the books, click the cover image for a link to Amazon.com.

Weekly Blog Plan, March 23-27

Here’s the weekly blog plan! Again, please remember this is subject to change and is dependent upon whether or not my materials come in from the library as planned. I realize that this may fall too late for you to use in your classroom this year, but the activities will definitely swing from year-to-year! If you see something you really wanted to incorporate into your classroom, leave me a comment on this post or send me an e-mail, kateh12783@hotmail.com. I’d be glad to provide you with the links I have, if nothing more!

Monday, March 23 - National Puppy Day

* Fancy Nancy and the Posh Puppy, Jane O'Connor
* The Pigeon Wants a Puppy, Mo Willems
* Please Puppy Please, Spike Lee

Tuesday, March 24 - Music in Our Schools Month

* The Music Teacher from the Black Lagoon, Mike Thaler
* Mole Music, David M. McPhail
* Don't Laugh at Me, Steve Seskin

Wednesday, March 25 - Youth Art Month

* Art, Patrick McDonnell
* The Art Lesson, Tomie dePaola

Thursday, March 26 - Make Up Your Own Holiday Day - Celebrate Your Dream Day

* Just a Dream, Chris VanAllsburg
* Appelemando's Dream, Patricia Polacco
* Matthew's Dream, Leo Lionni

Friday, March 27 - National Umbrella Month

* The Umbrella Queen, Shirin Yim Bridges
* Grandma Fina and Her Wonderful Umbrellas, Benjamin Alire Saenz

Friday, March 20, 2009

Bill Martin's Jr.'s Birthday

Martin Jr., Bill and John Archambault.
Here Are My Hands.
1987.
Henry Holt and Company.
Guided Reading Level: F

A writer for almost 60 years, Bill Martin Jr. is sure to please children and parents alike with this story. Geared for the 2-6 age range, this story introduces youngsters to their body (eyes, ears, arms, elbows, feet, etc). Much of text rhymes and the illustrations by Ted Rand are sure to please as well.

I think this would make a wonderful addition to a home library or to a preschool/early childhood education library, for those hands-on parents/educators who like to get children involved in their learning. Coupling this story with a game of Simon Says would make for a wonderful learning activity!

Martin Jr., Bill and John Archambault.
Barn Dance.
1986.

Henry Holt and Company.
Guided Reading Level: L

It's late at night, and everyone should be asleep. However, as an owl begins his night calls, a young boy is interested in just what he's calling. He soon finds out, as he watches through the windows as animals begin making their way to the barn on his family's farm. As the animals join for a good ol' country-style barn dance, the young boy watches them and is eventually asked to join in on the fun. The dance lasts all night until the owl begins his sunrise cry to alert the animals that people will soon be up and moving about.

This really was a cute story and shows how one young boy's imagination takes him to high places and provides him with great pleasure. I definitely think children will love this one!

Martin Jr., Bill and John Archambault.
Knots on a Counting Rope.
1966.
Henry Holt and Company.
Guided Reading Level: M

A young Native American boy, born blind, shares with us a tale his grandfather has shared with him about the night he was born and the race that showed just how much courage and strength he possesses. The counting rope represents the time that has passed and the number of times that the story has been shared between grandfather and grandson, for when the counting rope has been knotted from end-to-end, the grandson, known to us as Boy-Strength-of-Blue-Horses, will be ready to share the tale on his own.

This book would be wonderful in any Kindergarten through 4th grade classroom, as it teaches countless lessons to children: overcoming obstacles, the challenges of living with disabilities, the importance of self-confidence, and the ways in which Native Americans receive their names.


If you're interested in finding out more information about any of the books reviewed or if you'd like to purchase the books, click the cover image for a link to Amazon.com.

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Word Study Wednesday - #2!

I received in the mail, 4 books from the Sounds Like Reading series, published by Lerner Publishing. 8 of the books in the series will be released this coming April. Last Wednesday, I posted a review for Book 1, The Bug in the Jug Wants a Hug. Today, I will be reviewing Book 2 in the series, Stop, Drop, and Flop in the Slop.

Cleary, Brian P.
Stop, Drop, and Flop in the Slop.
April 2009.
Lerner Publishing.


Rhyme, repetition, illustration and phonics principles are used in this book to introduce young readers to consonant blends (st, cl, dr, fl, tr, br, etc.) and short vowel sounds. The book does a good job introducing the consonant blends but could also double to teach word families in a more complex matter, by introducing the consonant blends to the word family. The book is humorous and will certainly have children giggling at the rhyming text and funny ideas presented!

Related Teaching Activities:
If you're interested in finding out more information about any of the books reviewed or if you'd like to purchase the books, click the cover image for a link to Amazon.com.

Healthy Eating Habits for Kids

It's National Nutrition Month, so I figured I should give you guys something related to healthy eating habits! I've got 2 for today... the Berenstain Bears book I thought I had on my bookshelf seems to not be there... not sure where it's ended up, but for now, it's MIA. And a little tidbit to share... I was probably one of the world's pickiest eaters as a child (my parents used to have to place cheese curls on shelves at my level, just to get me to eat anything at any point during the day). While I've expanded my horizons quite a bit, I still have a long way to go!

Landry, Leo.
Eat Your Peas, Ivy Louise!
2005.
Houghton Mifflin.

This is a cute story and will certainly get some chuckles from the youngsters, however, a word of caution - make sure they're actually eating their peas before reading this story!

Geared for the 2-6 age range, Landry shares with us the story of Ivy Louise, who apparently does not like her peas. Her parents do everything they can to convince her to eat those peas, rolling them around her tray, building them into a pyramid, and having them perform circus acts. Unfortunately, this only adds to little Ivy's imagination and just when her parents think she might take a spoonful and eat them, she instead flings them out the window!

Rockwell, Lizzy.
Good Enough to Eat.
1999.
HarperCollins Publishers.

This book does a wonderful job of allowing kids to see the importance of healthy eating. Not only does Rockwell explain all of the things that eating allows your body to do (e.g. grow, play, fight germs, breathe), she also explains in kid-friendly language the nutrients in food and what they allow your body to do.

This book would make a wonderful addition to any home library if you have children who are picky eaters or in any classroom where a part of the curriculum emphasizes the digestive system and healthy eating skills.

If you're interested in finding out more information about any of the books reviewed or if you'd like to purchase the books, click the cover image for a link to Amazon.com.

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Since it's Saint Patrick's Day, I figured I'd share some St. Pat's literature with everyone!

Shute, Linda.
Clever Tom and the Leprechaun.
1988.
Scholastic, Inc.


Tom is out exploring one day when he hears a click-clack, click-clack in the bushes. As he gets down on his hands and knees to investigate what he hears, Tom is surprised to find a leprechaun wearing a brown apron and three-cornered hat. Determined to find the leprechaun's fortune (pot of gold), Tom promises to himself to be clever - to catch him and make the leprechaun reveal where the gold is hidden. Who's more clever though? Tom or the leprechaun? If the answer doesn't amuse you, chances are, the kids will be chuckling! This is a cute, yet simple tale about St. Patrick's Day that would definitely be a good read aloud!

Callahan, Sean.
Shannon and the World's Tallest Leprechaun.
2008.
Albert Whitman & Company.


I was fortunate enough to be able to share this story with a group of 1st graders on Friday. They loved it and eagerly participated in the predictions that I asked them to make sporadically throughout the reading. This would be a wonderful addition to a St. Patrick's Day holiday library collection!

Shannon loves Irish step-dancing. However, all she has to dance in are a pair of old, second-hand shoes and one day, while dancing, the heel breaks off her dancing shoes. Remembering that her father told her that if she is sad to count backwards Gaelic, an ancient Irish language, that a leprechaun might appear and grant a wish. Having nothing to lose, Shannon begins counting and pretty soon, Liam the Leprechaun does appear, and promises to grant three wishes. However, her wishes can't be frivolous! An important message is passed along, and even though Shannon doesn't receive brand new shoes, a new dress and a wig for the step-dancing competition, she is able to make her best performance ever and wins the leprechaun's gold (the gold medal) in the end.

Schertle, Alice.
Jeremy Bean's St. Patrick's Day.
1987.
Lothrop, Lee & Shepard Books.


Jeremy's class has decided to host a St. Patrick's Day party in their classroom, complete with green foods - celery, pickles, lime punch, green apples, and cupcakes with green icing. The idea is that everyone will show up to school on St. Patrick's Day wearing green clothing. Jeremy is so excited he breaks out his green sweater before the party and wears it ahead of time: as a cape, over his pajamas, and around his waist. By St. Patrick's Day, Jeremy's worn the sweater so much, he forgets to wear it to school and shows up with nothing green on! Embarrassed by his peers' tauntings,
Jeremy Bean, Didn't wear green!,
he takes up hiding in the janitor's closet. However, Mr. Dudley, the principal, who most students fear comes to Jeremy's rescue, offering him to wear some of his green clothing. Mr. Dudley saves the day and Jeremy, in return, invites him to the class party!

This is a simple, cute story and children will probably enjoy it. However, I would say it probably ranks 4th out of 4 of my reviews for today. The next review, The St. Patrick's Day Shillelagh is by far my favorite!

Nolan, Janet.
The St. Patrick's Day Shillelagh.
2002.
Albert Whitman & Company.


Again, of the four St. Patrick's Day stories I've read and shared today, this is my absolutely, no-doubt favorite. I love the sense of history that goes along with this story!

Nolan tells a story that evolves over generations. Fergus, a young Irish boy leaves behind Ireland with his mother and father, a product of the 1800's potato famine. On his last night in Ireland, he cuts off a branch from his favorite blackthorn tree. On the ship headed to America, Fergus slowly whittles the blackthorn branch into a shillelagh, a walking stick. Years later on St. Patrick's Day, after years of hard work, Fergus passes the shillelagh and the honor of telling its story on to his own son, Declan.
Take this branch as a memory of Ireland.
Now, Declan must continue passing on the legacy. When the time is right, Declan eagerly passes on the shillelagh and his version of the story,
The past that walks with me today will walk with you tomorrow.
with his son, Emmett. Emmett, returning from war uses the shillelagh to help him walk. The story continues on through three more generations and closes with an important message for all readers to consider.
A good story never has to end as long as someone remembers to keep telling it.
And so, I would imagine, the legend of the shillelagh lives on today.

Now, can you see why this was my favorite????

If you're interested in finding out more information about any of the books reviewed or if you'd like to purchase the books, click the cover image for a link to Amazon.com.

Monday, March 16, 2009

I Heart (Love) Your Blog Award


Thanks to Deanna at Once Upon a Time for my cool award. I am very happy to have received this acknowledgment for my blog. Yipee!

Now I get to follow the rules:
1. Add the logo to your blog.
2. Add a link to the person who awarded it to you.
3. Nominate other blogs.
4. Add links to those blogs on your blog.
5. Leave a message for your nominees on their blogs.

Again, thanks for giving me the award! And here are my nominees:

Curious Kindergartners Who Became Fantastic First Graders
The Bookworm's Booklist
The Planet EsmePlan
5 Minutes for Books

If you're interested in finding out more information about any of the books reviewed or if you'd like to purchase the books, click the cover image for a link to Amazon.com.

Campfire USA Day

My take on this day is a wee bit different than you might be expecting. Until very recently, I was not at all aware of Campfire USA Day. Campfire USA is one of the leading not-for-profit youth organizations in the US. The organization provides children from birth to age 21 with learning activities focusing on leadership, self-reliance, after school groups, camping and childcare. You can visit the Campfire USA website by clicking here. So, again, my take is a wee bit different, I'm featuring campfire books today!

White, Linda.
Cooking on a Stick: Campfire Recipes for Kids.
1996.

Gibbs-Smith Publisher.


Oh how I wish this book were around when camping was such an integral part of my childhood! The recipes in the book are to die for (especially for kids)! As many parents know, camping with children is fun, but can be a challenge, especially during meal time. Just how many hot dogs can a family eat during a week-long camping trip? This book would be the answer to many parent's prayers, as it will inspire even the pickiest of eaters to try all the cool "cooking on a stick" recipes! Someday, in the future, this book will hold it's own when I have a family of my own, heading off on a camping trip!

More Campfire Books by Linda White:
Ulmer, Wendy K.
A Campfire for Cowboy Billy.
1997.
Rising Moon Books for Young Readers.


Cowboy Billy has set out on a mailrun. And while he and Splinter (his horse) are running wild to the post office, so is Billy's imagination. On his journey to the post office, Billy and Splinter make their way through canyons (city streets) and Badlands (city park). ; While on the adventure, Billy's mind wanders to his grandfather, who gave Billy his hat, chaps, vest, books, spurs, and Navajo ribbon shirt, and who shared with Billy stories about cowboys and the Old West. Billy's grandpa told Billy wonderful stories that will last a lifetime, one in particular that floods Billy's mind during this particular mailrun.
The Indians have a legend that says the stars are the campfires of those who have died and moved into the next world to dwell with the Great Spirit. Stars are the warm, twinkling campfires of special souls telling someone on earth how much they still love them... Home for a cowboy is anywhere he lights his campfire. Everyone has a heart full of memories, like a night full of stars. And our memories of love shine the brightest.
As Billy's adventure comes to a close, before returning to his apartment floor, Billy asks, Mr. Higgins, the elevator man to take him to the roof where we see Billy looking up at the moon and stars, the first campfires of the night beginning to glow. It is here that we see Billy reaching out to his grandfather and remembering him.

I found out at the end of this story that Ulmer wrote this story for her own daughters, neices and nephews who were dealing with the loss of their own grandfather. I can easily see how this story could be a tool to share with children who are coping with the loss of a loved one, as it shares a story, a memory, and a somewhat concrete object that children can grasp on to (the stars) to relive memories of their lost loved one. This was a wonderful read.

If you're interested in finding out more information about any of the books reviewed or if you'd like to purchase the books, click the cover image for a link to Amazon.com.

Saturday, March 14, 2009

Weekly Blog Plan, March 16-20

Here’s the weekly blog plan! Again, please remember this is subject to change and is dependent upon whether or not my materials come in from the library as planned. I realize that this may fall too late for you to use in your classroom this year, but the activities will definitely swing from year-to-year! If you see something you really wanted to incorporate into your classroom, leave me a comment on this post or send me an e-mail, kateh12783@hotmail.com. I’d be glad to provide you with the links I have, if nothing more!

Monday, March 16 - Campfire USA Birthday Week

* Cooking on a Stick: Campfire Recipes for Kids, Linda White
* The Kids Campfire Book, Jane Drake
* A Campfire for Cowboy Billy, Wendy K. Ulmer

Tuesday, March 17 - St. Patrick's Day

* Jack and the Leprechaun, Ivan Robertson
* That's What Leprechans Do, Eve Bunting
* The St. Patrick's Day Shillelagh, Janet Nolan

Wednesday, March 18 - National Nutrition Month

* Eat Your Peas, Ivy Louise!, Leo Landry
* Berenstain Bears and Too Much Junk Food, Stan and Jan Berenstain
* Good Enough to Eat, Lizzy Rockwell

Thursday, March 19 - TBA

Friday, March 20 - Bill Martin Jr.'s Birth Anniversary
* Barn Dance!
* Here are My Hands
* Knots on a Counting Rope

If you're interested in finding out more information about any of the books reviewed or if you'd like to purchase the books, click the cover image for a link to Amazon.com.

Friday, March 13, 2009

Deaf Awareness Day

Today is Deaf Awareness Day, so I've got a couple of stories to share that would be perfect to introducing young children to deafness or to just further their knowledge so they are accepting and respectful to those who are deaf.

Millman, Isaac.
Moses Goes to School.
2000.
Farrar, Straus and Giroux: New York, NY.


It's the first day of school for Moses, and like most children, he's eagerly anticipating reconnecting with his friends after a long summer vacation. However, when Moses arrives at school we quickly learn that he's attending a special public school for the deaf. Children at the school do basically all the same things that hearing children are used to: writing to pen pals, using the computer, singing and dancing, and learning how to read and write. It is important that children see the similarities between themselves and deaf children in order for acceptance and understanding to take place.

The book is truly wonderful and would open the doors for wonderful conversation. It would fit well in a classroom as part of a character education program featuring acceptance/diversity or even to just use to introduce students to sign language, as much ASL is provided throughout the reading.

Heelan, OTR/L, Jamee Riggio.
Can You Hear a Rainbow?: The Story of a Deaf Boy Named Chris.
2002.
Peachtree Publishers: Atlanta, GA.


Chris, a young boy, shares with readers how his deafness affects his life. He explains how he communicates with his family and friends: the use of sign language, visual clues, lip reading and hearing aids to compensate for his inability to hear words.

The illustrations, life-like body parts photographs added to the drawn clothing allows children to visualize the concept that deaf children look the same as hearing children. I think this really helps make a point! The story also does a wonderful job of showing children how children who are deaf are lacking one of their senses but make up for the lacking sense in other ways and is able to communicate feelings and thoughts just as well as hearing children.
This is definitely a book that would a wonderful addition to a unit about the 5 senses or to be used for teaching acceptance and diversity in the classroom!

If you're interested in finding out more information about any of the books reviewed or if you'd like to purchase the books, click the cover image for a link to Amazon.com.

Thursday, March 12, 2009

The Great Blizzard of 1888.

On March 12, 1888, the entire Northeastern United States was crippled by a blinding snowstorm that even the National Weather Service was unable of predicting, due to their Sunday closure until 5pm. I was able to get my hands on one book that specifically focuses on this blizzard in particular and it was quite enjoyable!

High, Linda Oatman.

City of Snow: The Great Blizzard of 1888.
2004.
Walter and Company: New York, NY.


Linda Oatman High allows readers to vividly imagine life in 1888, as a spring blizzard cripples the Northeastern United States, having a huge impact in New York City especially! Also known as the "Great White Hurricane," this blizzard was responsible for more than 400 deaths and the sinking of 200 ships along the east coast. Starting out as rain and then quickly turning to a snow that lasted nearly 4 days, people were stranded without staples such as meat, milk and the coal needed for heating.

Between the illustrations by Laura Francesca Filippucci and the text produced by Linda Oatman High, this story provides a wonderful springboard for children to compare and contrast life in the late 1800's to life today - how modern technologies and inventions have ensured that our lives are not as impacted by these white hurricanes! Along with the fictional text, Oatman-High provides a wealth of information about life in 1888 and the impact that this blizzard had on major cities in the Northeast. She also allows readers, through the "Author's Note" to discover many facts that are of interest to the time period and the blizzard itself!

If you're interested in finding out more information about any of the books reviewed or if you'd like to purchase the books, click the cover image for a link to Amazon.com.

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Word Study Wednesday - #1!

I received in the mail, 4 books from the Sounds Like Reading series, published by Lerner Publishing. 8 of the books in the series will be released this coming April and for the next 4 weeks, on Wednesdays, I will be posting a review of one of the books in this new word family series. Today, I have a review of the first book, The Bug in the Jug Wants a Hug.

Cleary, Brian P.
The Bug in the Jug Wants a Hug.
April 2009.
Lerner Publishing.


This is a great tool for teaching short vowel word families (-ug, -am, -un, -id, -en, -ot, -og, -et, -at, -ed, -ig, -ink, -an, -ell). While I anticipated the book, based on the title to be about the -ug word family, I was surprised to find that it's about short vowel sound words. I think the best use for this book would be to introduce word families one-by-one, rather than reading the entire book at once.

Despite my initial thoughts on what I anticipated the book to be and being a little discouraged that it wasn't a word family book, I will still definitely be using this in my classroom someday, or lending it out to early elementary teachers whose students will benefit from it!

Other Word -ug Word Family Books:
Teaching the -ug Word Family
If you're interested in finding out more information about any of the books reviewed or if you'd like to purchase the books, click the cover image for a link to Amazon.com.

Johnny Appleseed Day

Okay... so as I've been reading about Johnny Appleseed(John Chapman), I've discovered that his real death anniversary is March 18, 1845 and March 11, 1845, as my Teacher's Calendar book told me. So, since I've got this post all planned, books all ordered to read and review and have the rest of my month planned, I'm going to go ahead and post my reviews today. Perhaps you'll have a chance to check out a couple of these and share them with the kids come next Wednesday, March 18!

Appleseed was the planter of orchards and friend of wild animal, and was regarded by Native Americans as a great medicine man. To commemorate his death, we now celebrate Johnny Appleseed Day.

Lindbergh, Reeve.
Johnny Appleseed: A Poem.
1990.
Little, Brown and Company.


The canvas style illustrations and patchwork quilt that borders rhyming refrains of text perfectly complement this poem written by Reeve Lindbergh and illustrated by Kathy Jakobsen. This book would definitely hold a place in any classroom, as Johnny Appleseed was a real person who did indeed travel across the country to plant apple trees.

Appleseed travels across the country spreading apple seeds from Massachusetts to the Midwest. The poem recalls one of the legends that surround his travels, as he visits with one local family and the lasting impact he has had on that family's life. As a man with a mission, this story would be a great read-aloud and a springboard for discussion about American legends and the people who helped American life become what it is!

Kellogg, Steven.
Johnny Appleseed: A Tale Retold and Illustrated.
2008.
Harper Collins Publishers.


I think, after reading this version of the Johnny Appleseed legend, that it will be a favorite among children. The illustrations along with the recollections of Appleseed that his 'friends' share of him will capture their attention with no doubt!

In a different manner, Kellogg tells the legend of Johnny Appleseed - how his trees came about and the importance he played in the life of Indians and those involved in the westward expansion. This is a wonderful telling of the legend in a simple enough manner that young children will easily understand who Johnny Appleseed was and what he did for America!

Yolen, Jane.
Johnny Appleseed: The Legend and The Truth.
2008.
Harper Collins Publishers.


This really is a truly wonderful telling of the story of Johnny Appleseed. Yolen begins from even before day one, before John Chapman was born, giving us true-to-life details about his parents. Through the use of rhyming prose and then story-like text, she supplies readers with a great deal of information relating to what made Johnny Appleseed the legend he has become. Along with each page of the history, Yolen gives facts to support the legend.

While this book may be most suitable for the 7-10 age range, with a bit of discussion, children as young as 5 should be able to grasp the legend of Johnny Appleseed. The book would also be great to use in showing children that legends evolve over time and that many, while giving about the same recollections, still do allow for different interpretations of what really went on.

Lesson Plans/Book Activities about Johnny Appleseed

If you're interested in finding out more information about any of the books reviewed or if you'd like to purchase the books, click the cover image for a link to Amazon.com.

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Anniversary of the Invention of the Telephone

On March 10, 1876 (133 years ago!), Alexander Graham Bell transmitted the first telephone message to his assistant in the next room: "Mr. Watson, come here, I want you," at Cambridge, MA. In honor of this first message transmittal, I've got 2 telephone related reviews for today!

Williams, Brian.
The Explosion Zone: Bell and the Science of the Telephone.
2004.
Barron's Educational Series, Inc.


Vivid, colorful, comic-like illustrations and interesting text combine in Bell and the Science of the Telephone to teach students about Alexander Graham Bell, inventor of the telephone. From his childhood life through his death, this book allows readers to understand the science involved in the creation and use of the telephone.

This non-fiction text would perfectly complement a thematic unit in science on inventors/inventions! It would also make a wonderful gift for the science-thrilled child who loves to learn about how things work!

Finn, Carrie.
Manners on the Telephone.
2007.
Picture Window Books.


How many of you have children who jump every time the phone rings and are more than anxious to pick it up? For young children especially, this book would be a great share. It very simply shares with readers the importance of manners and some of the many ways in which to be polite when answering or talking on the telephone. The text is written simply, in child-friendly language that will even the youngest of children to understand the message being portrayed. This would be a great resource for anyone parent/guardian who is considering allowing the children to begin answering the telephone!

Lesson Plans/Reading Activities:
If you're interested in finding out more information about any of the books reviewed or if you'd like to purchase the books, click the cover image for a link to Amazon.com.

Monday, March 9, 2009

Margot Apple's Birthday

Born in Dearborn, Michigan in 1946, illustrator Margot Apple turns 63 today! I'm featuring a couple of her works as reviews for today!

Danneberg, Julie.
Cowboy Slim.

2006.

Charlesbridge Publishing.


Slim has always dreamed of being a cowboy. However, when he finally has the chance to reach for his dreams, he discovers that he isn't your typically cowboy - unable to lasso a dogie, has trouble riding. Slim doesn't give up though. He continues to attempt to be the best cowboy he can and during a thunderstorm, very unexpectedly, Cowboy Slim finds himself saving a herd of cattle just as they near the edge of a cliff. It wasn't his ability to rope, whip or ride that saved the herd though. Instead, their fears of the storm were calmed by his poetic words.

This is a cute story that children who love playing cowboys will enjoy! Apple's brightly colored illustrations, show the emotions that Cowboy slim is feeling as he fails to succeed as a "catalog cowboy" and would allow even pre-readers to imagine a story on their own.

Lesson Plans/Reading Activities:
Shaw, Nancy.
Sheep on a Ship.

1989.

Houghton Mifflin Company.


Much like Shaw's other "Sheep" books, Sheep on a Ship takes readers on another hilarious adventure! The rhyming text will keep readers on their toes and alert at all times. This series of "Sheep" books seems as though it would act as a wonderful introduction to rhyming words and word families in the early elementary classroom!

The sheep have once again set out on an adventure, they're out to sea on the ship. During their trip, while the sheep are napping, a sudden storm comes up. As the ship shakes about, the sheep wake up, only to discover that they need to move quickly if they are to survive the sinking ship. Tearing down the masts, they quickly create a raft and jump off the ship. Luckily, they were able to out-ride the worst of the storm and can see land on the horizon and glad that that trip is behind them!

Related Teaching Activities:
Other Books in the "Sheep" series:
Root, Phyllis.
The Name Quilt.
2003.
Farrar, Straus and Giroux.


I almost wanted to cry as I read this story - it was that sweet! Grandma teaches Sadie an important message - a message so important, everyone should have this book as a reminder that it's not the material things that we have but the memories that are found within us that allow us to remember people and events of the past. I honestly believe that this book belongs on every bookshelf!

Sadie is spending the summer visiting her Grandma and as part of each day, when Sadie is tucked into bed at night with Grandma's "Name Quilt," she chooses a name off the quilt and Grandma tells her a story about that name. However, one day, the pair decides to hang out the linens to air out and set off for a day of fishing. They tire quickly and lay back for a nap. When they awaken, the sky has clouded over and strong winds have begun. The name quilt, along with all the other linens blow away in the wind. That night, Sadie feels sad that the name quilt is lost. However, Grandma quickly shows her that even though the material item (the name quilt) is gone, the memories remain. Together, they set to work to create a new name quilt and even add a new name to it - Sadie's!

Lesson Plans/Reading Activities:
If you're interested in finding out more information about any of the books reviewed or if you'd like to purchase the books, click the cover image for a link to Amazon.com.

Saturday, March 7, 2009

Weekly Blog Plan, March 9-13

Here’s the weekly blog plan! Again, please remember this is subject to change and is dependent upon whether or not my materials come in from the library as planned. I realize that this may fall too late for you to use in your classroom this year, but the activities will definitely swing from year-to-year! If you see something you really wanted to incorporate into your classroom, leave me a comment on this post or send me an e-mail, kateh12783@hotmail.com. I’d be glad to provide you with the links I have, if nothing more!

Monday, March 9 - Margot Apple's Birthday (63)

* The Name Quilt, Phyllis Root
* Cowboy Slim, Julie Danneberg
* Sheep on a Ship, Nancy Shaw

Tuesday, March 10 - Telephone Invention Anniversary (Alexander Graham Bell)

* Bell and the Science of the Telephone, Brian Williams
* Manners on the Telephone, Carrie Finn
* The Telephone Book, Dorothy Kunhardt

Wednesday, March 11 - Johnny Appleseed Day (John Chapman Death Anniversary)

* Johnny Appleseed: The Legend and The Truth, Jane Yolen
* Johnny Appleseed: A Tale Retold and Illustrated, Steven Kellogg
* Johnny Appleseed, Reeve Lindbergh

Thursday, March 12 - Anniversary of the Great Blizzard of 1888

* Blizzard! the 1888 Whiteout, Jacqueline Ball
* Coming Through the Blizzard, Eileen Spinelli
* City of Snow: the Great Blizzard of 1888, Linda Oatman High

Friday, March 13 - Deaf History Day

* Moses Goes to School, Isaac Millman
* Dad and Me in the Morning, Pat Lakin
* Can You Hear a Rainbow?, Jamee Riggio Heelan

Friday, March 6, 2009

Whooping Crane Spring Migration!

With the temperatures warming to near 60 degrees here in NY, I'm certainly feeling as though spring is finally on the horizon! And since typically between the dates of March 1 and May 7, the endangered whooping crane species will leave its over-wintering refuges for its summer nesting grounds, I have a couple of Whooping Crane reviews for today!

Goodman, Susan E.
Saving the Whooping Crane.
2008.
Lerner Publishing Group, Inc.

This non-fiction text is a wonderful read! It goes into great detail the steps that scientists took to introduce a second fleet of Whooping Cranes to the wild. From wearing whooping crane puppets on their arms to the placement of leg bands on each bird before their first trip, the first journey of this fleet of whooping cranes is recorded as they leave Neccedah, Wisconsin and migrate south to Florida for the winter and then return back to the place where they had first learned to fly - Neccedah, Wisconsin. The story truly was unbelievable to read! Any child who is interested in birds will love this non-fiction account of the whooping crane migration!

Spinelli, Eileen.
Song for the Whooping Crane.
2000.
Eerdmans Books for Young Readers.

While Spinelli takes a slightly different approach - a fictional text about the whooping crane, this story is no less powerful and touches on the importance of saving the whooping crane from extinction.

Watercolor illustrations, coupled with the rhyming, poetic like text, readers become familiar with the idea of the whooping crane migration - moving south during the long, cold winter months in search of the warmer, more conducive southern temperatures and weather. The illustrations are gorgeous and truly support the text. This would certainly hold the attention of children when learning about whooping cranes, migration or both!

Whooping Crane Migration Resources:

If you're interested in finding out more information about any of the books reviewed or if you'd like to purchase the books, click the cover image for a link to Amazon.com.

Thursday, March 5, 2009

Mem Fox's Birthday

Mem Fox is 63 today! She's got a couple great bedtime-type stories and since it is National Sleep Awareness Week, I guess I'll feature those!

Fox, Mem.
Where the Giant Sleeps.

2007.

Harcourt, Inc.


It's bedtime in Fairyland... and Mem Fox takes youngsters on an adventure as she allows readers imaginations to run wild. The book starts out with a child just about to enter dreamland. The gouache illustrations by Vladimar Radunsky have readers looking into the distance, beyond the clouds to see where each fairy character sleeps. This will easily become a favorite bedtime story!

Fox, Mem.
Time for Bed.
1997.
Harcourt, Inc.


In this sweet "good-night" story, mothers of all kinds are wishing their young'uns sweet dreams as they settle in for a night's rest. The rhyming text will certainly appeal to children and the different ways in which these mothers lull their children to sleep, allows a variety of bedtime routines that could be adapted with children as they say goodnight.
It's time for bed, little calf, little calf, What happened today that made
you laugh?

It's time for bed, little foal, little foal, I'll whisper a secret but
don't tell a soul.

It's time for bed, little fish, little fish, So hold your breath and make a
wish.

All of these and a whole handful more provide one last chance for a moment of precious interaction between parent and child before going to bed each night!

Mem Fox Lesson Plans:

If you're interested in finding out more information about any of the books reviewed or if you'd like to purchase the books, click the cover image for a link to Amazon.com.

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

National Grammar Day

As a teacher, I had to go for this one! And let me tell you, there are some very cool books out there relating to grammar that make excellent teaching tools! I've got 5 of them to share with you today! The Words are CATegorical series by Brian P. Cleary is so cool that I tried to only review those for today's post. However, someone else has found them very cool too and I couldn't get any more from the library!

Cleary, Brian P. A Mink, A Fink, A Skating Ring: What is a Noun? 1999. Carolhoda Books, Inc.

As part of the "Words are CATegorical" series, Cleary introduces readers to nouns in this cleaver, humorous story. Nouns are defined to readers before the title page. Once readers have a brief definition of a noun, Cleary goes on to give specific examples of nouns. The rhyming text makes the story not only fun to read but almost song-like!
A box, a lip, a chocolate chip, A cup or glass from which you sip, A pocket, button, sleeve, or cuff - A noun can simply be your stuff.
I absolutely loved this and will certainly use it in my classroom someday!

Cleary, Brian P.
Straight and Curvy, Meek and Nervy: More About Antonyms.
2009.

You can only imagine how excited I was to receive this in the mail in time for my National Grammar Day post! I love using literature to teach grammar and English Language Arts, so of course, I'm most happy with another book from the "Words are CATegorical" series!
Cheer and jeer are antonyms, like straight and extra curvy, wet and dry, and sell and buy, as well as meek and nervy.
This second helping of antonyms by Cleary will certainly not disappoint. It paints a true understanding of exactly what antonyms are and definitely will find a place in my future classroom!

Dahl, Michael.
If You Were An Adjective.
2006.
Coughlan Publishing.


Another wonderful series that is used to teach grammar is "Word Fun." This book in the series gives a brief review of "If You Were a Noun" and then goes on to explain that an adjective describes a noun.
An elephant is a noun. If you were an adjective, you would tell us about the elephant. The GRAY elephant is GIGANTIC and WET.
I love this series as much as I love the "Words are CATegorical" and it will definitely be used in my classroom!

Dahl, Michael.
If You Were A Noun.
2006.
Coughlan Publishing.


A second book in the "Word Fun" series, Dahl attempts to help students learn about nouns - proper, singular, plural. Dahl has readers entering space in this edition. Students are sure to quickly catch on that a star, an astronaut and a spaceship are singular nouns. They will start considering themselves proper nouns when asked to give an example of one. The book also introduces the concept that nouns would answer the questions: who, what, when and where.

If you're interested in finding out more information about any of the books reviewed or if you'd like to purchase the books, click the cover image for a link to Amazon.com.