Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Esphyr Slobodkina's Birthday

Today is Esphyr Slobodkina's Birthday. I have always known her for her popular children's book, Caps for Sale, although she does have a few other books out there, one of which is Circus Caps for Sale.
-The Teacher's Calendar, 2008-2009

Slobodkina, Esphyr.
Caps for Sale.
2008 (1947).
HarperCollins Publishers.
Guided Reading Level: K


Summary from Barnes & Noble:

A band of mischievous monkeys steals every one of a peddler's caps while he takes a nap under a tree.

I could see this book being used in a classroom for so many different activities... it's a shame I haven't yet had the opportunity to be the one doing the sharing!
  • It's a perfect book for teaching children the process of retelling.
  • For math, the book could be used for teaching about patterns (I've seen a file folder game for this in a classroom, but haven't yet been able to come across it online for download).
  • It would fit perfectly as a read aloud on a hat or monkey unit!
It's just a great book and should be on all shelves!

Slobodkina, Esphyr.
Circus Caps for Sale.
2002 (1967).
HarperCollins Publishers.
Guided Reading Level: K


Summary from Barnes & Noble:

A peddler who sells caps by balancing them all on his head is invited to do an act in the circus.

This is by far my favorite of the two "Caps for Sale" books, but in order to fully appreciate this one, your child must be familiar with the first! I could totally see this book being made into a reader's theater for children! Perhaps I'll try to create that...

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.

1 comments:

style='clear: both;' Heidi V said...

Caps for sale was my favorite book when I was growing up. When my son and daughter was little I read it to them. Caps for Sale brings back fun memories for me.