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Book Reviews
July 17, 2015
Mrs. G

Painting for Peace in Ferguson: A Book Review

There is a new children’s book, available nationwide August 1st, that describes how artists and volunteers worked to transform boarded up windows into messages of peace, hope and light.  Painting for Peace in Ferguson was written by Ferguson, Missouri native, Carol Swartout Klein.

Painting for peace in ferguson

I had the pleasure of speaking with Carol during a telephone interview last week.

“This book was a labor of love for me and I had no idea how it was going to be received.  I wanted to put out a positive message for kids.  I wanted to show them what a community looks like when we’re all working together.  I wanted to send the message that Ferguson can come out of this stronger,” said Klein.

Summary:
Written in child-friendly verse, the book focuses on the way the community came together to begin the healing process through the art of the Paint for Peace effort. Using illustration and photographs of the art and the artists and volunteers–black and white, young and old–the book is a tool for beginning the conversation with children about how we all have something to contribute to healing our communities. As the last line in the book says, “The work is not finished, there’s much more to be done. But this art shows the spirit of a new Ferguson.”

Painting for Peace in Ferguson is being used in schools, around dinner tables, and around the globe.  The book opens doors and starts positive conversation about all of the issues around race in America, not only in Ferguson, but in Baltimore, New York, Cleveland, South Carolina, and across the country.

Reflection:
The first thing that caught my eye about this book is the cover.  It’s so bright and vibrant!  Also, you notice right away the book has been recognized as the 2015 IPPY Outstanding Book of the Year from the gold sticker located at the bottom right corner.

Next, when you open up the book you then see one of my favorite quotes from Fred Rogers:  “When I was a boy and I would see scary things on the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping'”.  I repeat this quote to my own children whenever there is an unfortunate event that takes place.

The first time I read this book aloud to the kids they didn’t seem too interested.  I think this was because I took too long to read it as I was really focusing on looking at the art instead of the words.  I noticed the kids started to get antsy after about 10 minutes into story time and started doing other things.  I should have read it on my own first to admire the art before reading it to the kids – lesson learned.

The next time I read the book to the kids I read it a lot faster only pausing briefly between each page to look at the pictures.  Now whenever I read it aloud the kids are attentive.  They really seem to like the rhyming text and can even recite a few lines of the poem from memory.

What I like most about this book is the simple, yet powerful message that reminds us we all have something we can do to help.  Everyone is equipped with a different set of skills…we all have our own “paint brush”.  In good times and in bad, people of all races, ages and genders can come together to make a difference.  This message is expressed in a language that many toddlers and preschoolers can understand.

Another thing I liked about the book is that it doesn’t go into the specifics of what caused the unrest in Ferguson, but rather focuses on the way the community came together to begin the healing process through the art of the Paint for Peace initiative.

I will be honest and say I didn’t follow the events that led to the unrest that took place in Ferguson last year.  I was aware it was happening, but whenever I hear about racial tensions or devastating tragedies I am overcome with emotions and feel a sense of sadness.  Therefore, I choose not to follow stories like this in the media too closely.

Overall, I think this book would make a great addition to a children’s home library, school library and public library.  From its beautiful illustrations to the engaging and rhyming verse, I see the value of it being used as a conversation starter to talk to children about different tragedies and events that take place around the world.  Other topics that can be touched upon with this book are: art, community, hope, friendship, healing, racial harmony, inspiration and volunteering.

Your turn: Have you read this book yet? How do you talk to your children about tragic events? Do you use books like Painting for Peace in Ferguson to help start conversations with your kids? Feel free to let me know in the comments.

For more information about the Painting for Peace in Ferguson book please visit:

Painting for Peace in Ferguson Website: http://www.paintingforpeacebook.com/
Painting for Peace in Ferguson Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/paintingforpeacebook

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Books for Adults
July 11, 2015
Mrs. G

Sneak Peek: My August Book of the Month

Praying Upside Down: A Creative Prayer Experience to Transform Your Time with God by Kelly O’Dell Stanley

praying upside down

Here is a sneak peek of one of the books I’ll be reading next month.  When I came across this book on display at the book store last week I just had to purchase it!  The title of the book caught my eye right away for two reasons: 1) I’ve been wanting to deepen and strengthen my prayer experience and time with God. 2) I wondered what the heck does praying upside down mean?  I’ve never heard this term before so I’m intrigued to learn more.

I am a firm believer in prayer and talking to God, but I know I don’t pray nearly as much as I should.  I tend to pray more and have conversations with God whenever I’m in a bind, a rut, or when things aren’t going so well.  I know I should pray and talk to God in good times as well as bad times, so I’m hoping this book will provide some great tips to help me transform my prayer life and actually stick to it.

I’ll be reviewing this book in the coming weeks when I finish it so stay tuned!

Your turn:  Have you read this book before?  If so, what do you think of it (without giving too much away)?  Do you also want to strengthen your prayer life and time with God?  Feel free to let me know in the comments.

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Book Reviews
July 9, 2015
Mrs. G

The Name Jar: A Book Review

The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi
namejar

Summary:  Unhei (pronounced Yoon-Hey) is leaving all that she knows in Korea to move to the United States.  Before she leaves, her grandmother gives her a red satin pouch with her name engraved on a stamp written in Korean.  When Unhei comes to the United States she is very anxious about starting school.  Her first interaction with the other children on the bus isn’t a good one as none of them can pronounce her name.  They start making fun of her name which makes Unhei feel terrible.

When Unhei arrives in her classroom she decides that she wants to give herself an American name.  So she tells everyone in the class she hasn’t picked a name yet so the class starts a name jar.  The jar is filled with American names that the other children in the class have suggested.  She reads many of the names, but can’t decide which name to choose.

During this time, a young boy, Joey, befriends Unhei and helps her to appreciate her name.  In the end, Unhei finally decides that she likes her name (which means grace) best of all and teaches the class about her name and how to pronounce it.  Joey truly shows great friendship throughout the story by accepting Unhei’s name and wanting a Korean name and stamp for himself.

Reflection: I really enjoyed this book and the kids did too.  I could relate to little Unhei especially since growing up my first name was almost always butchered on the first day of school by the teachers and students when trying to pronounce it.  I don’t recall anyone ever making fun of my name, they just couldn’t say it until they got used to it.

I think this is a beautifully poignant story that all children can relate to.  I found Unhei’s strength and courage at the end of this story to be very inspirational.  In addition, Yangsook Choi’s illustrations are colorful, soft, and illuminate the story.

I believe this book will help children understand how Unhei felt and could even teach them about self love and acceptance of others.  This book also introduces topics like having respect for other cultures and friendship.  Overall, I think The Name Jar is a delightful story for preschoolers and young elementary students.  Definitely a great read aloud book to read to children during the first few days/weeks of school.

Your turn:  Have you ever read this book to your little ones?  Feel free to let me know in the comments.

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Book Reviews
July 8, 2015
Mrs. G

Last Stop on Market Street: A Book Review

Last Stop on Market Street by Matt De La Pena

market

We received a free copy of this book back in February of this year.  I remember hearing about it from an interview on NPR radio so I was excited when there was a book reading taking place in my area.  Free copies of the book were given to all attendees so that’s how we snagged our copy of this awesome book.

Even though we received this book months ago, it wasn’t until recently that I really started reading it aloud to the kids.  Now it’s in our rotation of books we read often.  I truly love this book as it reminds me of a lot of my childhood and my Nana.

Every Sunday, CJ and his grandmother (Nana) ride the bus together, but CJ wishes they had a car instead. That is, until Nana points out why riding the bus is so much better.

As he and his Nana take the bus across town, observant little CJ is full of questions and more than a little wishful thinking asking: “Nana, how come we don’t got a car?” Nana gently chides him, really just planting seeds for how she sees the world. “Boy, what do we need a car for? We got a bus that breathes fire and old Mr. Dennis, who always has a trick for you.”

You see, it’s really how you look at the world, the magic you can see there, and the people you meet along the way. When CJ asks why a blind man on the bus can’t see, Nana tells him, “Boy, what do you know about seeing? Some people watch the world with their ears.”

Rather than telling CJ about what community means, his Nana shows him that he’s a part of it. After an event-filled bus ride, they arrive at their destination, the soup kitchen. “I’m glad we came,” CJ says looking at the familiar faces in the window of the soup kitchen where they both volunteer every Sunday.

I adore the fact that CJ’s Nana helps him see beauty in his surroundings, whether it’s on the bus or the soup kitchen they head to every Sunday afternoon. As Nana said, “Sometimes when you’re surrounded by dirt, C.J., you’re a better witness for what’s beautiful.”

In my opinion, this picture book has it all.  Wonderful descriptive writing, beautiful, rich illustrations and it’s full of abundant, child-centered details.  I love it when picture books can capture a small moment–and help us hold onto the small moments in our own lives.

This book makes me smile and think of my Nana every single time I read it–it’s so filled with love, friendship and an appreciation for life, in such a real way.  Many ideas are touched upon in this book: poverty, music, manners, volunteering, helping, caring, family and gratefulness.

I love the overall message of this book: being grateful for what you have.  Little CJ is so lucky to have a grandmother who teaches him to see things from a different perspective.  If only all children could be so fortunate to have someone like CJ’s Nana in their lives.

Want to learn more? Check out the original NPR radio interview I listened to:

NPR Interview with Matt de la Peña and Christian Robinson

Your turn:  Have you read this book to your little ones before?  Feel free to let me know in the comments.

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read aloud
July 6, 2015
Mrs. G

What the Kids are Reading (in July 2015)

Here’s a roundup of the books I’ll be reading aloud to the kids this month.  We’re exploring everything from colors to animals and bugs to chocolate!  What’s on your reading stack?

Dog’s Colorful Day by Emma Dodd

dog_colors
Dog starts off the day with one black spot on his left ear. But it seems that wherever he goes, he runs, rolls, and trots right into colors. As he wanders around town, Dog collects spots made of red jam, blue paint, pink ice cream, and more. When he finally arrives back home, Dog has ten different colored spots. And then it’s bath time for this colorful canine, who makes learning colors and numbers easy, messy, and fun!

You Are My Baby: Ocean by Lorena Siminovich

ocean
This board book is adorable!  It’s part of a series written by the author Lorena Siminovich.

Readers will find a little book nestled inside a bigger one: Turn the pages to match the baby animals to their parents, and learn some early concepts along the way.

You Are My Baby: Safari by Lorena Siminovich

  safari
This book is from the same series of board books as the one mentioned above except it’s all about safari animals. So cute!

The Doorbell Rang by Pat Hutchins
doorbell
Each ring of the doorbell brings more friends to share the delicious cookies Ma has made. This terrific and suspenseful read-aloud picture book about friendship, sharing, and cookies can also be used to introduce basic math concepts to young children.

Bug detective : amazing facts, myths, and quirks of nature by Maggie Li
detective
This book is so fun and interesting! The kids have really taken an interest in nature and bugs this summer so this book is perfect for helping them to learn more about bugs. From creepy-crawly beetles and scary spiders to beautiful butterflies, this playful guide will reach out and grab bug-crazy kids! Funny, picture-packed pages provide tons of information on bug habitat, feeding rituals, predators, and more, while each spread focuses on one creature-like bees or centipedes—with a brief introduction and facts scattered brightly everywhere. Plus, the book comes with a magnifying glass embedded in the cover, so budding “detectives” can complete the “missions” they’ll find throughout, along with additional activities in the back.

The Chocolate Touch by Patrick Skene Catling

chocolate
This book came highly recommended so we’re reading it. In a laugh-out-loud hilarious twist on the legend of King Midas, a boy acquires a magical gift that turns everything his lips touch into chocolate. Can you ever have too much of your favorite food? John Midas is about to find out….

First published in 1952, The Chocolate Touch was an instant classic—and has remained a timeless favorite with kids, teachers, and parents.

Egg: Nature’s Perfect Package by Steve Jenkins and Robin Page
egg
Hatching a plan for survival isn’t always easy in the wild. And how animals lay, protect, and even use each other’s eggs as a food source help reveal the life cycle of the natural world. Eggs come in all shapes and sizes. The ostrich’s is the largest, but some are so small, you need a microscope to spot them. Animals hide them and disguise them in smart and surprising ways, too. Some abandon their eggs, while others protect them fiercely and carry them wherever they go. There are as many kinds of eggs as there are animals that depend on them, because in the animal kingdom, the fight for survival begins with the simple, but extraordinary, egg.

Where Does Kitty Go in the Rain? by Harriet Ziefert
kitty
A lilting kitty mystery combines with rain-centered facts to create an utterly charming fiction/nonfiction picture book. As kids are invited on the search for Kitty, they’ll also discover what different animals do to enjoy, or avoid, a rainy day. Harriet Ziefert’s rhyming couplets pair beautifully with Brigette Barrager’s lush art to make a combination that is sure to please young readers and adults alike.

What makes a duck waterproof? Where do butterflies hang out to stay dry? What serves as a built-in umbrella for a squirrel? Created especially for younger readers, here’s a unique title that’s part mystery, part science, and all curiosity-inspiring fun!

Alphabet Adventure by Audrey Wood
adventure
I love finding great alphabet books to read!  After working hard all summer with their teacher, “Capital T,” the lower case letters of the alphabet are on their way to the first day of school. But they’re held up when the letter i loses her dot. The letters come up with a plan, and race around to find a substitute for Little i to wear s offers a star, h a heart but at the last moment the mischievous dot returns (anxious about being replaced).

One Too Many: A Seek & Find Counting Book by Gianna Marino
many
In this boisterous barnyard, the fun grows with each turn of the page. One bouncing flea is joined by two cows, then three horses, and so on, all the way up to twelve swooping bats. Children will delight in following the shimmering path of the flea, counting each bounce along the way to find the new arrival. Older readers can take the challenge further, counting all the animals on the page, or hunting for their favorite. And a surprise ending reveals which animal is just one too many!

Time to Eat by Steve Jenkins

eat
It’s time to eat! Which animals eat bamboo, can gulp down a whole deer, or swallow rocks to help them eat?

Frindle by Andrew Clements
frindle
I recently started a ‘Summer Stories’ story time for kids that live in my neighborhood. We read books outside two nights a week for half an hour and then have a brief discussion afterwards. The kids are really enjoying it! I let the older kids alternate who reads the books and then we all listen while eating our snacks. This is one of the longer chapter books we’ll be reading aloud during our ‘Summer Stories’ story time this month.

Is Nick Allen a troublemaker? He really just likes to liven things up at school — and he’s always had plenty of great ideas. When Nick learns some interesting information about how words are created, suddenly he’s got the inspiration for his best plan ever…the frindle. Who says a pen has to be called a pen? Why not call it a frindle? Things begin innocently enough as Nick gets his friends to use the new word. Then other people in town start saying frindle. Soon the school is in an uproar, and Nick has become a local hero. His teacher wants Nick to put an end to all this nonsense, but the funny thing is frindle doesn’t belong to Nick anymore. The new word is spreading across the country, and there’s nothing Nick can do to stop it.

Your turn:  What are your kids reading this month?  Have you read any of these books?  Feel free to let me know in the comments.

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children's literacy
July 5, 2015
Mrs. G

Literacy Expert Spotlight: Kathleen Odean

Starting this month, I will be featuring a literacy expert on the blog each month!  Exciting, right?  This is one of the “secrets” I’ve been working on behind the scenes in an effort to keep bringing you fresh content and new literacy ideas.

For now, these posts will only last through the end of this year.  If they prove to be popular and if I’m able to feature more people I’ll keep it going.

This month’s literacy expert is Kathleen Odean, an expert on children’s and adults books.   Kathleen has spent the last thirty years steeped in books for young people as a librarian, workshop presenter, reviewer, university instructor, and author of four guides to children’s books. All her work is aimed at helping young people connect with books that will enrich their lives and add to their happiness.

odean_kathleen

Q: Kathleen, please tell us a little about yourself.
A: I spent seventeen years as a children’s librarian in public and school libraries. Now I give workshops to educators on new books for young people and do a lot of reviewing. My mission is to connect kids and teens with good books, whether I’m doing it directly or through their teachers and parents. I’ve written four guides to children’s books, published by Random House: Great Books for Girls, Great Books for Boys, Great Books About Things Kids Love, and Great Books for Babies and Toddlers. I also had the wonderful privilege of chairing the 2002 Newbery Award Committee.

Q: Do you have any literacy rituals that you practice in your family?
A: Growing up, I was lucky enough to have a mother who read to me and took us five kids to the library a lot. My husband reads to me now when we have time, mostly nonfiction. He and I have been in a nonfiction book group with other adults for about 7 years, which is sheer pleasure.

Q: If you could give parents one piece of advice about reading with children, what would it be?
A: Make it fun. You don’t have to teach your children to read, because that’s what schools do. You need to give them positive associations with reading, which means having a good time together around reading and choosing books you both enjoy. Let them see you read for pleasure, too—that makes a big difference.

Q: What were some of the favorite children’s board, picture, or chapter books you’ve read or come across this year?
A: A picture book I like a lot is A Poem in Your Pocket by Margaret McNamara with pictures by G. Brian Karas. I love Jerry Pinkney’s new version of The Grasshopper and the Ants. I’m a big fan of Mo Willems’ Elephant and Piggie books, the latest of which is I Will Take a Nap! All three are 2015 publications.

Q: What are some of your must-have children’s books for a home library?
A: Two categories come to mind.  One is your children’s favorite books that they will want to re-read and cherish. Another is poetry anthologies like The Random House Book of Poetry for Children selected by Jack Prelutsky, with pictures by Arnold Lobel. A love of poetry is a gift parents can give to their children, and having anthologies at home is a large part of that.

Q: Hardcover or e-book (when reading a book on your own)?
A: Actually, paperback is my favorite but I use e-books when I’m traveling.

Q: Fiction, non-fiction or some other genre (when reading a book on your own)?
A: Everything. I love fiction including literary fiction and mysteries, narrative non-fiction, and poetry.

Name an adult book that:

a) Inspired you: I am Malala by Malala Yousafzai with Patricia McCormick (a young adult memoir)
b) Made you laugh out loud: Anything by Terry Pratchett.
c) You recommend to others often: The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot.

Q: What books are on your nightstand or e-reader right now?
A: I give workshops to educators on new young adult books, so I’m busy reading the newest ones.

Q: How can people get in touch with you on social media or on your website?
I blog about YA (Young Adult) nonfiction at greatcommoncorenonfiction.com. I can also be reached through my website, kathleenodean.com.

Check out Kathleen’s Books!

Great Books for Girls
Great Books for Boys
Great Books for Babies and Toddlers
Great Books about Things Kids Love

Your Turn:  Did you enjoy this post?  Are you interested in being featured?  Do you know someone who might want to be featured?  Feel free to let me know in the comments or send me an e-mail.

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children's literacy
July 1, 2015
Mrs. G

Five Children’s Books to Read for the 4th of July

The Fourth of July is a day to reflect on the history of our country, and to celebrate the things that make it unique. It is also a time in which many of us celebrate with our family and friends, have cookouts, watch parades, and end the day with fireworks bursting in the sky.

I hope you’ll take a moment to read a book about the holiday with your children in spite of the racial tensions going on in the world today.  We still have so much to be thankful for and celebrate.

There are so many good books available that explore the history of our great country and many are geared to children.  Below are a few to choose from.  Happy 4th!

ABC USA by Martin Jarrie
Apple Pie Fourth of July by Janet S. Wong
Firefly July: A Year of Very Short Poems by Paul B. Janeczko and Melissa Sweet
Your turn:  What’s on your reading stack for the 4th of July holiday weekend?  Feel free to let me know in the comments.
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children's literacy
June 30, 2015
Mrs. G

Fun With Sight Words: Water Balloons & Word Walls

I love discovering new and simple sight word activities to try out with the kids!  Once a month I present a short list of words to both of my kids, specifically my daughter since she’s older.

Since I started doing this some time last year there are many words my daughter can recognize instantly and effortlessly.  I believe that by automatically recognizing these words it has helped her develop into a fast reader. Repeated exposure to sight words is key so I come up with different ways to expose the kids to the same words over and over until they stick.

Recently, I created a simple “word wall” using post it notes which turned out a be a big hit with my daughter.  I often catch her reading her words when she wakes up in the morning or when preparing for bedtime.

Since it’s summertime, I wanted a sight word activity we could do outside that involved water.  Then I came across a simple activity with water balloons.  I thought how hard can this be – Fill balloons with water- Write words on balloons – Throw at each other.  Viola!  Instant fun and learning at the same time.

Before throwing each balloon we sing a song that reinforces the spelling of the word and then bombs away!  Such a fun activity on a hot day!

Your Turn:  What are your favorite sight word activities to do with your little ones?  Feel free to let me know in the comments.

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Books for Adults
June 26, 2015
Mrs. G

Upcoming Book Releases for Children and Adults

There are lots of promising new book releases coming out in the next few months for both children and adults.  I’ve rounded up some books to get excited about that you may want to pre-order or put on hold at your local library.  Read on.

upcoming book releases

July 2015
I’m Trying to Love Spiders by Bethany Barton (Children’s Book)
Release Date: July 7, 2015

I’m Trying to Love Spiders will help you see these amazing arachnids in a whole new light, from their awesomely excessive eight eyes, to the seventy-five pounds of bugs a spider can eat in a single year! And you’re sure to feel better knowing you have a better chance of being struck by lightning than being fatally bit by a spider. Comforting, right? No? Either way, there’s heaps more information in here to help you forget your fears . . . or at least laugh a lot!

Dad’s First Day by Mike Wohnoutka (Children’s Book)
Release Date: July 7, 2015

All summer Oliver and his dad played together, laughed together, sang together, and read together.  Now it’s time for Oliver to start school!  On the first day, Oliver’s dad isn’t quite ready. . . . Suddenly he feels nervous. His tummy hurts, and he would rather stay home.

But Oliver isn’t convinced. What if the first day is really fun? What if it’s the start of an exciting year?

In this charming story of first-day jitters, acclaimed author and illustrator Mike Wohnoutka perfectly captures the mixed emotions felt by kids and their parents when big changes are afoot.

The Black Star of Kingston by S.D. Smith (Children’s/Adult Book)
Release Date: July 13, 2015

Whitson Mariner and Fleck Blackstar face old fears and new enemies, forging a legend that will echo through the ages.  Old wars haunt. New enemies threaten. An oath is born.  A hero rises.

Granddaddy’s Turn by Michael S. Bandy (Children’s Book)
Release Date: July 14, 2015

Based on the true story of one family’s struggle for voting rights in the civil rights–era South, this moving tale shines an emotional spotlight on a dark facet of U.S. history.

Life on the farm with Granddaddy is full of hard work, but despite all the chores, Granddaddy always makes time for play, especially fishing trips. Even when there isn’t a bite to catch, he reminds young Michael that it takes patience to get what’s coming to you. One morning, when Granddaddy heads into town in his fancy suit, Michael knows that something very special must be happening?—?and sure enough, everyone is lined up at the town hall! For the very first time, Granddaddy is allowed to vote, and he couldn’t be more proud.

Wait by Antoinette Portis (Children’s Book)
Release Date: July 14, 2015

As a boy and his mother move quickly through the city, they’re drawn to different things. The boy sees a dog, a butterfly, and a hungry duck while his mother rushes them toward the departing train. It’s push and pull, but in the end, they both find something to stop for.

Lillian’s Right to Vote: A Celebration of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 by Jonah Winter (Children’s Book)
Release Date: July 14, 2015

An elderly African American woman, en route to vote, remembers her family’s tumultuous voting history in this picture book publishing in time for the fiftieth anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

As Lillian, a one-hundred-year-old African American woman, makes a “long haul up a steep hill” to her polling place, she sees more than trees and sky—she sees her family’s history. She sees the passage of the Fifteenth Amendment and her great-grandfather voting for the first time. She sees her parents trying to register to vote. And she sees herself marching in a protest from Selma to Montgomery.

Steve Jobs: Insanely Great by Jessie Hartland (Adult Book)
Release Date: July 21, 2015

This fast-paced and entertaining biography in graphic format is a perfect complement to more text-heavy books on Steve Jobs like Walter Isaacson’s biography. Presenting the story of the ultimate American entrepreneur, who brought us Apple Computer, Pixar, Macs, iPods, iPhones and more, this unique and stylish book is sure to appeal to the legions of readers who live and breathe the techno-centric world Jobs created.

Jobs’s remarkable life reads like a history of the personal technology industry. He started Apple Computer in his parents’ garage and eventually became the tastemaker of a generation, creating products we can’t live without. Through it all, he was an overbearing and demanding perfectionist, both impossible and inspiring.

8: An Animal Alphabet by Elisha Cooper (Children’s Book)
Release Date: July 28, 2015

Explore the animal world, from aardvark to zebu!

Discover hundreds of animals, great and small. Lion and lizard, whale and wombat. Learn one wild fact about each animal. (Did you know that gorillas yawn when they are nervous?) Look carefully, because for each letter of the alphabet, one animal is pictured eight times. Why 8? Come inside and find out.

What Pet Should I Get? by Dr. Seuss (Children’s Book)
Release Date: July 28, 2015

This never-ever-before-seen picture book by Dr. Seuss about making up one’s mind is the literary equivalent of buried treasure! What happens when a brother and sister visit a pet store to pick a pet? Naturally, they can’t choose just one! The tale captures a classic childhood moment—choosing a pet—and uses it to illuminate a life lesson: that it is hard to make up your mind, but sometimes you just have to do it!

Told in Dr. Seuss’s signature rhyming style, this is a must-have for Seuss fans and book collectors.

August 2015
Get Out of My Bath! by Nosy Crow, Britta Teckentrup (Illustrator) (Children’s Book)
Release Date: August 4, 2015

Ellie the elephant loves to have fun in the bath, but she’s not the only one. Her fun is interrupted when a crocodile decides to join her, followed by a flamingo, then a mouse and even a tiger! Poor Ellie’s bath is ruined. What can she do? She sucks all the water into her trunk, of course! Then she waits until all the uninvited animals have left before squirting it back. Finally she can enjoy her bath in peace!

The Day the Crayons Came Home by Drew Daywalt (Author), Oliver Jeffers (Illustrator) (Children’s Book)
Release Date: August 18, 2015

The companion to the #1 blockbuster bestseller, The Day the Crayons Quit!

From Maroon Crayon, who was lost beneath the sofa cushions and then broken in two after Dad sat on him; to poor Turquoise, whose head is now stuck to one of Duncan’s stinky socks after they both ended up in the dryer together; to Pea Green, who knows darn well that no kid likes peas and who ran away—each and every crayon has a woeful tale to tell and a plea to be brought home to the crayon box.

The Wonderful Things Will Be by Emily Martin (Children’s Book)
Release Date: August 25, 2015

From brave and bold to creative and clever, the rhythmic rhyme expresses all the loving things that parents think of when they look at their children. With beautiful, and sometimes humorous, illustrations, this is a book grown-ups will love reading over and over to kids—both young and old. A great gift for any occasion, but a special stand-out for baby showers, birthdays, and graduation. The Wonderful Things You Will Be has a loving and truthful message that will endure for lifetimes.

Rising Strong by Brene Brown (Adult Book)
Release Date: August 25, 2015

Our stories of struggle can be big ones, like the loss of a job or the end of a relationship, or smaller ones, like a conflict with a friend or colleague. Regardless of magnitude or circumstance, the rising strong process is the same: We reckon with our emotions and get curious about what we’re feeling; we rumble with our stories until we get to a place of truth; and we live this process, every day, until it becomes a practice and creates nothing short of a revolution in our lives. Rising strong after a fall is how we cultivate wholeheartedness. It’s the process, Brown writes, that teaches us the most about who we are.

September 2015
The Girl in the Spider’s Web by David Lagercrantz (Adult Book)
Release Date: September 1, 2015

This fall, Lisbeth Salander and Mikael Blomkvist return in the highly anticipated follow-up to Stieg Larsson’s THE GIRL WHO KICKED THE HORNET’S NEST

In this adrenaline-charged thriller, genius-hacker Lisbeth Salander and journalist Mikael Blomkvist face a dangerous new threat and must again join forces.

Late one night, Blomkvist receives a phone call from a trusted source claiming to have information vital to the United States. The source has been in contact with a young female super hacker–a hacker resembling someone Blomkvist knows all too well. The implications are staggering.

The Bear and the Piano by David Litchfield (Children’s Book)
Release Date: September 1, 2015

One day, a young bear stumbles upon something he has never seen before in the forest. As time passes, he teaches himself how to play the strange instrument, and eventually the beautiful sounds are heard by a father and son who are picnicking in the woods. The bear goes with them on an incredible journey to New York, where his piano playing makes him a huge star. He has fame, fortune and all the music in the world, but he misses the friends and family he has left behind. A moving tale of exploration and belonging from an exciting debut author-illustrator.

October 2015

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: The Illustrated Edition by J.K. Rowling (Children’s Book)
Release Date:  October 6, 2015

For the first time, J. K. Rowling’s beloved Harry Potter books will be presented in lavishly illustrated full-color editions. Kate Greenaway-award winning artist Jim Kay has created over 100 stunning illustrations, making this deluxe format a perfect gift as much for a child being introduced to the series, as for the dedicated fan.

November 2015

Diary of a Wimpy Kid Old School by Jeff Kinney (Children’s Book)
Release Date: November 3, 2015

Life was better in the old days. Or was it?

That’s the question Greg Heffley is asking as his town voluntarily unplugs and goes electronics-free. But modern life has its conveniences, and Greg isn’t cut out for an old-fashioned world.

With tension building inside and outside the Heffley home, will Greg find a way to survive? Or is going “old school” just too hard for a kid like Greg?

January 2016

Two Friends: Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass by Dean Robbins (Children’s Book)
Release Date: January 5, 2016

Two friends, Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass, get together for tea and conversation. They recount their similar stories fighting to win rights for women and African Americans. The premise of this particular exchange between the two is based on a statue in their hometown of Rochester, New York, which shows the two friends having tea.

Is there anything more splendid than a baby’s skin? For families of all stripes comes a sweet celebration of what makes us unique—and what holds us together.

Just savor these bouquets of babies—cocoa-brown, cinnamon, peaches and cream. As they grow, their clever skin does too, enjoying hugs and tickles, protecting them inside and out, and making them one of a kind. Fran Manushkin’s rollicking text and Lauren Tobia’s delicious illustrations paint a breezy and irresistible picture of the human family—and how wonderful it is to be just who you are.

A Birthday Cake for George Washington by Ramin Ganeshram (Children’s Book)
Release Date: January 5, 2016 (Update: 1/18/2016 – Scholastic has pulled this book from publication.)

Everyone is buzzing about the president’s birthday! Especially George Washington’s servants, who scurry around the kitchen preparing to make this the best celebration ever. Oh, how George Washington loves his cake! And, oh, how he depends on Hercules, his head chef, to make it for him. Hercules, a slave, takes great pride in baking the president’s cake. But this year there is one problem–they are out of sugar.

Your turn:  Which books from this list are you most looking forward to?  Did I miss any upcoming books?  Feel free to let me know in the comments.

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children's literacy
June 26, 2015
Mrs. G

Raising Readers: How I Taught My Two-Year Old Daughter to Read

How did you teach your two-year old daughter to read?

This is a question I’ve been asked several times over the past few months.  My answer is always the same…I didn’t.  I fully intended on teaching her how to read as I wanted to be the one to do it, but since she reads well on her own I may not even have to do this.

Not many people know that my daughter can read as it’s not something I go around telling others.  I’ve noticed sometimes people think you’re bragging or maybe even lying, when in fact you’re just happy and proud.  Therefore, only a handful of people have been privy to my daughter’s reading skills.

Education has always been extremely important to me.  When I was a child I used to always say I wanted to be a teacher when asked what I wanted to be when I grew up.  Well, when I finally “grew up” I changed my mind and decided on the computer field instead.  Perhaps some day I’ll be a college professor and finally have the opportunity to fulfill my dreams of teaching.  For now, I’ll settle as being my children’s first teacher.

I knew even before I had children that I didn’t want to their learning left entirely up to the public school system.  I make it a point to supplement whatever they are learning in daycare or school with my own teachings by making it fun.

Here are some things that worked really well for us in helping my daughter to read:

  • Talking to my daughter telling her what we were doing. “I’m putting your pink dress on you. Here it goes over your head. Now, let’s put on your socks. Here’s your left foot. On goes the white sock.”  You’d be surprised how much kids appreciate it when you talk to them about their daily activities.  Now, my daughter will often ask me, “What are we doing today, mommy?” and I tell her our plans for the day.
  • Starting at six months I used index cards and labeled furniture, toys, television, tables, mirrors, stairs, refrigerator, doors, etc. Nearly everything in our house was labeled and I would take the time to “read” the words as we walked by them.
  • Lots of exposure to the alphabet in the form of singing songs and reading alphabet books. We read the same ones over and over and over.  This also helped her learn the sounds each of the letters make.
  • Exposure to traditional nursery rhymes and poems in the form of books and songs.  I chose books that had lots of colored pictures, pointing out any objects and words as I read them.
  • Reading books aloud daily for at least 15 – 30 minutes since birth.  I keep several books in rotation each month reading them over and over again.  Then at the end of the month I pick out a new set of books to read for the next month.
  • Making frequent visits to the library.  We go weekly to pick out new books, for story time, playgroups, etc.
  • Teaching and practicing sign language since birth.  She knows several signs as well as the letters of the alphabet in sign language.
  • Doing sight word and alphabet activities together including craft projects.
  • Alphabet puzzles, alphabet mats, sandpaper letters, and alphabet foam letters from the Dollar Store.
  • Reading my own books in front of the kids.  The children see me reading often.

Around the age of 18 months I noticed my daughter had become smitten with the alphabet.  She was always singing the ABC song and she only wanted me to read her alphabet books.  By the age of two, (24 months) she could recite several sight words and started taking more of an interest in words and what they said.My daughter is now almost 3 years old (33 months) and she can read several easy reader books on her own.  At first, I thought she was just reciting the books we owned from memory because she knew them so well.  However, I realized that wasn’t the case when I started giving her easy reader books to read that she’d never seen before.  That’s when I realized…my baby can read!  She can actually read!  And I’m not talking just those beginner reading books that contain sentences like, “Pat sat on her mat” and “See the fox run.”I guess all my hard work is paying off.  I am raising readers!  Of course, she’s still very much in the beginning stages of reading, but she’s off to a great start!

Here are a few other things to note:

  • I try to foster a love of reading and books.
  • I try to take advantage of teachable moments no matter where we are: the grocery store, the library, driving in the car, the playground.
  • I do not try to push my own style of learning onto my daughter.  Instead, I notice what she responds to (i,e., music) and just go with it.
  • I do not drill my daughter with flash cards or worksheets.  I think flash cards and worksheets are great, but this is not my approach.
  • I do not pressure my daughter to learn.
  • I try to make things fun like a game so it doesn’t seem like a chore or a hassle.
  • I do not try to compartmentalize learning into just one time of the day.
  • I do not get upset if she doesn’t learn or understand something; instead I set it aside and try again another time usually in a couple of weeks.
  • I do not try to make my daughter sit still; instead, I keep learning active.  Our bodies are meant to be in motion.  I let my daughter get up and move around if she wants to.
I plan to follow this same approach with my 18-month old son.  He’s already showing signs of following in his sister’s footsteps.  I look forward to seeing if he learns to read on his own the same way my daughter did.
Your turn:  What has helped your child learn to read?  Feel free to let me know your tips in the comments.
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Books for Adults
June 23, 2015
Mrs. G

What I’m Reading (in July 2015)

Summer is officially here and I couldn’t be happier.  I’m looking forward to days of warm weather, long, lazy afternoons and gentle breezes with lots of sunshine.

Welcome summer, I’m so happy you’re here.  Let the summer of reading commence!

Below are the three books I plan to read in July.

Status: Finished

 

This book has been on my list of books to read since it came out earlier this year.  I’m a huge fan of Issa Rae.  I used to watch The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl web series on YouTube religiously in its early days.  I am excited to read her memoir and learn more about how she got her start especially now since she recently had the opportunity to meet my role model, Oprah.  I love to read about successful, empowered women.

 

Status:  Finished

 

When she discovered ballet, Misty was living in a shabby motel room, struggling with her five siblings for a place to sleep on the floor. A true prodigy, she was dancing en pointe within three months of taking her first dance class and performing professionally in just over a year: a feat unheard of for any classical dancer. But when Misty became caught between the control and comfort she found in the world of ballet and the harsh realities of her own life (culminating in a highly publicized custody battle), she had to choose to embrace both her identity and her dreams, and find the courage to be one of a kind.

Life in Motion is an insider’s look at the cutthroat world of professional ballet, as well as a moving story of passion and grace for anyone who has dared to dream of a different life.

Status:  Finished

Big Little Lies by Lane Moriarty
biglittlelies

Big Little Lies follows three women, each at a crossroads:

Madeline is a force to be reckoned with. She’s funny and biting, passionate, she remembers everything and forgives no one. Her ex-husband and his yogi new wife have moved into her beloved beachside community, and their daughter is in the same kindergarten class as Madeline’s youngest (how is this possible?). And to top it all off, Madeline’s teenage daughter seems to be choosing Madeline’s ex-husband over her. (How. Is. This. Possible?).

Celeste is the kind of beautiful woman who makes the world stop and stare. While she may seem a bit flustered at times, who wouldn’t be, with those rambunctious twin boys? Now that the boys are starting school, Celeste and her husband look set to become the king and queen of the school parent body. But royalty often comes at a price, and Celeste is grappling with how much more she is willing to pay.

New to town, single mom Jane is so young that another mother mistakes her for the nanny. Jane is sad beyond her years and harbors secret doubts about her son. But why? While Madeline and Celeste soon take Jane under their wing, none of them realizes how the arrival of Jane and her inscrutable little boy will affect them all.

Your turn:  What books do you have in your queue for the month of July?  Have you read any of these books already?  Feel free to let me know in the comments.
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Uncategorized
June 18, 2015
Mrs. G

We’re Moving!

Exciting news….we’re moving!

No, we’re not selling our house and moving out of the state (not yet anyway).  We’re moving off of Blogger and on to our own public domain.  Why?  Because it was one of goals for this blog in 2015.

I wanted to put this post out before the move happens so you can have a heads up in order to update any bookmarks you may have saved to this blog.

Our new website url will be https://hereweeread.com so if you are trying to find our blog check there as this one is going away in early July.

In addition to this exciting news, I have two other “secrets” I’ll be sharing with you in the coming weeks.  P.S. They are both related to the blog.

Stay Tuned!

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hereweeread

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