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Book Reviews
February 27, 2021
Mrs. G

Brown Girls Reading: A Promised Land by Barack Obama A Joint Book Review with Charnaie Gordon & Nicole Blades

One of the joys of blogging is meeting other like-minded book lovers who share the same taste in books as you do. From the time I met author Nicole Blades, she and I clicked since with both have an affinity for great literature. Bonus points for us living in the same state and only a few miles apart from one another. She was the perfect person to read President Barack Obama’s memoir, A Promised Land with.

In case you haven’t read it yet, check out the synopsis below from the publisher.

Synopsis
In the stirring, highly anticipated first volume of his presidential memoirs, Barack Obama tells the story of his improbable odyssey from young man searching for his identity to leader of the free world, describing in strikingly personal detail both his political education and the landmark moments of the first term of his historic presidency—a time of dramatic transformation and turmoil.

Obama takes readers on a compelling journey from his earliest political aspirations to the pivotal Iowa caucus victory that demonstrated the power of grassroots activism to the watershed night of November 4, 2008, when he was elected 44th president of the United States, becoming the first African American to hold the nation’s highest office.

Reflecting on the presidency, he offers a unique and thoughtful exploration of both the awesome reach and the limits of presidential power, as well as singular insights into the dynamics of U.S. partisan politics and international diplomacy. Obama brings readers inside the Oval Office and the White House Situation Room, and to Moscow, Cairo, Beijing, and points beyond. We are privy to his thoughts as he assembles his cabinet, wrestles with a global financial crisis, takes the measure of Vladimir Putin, overcomes seemingly insurmountable odds to secure passage of the Affordable Care Act, clashes with generals about U.S. strategy in Afghanistan, tackles Wall Street reform, responds to the devastating Deepwater Horizon blowout, and authorizes Operation Neptune’s Spear, which leads to the death of Osama bin Laden.

Nicole’s Review

It was kind of fitting that the first book I finished in 2021 was Barack Obama’s instant bestselling memoir, A Promised Land. Mind, I started the book just after Thanksgiving 2020… but, listen, as you know, this thing is more than 700 pages long! For someone who typically shies away from books over 500 pages (375-ish is kind of the sweet spot), the fact that I read it cover to cover is a triumph. 

A Promised Land is good. Really good. So good that I’m ready for volume two of his memoir. (That thing better not be 900 pages, though, B! *long stare*) Obama is naturally smart, charming, and funny, and it all comes through on the page. He feels like a real person with humor and humanity. (He even drops a few F-bombs, which made me giggle a little.)

The book is beautifully written—candid and revealing while also being interesting and filled with warmth. The man knows how to tell a riveting story. And the details! He describes people places, rooms, even “The Beast”—the armored limo that is the presidential state car—with such precision, paying attention to even the smallest note. For example, he mentions a nun with a face as “grooved as a peach pit”…I mean, you can totally see the face, right? There are plenty of moments like that, where his words paint a clear picture. It’s not an easy task to do as a writer. It is a remarkable skill, fueled by an honest interest and curiosity in people, their lives, and your shared moments with them.

Early in the book, the essential question is posed: Why you, Barack? Why do you need to be president? His answer, in part, is one of my favorite quotes from the book:

“…Here’s one thing I know for sure, though. I know that the day I raise my right hand and take the oath to be president of the United States, the world will start looking at America differently. I know that kids around this country—Black kids, Hispanic kids, kids who don’t fit in—they’ll see themselves differently, too, their horizons lifted, their possibilities expanded. And that alone… that would be worth it.”

Listen. When I read that passage, I read it again, slowly. Then I got my Oprah on and highlighted the quote, and marked it with one of those sticky note flag strips. I wanted to remember it. I wanted to remember how it made me feel: Inspired. 

Charnaie’s Review

A Promised Land. What can I say? I expected this book to be a winner and it did not disappoint! Although it was long, I savored every page of this book like a fine wine. I will admit, it’s hefty 700+ page count was daunting in the beginning, but since Barack Obama is such an enjoyable and natural storyteller that definitely helped make it feel less daunting. And since I had the homie, Nicole Blades, holding me accountable to finish our “assigned” chapters, that definitely helped too.

It was refreshing to hear Obama admit to his mistakes, doubt himself on different occasions, climb out of credit card debt, get more insight into his relationship with Michelle, learn about his mom and have the ability to re-live the 2008 election, which I personally refer to as the “Yes We Can” era.

I found myself laughing out loud in some parts, shedding tears, and nodding in full agreement during other parts of the book. Oh, how I miss the Obama family dearly! Lucky for us, we get to enjoy his words here in A Promised Land and then again in Volume 2 once it’s released. Oh, and let’s not forget about Michelle’s book Becoming and both of their podcasts on Spotify!

I am in awe of the Obama family and have total admiration for them and their service. It’s a delight to hear a politician speak so candidly and eloquently with honesty and dignity. The one word that kept running through my mind while reading this book was: hope. Hope for a better future for my children and this world.

Here are two of my favorite quotes from the book:

“there are people in the world who think only about themselves. They don’t care what happens to other people so long as they get what they want. They put other people down to make themselves feel important. “Then there are people who do the opposite, who are able to imagine how others must feel, and make sure that they don’t do things that hurt people. “So,” she said, looking me squarely in the eye. “Which kind of person do you want to be?”
― Barack Obama, A Promised Land

“But you don’t choose the time. The time chooses you. Either you seize what may turn out to be the only chance you have, or you decide you’re willing to live with the knowledge that the chance has passed you by.”
― Barack Obama, A Promised Land

About Nicole

Author Nicole Blades

Nicole Blades is a novelist, speaker, and journalist who has been putting her stories on paper since the third grade. Born and raised in Montreal, Quebec, by Caribbean parents, Nicole moved to New York City and launched her journalism career working at Essence magazine. She later co-founded the online magazine SheNetworks, and worked as an editor at ESPN and Women’s Health.

As a freelance journalist, Nicole’s articles and essays have appeared in The New York Times, Runner’s World, Women’s Health, Good Housekeeping, Health, MarieClaire.com, WashingtonPost.com, and more. Her latest book, HAVE YOU MET NORA?, along with her previous novels, THE THUNDER BENEATH US and EARTH’S WATERS, are available wherever books are sold.

Nicole is a proud member of the Tall Poppy Writers, a professional group of women writers committed to supporting and promoting its members’ work and connecting authors with readers. And she is also a National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer.

She has been a presenter and guest speaker at conferences such as Massachusetts Conference for Women; The Muse & the Marketplace; Mom 2.0 Summit; Well-Read Black Girl Festival; Writer’s Digest Conference; the Women’s Fiction Writers Association Retreat, and the Surrey International Writers’ Conference.

Nicole lives in New England with her husband and their son. You may find her on social media at: Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. 

About Charnaie

Author Charnaie Gordon

Charnaie loves connecting people with diverse and inclusive books, kid-friendly products and family experiences they will love. She has been reading aloud with both of her children daily since they were born.

Charnaie is a wife, mom and a former Computer Programmer by education. She have over 15 years of experience in the Information Technology field and has both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science/Information Technology. She is now an author, podcast host, speaker, Digital Creator/Influencer and the founder of her children’s soon-to-be non-profit organization 50 States 50 Books where they collect and donate diverse children’s books to deserving kids in each of the 50 U.S. states.

Her blog Here Wee Read, is where she expresses her creativity and passion for reading, diverse literature, and literacy. More than anything else, she cares about connecting people with great books that they love because she believe that books are an absolute necessity . Her passion for diversity and inclusion is driven by a desire for everyone to have his or her own voice, whether it be through books, television, or other media. Charnaie believes it’s important that people of all races, and all ethnicities, are able to see themselves represented and included.

Charnaie lives in New England with her husband and their daughter and son. You may find her on social media at: Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. 

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children's literacy
February 25, 2021
Mrs. G

My Orton-Gillingham Comprehensive Training Experience

If you follow me on Instagram, you may have recently seen me participating in a 30-hour Orton-Gillingham comprehensive training course. The comprehensive training is just ONE training option available if you want to learn the Orton-Gillingham methodology. Trainings and style can vary. You can view the different training descriptions that the Institute for Multi-sensory Education (IMSE) has here.

I chose the comprehsive course that also has a practicum in order to learn the approach and methods inside and out. My ultimate goal is to become a Certified Orton-Gillingham Tutor if possible. I took my training course through IMSE (The Institute for Multi-Sensory Education). There are other companies that train in the Orton-Gillingham methodology.

What is Orton-Gillingham?
“Orton-Gillingham is a highly structured approach that breaks reading and spelling down into smaller skills involving letters and sounds, and then building on these skills over time. It was the first approach to use explicit, direct, sequential, systematic, multi-sensory instruction to teach reading, which is not only effective for all students but essential for teaching students with dyslexia.” (Definition taken from the IMSE website.)

The History of Orton-Gillingham
“Orton-Gillingham was among the first teaching approaches designed to help struggling readers by explicitly teaching the connections between letters and sounds. In the 1930s, neuropsychiatrist and pathologist Dr. Samuel T. Orton and educator, psychologist Anna Gillingham developed the Orton-Gillingham approach to reading instruction for students with “word-blindness,” which would later become known as dyslexia.” (Definition taken from the IMSE website.)

What is the Orton-Gillingham Methodology?
The Orton-Gillingham Methodology is a direct, multisensory, structured, sequential, diagnostic, and prescriptive way to teach literacy. When reading, writing, and spelling does not come easily to individuals, such as those with dyslexia (or any new or struggling readers). It is most properly understood and practiced as an approach, not a method, program, or system. In the hands of a well-trained and experienced instructor, it is a powerful tool of exceptional breadth, depth, and flexibility.

It has been proven by research that when using a diagnostic, systematic, structured, multisensory approach faithfully, you take the guesswork out of reading.

My Training Course Experience
I’ll be honest and say I had no idea what to expect prior to taking this training course. While I was familiar with Orton-Gillingham, I had never used it and really didn’t know that much about it besides it being an effective approach to teach reading.

Since I don’t have an education background, (I have an IT background) I was unsure how quickly I’d be able to catch on and grasp the concepts. However, the instructor for our class at IMSE was AMAZING! She was a delight to learn from and very knowledge about all things Orton-Gillingham, literacy and phonological awareness. She made me feel at ease from day one right up until the last day.

Due to COVID, my training course was virtual and I had about 15 – 17 other people in my class. I was glad that the course was interactive giving you the opportunity to work in smaller groups during breakout sessions. The small group time allowed you time to really practice and hone the skills being taught by the instructor. In addition, it gives you the opportunity to communicate with others in the class and provide each other with constructive feedback.

The class started at 8am each day and finished up around 3:30pm for a total of 30 hours of Orton-Gillingham training. At the end of the course you receive a certificate of completion for the course. Please note: That certificate doesn’t mean you are a Certifified OG tutor, there is additonal training required for that which includes the practicum.

IMSE provided me with the following materials:

  • IMSE Comprehensive Training and Assessment Manual
  • Recipe for Reading by Bloom and Traub
  • IMSE Comprehensive Syllable Division Word Book
  • Phonological Awareness: Assessment Tools & Strategies by Zgonc
  • IMSE Phoneme Grapheme Card Pack
  • IMSE Syllable Division Cards
  • Set 1 IMSE Decodable Readers
  • Blending Board
  • Sand (for kinesthetic learning)
  • IMSE Interactive OG (online lesson planning tool) One-year subscription (additional years will require a renewal fee)

Some of the concepts I learned in the course include:

  • Encoding and decoding words
  • Syllable division patterns (multi-syllable words)
  • Vowel Intensive
  • Fluency
  • Red Words
  • Three-Part Drill
  • Phonological awareness
  • Vocabulary Development
  • Comprehension
  • Assessments
  • Guidelines for Weekly Lesson Planning for Students

Here are a few things I learned that I thought were interesting:

  • Dyslexia affects 1 in 5 people and it runs in families. Children DO NOT outgrow dyslexia. Children with dyslexia grow up to be adults with dyslexia.
  • Our brains are wired for speech, not reading.
  • The four phases of reading: pre-alphabetic phase, partial-alphabetic phase, full alphabetic phase, and consolidated phase.
  • The six stages of reading development
  • The Cat/Kite Rule (The Rules for letters C & K)

My training experience was absolutely amazing and so eye-opening! Who knew learning to read and teaching others to read could be so seamless and easy to comprehend? Throughout the course I kept thinking, all children should have the access to be able to learn to read this way. I definitely believe Orton-Gillingham should indeed be taught in every classroom. I truly believe Orton-Gillingham can make all children better readers. Here are a few reasons why I think this based on the things I learned during my training:

  • The Orton-Gillingham methodology uses systematic instruction techniques and resources to teach new concepts in the exact same way every time. By doing this, the brain is not expending energy trying to figure out a new method. Instead, the brain expects the routine of learning and can focus on the new concept being taught. Brilliant and way less confusing!
  • When teaching new concepts, the steps are clear and teach the rules one at a time. Each step builds from the previous step, building from simple to complex.
  • Learning is individualized to each student. Students should be able to move through the program at an individualized pace which allows for developing fluency and automaticity for each step. Students only move from one step to the next as they build fluency for each level of language skills.
  • Each student’s skill development is monitored along the way with assessments. The instructional practices are built upon what was observed in the previous lesson and what is judged to be necessary to move the student forward in the next lesson.

It’s also important to note that students with dyslexia need to master the same basic knowledge about language as any other learner. However, because of their dyslexia, they sometimes need more help when it comes to sorting, recognizing, and organizing language.

How I’m Planning to Use My Orton-Gillingham Training

As I mentioned earlier, my utlimate goal is to become a Certified Orton-Gillingham Tutor to help beginning and struggling readers learn how to read better. Since taking the course I’ve been continuing to use the skills I learned in class with my two children at home. I am also working with a Certified OG Instructor who is giving me a few hours of coaching in preparation for me embarking on the practicum. The practicum is a lot of work and it requires you to pass the KPEERI exam.

In addition, I have now acquired my first Kindergarten student who I will be tutoring starting next month. I need to complete 50 hours of tutoring which will be great pracice for me and allow me to keep my skills sharp. I’m excited for this new journey and look forward to seeing the progress my student makes in the coming months.

I’ll keep you posted on my journey along the way!

If you’d like more information about Orton-Gillingham or the Institute for Multi-Sensory Education please visit the IMSE website. There you can also find out the training requirements and pricing for each of the courses they offer. You can also purchase some of their products.

Your turn: What questions do you have about Orton-Gillingham? Feel free to ask your questions in the comments.

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children's books
February 23, 2021
Mrs. G

One Step Further Blog Tour by Katherine Johnson with Her Daughters

Welcome to the One Step Further Blog Tour!

To celebrate the release of One Step Further by Katherine Johnson and her daughters Joylette Hylick and Katherine Moore, and illustrated by Charnelle Pinkney Barlow on January 5th, blogs across the web are featuring exclusive photos and stories from the life of NASA Mathematician Katherine Johnson, plus 5 chances to win a hardcover copy!

Music and Math
A never-before-seen interview with Katherine and her daughters that didn’t end up in the final book
 
Joylette and Kathy in 1954
 
Joylette: Our whole family was also very musical. We played instruments: piano, organ, violin, cello. Music is a lot like math. One beat, two beats, three beats, four.
Kathy: Our home was full of music. Music and math.
Joylette’s violin

Katherine: We found joy with each other and in music.

Joylette: Mom directed the church choir and each of us sang in one choir or another. I also joined and played piano for the glee club at school. In 8th grade, I learned the violin. Our school orchestra conductor warned the other kids not to laugh when—
Kathy: At first, their orchestra sounded like cats!
Joylette: Did you snicker?
Kathy: I smiled.
 
Katherine: In the meantime, Jimmie started getting hammering headaches. The doctors said he needed surgery.
Joylette: Daddy kept getting weaker and weaker while I was in high school.
Kathy: His sickness was scary. “Lower your voices. Try to help.”
Joylette: Playing music comforted me. Four beats to a measure. Half notes. Quarter notes. I understood music’s symphonies and rhythms, unlike life’s. I conducted the student choir, performed Handel’s “Messiah” and learned the organ.  
Kathy: Taking care of Daddy made me dream of being a physical therapist.
Joylette: That summer we spent our days with him at the hospital.
 
Katherine: Every generation pushes the next one forward, just as each note propels the next.

Some of the family’s sheet music
Joylette: My parents’ passion for music had helped me find mine.
Kathy: Their love of education made our brilliant minds shine.
Joylette: In 1958, Hampton University offered me a partial music scholarship. I majored in math, but played piano and organ, sang, and helped conduct the choir.
Kathy: In high school, I sang and played piano. Since Joylette and Connie had played violin, I moved to my own rhythm. I found the cello mellow and soothing. 
Joylette: Eventually, I played the 9-foot grand piano and the big organ in Hampton’s Ogden Hall.

*****

Blog Tour Schedule:

February 22nd – Multicultural Children’s Book Day Blog

February 23rd – Here Wee Read

February 24th – Make a Way Blog

February 25th – BookHounds

February 26th – Frantic Mommy

 

Buy: Amazon | Indiebound | Bookshop

 
 
Follow National Geographic Kids: Website | Twitter | Books Twitter | Facebook | Youtube
 
This inspirational picture book reveals what is was like for a young black mother of three to navigate the difficult world of the 1950s and 60s and to succeed in an unwelcoming industry to become one of the now legendary “hidden figures” of NASA computing and space research.
 
Johnson’s own empowering narrative is complemented by the recollections of her two daughters about their mother’s work and insights about how she illuminated their paths, including one daughter’s fight for civil rights and another’s journey to become a NASA mathematician herself. The narrative gracefully weaves together Johnson’s personal story, her influence on her daughters’ formative years, her and her daughters’ fight for civil rights, and her lasting impact on NASA and space exploration. Filled with personal reflections, exclusive family archival photos, and striking illustrations, readers will be immersed in this deeply personal portrayal of female empowerment, women in STEM, and the breaking down of race barriers across generations. Historical notes, photo/illustration notes, and a time line put the story into historical and modern-day context.
 
The inspirational tale of Johnson’s perseverance is both intimate and global, showcasing the drive of each generation to push one step further than the last. With its evocative family album-style format and novel approach to storytelling, One Step Further is sure to inspire the next generation of rising stars.
 
“Engaging, collage-style art augments the text, with speech bubbles, archival family photographs, and Barlow’s child-friendly illustrations. Concurrently accessible and intimate, this book will both inform readers and inspire them to reach for the stars.” 
―Publishers Weekly
 
“A concise, engaging story of a Black family in the South during the Civil Rights era.” 
―Booklist
 
“The blend of Johnson’s and her daughters’ voices is intimate and inspiring.” 
―Horn Book 
 
 
Joylette (L), Kathy (R), Katherine (F) 
 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Katherine Johnson was an American mathematician whose calculations of orbital mechanics as a NASA employee were critical to the success of the first and subsequent U.S. crewed spaceflights. She calculated and analyzed the flight paths of many spacecraft during her more than three decades with the U.S. space program, and her work helped send astronauts to the moon. She died on February 24, 2020. 

 
ABOUT THE CO-AUTHORS: Joylette Goble Hylick and Katherine “Kathy” Goble Moore grew up during the space race of the 1960s but never fully grasped their mother’s role in it until years later. Hylick graduated from Hampton University and received a Master’s at Drexel University. She followed in her mother’s footsteps, working at NASA as a mathematician before taking a job with Lockheed Martin as a Senior Requirements Engineer. She lives today in Mount Laurel, New Jersey. After attending Bennett College and Hampton University, and receiving a Masters of Science in Information Systems from Montclair State University (formerly Montclair State College), Moore spent 33 years working in public education as an educator and guidance counselor in New Jersey. She currently resides in Greensboro, North Carolina. 

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR: Charnelle Pinkney Barlow, granddaughter of Caldecott-winning illustrator Jerry Pinkney, was surrounded by art as a child. Her passion for illustration grew after being introduced to the world of watercolors. She received her BFA in Illustration from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia and her MFA in Illustration as Visual Essay from the School of Visual Arts in New York City.
 
Follow Charnelle: Facebook | Instagram
 
 
 
GIVEAWAY
 
  • One (1) winner will receive a SIGNED hardcover copy of One Step Further.  The book will be signed by Katherine Johnson’s daughters and co-authors Joylette Hylick and Katherine Moore.
  • Check out the other four stops for more chances to win
  • US/Canada only
  • Ends 3/7/2021 at 11:59pm ET

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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diverse books
February 22, 2021
Mrs. G

Sleeping Bear Press New Book Series + A Giveaway!

Have you seen this new SBP Learning series of picture books from the publisher Sleeping Bear Press? It features nonfiction social justice topics like: anti-racism, equality and racial justice. Sleeping Bear Press is generously sponsoring this giveway for one (1) winner to receive a copy of two of the latest books in the series. Check out the synopsis below from the publisher to read more about these informative books and enter the giveaway for your chance to win. Good Luck!

Racial Justice in America: Topics for Change by Kelisa Wing, Hedreich Nichols, and Leigh Ann Erickson

Topics on race in America have been avoided in children’s education for too long–allowing racist systems to continue to thrive. Racial Justice in America: Topics for Change explores current questions around race in comprehensive, honest, and age-appropriate ways. Developed in conjunction with educator, advocate, and author Kelisa Wing to reach children of all races and encourage them to approach race issues with open eyes and minds.

Marching for Change: Movements Across America by Joyce Markovics

Millions of Americans have marched and protested to fight inequality and to bring about social change. These large gatherings, filled with powerful and courageous voices, have shined a light on important issues and resulted in new laws. This book covers some of the most famous marches in U.S. history–and encourages readers to stand up for the things they believe in.

THE GIVEAWAY!

Sleeping Bear Press Prize Pack Book Giveaway

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giveaways
February 18, 2021
Mrs. G

Muted by Tami Charles + A Giveaway!

Meet seventeen year-old Denver and her friends Dali and Shak. They are three high school friends who dream of escaping from their white hometown and becoming famous singers. The girls end up meeting one of the hottest R&B stars, Sean “Mercury” Ellis who takes them under his wing.

Muted is a young adult novel written completely in verse, and this is where this story excels. The format of the verse does an excellent job portraying Denver’s story. It has a diverse cast and an LBGTQ+ main character who is in love with her best friend. The ending of this book left me in complete shock…WOW! Check out the synopsis below from the publisher.

Synopsis
For seventeen-year-old Denver, music is everything. Writing, performing, and her ultimate goal: escaping her very small, very white hometown.

So Denver is more than ready on the day she and her best friends Dali and Shak sing their way into the orbit of the biggest R&B star in the world, Sean “Mercury” Ellis. Merc gives them everything: parties, perks, wild nights — plus hours and hours in the recording studio. Even the painful sacrifices and the lies the girls have to tell are all worth it.

Until they’re not.

Denver begins to realize that she’s trapped in Merc’s world, struggling to hold on to her own voice. As the dream turns into a nightmare, she must make a choice: lose her big break, or get broken.

Inspired by true events, Muted is a fearless exploration of the dark side of the music industry, the business of exploitation, how a girl’s dreams can be used against her — and what it takes to fight back.

About the Author
Tami Charles is a former teacher and full-time author of picture books, middle grade and young adult novels, and nonfiction. As a teacher, she made it her mission to introduce her students to all types of literature, but especially diverse books. While it was refreshing to see a better selection than what she was accustomed to as a child, Tami felt there weren’t nearly as many diverse books as she’d hoped for. It was then that she decided to reignite her passion for writing. Tami is the author of the middle grade novels Like Vanessa, Definitely Daphne, and Becoming Beatriz, and the picture book Freedom Soup.

The Giveaway!
Enter to win a Muted prize pack that includes:
1 copy of Muted by Tami Charles
1 wireless rechargeable bluetooth speaker
1 retro tape cassette wallet

Muted by Tami Charles

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STEM
February 3, 2021
Mrs. G

Seasons Change: Backyard Science Fun with Hero Elementary on PBS Kids

Tracking Pixel

Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Hero Elementary on PBS KIDS.

When you think of a hero, who do you think of? A doctor? A teacher? A firefighter? A character with superhuman powers, a mask, and a cape? Well, the truth is that heroes come in all forms, shapes, and sizes. They can be any gender, young, or more seasoned. In fact, some of the most heroic acts in the world have been performed by kids.

Children are born with innate “superpowers” and a natural curiosity about the world around them. That is why the Hero Elementary series on PBS KIDS is so great for STEM loving children ages 4 – 7. It challenges them to investigate, observe, make predictions, and figure out solutions to problems.

Hero Elementary stars a diverse team of Super Students called Sparks’ Crew: Lucita Sky, AJ Gadgets, Sara Snap, and Benny Bubbles, led by their quirky and enthusiastic teacher, Mr. Sparks. Together they help people, problem solve, and try to make the world a better place for everyone.

My kids love the show because it is filled with lots of age-appropriate superhero action! I appreciate the fact that it showcases valuable social-emotional concepts such as kindness and empathy that kids can apply to their everyday lives.

After watching an episode of Hero Elementary, we went to the PBS KIDS website to download their Make Your Own Bubble Mix printable. We experimented with making our own bubble mix and then went outside to have some backyard science fun since it was not too cold.

Then we had a brief discussion about why the seasons change and how families adapt to seasonal changes by wearing specific clothing during different seasons. For example: boots, hats, gloves, sandals, and bathing suits.  We also talked about why we adjust the temperature in our home and various outdoor seasonal recreational activities like swimming, hiking, and skiing.

In the weeks ahead, we will be getting ready to transition from winter to spring. Therefore, we also got a head start on planting a few seeds to grow indoors during the remaining weeks of the winter season. Hopefully, by spring our seeds will have sprouted into flowers and we can transfer them from our egg carton to a bigger pot. It will be interesting to watch as our seeds begin to change over time and talk about the stages of a plant life cycle.

Watching Hero Elementary can help children embrace their “Superpowers of Science” by combining science and literacy to build powerful learning. We enjoyed applying the lessons learned on screen in our backyard science adventure.

If you are homeschooling or if your kids are participating in distance or hybrid learning, Hero Elementary can be used to supplement core curriculum and extend science lessons into real life.  Give it a try!

You can watch Hero Elementary on PBS KIDS.  Check your local listings for showtimes or watch anytime on PBSKIDS.org or on the PBS KIDS video app.

This post is sponsored by Hero Elementary on PBS KIDS.

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Book Cover Reveals
January 23, 2021
Mrs. G

EXCLUSIVE COVER REVEAL My Busy, Busy Brain: The ABCDs of ADHD by Nicole Russell

Today I’m excited to reveal the cover of a forthcoming 2021 picture book for bestselling author Nicole Russell. In addition to being an author, Nicole is a lead advocate for mental health and the well-being of children. She serves as the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Precious Dreams Foundation, the non-profit teaching children in foster care and homeless shelters to self-comfort globally.

Publisher: Wise Ink Creative Publishing
On Sale Date: April 13, 2021
Written by: Nicole Russell, illustrated by: Antoinette Thomas
Reading Level: 5 – 8 years 
Grade Level: Kindergarten-Third Grade
Pages: 24
Link to Purchase: My Busy, Busy Brain: The ABCDs of ADHD

Synopsis
Nicole has ADHD and a busy, busy brain! Her special brain makes Nicole good at art, daydreaming, and exploring. Some days feel like a mental trip to outer space, on a rainbow carpet ride, with talking bumblebees . . . but sometimes, Nicole has a hard time concentrating in school. With a little courage, she learns how to get help for herself and use her voice to speak up for others.

My Busy, Busy Brain provides practical tools for children struggling with controlling their emotions, impulses, and concentration. This book is a beginner course for children curious about mental health and the challenges we feel but can’t see.

Short Summary: A resource for kids, parents, educators, and everyone else looking for insight into the experience of children with ADHD.

About the Author


Nicole Russell is a bestselling author and lead advocate for mental health and the well-being of children. She serves as the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Precious Dreams Foundation, the non-profit teaching children in foster care and homeless shelters to self-comfort globally. Russell uses her non-profit and creative tools to serve and advocate for youth through every aspect of her career.

Her bestselling self-help book, Everything a Band-aid Can’t Fix, is highly regarded as a must-have for teens everywhere and has been added to the curriculum of middle and high schools nationwide. Nicole’s accolades include GLAMOUR’s “Everyday Hero of the Year”, Observer’s “Top 20 Heroes Under 40”, Walmart’s “Community Playmaker Award” as well as a featured piece recognizing her efforts in O, The Oprah Magazine.

In 2020, Nicole was recognized by NBC and Essence as an essential hero for her efforts to serve and support the mental health needs of thousands of youth in the U.S. shelter system during the pandemic.

Nicole aspires to teach the world how to properly serve, with a focus on teaching young people how to advocate for themselves. My Busy, Busy Brain, Nicole’s first children’s book, is inspired by her personal experience with ADHD.

Connect with Nicole! Website | Instagram | Twitter

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Book Cover Reveals
January 21, 2021
Mrs. G

EXCLUSIVE COVER REVEAL: What’s Inside Your Backpack? by Jessica Sinarski + A Giveaway!

Today I’m excited to reveal the cover of a forthcoming 2021 picture book for one of my fellow bookish friends, Jessica Sinarski. You may be familiar with Jessica’s book Riley the Brave and her resource and training platform, Brave Brains. Her forthcoming book, What’s Inside Your Backpack? scheduled to publish February 4, 2021.

Publisher: National Center for Youth Issues
On Sale Date: February 4, 2021
Written by Jessica Sinarski illustrated by Joanne Lew Vriethoff
Reading Level: 4 – 7 years
Grade Level: Preschool – 2
Pages: 32

Synopsis
All around us, children are carrying backpacks that are heavy with more than just textbooks. Each day, they also bear the weight of difficult life experiences and intense feelings.

Zoey Harmon just wants to feel light-hearted and carefree. Unfortunately, she keeps getting weighed down by pesky “books” in her backpack, like Worry and Shame. Much to her surprise, she’s not the only one! Zoey learns that the adults in her life deal with difficult feelings too! Luckily, they have some ideas that can help her set aside the books she’s not meant to carry. Will it be enough to help her unload the heaviest book of all?

While there are no quick fixes for all of life’s complex problems, What’s Inside Your Backpack? highlights some of the ways we can nurture resilience in body and mind. Using the metaphor of books and bookmarks, author Jessica Sinarski offers gentle, effective strategies to help children impacted by trauma. By sharing their burdens with people they trust, kids can lighten their load and realize just how strong and courageous they really are!

About the Author
Jessica Sinarski, LPCMH equips parents and professionals to be healers for hurting children. Weaving user-friendly brain science into everything she does, Jessica ignites both passion and know-how in audiences. Extensive post-graduate training and 15+ years as a clinician, consultant, and parent educator led her to create BraveBrains, a resource and training platform for home, school, and community. She is also the author of the Riley the Brave picture books.

Jessica partners with school districts and child welfare agencies across the country to better incorporate effective trauma-sensitive practices into their work. She also shares her expertise as a contributor to magazines, blogs, and podcasts. When not writing and training, she continues to work as a bilingual therapist and clinical supervisor at an innovative adoption support agency. Jessica lives in Delaware with her husband and three busy boys. Find her on Instagram.

The Giveaway!
Jessica is giving away two copies of What’s Inside Your Backpack? to two lucky winners. Enter for your chance to win one of two copies below. Good Luck!

What’s Inside Your Backpack? Book Giveaway

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black history
January 19, 2021
Mrs. G

THE MUSEUM OF THE BLACK FAMILY: DOWNLOAD THIS BLACK HISTORY MONTH RESOURCE FOR KIDS AND ADULTS!

Black History is American History and should be celebrated and acknowledged all year, not just in February. Black History month reminds us that although there has been some progression over the years, there is still so much work that needs to be done. It’s a time to celebrate Black Joy, learn about Black inventors, scientists, and politicians. Read books not only about civil rights, but also read books about self-love and ones that showcase Black kids being everyday kids.

I hope you’ll enjoy this FREE resource and use with your little readers, your students or on your own. If you’re an educator, why not print a poster sized copy for your classroom and work on it with your students? Parents and caregivers can also enjoy using this resource in their homes.

To create this printable, I collaborated with Briana James of Artish Reader, a talented Art student. If you’ve been following me for a while, you may remember the first project Briana and I collaborated on for my 31 Days of Women’s History coloring sheet and The Mocha Express Holiday Reading Challenge.

I talked to Briana about my idea and concept and she used her creative genius to produce this printable that corresponds to the Black History Month Theme for 2021 which is The Black Family: Representation, Identity and Diversity. Get in touch with Briana, give her a follow on Instagram, and support her as she continues to build up her art portfolio. It’s always such a pleasure to work with her and help support another Black woman at the same time.

This coloring printable is a fun way to celebrate Black History Month. It features an array of influential Black/Afro-Latino/a celebrities, athletes, politicians, artists and activists from past and present. You can enjoy this coloring page printed in various sizes from 11 x 17 up to 24 X 36 if you’d like jumbo poster size.

Each day during the month of February (or any time of the year), color in person or object until the whole poster is complete. I designed this printable to be used starting February 1st (in the U.S.), but you can start using it any day throughout the year you choose.

The idea is to either read a book, do research, or work on a craft project about each person featured in the list. By the end of the challenge you should be more familiar with each person and their achievements.

If you need book recommendations throughout the challenge, I have created several categorized lists in my online Bookshop and Amazon stores to assist you. Also, if purchasing new or used books isn’t in your budget, be sure to utilize your local library.

Here are a few of my book lists to help get you started:

African-American Picture Books Featuring Males
African-American Picture Books Featuring Females
Latinx & Afro-Latino Picture Books

Happy Reading!

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THIS PRINTABLE! 

CHECK OUT MORE OF MY RESOURCES (INCLUDING MY POPULAR PRINTABLE READING JOURNAL and 28 DAYS OF BLACK HISTORY) ON MY TEACHER’S PAY TEACHERS WEBSITE AND GIVE ME A FOLLOW OVER THERE TOO.

AS ALWAYS, THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

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Board Books (0-3years)
January 15, 2021
Mrs. G

Keeping the Dream Alive: Celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. + Lakeshore Learning People Shapes Kit

This week marks the 92nd birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. and next week we celebrate a federal holiday in his honor. Even if you do nothing to celebrate or acknowledge Dr. King, I think the holiday is a great opportunity to talk to children about racism, diversity, equality, kindness, friendship, and peace.

Since his death in 1968, many have stepped up to carry on his legacy including: Stacey Abrams, Bryan Stevenson, Tamika D. Mallory and others. It has truly been inspiring to see so many new activists and politicians continuing to stand up and speak out against injustices the same way Dr. Kig did years ago.


Dr. King’s birthday allows me time to reflect on the words from the iconic “I Have a Dream” speech that took place at the March on Washington. When I listen to the speech, I begin to think about my own dreams for my children.  As parents and educators, we all want the best for our children, right?  In essence, we want them to be kind, smart, successful and to achieve all their life goals.

In celebration of Dr. King’s birthday, we enjoyed using our People Shapes™ Project Kit to create a banner of people from diverse backgrounds all joined together in unity holding hands.  One of my favorite things about products from Lakeshore Learning is they allow my kids to imagine, create and learn as they play and sometimes have open dialogue about real world issues.  While working on our banner we read a couple of books about Martin Luther King Jr., talked about the March on Washington and ways Dr. King’s work and sacrifice has had a lasting impact on our lives.

The People Shapes™ Project Kit can be used to create self-portraits, favorite storybook characters and more! You get 24 chipboard People Shapes in 12 People Colors®, plus cute felt outfits, craft hair, wiggly eyes, spangles, sequins, glue, craft sticks and more.

Cheers to you, Dr. King on your birthday in heaven!  Thank you for the opportunity to meditate on your message and your legacy. How are you keeping Dr. King’s dream alive with your family? Feel free to share in the comments.

You can use my Lakeshore Learning coupon code to get 25% off any single non-sale item. My coupon code is 6383. It can be used for purchases in-store or online.

Valid ‪through 1/31/21 for one-time use in stores or online. Limit one coupon per customer. Not valid on items with shipping restrictions. Other exclusions may apply. Visit http://bit.ly/3bRGxeZ for details.

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family fun
January 5, 2021
Mrs. G

Winter Snow Fun with Hero Elementary on PBS Kids

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Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Hero Elementary on PBS Kids.

I have two superpowers. I disappear into books and I am a book recommender! When some people are not sure what to read, they turn to me: the book recommender. I can use my mind and reading skills to take a journey through your reading history and think up the perfect next read for you.  Everyone has a superpower even though each person’s strength is different. What superpowers do you have?

Have you heard of the show Hero Elementary on PBS KIDS?  Hero Elementary is an animated STEM series designed to give kids important tools to help them solve problems by encouraging them to act like scientists.  It is also filled with fun, age-appropriate superhero action geared towards kids ages 4 to 7.

I love that the show features a diverse group of Super Students who are all learning to master their Superpowers of Science.

The main cast includes:

  • Lucita Sky: a Latina girl who can fly; ironically, she is also afraid of heights.
  • Sara Snap: An Asian American girl who has two powers: teleportation and super-strength.
  • Benny Bubbles: A Caucasian boy with the ability to generate forcefield-like bubbles. Benny’s also an animal lover.
  • AJ Gadgets: an African-American boy with the ability to project his thoughts visibly to others (dubbed “thought projection”). AJ’s also an avid inventor, and on the autism spectrum.
  • Mr. Sparks: a Latino man who’s the students’ teacher. He does not seem to have any superpowers, but still can teach superheroes-in-training.
  • Fur Blur: the class pet; she is a hamster with super-speed.

After watching the “Snowy Journey” episode of Hero Elementary, we were inspired by Sparks’ Crew and read books about snow and did a few snowman activities using construction paper and ice.  My kids enjoyed making different observations about what happens to ice in the heat as it started to melt.    

We also learned why snow is the color white and talked about some animals that hibernate in the winter.  Hibernation was a topic covered in the Hero Elementary episode “Snowy Journey” so it was a nice way to tie it back to things that were discussed in the show.  (Do you see our book snowman pictured here in the background?  We had fun making that together!)

Hero Elementary goes beyond just showing kids how science is present in everyday life, it empowers them to make a difference in their own backyards and beyond by actively doing science.  I would highly recommend this animated series for any young budding scientists and fans of superheroes.  Also, if you are homeschooling or if your kids are participating in distance or hybrid learning, Hero Elementary can be used to supplement core curriculum and extend science lessons into real life.  Give it a try!

You can watch Hero Elementary on PBS KIDS.  Check your local listings for showtimes or watch anytime on PBSKIDS.org or on the PBS KIDS video app!

This post is sponsored by Hero Elementary on PBS KIDS.

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Uncategorized
January 1, 2021
Mrs. G

New Year, New Goals: My 2021 Blogging/Social Media Goals

Hello 2021!

I woke up this morning with a grateful heart feeling overful thankful for making it through the year 2020. What a year it was on SO many levels! I’m thankful me and my family are all healthy, safe and provided for. That’s all that truly matters to me when you put everything else in perspective.

As I’ve mentioned in previous years, I’ve never been a big New Year’s Resolution person, but rather a goals oriented person. Whenever I set out out to achieve a specific goal, I try not to put too much pressure on myself if don’t hit it. I’ve learned to give myself grace and revisit your visions, habits, and goals at any point during the year if I choose to. We are ever-evolving and we’re allowed to fail, make mistates, make a mess and start all over again.

This year I am BOLDLY sharing a few of my blogging and social media goals.  I enjoy using the New Year as an excuse to start fresh with a new boost of energy and motivation.  I’m setting several goalsfor myself this year for work, my personal life and my personal development and I’m really excited to see where the year takes me!

Here are a few of my blogging goals for 2021 as they currently stand (in no particular order):

  • Grow my blog traffic to 50,000+ unique visitors a month (Blog Traffic/Followers)
  • Upgrade my blog layout (Content Creation/Organization)
  • Increase my podcast downloads to 50,000+ Here Wee Read: A Bookish Podcast (Podcast Goals)
  • Gain 6 podcast sponsorships/brand partners for my podcast Here Wee Read: A Bookish Podcast (Podcast Goals)
  • Be Recognized as Podcast of the Year or win an award for my podcast Here Wee Read: A Bookish Podcast (Podcast Goals)
  • Interview Kadir Nelson on my podcast Here Wee Read: A Bookish Podcast (Podcast Goals)
  • Grow my e-mail subscriber list to 20,000+ subscribers
  • Write blog posts at least 3-4 times per week (Content Creation/Organization)
  • Increase my Instagram followers to 500,000+ (Blog Traffic/Followers)
  • Incorporate more lifestyle, family and travel content into my blog and social posts (Content Creation/Organization)
  • Revive/Refresh my newsletter and publish content more consistently for my subscribers (Content Creation/Organization)
  • Be a guest on at least 4 podcasts (one podcast per quarter)
  • Provide more FREE and PAID content to my audience (printables, worksheets, etc.)
  • Participate in 2 – 3 PAID/sponsored post/brand collaborations per month (Blog Monetization)
  • Sign up for and participate in three additional affiliate programs (Blog Monetization)
  • Create an organized master content list filled with content ideas for blog and social posts (Content Creation/Organization)
  • Focus more on Pinterest to increase and drive more traffic to my blog
  • Increase my Pinterest followers to 5,000+ (Blog Traffic/Followers)
  • Increase my Facebook followers to 10,000+ (Blog Traffic/Followers)
  • Increase my Twitter followers to 8,000+ (Blog Traffic/Followers)
  • Track ALL of my income and expenses so I’ll have a clear picture of how much my blog/social income was this year.

I already have all of these goals (and more) written down in my 2021 planner from Cultivate What Matters, but sharing them somehow makes me feel even more committed to them.  Note: The goals listed here are just general goals I jotted down, but in my planner each goal is a S.M.A.R.T. goal with timelines/deadlines against each one.

If you have a blog or are thinking of starting one this year, I hope this post inspires you to set some goals for yourself.  Write down your goals somewhere where you’ll see them regularly, for example on your blog notebook or on a memo board in your office. Seeing goals regularly and thinking about them often, will help you stay on top of them.  Cheers to a fantastic and productive 2021!

Your turn: Do you write all of your goals down at the start of a new year and reflect on them throughout the year?  Feel free to share in the comments.

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