Make Way for Ducklings
Robert McCloskey
The Viking Press (1969)
From what I can gather, need two is similar to need one, but added to that is books that help children learn about love, about family relationships, and about what it means to be a family.
I am still glowing from our family Christamas celebration. In fact, as I write this my step-daughters, Lily and Susannah, and Lily's boyfriend are sleeping in our living room. We are tired from late night games and chatting, and Mirette is still bouncing around excited to have everyone here. Our tree is twinkling and I am glad for Christmas and Hanukah (we celebrate both), for having such a great family, and for the people that love up Mirette.
Make Way for Ducklings is a special book for us because it was a gift from Mirette's sisters when she was first born. It is about family and love, mom and dad looking for a safe and comfortable place to live, having fun together, getting help from others, and protecting your young from danger. It's about sisters, brothers, and community. And c'mon, who doesn't like to say Jack, Kack, Lack, Mack, Nack, Ouack, Pack, and Quack.
Robert McCloskey (1914-2003) wrote other well-known books such as Lentil and Blueberries for Sal (books we have yet to dig into).
In Boston you can find a climable sculpture of Mrs. Mallard and her ducklings and a Make Way for Ducklings annual parade where kids can dress as their favorite character http://www.schon.com/public/ducklings-boston.php.
McCloskey was into exact renderings of his animals. Much to the chagrin of his office mate, he brought ducks to his art studio and drew them in every pose imaginable! Here's the link to a biography written by his daughter Jane: http://www.amazon.com/Robert-McCloskey-Private-Words-Pictures/dp/0978689968/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&qid=1325535538&sr=8-12
Monday, December 26, 2011
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Need for Security: Owl Babies
Owl Babies
Author: Martin Waddell
Illustrator: Patrick Benson
Candlewick Press (1992)
I've been eagerly plowing through the ninth edition of Children and Books by Zena Sutherland feeling like I'm in some self-imposed college course.
Chapter one talks about what NEEDS are fulfilled by a child reading a book. There are seven needs and I decided to find seven books from our shelves that meet the criteria for each need. (of course, as part of this exercise they all had to be books I would recommend with gusto, a much harder task). Here goes part one:
Need One: The Need for Security. It does seem like so many of the books we read to Mirette have security as part of their theme. The majority of books for kids her age ends with a child or animal being tucked in safely to bed. Owl Babies is seemingly on every book list for young children and with good reason: it is the quintessential book on security. Sarah and Percy and Bill are worrying about their mom's return. "Where's Mommy?" asked Sarah; "Oh my goodness!" said Percy; "I want my mommy!" said Bill. And at last, SHE CAME.
In addition to the fact that the words are lots of fun (Mirette has this book memorized, especially the repeated line, "I want my mommy"), the illustrations are gorgeous, dark, and striking.
Martin Waddell is an Irish guy, who turned from a career in football to writing (one of his stories was turned into a movie). As most of our authors, he has a fascinating life--including being in a building when it was bombed and surviving cancer. Here's a his bio: http://www.walker.co.uk/contributors/Martin-Waddell-1811.aspx and a sweet video of him reading a book: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QfrtcVSfoUI.
Patrick Benson lives in England and has illustrated many books, including the Hob Stories (which is a beloved book from my husband's childhood). Here's an interview to find out more: http://www.bl.uk/onlinegallery/features/magicpencil/learning_benson_interview_1.html
Author: Martin Waddell
Illustrator: Patrick Benson
Candlewick Press (1992)
I've been eagerly plowing through the ninth edition of Children and Books by Zena Sutherland feeling like I'm in some self-imposed college course.
Chapter one talks about what NEEDS are fulfilled by a child reading a book. There are seven needs and I decided to find seven books from our shelves that meet the criteria for each need. (of course, as part of this exercise they all had to be books I would recommend with gusto, a much harder task). Here goes part one:
Need One: The Need for Security. It does seem like so many of the books we read to Mirette have security as part of their theme. The majority of books for kids her age ends with a child or animal being tucked in safely to bed. Owl Babies is seemingly on every book list for young children and with good reason: it is the quintessential book on security. Sarah and Percy and Bill are worrying about their mom's return. "Where's Mommy?" asked Sarah; "Oh my goodness!" said Percy; "I want my mommy!" said Bill. And at last, SHE CAME.
In addition to the fact that the words are lots of fun (Mirette has this book memorized, especially the repeated line, "I want my mommy"), the illustrations are gorgeous, dark, and striking.
Martin Waddell is an Irish guy, who turned from a career in football to writing (one of his stories was turned into a movie). As most of our authors, he has a fascinating life--including being in a building when it was bombed and surviving cancer. Here's a his bio: http://www.walker.co.uk/contributors/Martin-Waddell-1811.aspx and a sweet video of him reading a book: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QfrtcVSfoUI.
Patrick Benson lives in England and has illustrated many books, including the Hob Stories (which is a beloved book from my husband's childhood). Here's an interview to find out more: http://www.bl.uk/onlinegallery/features/magicpencil/learning_benson_interview_1.html
Book of the Day: Trouble with Trolls
Trouble With Trolls
Jan Brett
Puffin Books (1992)
Seriously? Jan Brett is from Massachusettes? I had assumed she was from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, or Antarctic. I was sure she was a man with a name pronounced Yan, distant relative of Thor.
Her books have such a lovely sense of place. Even as an adult, I feel transported to a different time and setting. One biography depicted her pictures as lavish. I think that's definitely true. There's the story and then there's a needlepoint border with all kinds of things happening on the edges. One could stare at this book for hours and never see it all. I remember loving books like this when I was a kid.
As for Mirette, it's a little much for her to take in, so we mostly stick to the main story. She'll tug on my arm and say, "mommy, turn the page" which I ever so reluctantly do.
Jan Brett does book tours on a giant bus with her husband and pet hedgehog. She's a serious chicken-raiser, has a husband who plays for the Boston Symphony, and takes an entire year to write one book. She travels to the places that her books are set in, looking for fine details that will help the reader connect. Also, she thinks of smells and sounds while she is writing. She has a great blog:http://janbrettsblog.com/ and an even better website: http://www.janbrett.com/index.html
The website has tons and tons of activities such as making hedgehog cookies and place mats for Christmas as well as lots of how to draw videos.
To learn more about Jan Brett and see her mind in action (and let me tell you, it's fascinating), check out this video about The Night Before Christmas: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZSQ6exsfIM
Jan Brett
Puffin Books (1992)
Seriously? Jan Brett is from Massachusettes? I had assumed she was from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, or Antarctic. I was sure she was a man with a name pronounced Yan, distant relative of Thor.
Her books have such a lovely sense of place. Even as an adult, I feel transported to a different time and setting. One biography depicted her pictures as lavish. I think that's definitely true. There's the story and then there's a needlepoint border with all kinds of things happening on the edges. One could stare at this book for hours and never see it all. I remember loving books like this when I was a kid.
As for Mirette, it's a little much for her to take in, so we mostly stick to the main story. She'll tug on my arm and say, "mommy, turn the page" which I ever so reluctantly do.
Jan Brett does book tours on a giant bus with her husband and pet hedgehog. She's a serious chicken-raiser, has a husband who plays for the Boston Symphony, and takes an entire year to write one book. She travels to the places that her books are set in, looking for fine details that will help the reader connect. Also, she thinks of smells and sounds while she is writing. She has a great blog:http://janbrettsblog.com/ and an even better website: http://www.janbrett.com/index.html
The website has tons and tons of activities such as making hedgehog cookies and place mats for Christmas as well as lots of how to draw videos.
To learn more about Jan Brett and see her mind in action (and let me tell you, it's fascinating), check out this video about The Night Before Christmas: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZSQ6exsfIM
Book of the Day: Suki's Kimono
Suki's Kimono
Author: Chieri Uegaki
Illustrator: Stephane Jorisch
Kids Can Press (2003)
Books can make a difference in dispelling prejudice and building community: not with role models and literal recipes, not with noble messages about the human family, but with enthralling stories that make us imagine the lives of others. A good story lets you know people as individuals in all their particularity and conflict; and once you see someone as a person---flawed, complex, striving--then you've reached beyond stereotype. Stories, writing them, telling them, sharing them, transforming them, enrich us and connect us and help us know each other.
Hazel Rochman, Against Borders: Promoting Books for a Multicultrual World (Chicago: Booklist Publications/American Library Association Books 1993) pp. 9,19
Quoted in Children and Books: Ninth Edition by Zena Sutherland
We have a storytime hour at our local book shop. The storyteller is a wonderful young man who always picks amazing books about diversity.
It is my hope to introduce Mirette to many different cultures and ways of life. I want to travel as a family and pass on my love of adventure. For me, that includes meeting people from all walks of life.
Suki's Kimono is a great story about a girl who insists upon wearing her kimono to the first day of school. Her sister and classmates make fun of her, but she sticks to her convictions and wins the class over!
The author, ChieriUegaki, is a second generations Japanese-Canadian. The book is about her relationship with her grandmother. This is her first children's book. I don't know about you, but I can't wait to read more!
The most interesting tid-bits about Stephane Jorisch is that he is a man (I thought he was a woman) and also that he designed sets for Cirque de Soleil.
Author: Chieri Uegaki
Illustrator: Stephane Jorisch
Kids Can Press (2003)
Books can make a difference in dispelling prejudice and building community: not with role models and literal recipes, not with noble messages about the human family, but with enthralling stories that make us imagine the lives of others. A good story lets you know people as individuals in all their particularity and conflict; and once you see someone as a person---flawed, complex, striving--then you've reached beyond stereotype. Stories, writing them, telling them, sharing them, transforming them, enrich us and connect us and help us know each other.
Hazel Rochman, Against Borders: Promoting Books for a Multicultrual World (Chicago: Booklist Publications/American Library Association Books 1993) pp. 9,19
Quoted in Children and Books: Ninth Edition by Zena Sutherland
We have a storytime hour at our local book shop. The storyteller is a wonderful young man who always picks amazing books about diversity.
It is my hope to introduce Mirette to many different cultures and ways of life. I want to travel as a family and pass on my love of adventure. For me, that includes meeting people from all walks of life.
Suki's Kimono is a great story about a girl who insists upon wearing her kimono to the first day of school. Her sister and classmates make fun of her, but she sticks to her convictions and wins the class over!
The author, ChieriUegaki, is a second generations Japanese-Canadian. The book is about her relationship with her grandmother. This is her first children's book. I don't know about you, but I can't wait to read more!
The most interesting tid-bits about Stephane Jorisch is that he is a man (I thought he was a woman) and also that he designed sets for Cirque de Soleil.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Book of the Day: A Very Special House
A Very Special House
Author: Ruth Krauss
Illustrator: Maurice Sendak
Haper Collins (1953)
We have been reading a lot of books lately and so many of them are delightful. I've only covered the tiniest fraction of great children's literature and I feel overwhelmed by all the wonderous books I am leaving out. I have to remember that this is OUR journey with books, the ones we seek out and the ones we stumble across and there is no way to include every amazing author and illustrator.
Like most people, I've read The Carrot Seed by Ruth Krauss many times, but I haven't been too familiar with the rest of her body of work. I took A Very Special House out from the library for Mirette and we've read it every night since. It is such a fun read.
I really like books that play with language and this definitely fits the bill. Here's my favorite playful passage: I know a house---
I'ts not a squirrel house
it's not a donkey house
--just like I said--
and it's not up on a mountain
and it's not down in a valley
and it's not down in a hole
and it's not down in our ally
and it's not up in a tree
or underneath the bed--
oh it's right in the middle--
oh it's ret in the meedle--
ohe it's root in the moodle of my head head head
The pages are all yellow with ink drawings and a blue and white boy prancing all over the pages, distinctly Maurice Sendak!
Ruth Krauss (1901-1993) wrote around 40 books for kids. Just like Margaret Wise Brown, she was part of the Writer's Laboratory at the Bank Street School. Some of her books were illustrated by her husband Crockett Johnson and eight were illustrated by Maurice Sendak. She also wrote poetry for adults.
There is not much about Ruth Krauss on the internet. Here's a photo of her and a short bio: http://www.lib.usm.edu/~degrum/html/research/findaids/DG0569f.html, but I am left wondering--who is she really?
As for Maurice Sendak, let's save him for another day!
Author: Ruth Krauss
Illustrator: Maurice Sendak
Haper Collins (1953)
We have been reading a lot of books lately and so many of them are delightful. I've only covered the tiniest fraction of great children's literature and I feel overwhelmed by all the wonderous books I am leaving out. I have to remember that this is OUR journey with books, the ones we seek out and the ones we stumble across and there is no way to include every amazing author and illustrator.
Like most people, I've read The Carrot Seed by Ruth Krauss many times, but I haven't been too familiar with the rest of her body of work. I took A Very Special House out from the library for Mirette and we've read it every night since. It is such a fun read.
I really like books that play with language and this definitely fits the bill. Here's my favorite playful passage: I know a house---
I'ts not a squirrel house
it's not a donkey house
--just like I said--
and it's not up on a mountain
and it's not down in a valley
and it's not down in a hole
and it's not down in our ally
and it's not up in a tree
or underneath the bed--
oh it's right in the middle--
oh it's ret in the meedle--
ohe it's root in the moodle of my head head head
The pages are all yellow with ink drawings and a blue and white boy prancing all over the pages, distinctly Maurice Sendak!
Ruth Krauss (1901-1993) wrote around 40 books for kids. Just like Margaret Wise Brown, she was part of the Writer's Laboratory at the Bank Street School. Some of her books were illustrated by her husband Crockett Johnson and eight were illustrated by Maurice Sendak. She also wrote poetry for adults.
There is not much about Ruth Krauss on the internet. Here's a photo of her and a short bio: http://www.lib.usm.edu/~degrum/html/research/findaids/DG0569f.html, but I am left wondering--who is she really?
As for Maurice Sendak, let's save him for another day!
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Harried Holidays
I have this notion that I will write nine posts a month. But this month, I can barely get a thing done. The holiday season is so stressful. There are playdates, ornament-making parties, Chanukah on the horizon, thater producations, the flu, gift-buying, charity-giving, preschool parties, and lots of energy going outward. On top of this, I had a weird ailment and, although not serious, I had to run around and get a variety of tests, coordinated with a lot of babysitting hours.
Sometimes just getting through the day is all I can accomplish, let alone write a blog post.
Still there is something rather comforting in my commitment to this blog. Besides exercise, it is my only other personal commitment that is for me. Writing makes me feel good. It soothes me. But more importantly, it is the actual act of sitting down and using my brain in this way--of researching and ambling around the internet with a focus---that makes me feel, well, useful! Funny thing is that I haven't done a darn thing to find readers, so I often joke that it is just me doing this for me--with the occasional person that reads a post or two.
I guess what I am trying to say, in this long-winded way of mine, is that I wonder WHY I am writing this blog that no one reads? Is it this hunch I have that someone, somewhere will find this useful? Or that I will be discovered and mom's everywhere will be running to buy this in book form? Or perhaps it is just the ZEN act of writing it because it is fun and interesting?
Anyway, one thing that I have been noticing is the link between holiday activties and books. For instance, my step-daughter and I took Mirette to the Teddy Bear Suite, a room in a fancy hotel filled with velvet and teddy bears, and there on the table were books about teddy bears. Another day we visited Santa's cabin and there was a basket filled with Santa books. Mostly, we don't have time to read these books, but I do think it's pretty cool that books can compliment almost any experience.
Another great thing about books is that they help our children handle the overstimulation of the holiday season. There have been many times in the past weeks, that we've chilled out by our tree with a pile of books. It forms a safe haven from the whirlwind of our busy lives.
Sometimes just getting through the day is all I can accomplish, let alone write a blog post.
Still there is something rather comforting in my commitment to this blog. Besides exercise, it is my only other personal commitment that is for me. Writing makes me feel good. It soothes me. But more importantly, it is the actual act of sitting down and using my brain in this way--of researching and ambling around the internet with a focus---that makes me feel, well, useful! Funny thing is that I haven't done a darn thing to find readers, so I often joke that it is just me doing this for me--with the occasional person that reads a post or two.
I guess what I am trying to say, in this long-winded way of mine, is that I wonder WHY I am writing this blog that no one reads? Is it this hunch I have that someone, somewhere will find this useful? Or that I will be discovered and mom's everywhere will be running to buy this in book form? Or perhaps it is just the ZEN act of writing it because it is fun and interesting?
Anyway, one thing that I have been noticing is the link between holiday activties and books. For instance, my step-daughter and I took Mirette to the Teddy Bear Suite, a room in a fancy hotel filled with velvet and teddy bears, and there on the table were books about teddy bears. Another day we visited Santa's cabin and there was a basket filled with Santa books. Mostly, we don't have time to read these books, but I do think it's pretty cool that books can compliment almost any experience.
Another great thing about books is that they help our children handle the overstimulation of the holiday season. There have been many times in the past weeks, that we've chilled out by our tree with a pile of books. It forms a safe haven from the whirlwind of our busy lives.
Book of the Day: Puppies, Pussycats, and Other Friends
Puppies, Pussycats, and Other Friends
Gyo Fujikawa
Grosset and Dunlop (1975)
Everyone should have an Aunt Marni. Our Aunt Marni is not a blood relative, but a dear friend that took on her role as Mirette's Auntie with gusto. We don't have much family near by and the ones that are close don't have the time or energy to have a relationship with a toddler (major exception is Steve's two daughters who are Mirette's other BFF's). The rest of em' love her, but from afar. What was once a source of sadness, has created the opportunity for other wonderful people to fill in these roles.
When Aunt Marni comes to call, Mirette pulls her away and they play for hours. I think she has no idea that Aunt Marni is actually an adult. When she comes, she often brings something along. Her little gifts are well thought out and often become our favorite toys round here. For example, once she brought a bag of tiny teddy bears in four different colors. They have been played with so much. Another time she brought a paper house that has little doors and windows that open.
Aunt Mari loves the illustrations of Gyo Fujikawa and brought Mirette the book Puppies, Pussycats and Other Friends. Gyo's children have big round heads and are very friendly-looking. She makes excellent use of alliteration such as :Wouldn't you like to have a furry, fuzzy, feathery or slithery-smooth friend?" . She also keeps it very simple and clear---"some animal friends are very small like fishes and frogs." Our favorite page is one where seven beatuful kids are standing in the grass, each with an small animal atop their heads.
What Gyo Fujikawa, who died in 1988, is most known for is featuring children of many ethnicities (rare at the time). She also created several postage stamps. Here's an article in celebration:
http://ala.org/ala/aboutala/offices/diversity/versed/versedbackissues/september2005a/fujikawa.cfm
Gyo Fujikawa
Grosset and Dunlop (1975)
Everyone should have an Aunt Marni. Our Aunt Marni is not a blood relative, but a dear friend that took on her role as Mirette's Auntie with gusto. We don't have much family near by and the ones that are close don't have the time or energy to have a relationship with a toddler (major exception is Steve's two daughters who are Mirette's other BFF's). The rest of em' love her, but from afar. What was once a source of sadness, has created the opportunity for other wonderful people to fill in these roles.
When Aunt Marni comes to call, Mirette pulls her away and they play for hours. I think she has no idea that Aunt Marni is actually an adult. When she comes, she often brings something along. Her little gifts are well thought out and often become our favorite toys round here. For example, once she brought a bag of tiny teddy bears in four different colors. They have been played with so much. Another time she brought a paper house that has little doors and windows that open.
Aunt Mari loves the illustrations of Gyo Fujikawa and brought Mirette the book Puppies, Pussycats and Other Friends. Gyo's children have big round heads and are very friendly-looking. She makes excellent use of alliteration such as :Wouldn't you like to have a furry, fuzzy, feathery or slithery-smooth friend?" . She also keeps it very simple and clear---"some animal friends are very small like fishes and frogs." Our favorite page is one where seven beatuful kids are standing in the grass, each with an small animal atop their heads.
What Gyo Fujikawa, who died in 1988, is most known for is featuring children of many ethnicities (rare at the time). She also created several postage stamps. Here's an article in celebration:
http://ala.org/ala/aboutala/offices/diversity/versed/versedbackissues/september2005a/fujikawa.cfm
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
I feel, When, Because. . .
Poor Mirette--her mom (that's me) is a School Counselor. With that profession comes a library of books about feelings. I can just see the future me pestering Mirette about her feelings or asking her to use an I statement. I can also see her rolling her eyes in response, wishing she had a mom that had some other less annoying career.
Alas, here are some of our favorite books about feelings.
How Are You Peeling? Foods with Moods
by Saxton Freymann and Joost Elffers
Scholastic Press (1999)
No, peeling is not a typo. Saxton and Joost found funny-looking fruits and veggies at markets around New York and carved faces into them. It's a fun and funny way to explore feelings. Here's a great interview with Saxton Freymann:
http://www.pbs.org/wnet/egg/302/playfood/interview_content_1.html
C is for Curious
by Woodleigh Hubbard
Chronicle Books (1990)
This wasn't a particularly favorite book of mine, but Mirette frequently requested it. The more we read it, the more I started to appreciate the art. It's really a gorgeous and unique book with large, friendly pictures. Apparently, her art has been said to be Picasso and Miro-like.
My favorite letter is X for xenophobic--just try explaining that one to a two year old.
Woodleigh Hubbard's website is pretty cool: http://www.woodleighhubbard.com/. In addition to lovely stories about how she became an illustrator and all the people who told her she sucked along the way, she sells jewlery (though I'm not exactly sure how one buys it), and has a website Women of Vision, Creativity and Courage. She loves connecting with children and her artwork is in a variety of places including the Guggenheim and the Smithsonian.
My Many Colored Days:
Author: Dr. Seuss Illustrator: Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher
Alfred A. Knopf (1996)
This was created post-humorously after Dr. Seuss died. I have read this, with much success, to many kindergarten classrooms.
Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher are an illustrating team. Lou Fancher is a woman, but as far as I can tell they are not a couple. It's very unusual to illustrate together, I wonder how they do it? Here's a little information on them (truthfully though, I only skimmed this because I am utterly tired this evening):
http://www.ourwhitehouse.org/contribbios/fancher-johnson.html
Sometimes I Feel Like a Mouse
Author: Jeanne Modesitt Illustrator: Robin Spowart
Scholastic (1992)
This book has soft pastel illustrations with a dreamy feel to them. The words are fun to act out.
It seems that neither the author or the illustrator has a website or any interesting links, but I did find out that they are a husband/wife team.
When Emily Woke Up Angry
by Riana Duncan
Barron's Educational Series (1989)
This book is another favorite of mine. I dropped it in a puddle many years ago, so it is stained throughout, but still has managed to delight many children. When I read it to classes, we act out all the pages and it's lots of fun. I did this in a modified way with Mirette and it was a real hit.
There is nothing on Riana Duncan, so you'll have to trust me on this one! Thankfully I kept my frayed, puddle-splashed book--it may be a collector's item.
Alas, here are some of our favorite books about feelings.
How Are You Peeling? Foods with Moods
by Saxton Freymann and Joost Elffers
Scholastic Press (1999)
No, peeling is not a typo. Saxton and Joost found funny-looking fruits and veggies at markets around New York and carved faces into them. It's a fun and funny way to explore feelings. Here's a great interview with Saxton Freymann:
http://www.pbs.org/wnet/egg/302/playfood/interview_content_1.html
C is for Curious
by Woodleigh Hubbard
Chronicle Books (1990)
This wasn't a particularly favorite book of mine, but Mirette frequently requested it. The more we read it, the more I started to appreciate the art. It's really a gorgeous and unique book with large, friendly pictures. Apparently, her art has been said to be Picasso and Miro-like.
My favorite letter is X for xenophobic--just try explaining that one to a two year old.
Woodleigh Hubbard's website is pretty cool: http://www.woodleighhubbard.com/. In addition to lovely stories about how she became an illustrator and all the people who told her she sucked along the way, she sells jewlery (though I'm not exactly sure how one buys it), and has a website Women of Vision, Creativity and Courage. She loves connecting with children and her artwork is in a variety of places including the Guggenheim and the Smithsonian.
My Many Colored Days:
Author: Dr. Seuss Illustrator: Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher
Alfred A. Knopf (1996)
This was created post-humorously after Dr. Seuss died. I have read this, with much success, to many kindergarten classrooms.
Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher are an illustrating team. Lou Fancher is a woman, but as far as I can tell they are not a couple. It's very unusual to illustrate together, I wonder how they do it? Here's a little information on them (truthfully though, I only skimmed this because I am utterly tired this evening):
http://www.ourwhitehouse.org/contribbios/fancher-johnson.html
Sometimes I Feel Like a Mouse
Author: Jeanne Modesitt Illustrator: Robin Spowart
Scholastic (1992)
This book has soft pastel illustrations with a dreamy feel to them. The words are fun to act out.
It seems that neither the author or the illustrator has a website or any interesting links, but I did find out that they are a husband/wife team.
When Emily Woke Up Angry
by Riana Duncan
Barron's Educational Series (1989)
This book is another favorite of mine. I dropped it in a puddle many years ago, so it is stained throughout, but still has managed to delight many children. When I read it to classes, we act out all the pages and it's lots of fun. I did this in a modified way with Mirette and it was a real hit.
There is nothing on Riana Duncan, so you'll have to trust me on this one! Thankfully I kept my frayed, puddle-splashed book--it may be a collector's item.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
We love George and Martha!
" If one of James's most remarkable attributes was his genius for friendship, then George and Martha are the quintessential expression of that genius. Those dear, ditzy, down-to-earth hippos bring serious pleasure to everybody, not only to children. They are time-capsule hippos who will always remind us of a paradise in publishing and -- both seriously and comically -- of the true, durable meaning of friendship under the best and worst conditions." Maurice Sendak
WE LOVE GEORGE AND MARTHA
Who doesn't?
Mirette found the complete George and Martha stories on my niece's book shelf. "Ella," I said, "you have George and Martha on your book shelf" "I LOVE George and Martha," Ella replied.
"What should we get Mirette for Hanukah?" my sister asked later. "How about the complete George and Martha stories," I replied. My two sisters simultaneously said, "Oh, we LOVE George and Martha."
Why does everyone love the story of two big ol' hippos?
For me, I think it's because George and Martha operate on two levels: kids love the books. The hippos are sweet, friendly and loving. But it is also such a parable for how we interact as adults. For instance, one of the stories is about split pea soup. Martha keeps making George split pea soup. He hates it, but keeps eating it--just to be polite. Martha catches him putting the soup in his shoe and reveals that she also hates split pea soup and won't make it anymore. In another similar vignette (for they do seem to be written in that form) George buys Martha a clock. The sound annoys her and she puts it in the bottom of her laundry basket. George find it and wonders how it got there. Martha feels horrible and asks him if he wants to keep it for her for a while. Martha is happy because she doesn't have the annoying alarm clock. George is happy because he does. How many of us have had similar experiences? I know I have.
My mom once got me a subscription to a magazine I didn't read or like. I didn't say anything to be polite. The next year, I got a card saying that my subscription had been renewed. The next year, I finally got my courage up to tell my ma that she was wasting her money.
Another vignette I love is when Martha gets mad at George for spraying her with a hose. Martha decides not to talk to George, but then keeps thinking of funny things she wants to tell him. Um, I have been there with my husband. Occasionally, I've been so mad at him, I've sworn that we are no longer going to speak ever again. A few hours later, I think of something that I want to talk to him about. Oh wait, we're in a fight. I can't. A few more hours, I start dreaming of that romantic dinner we want to have. Wait. I hate him. I feel my resolve for hatred withering and by evening all I want is for this ridiculous fight to be over.
James Marshall (1942-1992) illustrated a gazillion books and has several other popular series like The Cut-ups (though I happen to think George and Martha is the best of his work). George and Martha are named after the characters from Edward Albee's play Who's Afraid of Virginia Wolf. While reading these fine books look for his signature style--pictures of fat cats and piles of things about to fall over. Marshall died prematurely of a brain tumor at the age of 50.
For a lovely memorial to James Marshall by his friend Maurice Sendak, go to this site (or see quote at the top of this posting):
http://www.nytimes.com/books/97/11/16/bookend/bookend.html
WE LOVE GEORGE AND MARTHA
Who doesn't?
Mirette found the complete George and Martha stories on my niece's book shelf. "Ella," I said, "you have George and Martha on your book shelf" "I LOVE George and Martha," Ella replied.
"What should we get Mirette for Hanukah?" my sister asked later. "How about the complete George and Martha stories," I replied. My two sisters simultaneously said, "Oh, we LOVE George and Martha."
Why does everyone love the story of two big ol' hippos?
For me, I think it's because George and Martha operate on two levels: kids love the books. The hippos are sweet, friendly and loving. But it is also such a parable for how we interact as adults. For instance, one of the stories is about split pea soup. Martha keeps making George split pea soup. He hates it, but keeps eating it--just to be polite. Martha catches him putting the soup in his shoe and reveals that she also hates split pea soup and won't make it anymore. In another similar vignette (for they do seem to be written in that form) George buys Martha a clock. The sound annoys her and she puts it in the bottom of her laundry basket. George find it and wonders how it got there. Martha feels horrible and asks him if he wants to keep it for her for a while. Martha is happy because she doesn't have the annoying alarm clock. George is happy because he does. How many of us have had similar experiences? I know I have.
My mom once got me a subscription to a magazine I didn't read or like. I didn't say anything to be polite. The next year, I got a card saying that my subscription had been renewed. The next year, I finally got my courage up to tell my ma that she was wasting her money.
Another vignette I love is when Martha gets mad at George for spraying her with a hose. Martha decides not to talk to George, but then keeps thinking of funny things she wants to tell him. Um, I have been there with my husband. Occasionally, I've been so mad at him, I've sworn that we are no longer going to speak ever again. A few hours later, I think of something that I want to talk to him about. Oh wait, we're in a fight. I can't. A few more hours, I start dreaming of that romantic dinner we want to have. Wait. I hate him. I feel my resolve for hatred withering and by evening all I want is for this ridiculous fight to be over.
James Marshall (1942-1992) illustrated a gazillion books and has several other popular series like The Cut-ups (though I happen to think George and Martha is the best of his work). George and Martha are named after the characters from Edward Albee's play Who's Afraid of Virginia Wolf. While reading these fine books look for his signature style--pictures of fat cats and piles of things about to fall over. Marshall died prematurely of a brain tumor at the age of 50.
For a lovely memorial to James Marshall by his friend Maurice Sendak, go to this site (or see quote at the top of this posting):
http://www.nytimes.com/books/97/11/16/bookend/bookend.html
Book of the Day: The Story of Colors
The Story of Colors
La Historia de los Colores
Author: Subcomandante Marcos
Illustrator: Domitila Dominguez
Cinco Puntos Press 1996
While perusing my sisters book shelves, I stumbled upon several copies of this book. The first thing that caught my eye was the stunning pictures--bright splashes of paint, almost looking like ancient wall art, very textured and rich. I got excited to share this with Mirette. The illustrator Domitila Dominguez is an indigenous artist from Mexico with no formal training.
http://www.cincopuntos.com/artists_detail.sstg?id=44
Example of artwork:
http://www.tallerlatino.org/GalleryArchive/ExhibitsPrevious.php (scroll down until you see her name)
The second thing I noticed is that the book was written by Subcomandante Marcos. What. Hmmm? How interesting. "Isn't he a revolutionary guy, not a children's book author?" Look at these photos of him:
https://www.google.com/search?q=subcomandante+Marcos&hl=en&rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-SearchBox&rlz=1I7TSNA_enUS392US392&prmd=imvnsob&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=UTnVTqnAF8qTiQKuxtzFDg&ved=0CD8QsAQ&biw=1366&bih=552
Does this look like the kind-of guy who sits around and writes kids books? Well, yes, in addition to being a mask-wearing, pipe-puffing revolutionary, it seems he used to be a philosophy professor and wants to bring the folklore and struggles of the indigenous peoples of Chiapas to light.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/1214676.stm
http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/10/19-7
I asked my sister why she had several copies of this book hanging out and she told me that a theater troupe she works with was going to use the book. http://www.stridinglion.org/About.html
At last, I sat down to read this book to Mirette, very excited to see what Subcomante Marcos wanted to tell the people. First line (both in English and Spanish), "I light my pipe and after three ceremonial puffs, I begin to tell you. . .and then later, "He catches his breath while he rolls another cigarette."
Okay, come on, what modern American story talks of cigarette smoking? Isn't that a taboo subject these days? I'm already getting into the revolutionary vibe. But better yet, a few pages later: "And the men and women they were making love which is a nice way to become tired and then go to sleep."
In all the books I've read to Mirette there's never been a sentence devoted to the wonderful act of making love. And I started to wonder why not? Perhaps that is why children giggle about sex. Why can't we just talk about it as the beautiful, amazing, sleep-inducing thing that it is. He's right, drifting off into sleep after making love is one of the most delicious of human experiences.
But admittedly, there was another prudish part of me that wanted to put the book down, fearing that I'd be exposing my child to evil things--cigarette smoke, love-making--things she should not know about right now. She's only 2 and a half.
This made me reflect upon children's literature. What do we want our children to know or not know? How do our books reflect the mores of our culture? I decided to share this book because I've been thinking about it ever since--the hidden culture of our storybooks. In the end, I decided that reading to my kid a book where cigarette' and love-making make an appearance is not going to turn her into a rebellious teenager in a few years. I want to expose her to all kinds of things and as long as there is a feeling of safety, I think it's okay to experience many different cultural ways, styles of writing, and forms that are unfamiliar to us here in the USA.
And if you can get past all that, it's a lovely book with a charm all its own.
La Historia de los Colores
Author: Subcomandante Marcos
Illustrator: Domitila Dominguez
Cinco Puntos Press 1996
While perusing my sisters book shelves, I stumbled upon several copies of this book. The first thing that caught my eye was the stunning pictures--bright splashes of paint, almost looking like ancient wall art, very textured and rich. I got excited to share this with Mirette. The illustrator Domitila Dominguez is an indigenous artist from Mexico with no formal training.
http://www.cincopuntos.com/artists_detail.sstg?id=44
Example of artwork:
http://www.tallerlatino.org/GalleryArchive/ExhibitsPrevious.php (scroll down until you see her name)
The second thing I noticed is that the book was written by Subcomandante Marcos. What. Hmmm? How interesting. "Isn't he a revolutionary guy, not a children's book author?" Look at these photos of him:
https://www.google.com/search?q=subcomandante+Marcos&hl=en&rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-SearchBox&rlz=1I7TSNA_enUS392US392&prmd=imvnsob&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=UTnVTqnAF8qTiQKuxtzFDg&ved=0CD8QsAQ&biw=1366&bih=552
Does this look like the kind-of guy who sits around and writes kids books? Well, yes, in addition to being a mask-wearing, pipe-puffing revolutionary, it seems he used to be a philosophy professor and wants to bring the folklore and struggles of the indigenous peoples of Chiapas to light.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/1214676.stm
http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/10/19-7
I asked my sister why she had several copies of this book hanging out and she told me that a theater troupe she works with was going to use the book. http://www.stridinglion.org/About.html
At last, I sat down to read this book to Mirette, very excited to see what Subcomante Marcos wanted to tell the people. First line (both in English and Spanish), "I light my pipe and after three ceremonial puffs, I begin to tell you. . .and then later, "He catches his breath while he rolls another cigarette."
Okay, come on, what modern American story talks of cigarette smoking? Isn't that a taboo subject these days? I'm already getting into the revolutionary vibe. But better yet, a few pages later: "And the men and women they were making love which is a nice way to become tired and then go to sleep."
In all the books I've read to Mirette there's never been a sentence devoted to the wonderful act of making love. And I started to wonder why not? Perhaps that is why children giggle about sex. Why can't we just talk about it as the beautiful, amazing, sleep-inducing thing that it is. He's right, drifting off into sleep after making love is one of the most delicious of human experiences.
But admittedly, there was another prudish part of me that wanted to put the book down, fearing that I'd be exposing my child to evil things--cigarette smoke, love-making--things she should not know about right now. She's only 2 and a half.
This made me reflect upon children's literature. What do we want our children to know or not know? How do our books reflect the mores of our culture? I decided to share this book because I've been thinking about it ever since--the hidden culture of our storybooks. In the end, I decided that reading to my kid a book where cigarette' and love-making make an appearance is not going to turn her into a rebellious teenager in a few years. I want to expose her to all kinds of things and as long as there is a feeling of safety, I think it's okay to experience many different cultural ways, styles of writing, and forms that are unfamiliar to us here in the USA.
And if you can get past all that, it's a lovely book with a charm all its own.
Friday, November 25, 2011
Chicago Dispatch
Greetings from Chicago.
Besides an ear infection and trips to the pediatrician, we've had a great time in Chicago. We went with Mirette's Aunts to see Goodnight Moon.
We all wondered how the short little book Goodnight Moon could turn into a full length play. We were pleasantly surprised. The best part was after the first sweet musical number with the boy bunny singing about stars, the curtain opened to reveal the GREAT GREEN ROOM. How cool. I admit that I had a little moment of childish joy to see this book I've read so many time transformed.
The set was amazing with little characters dancing in the house, bears that fell through the bed, a gorgeous moon, and pictures that moved. The acting was over the top and slightly annoying.
As for Mirette, we couldn't tell if she liked it because she was staring the whole time with a blankish look on her face. In the end, we chalked it up to concentration. It was her first play and I'm not sure she knew what to think.
The best part for her was that the bunny boy hopped right through a row in the audience which happened to be our row. Mirette thought that was pretty amazing, but also she has no conception of what is normal in the theater.
More later about reading in Chicago. . .
Friday, November 18, 2011
Book of the Day: The Snowy Day
The Snowy Day
Ezra Jack Keats
Viking, 1962
I know there is not snow in our backyard, but it is so dang cold outside. It is even possible we'll get snow in the Pacific Northwest this week, a twice-yearly event (in a typical winter). This beloved book was a gift to Mirette from my sister. Although I've read other books by Ezra Jack Keats, this is hands-down my favorite. How could you not fall in love with this book? It is so sweet and simple. It depicts the love many of us feel for that snowy day, school cancelled, the thrill of looking out the window, the sense of mystery and curiosity that I still feel when the land is blanketed by fresh snow. It is made all the sweeter with a daughter to share it with.
Rest assured, I'll be reading some biographies and sharing more on all the cool stuff Mr. Keats brought to the world of books, but for now, here's some links specific to The Snowy Day.
The Snowy Day discussion guide:
The Snowy Day video game:
A first grade's The Snowy Day project:
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Just Right Books: Part Two
ADDENDUM to Just Right Books Part One: Perhaps I am too harsh a critic. Just Right books do have a place in education. Let's say a kid is a bit behind in reading. All his or her friends are reading a series and he/she tries to read it too, but can't. That kid may become very frustrated with reading. Finding Just Right books can help a child discover that reading is FUN rather than FRUSTRATING. My problem is when an education philosophy or idea becomes the only way. The truth, in my opinion, is always in the middle.
READING UP:
Here's an example of how Mirette and I read up. Perhaps she'll be just like me when she grows up and read travel guides for fun. She also reads birding books and cookbooks. Anything with lots of pictures is fair game for us!
READING DOWN:
Any Sandra Boynton book is sheer pleasure for both Mirette and Mommy. These books are near and dear to my heart because Blue Hat, Green Hat was the first book that caused Mirette to laugh aloud, the first humorous thing she got on her own. Needless to say, we read this book again and again and again to the same effect — hysterical giggles.
Interesting things about Sandra Boynton: She's 58 years old, went to Yale, is married to an Olympic canoeist, lived in France, is into drama and singing, has four kids, grew up Quaker, and has written a whole ton of successful books.
Here's a link to a Boynton song:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e3_7UikPpcg&feature=related
A very cool video she produced with BB King:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J8rLuk2PoMA
Her official website:
http://www.sandraboynton.com/sboynton/index.html
Want your kid in a Sandra Boynton book (this is a pretty cool idea):
http://www.pintsizeproductions.com/pintsize_personalized_Boynton_boardbooks.html
Lastly, a link to Sandra Boynton's cd GRUNT — which looks pretty darn fun for harried parents (it's a Pig Latin version of Gregorian Chanting):
http://www.amazon.com/Grunt-Pigorian-Chant-Snouto-Domoinko/dp/0761105948/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1321464170&sr=1-1
READING UP:
Here's an example of how Mirette and I read up. Perhaps she'll be just like me when she grows up and read travel guides for fun. She also reads birding books and cookbooks. Anything with lots of pictures is fair game for us!
READING DOWN:
Any Sandra Boynton book is sheer pleasure for both Mirette and Mommy. These books are near and dear to my heart because Blue Hat, Green Hat was the first book that caused Mirette to laugh aloud, the first humorous thing she got on her own. Needless to say, we read this book again and again and again to the same effect — hysterical giggles.
Interesting things about Sandra Boynton: She's 58 years old, went to Yale, is married to an Olympic canoeist, lived in France, is into drama and singing, has four kids, grew up Quaker, and has written a whole ton of successful books.
Here's a link to a Boynton song:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e3_7UikPpcg&feature=related
A very cool video she produced with BB King:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J8rLuk2PoMA
Her official website:
http://www.sandraboynton.com/sboynton/index.html
Want your kid in a Sandra Boynton book (this is a pretty cool idea):
http://www.pintsizeproductions.com/pintsize_personalized_Boynton_boardbooks.html
Lastly, a link to Sandra Boynton's cd GRUNT — which looks pretty darn fun for harried parents (it's a Pig Latin version of Gregorian Chanting):
http://www.amazon.com/Grunt-Pigorian-Chant-Snouto-Domoinko/dp/0761105948/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1321464170&sr=1-1
Monday, November 14, 2011
Just Right Books: Part One
I have seen education waves come and go. There's lingo that suddenly is all the rage and then it fades out and something new takes its place. Keep in mind this isn't based on history, just what I remember from my 15 years as a School Counselor. (I didn't usually attend reading workshops and in-services, so this is just from an outsider's view.)
First there was Accelerated Reader. Suddenly some books had an AR label—such as 4.5 (4th grade, 5th month). A student would read books and take a quiz afterwards. Kids would know their reading level—like "I'm a 4," or "I'm a 3.2." Students would want to read AR books because then they could take a quiz and get prizes.
Then suddenly, Accelerated Reading took off like wildfire. I remember that one school I was at took the summer to completely level the library. Leveling books means that every book in the library had a label on it as to its reading level. Accelerated Books and Leveling are no longer trending because now they are just part of most schools.
The new trend, though, is helping kids find "Just Right" books. A JUST RIGHT book is perfect because it is challenging enough to help the student learn new vocabulary and yet not so challenging that it will frustrate the student.
It makes a lot of sense, but another part of me just wants to puke when I hear over and over again, "choose a Just Right book." I know it works and is research-based and all that—but it seems to me that it has the potential to take something away from the love of reading. After all, think of all those first graders reading the entire Harry Potter series—way beyond their "just right" level.
As for us, I see many reading lists for young kids and they are divided into the following categories: Babies, Toddlers, Preschoolers. It's semi-ridiculous because we regularly read books from all three categories. In fact, many of the books I have reviewed in this blog would never be on a list for toddlers.
Tune into the next blog posting to see how Mirette reads both up past her "Just Right" level and down below her "Just Right" level and how we have FUN with excursions into both extremes.
First there was Accelerated Reader. Suddenly some books had an AR label—such as 4.5 (4th grade, 5th month). A student would read books and take a quiz afterwards. Kids would know their reading level—like "I'm a 4," or "I'm a 3.2." Students would want to read AR books because then they could take a quiz and get prizes.
Then suddenly, Accelerated Reading took off like wildfire. I remember that one school I was at took the summer to completely level the library. Leveling books means that every book in the library had a label on it as to its reading level. Accelerated Books and Leveling are no longer trending because now they are just part of most schools.
The new trend, though, is helping kids find "Just Right" books. A JUST RIGHT book is perfect because it is challenging enough to help the student learn new vocabulary and yet not so challenging that it will frustrate the student.
It makes a lot of sense, but another part of me just wants to puke when I hear over and over again, "choose a Just Right book." I know it works and is research-based and all that—but it seems to me that it has the potential to take something away from the love of reading. After all, think of all those first graders reading the entire Harry Potter series—way beyond their "just right" level.
As for us, I see many reading lists for young kids and they are divided into the following categories: Babies, Toddlers, Preschoolers. It's semi-ridiculous because we regularly read books from all three categories. In fact, many of the books I have reviewed in this blog would never be on a list for toddlers.
Tune into the next blog posting to see how Mirette reads both up past her "Just Right" level and down below her "Just Right" level and how we have FUN with excursions into both extremes.
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