This weekend at a Halloween party, I met a teacher. She was VERY gung-ho about teaching reading to her 4th and 5th grade students. It was lovely to see how passionate she was about the topic. One interesting activity she did with her students is to have them all think about the first book they remember being read to them and the first book they read all alone. The class became quite animated as they recounted these favorite books such as Hop on Pop. They then surveyed the teachers with the same two questions.
I wonder which book Mirette will remember. I picture her as a teenager reading books to a kid she's babysitting and getting a warm fuzzy feeling in her heart because we read that book together.
I have a plan to facebook the teacher and get her list and I will definitely post it on here.
Meanwhile, it got me thinking. Do I remember being read to by my mom or my dad? I don't really, but I know books were an important part of our childhood. I even dug up this old photo of my mom reading to my sister and I. Yep, I'm the one with the crazy hair. I wish I could make out the book title. Even though I don't have any visceral memory of the books we read together, I do often read books to Mira that are so warm and familiar. I can just feel my mom stroking my hair and soothing me to sleep even though she is all the way in Florida.
Showing posts with label literacy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label literacy. Show all posts
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Book of the Day: Once Upon a Twice
Once Upon a Twice
Author: Denise Doyen
Illustrator: Barry Moser
Random House, 2009
One of the most pleasurable things about writing this blog is that it makes for a great conversation starter. People of all ages have favorite books from childhood and I keep finding myself surprised by the sheer volume of amazing kids' books and how wonderful it is to talk about the books that light us or our children up.
My friend Angela turned me onto this amazing book during a play date last week. The words are lots of fun and very playful. In fact, Denise Doyen makes Dr. Seuss look rather calm. Here's an example:
They runrunnel through the riddle –
Secret ruts hid inbetwiddle –
But one mousling jams the middle –
Whilst he goofiddles, others howl:
That would be enough in and of itself, but the illustrations are also stunning! The cover is a mouse pulling back the tall grass to peer up at the round full moon. The color scheme consists of rich blues and blacks.
This is author Denise Doyen's first kids' book, but she has a background in children's television and film. Barry Moser, however, is a seasoned illustrator with a wide range of credits to his name. He even illustrated The King James Bible (yep, I want to check it out for sure). I couldn't find a website, but here's an interesting interview.
http://www.underdown.org/moser.htm
Thanks Angela for the book tip and Mirette for letting me write this while she played with her doll house.
Author: Denise Doyen
Illustrator: Barry Moser
Random House, 2009
One of the most pleasurable things about writing this blog is that it makes for a great conversation starter. People of all ages have favorite books from childhood and I keep finding myself surprised by the sheer volume of amazing kids' books and how wonderful it is to talk about the books that light us or our children up.
My friend Angela turned me onto this amazing book during a play date last week. The words are lots of fun and very playful. In fact, Denise Doyen makes Dr. Seuss look rather calm. Here's an example:
They runrunnel through the riddle –
Secret ruts hid inbetwiddle –
But one mousling jams the middle –
Whilst he goofiddles, others howl:
That would be enough in and of itself, but the illustrations are also stunning! The cover is a mouse pulling back the tall grass to peer up at the round full moon. The color scheme consists of rich blues and blacks.
This is author Denise Doyen's first kids' book, but she has a background in children's television and film. Barry Moser, however, is a seasoned illustrator with a wide range of credits to his name. He even illustrated The King James Bible (yep, I want to check it out for sure). I couldn't find a website, but here's an interesting interview.
http://www.underdown.org/moser.htm
Thanks Angela for the book tip and Mirette for letting me write this while she played with her doll house.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Zizzer zazzer zuzz: Part One
What would a blog about children's books be without a few entries about good ol' Dr. Seuss? My Dr. Seuss knowledge was rather limited. I knew his name was really Theodor Geisel and that he had attended Dartmouth. I got copies of Oh the Places You'll Go for my graduation from high school, college, and grad school. Like anyone around these parts, I've read all kinds of Dr. Seuss books—everything from One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish to Horton Hears a Who. And each year I watch, and adore, The Grinch who Stole Christmas. But that's about as far as my Dr. Seuss knowledge went (key word went!).
I read two biographies on Dr. Seuss. The first, Theodor Seuss Geisel by Donald E. Pease, was pretty ho hum. The second, The Seuss, the Whole Seuss and Nothing But the Seuss by Charles D. Cohen, was filled with such minutiae that it was kind-of a cumbersome read. If you want to get the basics, I'd go straight to wikipedia for a really great overview—better and simpler than either of these books.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dr._Seuss
I'll let you discover the biographical details yourself if so inclined and leave you with the points that jumped out at me:
1. The house in which he was born still has drawings of the fantastical animals he created adorning the walls. Can you imagine being the little kid that lives in his house?
2. He was a very successful advertising and political cartoonist, long before he became Dr. Seuss. I had NO idea. I wish Ted was alive now—we would have some amazing cartoons depicting tea party politics, occupy Wall Street, etc.
3. He is truly brilliant at what he does! In my opinion, he is a very gifted wordsmith, artist, and creator. His biggest strength, weird animals with fun names like the Foona Lagoona Baboona,
4. Although he had some racist and anti-Semitic moments, he later picked through his books, making sure they were not offensive. I find that VERY impressive. He definitely went up in my esteem as a very thoughtful man willing to make repairs and really think through situations.
5. Some of his characters have names that have become actual words, like in The Shape of Me there is a character named a Blogg. Ha ha! And Ooblek? I found the recipe in a craft book and made it for Mirette. If you haven't tried it yet, it is messy but great fun on a rainy day—just add water and corn starch. I didn't know the word came from the book Batholomew and the Oobleck. The word Nerd first appeared in If I Ran the Zoo.
6. Many of his images are used again and again—like craggy mountaintops.
7. Finally, he used to make up fantastical stories for his interviewers, never giving them a straight answer. For example, when asked how he came up with his ideas, he would say, "In a little town near Zybliknov, where I spend an occasional weekend." I imagine him being great at dealing with today's aggressive paparazzi.
8. Here's some Dr. Seuss websites for you:
Seussville is filled with information and games. It's an on-line Seuss world complete with parent information, curriculum ideas for teachers, all the characters, books, games, activities, and anything else Seuss.
http://www.seussville.com/
Some samples of his political art:
http://www.americanartarchives.com/seuss.htm
Seriously ironic, the Dr. Seuss collection is coming to Chicago and I happen to be going there for Thanksgiving—a must-see for our family!
http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2011-10-13/entertainment/ct-ent-1013-museums-dr-seuss-20111013_1_seuss-landing-seussiana-theodor-seuss-geisel
I read two biographies on Dr. Seuss. The first, Theodor Seuss Geisel by Donald E. Pease, was pretty ho hum. The second, The Seuss, the Whole Seuss and Nothing But the Seuss by Charles D. Cohen, was filled with such minutiae that it was kind-of a cumbersome read. If you want to get the basics, I'd go straight to wikipedia for a really great overview—better and simpler than either of these books.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dr._Seuss
I'll let you discover the biographical details yourself if so inclined and leave you with the points that jumped out at me:
1. The house in which he was born still has drawings of the fantastical animals he created adorning the walls. Can you imagine being the little kid that lives in his house?
2. He was a very successful advertising and political cartoonist, long before he became Dr. Seuss. I had NO idea. I wish Ted was alive now—we would have some amazing cartoons depicting tea party politics, occupy Wall Street, etc.
3. He is truly brilliant at what he does! In my opinion, he is a very gifted wordsmith, artist, and creator. His biggest strength, weird animals with fun names like the Foona Lagoona Baboona,
4. Although he had some racist and anti-Semitic moments, he later picked through his books, making sure they were not offensive. I find that VERY impressive. He definitely went up in my esteem as a very thoughtful man willing to make repairs and really think through situations.
5. Some of his characters have names that have become actual words, like in The Shape of Me there is a character named a Blogg. Ha ha! And Ooblek? I found the recipe in a craft book and made it for Mirette. If you haven't tried it yet, it is messy but great fun on a rainy day—just add water and corn starch. I didn't know the word came from the book Batholomew and the Oobleck. The word Nerd first appeared in If I Ran the Zoo.
6. Many of his images are used again and again—like craggy mountaintops.
7. Finally, he used to make up fantastical stories for his interviewers, never giving them a straight answer. For example, when asked how he came up with his ideas, he would say, "In a little town near Zybliknov, where I spend an occasional weekend." I imagine him being great at dealing with today's aggressive paparazzi.
8. Here's some Dr. Seuss websites for you:
Seussville is filled with information and games. It's an on-line Seuss world complete with parent information, curriculum ideas for teachers, all the characters, books, games, activities, and anything else Seuss.
http://www.seussville.com/
Some samples of his political art:
http://www.americanartarchives.com/seuss.htm
Seriously ironic, the Dr. Seuss collection is coming to Chicago and I happen to be going there for Thanksgiving—a must-see for our family!
http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2011-10-13/entertainment/ct-ent-1013-museums-dr-seuss-20111013_1_seuss-landing-seussiana-theodor-seuss-geisel
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Book of the Day: Dandelion
Dandelion
Don Freeman
Puffin Books, 1964
"Simplicity is the essence of children’s book stories, not simple mindedness.” Don Freeman
It was a rough day in our household. Mirette woke up at 5 AM saying, "Mommy, Daddy, I have pee on my leg." I sleepily entered her room to find that the pee was actually poop and it had dripped down her leg all over her carpet. The rest of today, more of the same. All plans were cancelled and we stayed at home, making applesauce, listening to cd's, and cuddled up reading (in between diaper changes).
Despite my sadness at watching my daughter be sick, it was sweet to be together as a family, loving each other up.
So I might as well share a happy book today, one that brings laughter and smiles to us even when we are sick!
I love Dandelion. In fact, I love Don Freeman and anything he writes/draws—Corduroy, Dandelion, Earl the Squirrel. I don't know how he did it, but all of his characters are so lovable, adorable, charming, and cheek-squeezing cute.
In my opinion, though, Dandelion takes the cake in the adorable department. And the book even has a moral! The basic plot is that Dandelion gets all dressed up for a party, tries to be someone he is not, and doesn't get recognized. Rejected from the party, he sits outside in a rainstorm, gets his hair mussed up and then, surprise, his friends recognize him.
Though I certainly hope to impart the wisdom of being yourself to Mirette, what I love best about the book is Dandelion's haircut. In one photo he is sitting in the chair with wet hair, looking earnestly at the reader as Lou Kangaroo dons a pair of scissors. In the next picture, you can just see his little face and he is covered in a circle of shampoo. At this point, Mirette and I both crack up!
The next series of drawings depict an unsure-looking Dandelion with puffy hair. This elicits more hearty guffaws from us. And finally, Dandelion's mane is curled into tight ringlets. At this funny picture, we are rolling on the floor with laughter.
And laughing together is one of the sweetest pleasures of being a parent, making the story an A plus in my book.
Don Freeman (1908-1978): I learned many interesting things about Don Freeman from milling around the website his son made for him: http://donfreeman.info/. He was very involved in New York culture in the '30s and '40s and has many sketches of street life and the theater world from those decades. He has some adult graphic books that look really great too. He seems like quite a creative and fun character.
Another thing I learned is that his wife, Lydia Freeman (1906-1998), has her own website at http://lydiafreeman.com/welcome. In addition to painting, and writing and illustrating children's books, she also wrote poetry in the form of Haikus. During the last two years of her life, she drew a doodle a day. Before she died, her friends matched up her Haikus with her doodles and created a lovely book. It has nothing to do with children, but check it out—it's pretty amazing, simple but profound stuff.
Don Freeman
Puffin Books, 1964
"Simplicity is the essence of children’s book stories, not simple mindedness.” Don Freeman
It was a rough day in our household. Mirette woke up at 5 AM saying, "Mommy, Daddy, I have pee on my leg." I sleepily entered her room to find that the pee was actually poop and it had dripped down her leg all over her carpet. The rest of today, more of the same. All plans were cancelled and we stayed at home, making applesauce, listening to cd's, and cuddled up reading (in between diaper changes).
Despite my sadness at watching my daughter be sick, it was sweet to be together as a family, loving each other up.
So I might as well share a happy book today, one that brings laughter and smiles to us even when we are sick!
I love Dandelion. In fact, I love Don Freeman and anything he writes/draws—Corduroy, Dandelion, Earl the Squirrel. I don't know how he did it, but all of his characters are so lovable, adorable, charming, and cheek-squeezing cute.
In my opinion, though, Dandelion takes the cake in the adorable department. And the book even has a moral! The basic plot is that Dandelion gets all dressed up for a party, tries to be someone he is not, and doesn't get recognized. Rejected from the party, he sits outside in a rainstorm, gets his hair mussed up and then, surprise, his friends recognize him.
Though I certainly hope to impart the wisdom of being yourself to Mirette, what I love best about the book is Dandelion's haircut. In one photo he is sitting in the chair with wet hair, looking earnestly at the reader as Lou Kangaroo dons a pair of scissors. In the next picture, you can just see his little face and he is covered in a circle of shampoo. At this point, Mirette and I both crack up!
The next series of drawings depict an unsure-looking Dandelion with puffy hair. This elicits more hearty guffaws from us. And finally, Dandelion's mane is curled into tight ringlets. At this funny picture, we are rolling on the floor with laughter.
And laughing together is one of the sweetest pleasures of being a parent, making the story an A plus in my book.
Don Freeman (1908-1978): I learned many interesting things about Don Freeman from milling around the website his son made for him: http://donfreeman.info/. He was very involved in New York culture in the '30s and '40s and has many sketches of street life and the theater world from those decades. He has some adult graphic books that look really great too. He seems like quite a creative and fun character.
Another thing I learned is that his wife, Lydia Freeman (1906-1998), has her own website at http://lydiafreeman.com/welcome. In addition to painting, and writing and illustrating children's books, she also wrote poetry in the form of Haikus. During the last two years of her life, she drew a doodle a day. Before she died, her friends matched up her Haikus with her doodles and created a lovely book. It has nothing to do with children, but check it out—it's pretty amazing, simple but profound stuff.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Book of the Day: Yellow Moon, Apple Moon
Yellow Moon, Apple Moon
Author: Pamela Porter
Illustrator: Matt James
Groundwood Books, 2007
I haven't had much time to blog lately – sickness, Jewish holidays, withering away of naps – but I can't resist a quick post before Mirette wakes up.
This book arrived in the mail with a note from Steve. "Dear Peggy and Mirette, This book reminds me of you two. I love you both dearly. Steve aka Daddy"
How touching! It's amazing how a beautiful book can add light and pleasure to a day.
The book includes the song A la puerta del cielo, which I often pound out on the piano, and the illustrations are swirls of thick, beautiful paint.
The author, Pamela Porter, generally writes young adult fiction. She has one other kids' book called Sky. Matt James is a musician, an artist, and an illustrator for all kinds of other things—erotic books, cd covers, and another kids' book that looks fabulous called I Know Here. His website: http://www.mattjames.ca/p1.shtml.
I really like his band a lot too. They are called Wayne Omaha and can be found here: http://www.myspace.com/wayneomaha/music/songs/electrical-light-won-rsquo-t-you-sh-19008728
May this sweet book light up your day too!
Author: Pamela Porter
Illustrator: Matt James
Groundwood Books, 2007
I haven't had much time to blog lately – sickness, Jewish holidays, withering away of naps – but I can't resist a quick post before Mirette wakes up.
This book arrived in the mail with a note from Steve. "Dear Peggy and Mirette, This book reminds me of you two. I love you both dearly. Steve aka Daddy"
How touching! It's amazing how a beautiful book can add light and pleasure to a day.
The book includes the song A la puerta del cielo, which I often pound out on the piano, and the illustrations are swirls of thick, beautiful paint.
The author, Pamela Porter, generally writes young adult fiction. She has one other kids' book called Sky. Matt James is a musician, an artist, and an illustrator for all kinds of other things—erotic books, cd covers, and another kids' book that looks fabulous called I Know Here. His website: http://www.mattjames.ca/p1.shtml.
I really like his band a lot too. They are called Wayne Omaha and can be found here: http://www.myspace.com/wayneomaha/music/songs/electrical-light-won-rsquo-t-you-sh-19008728
May this sweet book light up your day too!
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Book of the Day: Roar of A Snore
Roar of a Snore
Author: Marsha Diane Arnold
Illustrator: Pierre Pratt
Dial Books for Young Readers, 2006
Does your child know who Dolly Parton is?
Strangely, mine is very familiar with Dolly. Each month she receives a free book in the mail courtesy of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library. Any community that has a sponsoring organization can start this great service.
http://www.youtube.com/imaginationlibrary#p/u/4/fRyWw3od7Vo
On this island, the service is available to any kid up until age five regardless of economics. It is very fun to get a book in the mail and the books are, for the most part, really great! Clearly, Dolly had some pros in child literacy helping her pick out books.
One of our favorites thus far is Roar of a Snore. It's about a family trying to track down a loud snore. I won't give away the ending, but just try saying this to your kid—"so Blue and Jack and Mama Gwyn and Baby Sue and Papa Ben and Josie Jo and Jennie Lynn and Sheep and Goat and Cow and Hens went searching." It is fun to say and fun to read!
The author's website:
http://www.marshadianearnold.com/pages/bookgallery/books.html
The illustrator's website (lots of great pictures and other books I'm curious about, but mostly in French):
http://www.pierrepratt.com/portfolio.html
Author: Marsha Diane Arnold
Illustrator: Pierre Pratt
Dial Books for Young Readers, 2006
Does your child know who Dolly Parton is?
http://www.youtube.com/imaginationlibrary#p/u/4/fRyWw3od7Vo
On this island, the service is available to any kid up until age five regardless of economics. It is very fun to get a book in the mail and the books are, for the most part, really great! Clearly, Dolly had some pros in child literacy helping her pick out books.
One of our favorites thus far is Roar of a Snore. It's about a family trying to track down a loud snore. I won't give away the ending, but just try saying this to your kid—"so Blue and Jack and Mama Gwyn and Baby Sue and Papa Ben and Josie Jo and Jennie Lynn and Sheep and Goat and Cow and Hens went searching." It is fun to say and fun to read!
The author's website:
http://www.marshadianearnold.com/pages/bookgallery/books.html
The illustrator's website (lots of great pictures and other books I'm curious about, but mostly in French):
http://www.pierrepratt.com/portfolio.html
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Library Book of the Day: I Ain't Gonna Paint No More!
I Ain't Gonna Paint No More!
Author: Karen Beaumont
Illustrator: David Catrow
Harcourt, 2005
While checking out library books, Mirette often runs up with a few extra she has randomly pulled from the shelf. Often these books are way too wordy for her age, but every now and then she hits upon a great one. This week's pile included the charming I Ain't Gonna Paint No More! This is a perfect book for Mirette because, well, check it out for yourself. . .
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XuNNHMQUE1w
The book is sung to the tune of "It Ain't Gonna Rain No More," about a little girl who just can't help but paint her entire body. It's funny, has fantastic illustrations, and gets the Mirette seal of approval!
The Author: Karen Beaumont has written a ton of books such as Baby Danced the Polka, I Like Myself, and Duck, Duck, Goose!: (A Coyote's on the Loose). I am eager to check out more of her books.
The Illustrator: David Catrow has a colorful website complete with videos explaining his artistic process and tons of amazing drawings. Much to my surprise, I found out he is the illustrator of Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon, a beloved book from my counseling practice (about a girl who stands up to a bully). I think his site would be great for teachers since there are many lesson plans and ideas for teaching art.
http://www.catrow.com/
Author: Karen Beaumont
Illustrator: David Catrow
Harcourt, 2005
While checking out library books, Mirette often runs up with a few extra she has randomly pulled from the shelf. Often these books are way too wordy for her age, but every now and then she hits upon a great one. This week's pile included the charming I Ain't Gonna Paint No More! This is a perfect book for Mirette because, well, check it out for yourself. . .
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XuNNHMQUE1w
The book is sung to the tune of "It Ain't Gonna Rain No More," about a little girl who just can't help but paint her entire body. It's funny, has fantastic illustrations, and gets the Mirette seal of approval!
The Author: Karen Beaumont has written a ton of books such as Baby Danced the Polka, I Like Myself, and Duck, Duck, Goose!: (A Coyote's on the Loose). I am eager to check out more of her books.
The Illustrator: David Catrow has a colorful website complete with videos explaining his artistic process and tons of amazing drawings. Much to my surprise, I found out he is the illustrator of Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon, a beloved book from my counseling practice (about a girl who stands up to a bully). I think his site would be great for teachers since there are many lesson plans and ideas for teaching art.
http://www.catrow.com/
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
More on Ladybug Girl!
Ladybug Girl Loves. . . comes with us in the car and in the grocery. She shows it to everyone, sings made-up songs about Ladybug Girl, and begs me to play the dress-up ladybug game on the computer. She is hooked.
Here is what she said in the car today: "Ladybug Girl has a tutu just like ME!" "Ladybug Girl has a dog just like ME!" I am getting the idea that she REALLY relates to Ladybug Girl.
Ordinarily, I'd be tearing my hair out with the same book read over and over again. But this one, I am as equally into. I was reading a kids' magazine the other day with Mirette and there was a piece about a girl looking around the yard. It was cute, but ladybug girl somehow turns these simple acts into an adventure.
This is our favorite page: "Ladybug Girl loves to go on trips with her family. She always tries to guess where the car will take her next. Maybe it will drive her to the moon!"
Mirette loves looking at the picture of the mommy in the car and likes the idea of visiting the moon.
I love this page because I think a lot about how kids have no control over where we take them. I often imagine what it would be like to be in Mirette's shoes, at the parents' beck and call, never knowing exactly what adventure we are going to embark on. I love the idea of the car doing the deciding!
Sunday, September 11, 2011
The Old and the New: Dick and Jane meet the Ladybug Girl!
There are so many great books to introduce to Mirette—both old and new. We could read, read, and read some more and not even begin to cover ground! It's pretty cool that there is so much to choose from.
THE OLD:
In a used bookstore I found the reissue of the Storybook Treasury of Dick and Jane and Friends. I know that Dick and Jane tales are considered the quintessential boring kids' books. I agree that it would be awful if our collection was limited to this one nuclear, white, wide-eyed family. But given the diversity of our bookshelf, it's retro and fun to read aloud.
THE NEW:
This week, I took Mirette to storytime at the Mockingbird independent bookshop in Seattle http://www.mockingbirdbooksgl.com/. The storyteller noticed Mirette's ladybug shoes and turned us on to Ladybug Girl! I may be behind the times here because according to the storyteller, Ladybug Girl and her brother Bumblebee Boy are all the rage right now. What a great discovery!
The series, developed by the husband and wife team of Jacky Davis and David Soman, is based on the life and adventures of their kids. They do things like explore the backyard, study ants, dress up, fight the bad guys etc. It's very cute stuff and it reminds me of Mirette's little friends trampsing around this beautiful island we live on.
Their website has some simple kids' games on it like rock painting, dressing up Ladybug Girl, and helping her jump up and collect leaves. The rock painting was interesting, but Mirette couldn't really do it herself. She loved the dress-up game and thought the jumping to catch a leaf one was hilarious. http://www.ladybuggirl.com/author.html
THE OLD:
In a used bookstore I found the reissue of the Storybook Treasury of Dick and Jane and Friends. I know that Dick and Jane tales are considered the quintessential boring kids' books. I agree that it would be awful if our collection was limited to this one nuclear, white, wide-eyed family. But given the diversity of our bookshelf, it's retro and fun to read aloud.
This week, I took Mirette to storytime at the Mockingbird independent bookshop in Seattle http://www.mockingbirdbooksgl.com/. The storyteller noticed Mirette's ladybug shoes and turned us on to Ladybug Girl! I may be behind the times here because according to the storyteller, Ladybug Girl and her brother Bumblebee Boy are all the rage right now. What a great discovery!
The series, developed by the husband and wife team of Jacky Davis and David Soman, is based on the life and adventures of their kids. They do things like explore the backyard, study ants, dress up, fight the bad guys etc. It's very cute stuff and it reminds me of Mirette's little friends trampsing around this beautiful island we live on.
Their website has some simple kids' games on it like rock painting, dressing up Ladybug Girl, and helping her jump up and collect leaves. The rock painting was interesting, but Mirette couldn't really do it herself. She loved the dress-up game and thought the jumping to catch a leaf one was hilarious. http://www.ladybuggirl.com/author.html
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Margaret the Master: Part Two
Children are keen as wild animals and also as timorous. So you can't be 'too funny' or 'too scary' or 'too many worded.' All these things are not as easy as they sound for grown people. There is always the old problem of learning how to write. We speak naturally, but spend all our lives trying to write naturally. Margaret Wise Brown
Admittedly, I haven't read every Margaret Wise Brown book, but I did hunt down some of the rare and older ones. One thing I have come to realize is that she sure is gifted! Her words, though simple, are something special. She knows how to organize words. She's dreamy, and simple, and fun all at the same time and she has a keen imagination that's different and unusual. Here are some of our favorites:
Goodnight Moon: The "quiet old lady whispering Hush" was supposed to be a human, but Clement Hurd was better at drawing rabbits! (interesting fact!)
The Runaway Bunny: The idea for this book was taken from a medieval Provencal love ballad: "if you pursue me I shall become a fish in the water and I shall escape you. If you become a fish I shall become an eel. . ." In this context, the guy sounds a bit like a stalker to me. But transferring the concept to a mama chasing her baby bunny, it becomes a sweet story about always being there for your child.
The Little Island: This was my best discovery! The pictures are amazing. I can definitely see why Leonard Weisgard won the Caldecott.
The Color Kitten: Mira loves this one!
Indoor Noisy Book: This is a whole series and I love the words she uses to depict the noises. The pictures are not that interesting though, printed only in three colors, and it feels old-fashioned. Still, it gets Mira's thumbs-up.
The Sailor Dog: This is a favorite from Steve's childhood and it's a super cute tale!
The Friendly Book: A very fun read aloud and great illustrations.
Little Donkey Close Your Eyes: This one can be sung to "Hush Little Baby."
Admittedly, I haven't read every Margaret Wise Brown book, but I did hunt down some of the rare and older ones. One thing I have come to realize is that she sure is gifted! Her words, though simple, are something special. She knows how to organize words. She's dreamy, and simple, and fun all at the same time and she has a keen imagination that's different and unusual. Here are some of our favorites:
Goodnight Moon: The "quiet old lady whispering Hush" was supposed to be a human, but Clement Hurd was better at drawing rabbits! (interesting fact!)
The Runaway Bunny: The idea for this book was taken from a medieval Provencal love ballad: "if you pursue me I shall become a fish in the water and I shall escape you. If you become a fish I shall become an eel. . ." In this context, the guy sounds a bit like a stalker to me. But transferring the concept to a mama chasing her baby bunny, it becomes a sweet story about always being there for your child.
The Little Island: This was my best discovery! The pictures are amazing. I can definitely see why Leonard Weisgard won the Caldecott.
The Color Kitten: Mira loves this one!
Indoor Noisy Book: This is a whole series and I love the words she uses to depict the noises. The pictures are not that interesting though, printed only in three colors, and it feels old-fashioned. Still, it gets Mira's thumbs-up.
The Sailor Dog: This is a favorite from Steve's childhood and it's a super cute tale!
The Friendly Book: A very fun read aloud and great illustrations.
Little Donkey Close Your Eyes: This one can be sung to "Hush Little Baby."
Monday, August 22, 2011
Mem Fox and Reading Rotation
Reading aloud is the perfect time for engaging in. . . conversations because the reader and the listener can chat endlessly about the story, the picture, the words, the values, and the ideas. Reading aloud and talking about what we're reading sharpens children's brains. It helps develop their ability to concentrate at length, to solve problems logically, and to express themselves more easily and clearly. The stories they hear provide them with witty phrases, new sentences, and words of subtle meaning. Mem Fox, Reading Magic: Why Reading Aloud to our Children will Change Their Lives Forever.
Steve and I were meeting some friends for dinner last night and had some time to kill. We went to Half-Price Books where I found a Mem Fox book on reading aloud. She is the author of one of our favorite board books (one that mysteriously disappeared, come to think of it)—Where is the Green Sheep?
I started reading her book this morning and I am almost halfway done! Good to know for busy moms, this is an easy read. The main point: reading aloud is good. Duh! But I'll fill you in with some of the juicy details when I finish the book.
The book made me remember a lovely ritual that took place at Valley View Elementary School, where I worked as a school counselor. On the first day of school there would be an assembly. Each member would introduce themselves to the entire school by sharing his/her name, his/her role at the school, and a favorite book. Even as an adult, I loved seeing what each teacher chose and why.
Then for the next two weeks, there were reading rotations. Every afternoon at 2:15, the students would stay in their classrooms and the teachers (and other staff members too, like me) would change rooms. They would read their favorite book to the kids of that classroom. So the fifth-grade teacher may be reading to a first-grade classroom. After reading rotation was over, the books were put on display in the library and kids could check them out.
Mem Fox would have been proud of this very sweet ritual. She would say, I'm sure of it, that this is the best type of literacy activity. I concur. It served two purposes: turning kids on to books and reading AND building a community.
Sadly, the ritual was put to the chopping block because it took away from classroom time, literacy building, and was pretty much deemed frivolous and unnecessary. The teachers put up a fight, but in the end they lost. I can just see the disgust on Mem's face.
Steve and I were meeting some friends for dinner last night and had some time to kill. We went to Half-Price Books where I found a Mem Fox book on reading aloud. She is the author of one of our favorite board books (one that mysteriously disappeared, come to think of it)—Where is the Green Sheep?
I started reading her book this morning and I am almost halfway done! Good to know for busy moms, this is an easy read. The main point: reading aloud is good. Duh! But I'll fill you in with some of the juicy details when I finish the book.
The book made me remember a lovely ritual that took place at Valley View Elementary School, where I worked as a school counselor. On the first day of school there would be an assembly. Each member would introduce themselves to the entire school by sharing his/her name, his/her role at the school, and a favorite book. Even as an adult, I loved seeing what each teacher chose and why.
Then for the next two weeks, there were reading rotations. Every afternoon at 2:15, the students would stay in their classrooms and the teachers (and other staff members too, like me) would change rooms. They would read their favorite book to the kids of that classroom. So the fifth-grade teacher may be reading to a first-grade classroom. After reading rotation was over, the books were put on display in the library and kids could check them out.
Mem Fox would have been proud of this very sweet ritual. She would say, I'm sure of it, that this is the best type of literacy activity. I concur. It served two purposes: turning kids on to books and reading AND building a community.
Sadly, the ritual was put to the chopping block because it took away from classroom time, literacy building, and was pretty much deemed frivolous and unnecessary. The teachers put up a fight, but in the end they lost. I can just see the disgust on Mem's face.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Book of the Day: Mama, Do You Love Me?
Mama, Do You Love Me?
Author: Barbara M. Joosse
Illustrator: Barbara Lavallee
Chronicle Books, 1991
Story and Illustrations: This morning Mirette dug out Mama, Do You Love Me? and I read it to her several times. I don't think I could EVER get bored of this book. The illustrations are so lovely. The Mama is huge, but in a really comfortable way. I may be reading into this, but I think it shows that Mama will always be there as this big, bold, and beautiful presence (or perhaps it's just me feeling better about my own post-baby body). Anyway, this is one of those books about the child challenging the mom—will you love me if I put salmon in your mittens, and lemmings in your mukluks? And Mama assures her that there is nothing her child could do that would diminish her ever-present love.
The language and musicality of the book is lovely. With such evocative yet simple language, I do feel transported to a cold land—one of puffins, Inuits, ravens, whales, umiaks, ptarmigan eggs, salmon, and polar bears. Ahhh! I can just feel the chill in the air.
Background and VERY interesting stuff: The illustrator Barbara Lavallee is a Mid-Westerner who has lived in Alaska for many years and is very passionate about the Alaskan culture. She has illustrated several other books that are listed at this site (including Papa, Do You Love Me?): http://www.answers.com/topic/barbara-lavallee and is also known for her lush paintings: http://www.anniekaills.com/art/lavallee/prints1.htm.
Barbara M. Joosse has a warm, sweet website. In fact, for a second I wondered if I had accidentally visited a non-famous grandma's site. http://www.barbarajoosse.com/index.html
Though the website is lots of fun, she has several amazing articles on reading. I highly recommend them. I learned a lot and what's more—they are short and very readable. Here are some of the concepts that she explores: boys need to learn that they can be fierce and compassionate at the same time; that you shouldn't be afraid of reading long books to young children—it gives them time to focus on the pictures and to hear the language; that musicality is important; that words are playful; that a good book sounds jazzy and delicious; that books become familiar friends; that when you share a "reader's hug," your child is close to your heart and it taps into something; that books share metaphors and form a bridge into sleep (something that ancient cultures understood well); that stories can show hard situations, but should ultimately be hopeful; that children want to belong and by sharing a book we help them walk through life together.
All this in four articles! She says all this better than I can, so it is definitely worth it to give them a read. http://www.barbarajoosse.com/images/TheReadersHug.pdf
I also found out that Barbara joined a band and is recording music to go with her books. What a funky grandma! I checked out that website and the site appears under construction but here is the link: http://www.doublecake.net/author.html
To think, this morning I read Mama, Do You Love Me? to Mirette and it was JUST a book. I knew nothing of the author's awesome philosophies or that she joined a band and I definitely wasn't planning on writing this long of a post!
Author: Barbara M. Joosse
Illustrator: Barbara Lavallee
Chronicle Books, 1991
Story and Illustrations: This morning Mirette dug out Mama, Do You Love Me? and I read it to her several times. I don't think I could EVER get bored of this book. The illustrations are so lovely. The Mama is huge, but in a really comfortable way. I may be reading into this, but I think it shows that Mama will always be there as this big, bold, and beautiful presence (or perhaps it's just me feeling better about my own post-baby body). Anyway, this is one of those books about the child challenging the mom—will you love me if I put salmon in your mittens, and lemmings in your mukluks? And Mama assures her that there is nothing her child could do that would diminish her ever-present love.
The language and musicality of the book is lovely. With such evocative yet simple language, I do feel transported to a cold land—one of puffins, Inuits, ravens, whales, umiaks, ptarmigan eggs, salmon, and polar bears. Ahhh! I can just feel the chill in the air.
Background and VERY interesting stuff: The illustrator Barbara Lavallee is a Mid-Westerner who has lived in Alaska for many years and is very passionate about the Alaskan culture. She has illustrated several other books that are listed at this site (including Papa, Do You Love Me?): http://www.answers.com/topic/barbara-lavallee and is also known for her lush paintings: http://www.anniekaills.com/art/lavallee/prints1.htm.
Barbara M. Joosse has a warm, sweet website. In fact, for a second I wondered if I had accidentally visited a non-famous grandma's site. http://www.barbarajoosse.com/index.html
Though the website is lots of fun, she has several amazing articles on reading. I highly recommend them. I learned a lot and what's more—they are short and very readable. Here are some of the concepts that she explores: boys need to learn that they can be fierce and compassionate at the same time; that you shouldn't be afraid of reading long books to young children—it gives them time to focus on the pictures and to hear the language; that musicality is important; that words are playful; that a good book sounds jazzy and delicious; that books become familiar friends; that when you share a "reader's hug," your child is close to your heart and it taps into something; that books share metaphors and form a bridge into sleep (something that ancient cultures understood well); that stories can show hard situations, but should ultimately be hopeful; that children want to belong and by sharing a book we help them walk through life together.
All this in four articles! She says all this better than I can, so it is definitely worth it to give them a read. http://www.barbarajoosse.com/images/TheReadersHug.pdf
I also found out that Barbara joined a band and is recording music to go with her books. What a funky grandma! I checked out that website and the site appears under construction but here is the link: http://www.doublecake.net/author.html
To think, this morning I read Mama, Do You Love Me? to Mirette and it was JUST a book. I knew nothing of the author's awesome philosophies or that she joined a band and I definitely wasn't planning on writing this long of a post!
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