Why I Picked It Up I am always on the hunt for mentor texts that all students can relate to and this one fits that to a tee! And of course, the front cover had me from the beginning! Why I Finished It Of course you have to finish it to see if Jabari actually […]
Writers' Notebook
Book Review: Charlie Cook’s Favorite Book, by Julia Donaldson
Why I Picked It Up: In preparation for Picture Books as Mentor Texts (a session I presented this summer!), I searched for different organizational structures in fiction and found this gem! First, I was attracted to the pictures because they provided an odd sense of childhood comfort. Why? I finally realized that it was because […]
Book Review: Freedom Over Me; Eleven slaves, their lives and dreams brought to life, by Ashley Bryan
Middle-grade teachers NEED Freedom Over Me! We teach students about segregation and “separate but equal”, but this book provides a completely different perspective.
Book Review: Dear Dragon, by Josh Funk
** Contact us if you would like Literary Fusions to come to your campus with engaging, evidence-based, and practical professional development ** Why I Picked It Up: Josh Funk, that’s why! We tend to get hooked on authors, especially ones that make us laugh! Sir Pancake and Lady French Toast has become one of our favorites, […]
Book Review: Mary McScary, by R.L. Stine and illustrated by Marc Brown
Why I Picked It Up: There is a good chance I have a soft spot for bratty looking kids! The cover had me from the moment I stepped into Barnes & Noble. Then I looked at the author and illustrator and realized that I would definitely have to read it! Why I Finished It: Mary […]
Book Review: I Yam a Donkey, by Cece Bell
Why I Picked It Up: The title and cover. Yep, judged this on by the cover! I love puns, ridiculous puns, the ones that you don’t want to laugh at, but can’t resist! Why I Finished It: It is ridiculous, yes, but it is funny! This book is the whole, “who’s on first” routine. Throughout […]