There probably aren’t any educators who would argue against the power of the read aloud, yet when the pressures of the school day hit, read-aloud time seems to be the first thing to get postponed because it’s “just for fun,” right? Wrong! (You already knew that!) Or maybe you’re just plain tired at the end of the day and your […]
balanced literacy
Book Review: Ask Me, by Bernard Waber
Why I Picked It Up: At first, it was the beautiful water colors and the father and daughter on the front. When I read the title and the author, it sounded familiar. After a quick search I was reminded of who Bernard Waber is: the author of the Lyle the Crocodile books and Ira Sleeps Over. […]
Book Review: Thunder Boy Jr., by Sherman Alexie
Why I Picked It Up: Sherman Alexie. He has me captivated. The first novel I read by him was The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian which was a raw look into some of Alexie’s experiences growing up. After a while, I read his essay, Superman and Me. I am not even sure if […]
Book Review: Con Academy, by Joe Schreiber
Why I Picked It Up: This book is on the 2016 Lone Star List. This list is one of a few places I start when looking for a new YA or middle level book to read. Plus, Sherry and I are working on taking another Battle of the Books team to next year’s competition! Why I […]
Book Review: This or That History Debate: A Rip-Roaring Game of Either/Or Questions, by Michael O’Hearn
Why I Picked It Up: We are always looking for engaging books for the elementary classroom, so when this came across one of my many searches. It reminded me of How They Croaked, by Georgia Bragg (one of my faves!), and so I quickly ordered it. Why I Finished It: It’s really addicting. The book arrived […]
Book Review: Max the Brave, by Ed Vere
Why I Picked It Up: I definitely judged this book by it’s cover. Those who know me know I am not a lover of cats, but this one made me smile. His eyes, stance, and cape had me amused. Plus, Sherry and I seem to have an unexplainable thing for superheroes. Why I Finished It: […]