This Easter break has been no different. These are the two children's books I thoroughly enjoyed over my first two days of break:
1) The One and Only Ivan --> I sat down this afternoon after a nice brunch with my family with the intention of reading only a few pages of this book. As I turned the final page about two hours later, I realized just how captivating the story is. (Only after I had finished the book did I discover the novel is based on a true story.) It is uniquely told through the eyes of the "ape at exit 8" with a wonderful cast of characters, rounded out by two sweet elephants, a young girl who befriends the animals, and Bob the mutt. This book might seriously be my class's next read aloud - after we finish Wonder, that is.
Do yourself a favor and watch the book trailer on the website. And then, go ahead and get a copy - rent, borrow, buy... And then, set aside about 2 hours worth of time, sit back, and enjoy.
2) Hold Fast --> After the author Blue Balliett came to our school for a visit with the kiddos, I went to Barnes & Noble online and ordered this one, her latest book. It (like her other books) is set in Chicago, and it actually delves into the issue of homelessness (especially for families and children) while providing a most intriguing mystery. Blue Balliett always employs these great mathematical puzzlers and riddles that are solved by characters (and the reader) along the way. (I honestly think I liked this book more than Chasing Vermeer.) I'll be passing this book along to my co-workers and then our students too. It may provide a great segue into discussing the real problem of homelessness in our city, and maybe the students can start thinking of a part they may (one day...or now) be able to play.
Well, I do think I've exhausted the children's books I brought with me. Next up, I have How Children Succeed and The Good Pope: John XXIII and Vatican II - The Making of a Saint and the Re-Making of the Church. I also have about 15+ books to choose from on my Nook. But first, I think I'll need to do some scoring of student mystery book assessments and Social Studies assessment booklets...
And, of course, tomorrow being EASTER (!!!), I think I will honor the day of rest and celebrate Jesus' Resurrection with my family. Hope you have a blessed Easter too.
(By the way, this is an interesting post about Popes Francis and Benedict: http://www.patheos.com/blogs/theanchoress/2013/03/27/the-quiet-menace-fixating-on-francis-missing-the-point/)
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