The Goosebumps Series is not for your average child. This series is for the wild, adventuresome child--the ones that like watching scary movies for the thrill and scary parts. The series is a fun adventure for kids, and a good way to get out of the typical genre that children are so easily forced or guided to read.
This book is meant for eight year olds and older. Any younger age would probably not be good idea, because the descriptions can be rather graphic. But the detail and stories are great because they bring them to life. Also, you never know exactly what is going to happen next. It's a great book series and a fun read. I suggest it to all the adventuresome children out there.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Friday, April 18, 2008
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein is a great book for all ages. It was published in February of 1986, but still remains a favorite book today. The Giving Tree is a parable about the gift of giving and the capacity to love, told throughout the life of a boy who grows to manhood and a tree that selflessly gives him her bounty through the years.
This book was one of my favorite books growing up, and I think my favorite part was the illustrations. This book is one of those books where without the illustrations, it would not be the same. The intended ages are said to be four to eight year olds, but I am a firm believer that this book is a book for all the ages!
This book was one of my favorite books growing up, and I think my favorite part was the illustrations. This book is one of those books where without the illustrations, it would not be the same. The intended ages are said to be four to eight year olds, but I am a firm believer that this book is a book for all the ages!
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Biography of Illustrator David Catrow
David Catrow's children's stories and illustrations have become a recent favorite for children. When trying to find information regarding David Catrow, I was unable to find a serious biography, and it is with the same attitude he demonstrated when providing this useless information he provides about himself that appeals to the lighthearted demeanor of children.
Catrow began his education as a pre-med major at Kent state and later worked as a paramedic for ten years. But today, Catrow simply draws and paints. He has illustrated over 30 books for kids and maintains editorial cartoons which are printed in more than 900 newspapers in the United States and Canada. When asked what would be the one thing he would like to learn to do, Catrow replied with learning to catch a frisbee with his teeth. And it is with this same comical demeanor that fills his pages with humor.
Catrow's books appeal to children and adults alike. His illustrations in Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon by Patty Lovell cause the reader to fall in love with the short, clumsy, and buck toothed Molly Lou. His work in She's Wearing a Dead Bird on Her Head earned Catrow recognition when it was named the New York Times Best Illustrated Book of the Year in 1995. His work will continue to be loved by his audience of readers.
Catrow began his education as a pre-med major at Kent state and later worked as a paramedic for ten years. But today, Catrow simply draws and paints. He has illustrated over 30 books for kids and maintains editorial cartoons which are printed in more than 900 newspapers in the United States and Canada. When asked what would be the one thing he would like to learn to do, Catrow replied with learning to catch a frisbee with his teeth. And it is with this same comical demeanor that fills his pages with humor.
Catrow's books appeal to children and adults alike. His illustrations in Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon by Patty Lovell cause the reader to fall in love with the short, clumsy, and buck toothed Molly Lou. His work in She's Wearing a Dead Bird on Her Head earned Catrow recognition when it was named the New York Times Best Illustrated Book of the Year in 1995. His work will continue to be loved by his audience of readers.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Charlotte's Web by E.B. White
Charlotte's Web is a children's book by acclaimed American author E. B. White. Charlotte's Web begins early on a spring morning in the Arable kitchen, where eight-year-old Fern Arable learns that her father is heading out to do away with a tiny pig that was born the night before. She quickly heads out to correct this horrible injustice. After much discussion, young Fern convinces her father to spare the runt's life, and he allows her to take the responsibility for raising the small pig upon herself. This is how the young pig, christened "Wilbur,"begins his life's adventure. With each passing day, Wilbur gets lonelier day after day until eventually, a warm and soothing voice tells him that she is going to be his friend. The next day, he wakes up and meets the voice: Charlotte, a gray spider. Wilbur soon becomes a member of the community of animals who live in the cellar of Zuckerman's barn.
When the old sheep in the barn cellar tells Wilbur that he is going to be killed and eaten at Christmas, he turns to Charlotte for help. Charlotte has the idea of writing words in her web extolling Wilbur's excellent personality, such as "SOME PIG", reasoning that if she can make Wilbur sufficiently famous, he will not be killed. Thanks to Charlotte's efforts, Wilbur not only lives, but goes to the county fair--with Charlotte--and wins a prize. Due to the short lifespan of spiders, Charlotte dies at the fair. Wilbur repays Charlotte by bringing home with him the sac of eggs she had laid at the fair. When Charlotte's eggs hatch at Zuckerman's farm and most of Charlotte's daughters leave to make their own lives elsewhere, three remain there as friends to Wilbur.
When the old sheep in the barn cellar tells Wilbur that he is going to be killed and eaten at Christmas, he turns to Charlotte for help. Charlotte has the idea of writing words in her web extolling Wilbur's excellent personality, such as "SOME PIG", reasoning that if she can make Wilbur sufficiently famous, he will not be killed. Thanks to Charlotte's efforts, Wilbur not only lives, but goes to the county fair--with Charlotte--and wins a prize. Due to the short lifespan of spiders, Charlotte dies at the fair. Wilbur repays Charlotte by bringing home with him the sac of eggs she had laid at the fair. When Charlotte's eggs hatch at Zuckerman's farm and most of Charlotte's daughters leave to make their own lives elsewhere, three remain there as friends to Wilbur.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Accelerated Reading Program
After observing recently in an elementary school a few weeks ago, I was stunned at the prevalence of the Accelerated Reading (AR) program in American classrooms. Because I did not use this program when I was in elementary school, I was interested in the purpose and intent of AR. The AR program is a means of assessing and monitoring the progress of students in their reading skills. Books are assigned a specific reading level, and the students are able to choose books of their choice according to their particular reading skills. This allows students in the same classroom with entirely different reading levels to simultaneously strengthen their reading skills without being either bored or overworked. After one has read a book, they then take a test online which has several basic and comprehensive questions over that particular piece of literature. The teacher is then given an assessment regarding reading comprehension and retention.
In countless studies, schools who utilize Accelerated Reading programs demonstrate a much larger gain in reading skills. While research proves his program to be successful, there are still many critics who argue that the AR program only teaches recall, not comprehension.
In countless studies, schools who utilize Accelerated Reading programs demonstrate a much larger gain in reading skills. While research proves his program to be successful, there are still many critics who argue that the AR program only teaches recall, not comprehension.
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Holes by Louis Sarchar
This is one of my favorite books in my older childhood years. I read it multiple times as a child, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it again.
This novel is set in modern times and focuses on the current circumstances of Stanley Yelnats, a young man who is sent to Camp Green Lake for a crime he didn't commit. Stanley's family is poor and believes themselves to be under the curse of Stanley's "no-good-dirty-rotten-pig-stealing-great-grandfather." The curse has been extended through multiple generations because the great=grandfather, Elya Yelnats, did not keep his promise to Madame Zeroni. Stanley's father is an inventor who is trying to find a way to recycle used tennis shoes. Stanley's supposed crime was he stole a pair of tennis shoes from Clyde "Sweet Feet" Livingston, a famous baseball player who had donated the shoes to an auction. In fact, Stanley did not steal the shoes, but happened to be walking near the underpass when they fell down on him. Because Stanley's family was poor, they were unable to fight the charges and is forced to be placed at Camp Green Lake.
The novel centers on Stanley's life at Camp Green Lake, which is not a pleasant place. There is no water or vegetation for miles because the camp is in the middle of the desert. For punishment, each "camper" must dig a hole five feet high by five feet wide every day. The story of Stanley's life is interwoven with the past story of Camp Green Lake, a hundred and ten years before when it was a thriving town. The holes that the boys are forced to dig are not simply for punishment; they are dug for the warden, who is looking for treasure buried by Kissing Kate Barlow.
When problems arise Zero, a friend of Stanley, escapes from camp. Shortly after, Stanley too leaves the safety of Camp Green Lake. He eventually finds Zero, and together the two struggle to survive. Eventually, they sneak back down to the camp to dig a hole that Stanley believes holds the treasure the warden is seeking. Indeed, Stanley and Zero find the buried treasure, but not before they are caught by the warden and her henchman.
While Zero and Stanley have been gone from camp, a woman has come in search of Stanley. The woman uses her authority to release Zero as well, since Stanley won't go without him. The treasure that they have dug up has Stanley Yelnats' name on it, and it turns out that the treasure was his great-grandfather's fortune, stolen by Kissing Kate Barlow.
Fortune turns in the favor of the Yelnats. Stanley's dad has discovered a formula for eliminating foot odor and Clyde "Sweet Feet" is its principal endorser. Zero has admitted that he stole the shoes, only because he lived on his own and had to steal to get by.
The book is a great book to read and a fun one as well. I recommend it to all readers who love adventure and ironies. Plus, Louis Sarchar is a great author.
This novel is set in modern times and focuses on the current circumstances of Stanley Yelnats, a young man who is sent to Camp Green Lake for a crime he didn't commit. Stanley's family is poor and believes themselves to be under the curse of Stanley's "no-good-dirty-rotten-pig-stealing-great-grandfather." The curse has been extended through multiple generations because the great=grandfather, Elya Yelnats, did not keep his promise to Madame Zeroni. Stanley's father is an inventor who is trying to find a way to recycle used tennis shoes. Stanley's supposed crime was he stole a pair of tennis shoes from Clyde "Sweet Feet" Livingston, a famous baseball player who had donated the shoes to an auction. In fact, Stanley did not steal the shoes, but happened to be walking near the underpass when they fell down on him. Because Stanley's family was poor, they were unable to fight the charges and is forced to be placed at Camp Green Lake.
The novel centers on Stanley's life at Camp Green Lake, which is not a pleasant place. There is no water or vegetation for miles because the camp is in the middle of the desert. For punishment, each "camper" must dig a hole five feet high by five feet wide every day. The story of Stanley's life is interwoven with the past story of Camp Green Lake, a hundred and ten years before when it was a thriving town. The holes that the boys are forced to dig are not simply for punishment; they are dug for the warden, who is looking for treasure buried by Kissing Kate Barlow.
When problems arise Zero, a friend of Stanley, escapes from camp. Shortly after, Stanley too leaves the safety of Camp Green Lake. He eventually finds Zero, and together the two struggle to survive. Eventually, they sneak back down to the camp to dig a hole that Stanley believes holds the treasure the warden is seeking. Indeed, Stanley and Zero find the buried treasure, but not before they are caught by the warden and her henchman.
While Zero and Stanley have been gone from camp, a woman has come in search of Stanley. The woman uses her authority to release Zero as well, since Stanley won't go without him. The treasure that they have dug up has Stanley Yelnats' name on it, and it turns out that the treasure was his great-grandfather's fortune, stolen by Kissing Kate Barlow.
Fortune turns in the favor of the Yelnats. Stanley's dad has discovered a formula for eliminating foot odor and Clyde "Sweet Feet" is its principal endorser. Zero has admitted that he stole the shoes, only because he lived on his own and had to steal to get by.
The book is a great book to read and a fun one as well. I recommend it to all readers who love adventure and ironies. Plus, Louis Sarchar is a great author.
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Martian Child--The Movie
What's the nature of being a parent and of being a child? David is a widower grieving for two years. He writes science fiction and was considered weird as a boy. He meets Dennis, a foster child who claims to be on a mission from Mars, stays in a large box all day, fears sunlight, and wears a belt of flashlight batteries so he won't float away. David takes the six-year-old home on a trial. His sister and his wife's best friend offer support, but the guys are basically alone to figure this out. Dennis takes things, is expelled, and is coached by David in being normal. Will the court approve the adoption, and will Dennis stay? Can a man become a father and a child become a son?
The Martian Child (starring John Cusack and Bobby Coleman) is a great movie for all ages and all members of the family. This movie has great insight on how children cope with and view such a huge, new world around them. My family and I thoroughly enjoyed the movie, and I recommend it to all families—young and old alike.
The Martian Child (starring John Cusack and Bobby Coleman) is a great movie for all ages and all members of the family. This movie has great insight on how children cope with and view such a huge, new world around them. My family and I thoroughly enjoyed the movie, and I recommend it to all families—young and old alike.
"Sometimes we forget that children have just arrived on the earth. They are a little like aliens, coming into beings as bundles of energy and pure potential, here on some exploratory mission and they are just trying to learn what it means to be human. For some reason Dennis and I reached out into the universe and found each other, Never really know how or why. And discovered that I can love an alien and he can love a creature. And thats weird enough for both of us." --David, quote from movie
(some information and photo taken from imdb.com)
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Thoughts on The Hobbit
Some people think books like The Hobbit are bad for today’s kids. They think the fantasy and fiction is not good for them. Some parents even go to say that the adventures in the books aren’t good for their children because it gives them ideas for dangerous things. I disagree a hundred percent! I think books like The Hobbit helps kid—it makes them think outside the box and explore their imaginations (so they don’t get into the “dangerous things”). In my opinion, the kids who get bored are the ones that get into the “dangerous things”. But that’s not the point. The point is kids these days need an escape, and a detailed world full of adventures and good versus evil is just the thing to satisfy their craving.
I liked reading The Hobbit because it took me back to my childhood—a place where thinking outside the box was encouraged and adventures were welcomed daily. I miss that place, but I’m glad books like The Hobbit can take me back there from time to time.
I liked reading The Hobbit because it took me back to my childhood—a place where thinking outside the box was encouraged and adventures were welcomed daily. I miss that place, but I’m glad books like The Hobbit can take me back there from time to time.
Friday, March 28, 2008
Sing-Song and A Child's Garden of Verses
One of my favorite Rossetti’s Sing-Song Poems:
“What are heavy? sea-sand and sorrow:
What are brief? to-day and to-morrow:
What are frail? Spring blossoms and youth:
What are deep? the ocean and truth.”
The main difference between Sing-Song and A Child's Garden of Verses is the tone and the content of the collections. While Sing-Song is often carefree in its expedition to take the reader on a voyage of life, A Child's Garden of Verses is cold and harsh in its text. Both collections have similar pictures, but Sing-Song was written simply for a child's enjoyment and that is easily noted through the poems.
“What are heavy? sea-sand and sorrow:
What are brief? to-day and to-morrow:
What are frail? Spring blossoms and youth:
What are deep? the ocean and truth.”
The main difference between Sing-Song and A Child's Garden of Verses is the tone and the content of the collections. While Sing-Song is often carefree in its expedition to take the reader on a voyage of life, A Child's Garden of Verses is cold and harsh in its text. Both collections have similar pictures, but Sing-Song was written simply for a child's enjoyment and that is easily noted through the poems.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Television and Media--A Way to Teach Children's Stories
There is a growing trend in America to recreate popular books into movies and television shows. This is the case with Harry Potter, Ella Enchanted, Matilda, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The Hobbit, and the list could go on and on. I believe that recreating traditional stories can have a detrimental effect on the minds of youth if they use the media's version to replace the literature. It is now more popular than ever to spend an afternoon watching the television instead of exploring the outdoors or devouring a book, which drains the world of imagination out of the minds of kids.
Children discover it overwhelmingly easy to watch a movie and receive the same satisfaction and information as it is to read a book. When I was young, I would often find it much harder to read a book if I had already seen the movie because I knew the outcome of the novel, which removed all excitement and tension from the story. Children are fed inadequate information through movies, but are not motivated to discover the actual truth.
Not only are movies a popular means of retelling children's literature, but also television. Due to the production of programs such as PBS, stories such as Arthur and Clifford are played on TV every afternoon, which subsequently draws children to watch shows about their favorite character rather than spending the time reading. If we wish to motivate children to read more, we must remove the distraction of television that we place in their life and encourage them to read a book, rather than taking the way out.
Children discover it overwhelmingly easy to watch a movie and receive the same satisfaction and information as it is to read a book. When I was young, I would often find it much harder to read a book if I had already seen the movie because I knew the outcome of the novel, which removed all excitement and tension from the story. Children are fed inadequate information through movies, but are not motivated to discover the actual truth.
Not only are movies a popular means of retelling children's literature, but also television. Due to the production of programs such as PBS, stories such as Arthur and Clifford are played on TV every afternoon, which subsequently draws children to watch shows about their favorite character rather than spending the time reading. If we wish to motivate children to read more, we must remove the distraction of television that we place in their life and encourage them to read a book, rather than taking the way out.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Charlie the Caterpillar
Charlie the Caterpillar is an all-time favorite picture book for many children. The story begins when Charlie, the Caterpillar, is born one sunny day and decides that he must go out and see the world around him. The young caterpillar comes into contact with a group of monkeys, rabbits, and mice, all of which will have nithing to do with the youngster because he was "ugly." Saddened at the previous events, the caterpillar spun himself into a cocoon. When he awoke, he was no longer an ugly creature that crept across the dirt floor, but rather he was a beautiful butterfly that spread across the afternoon sky. Upon seeing the transformed creature, the animals--which previously had nothing to do with Charlie--now desired to be his friend. He shrugged them off in the same manner that they had done to him and continued to fly until he found a baby caterpillar distressed at her appearance. She was upset because, in her opinion, she was ugly. Charlie spoke to her about the joys of becoming a butterfly and the two became best friends.
The story encompasses a moral that children should not let the world tell them their value, for one day they will be of great importance. De Luise, the author of Charlie the Caterpillar provides much repetition so that the reader can learn new vocabulary when seeing the word more than once. For example, each time the caterpillar faces a new situation he looks to his left and then he looks to his right. Not only is the story of great value, but the pictures contain so much color and are fun for little eyes to look at as the story is being read to them.
The story encompasses a moral that children should not let the world tell them their value, for one day they will be of great importance. De Luise, the author of Charlie the Caterpillar provides much repetition so that the reader can learn new vocabulary when seeing the word more than once. For example, each time the caterpillar faces a new situation he looks to his left and then he looks to his right. Not only is the story of great value, but the pictures contain so much color and are fun for little eyes to look at as the story is being read to them.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Brazos Valley Children's Museum
While talking with a friend from school, I recently found out that the city of Bryan has a children's museum. It was founded in December of 1995 when Texas A&M professor Dr. Dale Whittaker decided to pursue a dream of creating a non-profit children's museum that would encourage children to have a hands-on approach to educational activities, including art and science experiments. There are eleven exhibits for children to take part in, including a grocery store for children, upside down room, a Volkswagon bug for children and adults to paint on and a health and fitness area. The success of the Brazos Valley Museum is due in part to the tremendous support from volunteers. The museum is a great place for children to spend an afternoon having fun while learning.
For more information and times of operation, check out their website at: http://www.mymuseum.com/index.shtml
For more information and times of operation, check out their website at: http://www.mymuseum.com/index.shtml
Friday, March 21, 2008
Websites for Children's Books
The Children's Literature Web Guide: This website provides a list of children's bestsellers, children book awards, as well as this year's best books--even though it does not seem to be too up-to-date. There are also several resource links for parents, teachers and children. Also included on the website are direct links to author pages, stories on the web and journal/book reviews.
KidsRead.com: This website provides children with information regarding the world of children's literature. It encompasses links to author pages, coming soon books, new in paperback and books into movies. There are several detailed reviews about various books as well as a list for "must reads."
Kids@Random: This website is in direct correlation to Ranodm House Publishing Company. It provides kids, teens and adults various resources regarding literature. On the kids webpage, there are several lists of all time favorite characters that children can use to read and play games. There are also "mini-sites" which are links to stories of a specific character.
Scholastic Kids: This website is created and maintained by the Scholastic Publishing Company. There are links to games that children can play with the book character of their choice. There are also links for assistance with homework, book reviews and tools to improve children's writing.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Reading Rainbow
Most college students of this generation can remember watching a favored television show called Reading Rainbow. I can still remember that time of the day in my elementary school classes being one of my favorite times of the days. While loving the show dearly as a child, I could not have fathomed its direct influence on children's literature today.
Reading Rainbow is an acclaimed American children's television series aired by PBS since 1983 that encourages reading among children. Each episode centers on a theme from a book or other children's literature which is explored through a number of segments or stories. The show also provides book recommendations for kids to look for when they go to the library.
Reading Rainbow is hosted by actor and executive producer Le Var Burton. He regularly features a children's book narrated by a noted celebrity. The show also regularly features Burton in different places talking to individuals about their work and contributions to children's literature, all focusing on the theme of each episode. The final segment of each show, called Book Reviews, allows other children to give reviews of books that they recommend to the viewer. In more recent years, Reading Rainbow has begun to tackle issues that other children's programs have historically avoided, such as poverity in U.S. inner cities, the September 11 attacks, childbirth and its impact on the family, and prison (all from a child's point of view).
Reading Rainbow has won numerous awards. It has won eight Emmy Awards for Outstanding Children's Series. The series was also nominated for six Daytime Emmy Awards in 2005. It won three more Emmys for Writing, Photography and Editing and was the most honored children's series of 2005. Critics note that Reading Rainbow is one of only a few U.S. children's shows also watched regularly by adults. It is one of the most commended shows in all of children's television.
Reading Rainbow is an acclaimed American children's television series aired by PBS since 1983 that encourages reading among children. Each episode centers on a theme from a book or other children's literature which is explored through a number of segments or stories. The show also provides book recommendations for kids to look for when they go to the library.
Reading Rainbow is hosted by actor and executive producer Le Var Burton. He regularly features a children's book narrated by a noted celebrity. The show also regularly features Burton in different places talking to individuals about their work and contributions to children's literature, all focusing on the theme of each episode. The final segment of each show, called Book Reviews, allows other children to give reviews of books that they recommend to the viewer. In more recent years, Reading Rainbow has begun to tackle issues that other children's programs have historically avoided, such as poverity in U.S. inner cities, the September 11 attacks, childbirth and its impact on the family, and prison (all from a child's point of view).
Reading Rainbow has won numerous awards. It has won eight Emmy Awards for Outstanding Children's Series. The series was also nominated for six Daytime Emmy Awards in 2005. It won three more Emmys for Writing, Photography and Editing and was the most honored children's series of 2005. Critics note that Reading Rainbow is one of only a few U.S. children's shows also watched regularly by adults. It is one of the most commended shows in all of children's television.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
About Illustrator Jan Brett
Jan Brett was born on December 1, 1949 in Hingham, Massachusetts. Brett began her higher education by attending Colby Junior College from 1968-1969, and later the Boston Museum of Fine Arts School in 1970. As a student at the Boston Museum School, she spent hours in the Museum of Fine Arts. Brett currently resides in the seacoast town of Norwell, Massachusetts, a historic area on the South Shore, but spends her summers in the mountains where she completes much of her work on her books. Not only does she write her own books, but she also adopts and illustrates folktales. It takes approximately one year for her to complete a single book.
JanBrett loved to draw when she was a child. By the time she was six years old, she was determined to be a children's book illustrator. As a child, she was extremely shy, and thus found drawing a way to express herself. Her very first publication in which she wrote and illustrated the piece was "Fritz and the Beautiful Horses" in 1981. As with many of her pieces, this book was inspired by her love for animals and pets during her childhood. Animals are an inspiration in many of Brett's picture books and most of her books are set within nature. Jan Brett also inspiration for her books from old folktales. Travel is also a constant inspiration. Together with her husband, Joe Hearne, who is a member of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Jan visits many different countries where she researches the architecture and costumes that appear in her work. "From cave paintings to Norwegian sleighs, to Japanese gardens, I study the traditions of the many countries I visit and use them as a starting point for my children's books." Although many emotions are embodied within her books, there remains a constant message of hope.
JanBrett loved to draw when she was a child. By the time she was six years old, she was determined to be a children's book illustrator. As a child, she was extremely shy, and thus found drawing a way to express herself. Her very first publication in which she wrote and illustrated the piece was "Fritz and the Beautiful Horses" in 1981. As with many of her pieces, this book was inspired by her love for animals and pets during her childhood. Animals are an inspiration in many of Brett's picture books and most of her books are set within nature. Jan Brett also inspiration for her books from old folktales. Travel is also a constant inspiration. Together with her husband, Joe Hearne, who is a member of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Jan visits many different countries where she researches the architecture and costumes that appear in her work. "From cave paintings to Norwegian sleighs, to Japanese gardens, I study the traditions of the many countries I visit and use them as a starting point for my children's books." Although many emotions are embodied within her books, there remains a constant message of hope.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
The New Kid on the Block
Written by Jack Prelutsky, "The New Kid on the Block" is a collection of absurd poems for children. Jack Prelutsky, the author to over fifty poem collections, claims that he hated poetry in grade school because of the way that it was taught, and therefore desired to create poetry for children in a way that they would not only come to love, but also respect. The introduction to this particular collection best explains the humorous poems found within its pages. For instance, "You'll be introduced to jellyfish stew, a bounding mouse and a boneless chicken. You'll learn why shouldn't argue with a shark or have an alligator as a pet, and you'll meet the world's worst singer and the greatest video game player in history."
Every poem stretches the imagination of its reader, causing them to think far "out of the box" into an imaginary realm of absurdity. Prelutsky derived his name for this collection from his first poem, which is about a little boy who is scared of the new kid on the block. After an in-depth explanation by the little boy of the "new kid," the poem ends with him commenting "I don't care for HER at all."
Not only are the poems within this collection comical, but also the illustrations by James Stevenson, which correspond with each poem. While the poems easily appeal to its reader, the illustrations complete the thoughts of Prelutsky and add essential humor to the piece. Prelutsky was successful in his attempt to transform poetry units in grade schools, and his work is constantly used within classrooms.
Every poem stretches the imagination of its reader, causing them to think far "out of the box" into an imaginary realm of absurdity. Prelutsky derived his name for this collection from his first poem, which is about a little boy who is scared of the new kid on the block. After an in-depth explanation by the little boy of the "new kid," the poem ends with him commenting "I don't care for HER at all."
Not only are the poems within this collection comical, but also the illustrations by James Stevenson, which correspond with each poem. While the poems easily appeal to its reader, the illustrations complete the thoughts of Prelutsky and add essential humor to the piece. Prelutsky was successful in his attempt to transform poetry units in grade schools, and his work is constantly used within classrooms.
Sunday, March 2, 2008
How Jackrabbit Got His Very Long Ears by Heather Irbinskas
Why does Tortoise move so slowly? Why does Bobcat have such a short tail? And why does Roadrunner fly so close to the ground and not high in the sky like Eagle? Because the Great Spirit made them special so that they could survive in the desert.
But Jackrabbit, who has been especially chosen by the Great Spirit to lead these new creatures to earth and introduce them to their desert homes, does not listen carefully to what the Great Spirit tells him about each one. He makes up stories in answer to their questions--stories that cause his friends to feel bad about themselves.
This book is a sensitive and original tale that teaches children to listen carefully, to treat others kindly, and to see that they (like Bobcat, Tortoise, Roadrunner and even Jackrabbit) are all special in their own ways.
But Jackrabbit, who has been especially chosen by the Great Spirit to lead these new creatures to earth and introduce them to their desert homes, does not listen carefully to what the Great Spirit tells him about each one. He makes up stories in answer to their questions--stories that cause his friends to feel bad about themselves.
This book is a sensitive and original tale that teaches children to listen carefully, to treat others kindly, and to see that they (like Bobcat, Tortoise, Roadrunner and even Jackrabbit) are all special in their own ways.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
A Poem about Children
Children are amazing creatures,
How we should be more like them, for
In their innocence and imagination they can overtake the world.
Loving others comes easily as a young one,
Day-to-day life is full of surprises,
Reality is just the fairy tales that is out of arm’s reach.
Every child is unique in their personalities and possibilities,
No dream is impossible in the eyes of the child.
I wrote this as a fun type of poem to describe the amazing values and views of children. I think that as a future teacher, if I lose sight of how children think and how they interact with the world around them, I think I will fail my students. I do not believe that teachers that are out of touch with their students can be effective in teaching. I try to keep in distance of enough children so that I do not lose sight of life through a child’s eyes.
How we should be more like them, for
In their innocence and imagination they can overtake the world.
Loving others comes easily as a young one,
Day-to-day life is full of surprises,
Reality is just the fairy tales that is out of arm’s reach.
Every child is unique in their personalities and possibilities,
No dream is impossible in the eyes of the child.
I wrote this as a fun type of poem to describe the amazing values and views of children. I think that as a future teacher, if I lose sight of how children think and how they interact with the world around them, I think I will fail my students. I do not believe that teachers that are out of touch with their students can be effective in teaching. I try to keep in distance of enough children so that I do not lose sight of life through a child’s eyes.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
About Heather Irbinskas
Heather Irbinskas is the author of several award-winning children’s books including “The Lost Kachina”, “Pauly, The Adventurous Pallid Bat”, “Morgan the Dog” and the highly popular “How JackRabbit Got His Very Long Ears”. Heather’s multifaceted career includes being the trainer of 1994 “Best of America’s Horse” Charge Alibhai for Grand Prix Dressage. In 2005, Heather and her Dutch mare Razelma won the USDF All-Breeds award for 3rd Level Musical Freestyle. Her long career as a professional horse trainer and instructor moved her to develop highly acclaimed humane training & safety products for dogs and horses with her company SNAP-BACKS. Heather & her husband Jonas own their own training stables in Sonoita, AZ.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Kids are like Sponges
Today in church I noticed how much little kids are like sponges that soak up all the information around them and replicate what they see. I was sitting in the pew behind two families with small children; probably all of the children were under the age of three. Anyway, one of the little boys was imitating our preacher's hand motions and words. It was so cute to see this little boy watch the preacher so intensively and copy his actions.
But today it just clicked in church while watching this little kid how important good children's literature and media for the children in our world today. Watching little kids learn about the world around them pushes me harder and stronger to be the best teacher in the world for them.
But today it just clicked in church while watching this little kid how important good children's literature and media for the children in our world today. Watching little kids learn about the world around them pushes me harder and stronger to be the best teacher in the world for them.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Animorphs: The Invasion by K. A. Applegate
Animorphs chronicles the battles of five human teenagers and one alien youth as they fight a guerrilla war against a secret alien infiltration of Earth. The series is told in the first person, with a different narrator in every book. Applegate cycles through the books' six protagonists, telling the story of their secret war through each of the combatants' perspective. By using this method, she explores many of the dark aspects of the human condition. Horror, war, dehumanization, sanity, morality, innocence, leadership, and growing up are core motifs of the series. In the first book, The Invasion, the narrator is Jake, the leader of the Animorphs group. This book provides a solid foundation for the series as it begins to explain the plot and the characters.
In The Invasion, Jake and the other four teenagers come in contact with aliens who tell them that Earth is being invaded by another race of aliens, called the Yeerks. The Andalite alien gives the children powers to be able to absorb DNA from animals. Once they do this, the teenagers have the ability to morph into that animal—hence the name, Animorphs (Animal morphers.) When they are in animal form, they only have two hours until they have to morph back or they are trapped forever in animal form. Right before the book finishes, the readers find out that one the five main characters, Tobias, is forever trapped in the morph of a red-tailed hawk because he was unable to de-morph in time from the fight the night before.
This series provides an interesting and engaging adventure for upper elementary-age kids. The content can be a bit violent for younger children. I read them as a kid one after another once my brother would finish them. These books are the kinds that are difficult to put down. Luckily, there are fifty-three more in the regular series.
In The Invasion, Jake and the other four teenagers come in contact with aliens who tell them that Earth is being invaded by another race of aliens, called the Yeerks. The Andalite alien gives the children powers to be able to absorb DNA from animals. Once they do this, the teenagers have the ability to morph into that animal—hence the name, Animorphs (Animal morphers.) When they are in animal form, they only have two hours until they have to morph back or they are trapped forever in animal form. Right before the book finishes, the readers find out that one the five main characters, Tobias, is forever trapped in the morph of a red-tailed hawk because he was unable to de-morph in time from the fight the night before.
This series provides an interesting and engaging adventure for upper elementary-age kids. The content can be a bit violent for younger children. I read them as a kid one after another once my brother would finish them. These books are the kinds that are difficult to put down. Luckily, there are fifty-three more in the regular series.
Friday, February 22, 2008
Biography of K. A. Applegate
Katherine Alice Applegate is the credited author of the Animorphs, Remnants, and Everworld book series, although many of these books are ghostwritten by other authors. Applegate's most popular books are science fiction, fantasy and adventure novels. She also won the Best New Children's Book Series Award in 1997 in Publishers Weekly.
Applegate was born in Michigan in 1956. She currently lives in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. She has a son named Jake, although she says the Animorph leader isn't named after him. In 2003 she and her husband, Michael Reynolds, her co-author on many projects including Animorphs, adopted their daughter, Julia, in China. Following the end of Animorphs, Applegate took three years off. She is back at work and recently sold a picture book called "The Buffalo Storm," to Clarion, placed a middle reader novel called "The Stars Remain," (renamed "Home of the Brave") and an early chapters series "Time-Out Tales" with HarperCollins.
K. A. Applegate's Animorphs is a series of 54 science fiction books that were Applegate's first series. These 54 books were written from June 1996 to May 2001.
Applegate was born in Michigan in 1956. She currently lives in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. She has a son named Jake, although she says the Animorph leader isn't named after him. In 2003 she and her husband, Michael Reynolds, her co-author on many projects including Animorphs, adopted their daughter, Julia, in China. Following the end of Animorphs, Applegate took three years off. She is back at work and recently sold a picture book called "The Buffalo Storm," to Clarion, placed a middle reader novel called "The Stars Remain," (renamed "Home of the Brave") and an early chapters series "Time-Out Tales" with HarperCollins.
K. A. Applegate's Animorphs is a series of 54 science fiction books that were Applegate's first series. These 54 books were written from June 1996 to May 2001.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Why I Love Fantasy
Today in class we were talking about why some people love or hate the genre of fantasy. I'm most definitely in the first category. I think fantasy is such an amazing genre, and that the most creative people in the world write fantasy.
I love fantasy because it completely stretches my imagination. It takes language that I use every day and paints a beautiful and different world in a way that I don't think I ever could. Also, fantasy lierature is never the same. They do not always have an unrealistic and "happy ending" that is so populated among the fairy tales. Fantasy stories are not predictable, which keeps me reading and hooked until the very last page. Fantasies usually have morals and hidden meanings, and because the way they are written, the morals stick with me much longer.
Fantasy is such a beautiful genre, and I am eagerly looking forward to studying this unit!
I love fantasy because it completely stretches my imagination. It takes language that I use every day and paints a beautiful and different world in a way that I don't think I ever could. Also, fantasy lierature is never the same. They do not always have an unrealistic and "happy ending" that is so populated among the fairy tales. Fantasy stories are not predictable, which keeps me reading and hooked until the very last page. Fantasies usually have morals and hidden meanings, and because the way they are written, the morals stick with me much longer.
Fantasy is such a beautiful genre, and I am eagerly looking forward to studying this unit!
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Fantasy-Fiction
I've started to read the Animorhps book, which a form of fictional fantasy. It is a very interesting read, especially since it brings me back to the days of my childhood. I remember days when my brother would always be reading these books, one ahead of me. And when I was done, he would pass the book to me. I remember imagining I was one of the characters in the book, and that my brother and my best friends were characters as well. I loved the Animorphs books because they stretched my imagination to new limits that I hadn't explored before. And now the book is bringing me back to my childhood state. I just love books that bring me back to simpler days.
Saturday, February 16, 2008
In-Class Discussion Question
According to the Foxmovies web site about Ever After (http://www.foxmovies.com/everafter/themovie.html ), “This is not your grandmother's Cinderella.” Andy Tennant, director and co-screenwriter says of the film, "I wanted to tell a very different version of 'Cinderella' because I have two daughters." What kind of Cinderella is Danielle? How does she differ from your grandmother’s Cinderella? Why do you think Tennant wanted to create this particular type of Cinderella?
I think that Tennant wanted to create this particular type of Cinderella (Danielle) because she is the kind of woman or heroine that Tennant wants to see portrayed in his daughters. Danielle has strength and self-confidence. Danielle does not does not depend on the "fairy tale ending" for her happiness. She fights for what she believes in and does not let people's judgements influence her. She is a woman with a mind and a heart. Danielle is unconditionally loyal to her family--doing whatever it takes to keep them together and happy.
Most importantly, Danielle has passion. Henry tells her when they are in the library that she has "more passion from one memory than he has in his entire life." Her passion for life and love and knowledge are (what I believe) drive Henry to keep pursuing her.
I think that Tennant wanted to create this particular type of Cinderella (Danielle) because she is the kind of woman or heroine that Tennant wants to see portrayed in his daughters. Danielle has strength and self-confidence. Danielle does not does not depend on the "fairy tale ending" for her happiness. She fights for what she believes in and does not let people's judgements influence her. She is a woman with a mind and a heart. Danielle is unconditionally loyal to her family--doing whatever it takes to keep them together and happy.
Most importantly, Danielle has passion. Henry tells her when they are in the library that she has "more passion from one memory than he has in his entire life." Her passion for life and love and knowledge are (what I believe) drive Henry to keep pursuing her.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
The End of Ever After (The Movie)
Today in class we finished the end of the movie Ever After. I had never seen it, and I really enjoyed it as the closure to our Cinderella study. I feel like I can relate alot to Danielle in the way she fights and is devoted to things she loves. I'm devoted to my friends and family, and I do not give up easily on any person that shows interest in me as a friend. I have a passion for people, just as Danielle did. Sometimes I find myself wishing to be in another group (social class) as Danielle was able to do to see into another world that I'm not part of. But like Danielle, I do not want that other world to become a prison and cause more stress. If I was able to did what Danielle did, I would want that other (higher-status) world to be one of escape and freedom, not lies and bondage. I feel like every day I wake up I'm fighting the lies and and bondage from the events before. That's why I enjoy reading books like Ella Enchanted and watching characters like Danielle defeat their fate by using strength, wits, and courage.
I really liked the movie, and I like how much it differs from the Disney version of Cinderella. I like being able to really get know and grow with the characters throughout the stories.
I really liked the movie, and I like how much it differs from the Disney version of Cinderella. I like being able to really get know and grow with the characters throughout the stories.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Horton Hatches the Egg by Dr. Seuss
Horton Hatches the Egg is part of Dr. Seuss's classic collection. This rhyming book teaches perseverance, keeping promises, and what I call happy endings without the fairy tale. Basically that means a happy ending without prince charming coming to the rescue--a happy ending as a reward to your own hard work and perseverance. Those kind of happy endings are my favorite! Personally, I'm tired of waiting for my Prince Charming to come rescue me.
Anyway, this book is an easy and enjoyable read with vivid yet simple illustrations. The basic story is about a lazy bird named Mayzie and a nice elephant named Horton. Mayzie the lazy bird has laid an egg but is getting tired of doing her motherly duty of sitting on the nest so she asks Horton to do it. After some hesitation from Horton and persuasion from Mayzie, Horton agrees to sit on the nest. And the repeated (perseverance) phrase of the book is "I meant what I said and I said what I meant... An elephant's faithful one hundred per cent!" And in the end of the book when the egg is hatched and Mayzie wants the hatchling back, Horton's perseverance and faithfulness is paid off. When all the work and unpleasant parts were taken care of, Mayzie wants to come back for the pleasant and rewarding parts.
Dr. Seuss does a great job not only creating a story about hard work and perseverance that kids really need to know early on, but his illustrations are also so vivid and imaginative. The pictures also have this simple quality about them because of his use of only four colors and shading. For some reason, this really makes certain aspects of the pictures on each page stand out in its own certain way. The illustrations magicly connect the story with one's imagination.
Anyway, this book is an easy and enjoyable read with vivid yet simple illustrations. The basic story is about a lazy bird named Mayzie and a nice elephant named Horton. Mayzie the lazy bird has laid an egg but is getting tired of doing her motherly duty of sitting on the nest so she asks Horton to do it. After some hesitation from Horton and persuasion from Mayzie, Horton agrees to sit on the nest. And the repeated (perseverance) phrase of the book is "I meant what I said and I said what I meant... An elephant's faithful one hundred per cent!" And in the end of the book when the egg is hatched and Mayzie wants the hatchling back, Horton's perseverance and faithfulness is paid off. When all the work and unpleasant parts were taken care of, Mayzie wants to come back for the pleasant and rewarding parts.
Dr. Seuss does a great job not only creating a story about hard work and perseverance that kids really need to know early on, but his illustrations are also so vivid and imaginative. The pictures also have this simple quality about them because of his use of only four colors and shading. For some reason, this really makes certain aspects of the pictures on each page stand out in its own certain way. The illustrations magicly connect the story with one's imagination.
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Chicken Little--The Movie
I went on a trip to Taylor, TX this weekend on a trip of service to the community and church there. While we were there, I had the opportunity to watch Chicken Little with some of the youth and kids of the church. It was a very interesting experience, seeing their reaction to the story.
Some of the kids have heard of the story of Chicken Little, while others were completely clueless to who Chicken Little was and why the sky was falling. However, the movie puts a very interesting and creative twist on the story. Being a movie, it created more character development and relationships betweeen the characters than I remember reading as a child.
Anyway, the main relationship conflict was Chicken Little trying to get approval and acceptance and love from his dad, after failing him time and time again with the whole "sky is falling" incident. At the end, the father and son resolve their issue and the dad finally encourages his son and backs him up in his decisions instead of tearing him down.
The teacher-side of me decided to use this as a lesson for the kids I was watching the movie with. We talked about being nice to others and using kind words to build each other up, like the dad did for his son at the end of the movie. We discussed the importance of friends who believe in us and how they make us feel good and happy and secure.
And at the closing of the movie, they show the story that was in the movie as a movie in the town of Oakey Oats. They changed some of the story's plot and made Chicken Little's character bigger and more buff than he is in actual life. They made all the characters more glamorous, sort of mocking at the things Hollywood does to stories. One kid noticed this and asked why it was so different. I explained to him that sometimes the people who make the movies do not always stick to the truth so we should not always believe what we see on television. We then discussed the difference between the two stories in the movie.
I was amazed at the answers and understanding of the kids that were watching the movie with me. I guess I underestimate the depth of knowledge that students have these days. Even a simple movie on the Disney channel can turn to an opportunity of learning and discussion. Never underestimate all the amazing opportunities and blessings to learn around us.
Some of the kids have heard of the story of Chicken Little, while others were completely clueless to who Chicken Little was and why the sky was falling. However, the movie puts a very interesting and creative twist on the story. Being a movie, it created more character development and relationships betweeen the characters than I remember reading as a child.
Anyway, the main relationship conflict was Chicken Little trying to get approval and acceptance and love from his dad, after failing him time and time again with the whole "sky is falling" incident. At the end, the father and son resolve their issue and the dad finally encourages his son and backs him up in his decisions instead of tearing him down.
The teacher-side of me decided to use this as a lesson for the kids I was watching the movie with. We talked about being nice to others and using kind words to build each other up, like the dad did for his son at the end of the movie. We discussed the importance of friends who believe in us and how they make us feel good and happy and secure.
And at the closing of the movie, they show the story that was in the movie as a movie in the town of Oakey Oats. They changed some of the story's plot and made Chicken Little's character bigger and more buff than he is in actual life. They made all the characters more glamorous, sort of mocking at the things Hollywood does to stories. One kid noticed this and asked why it was so different. I explained to him that sometimes the people who make the movies do not always stick to the truth so we should not always believe what we see on television. We then discussed the difference between the two stories in the movie.
I was amazed at the answers and understanding of the kids that were watching the movie with me. I guess I underestimate the depth of knowledge that students have these days. Even a simple movie on the Disney channel can turn to an opportunity of learning and discussion. Never underestimate all the amazing opportunities and blessings to learn around us.
Saturday, February 9, 2008
Biography of Shel Silverstein
Shel Siverstein was a renowned poet, playwright, illustrator, screenwriter, and songwritier, but he is most famous for popular children's books including The Giving Tree, Falling Up, and A Light in the Attic. Silverstein has become one of the most popular and best-loved children's authors of all time.
Shel Silverstein was born in Chicago on September 25, 1930. As a child, Silverstein spent much time drawing and writing, by which he developed the unique style depicted throughout his works. Initially, he had no plans on writing for children, but in the 1960's, Tom Ungerer introduced Silverstein to his editor, Harper Collins' Ursula Nordstrom, which resulted in the publication of the Giving Tree in 1964. Only selling marginal copies initially, decades after its initial publication, the book has sold more than five and a half million copies and holds a permanent stop atop lists of bestsellers (as well as one of my favorites.)
Where the Sidewalk Ends, Shel Silverstein's first collection of poems, was published in 1974 and was hailed as an instant classic. Two more collections followed: A Light in the Attic in 1981, and Falling Up in 1996. Both books dominated bestseller lists for months and as a result, his poetry books are widely used in schools as a child's first introduction to poetry.
Shel Silverstein was born in Chicago on September 25, 1930. As a child, Silverstein spent much time drawing and writing, by which he developed the unique style depicted throughout his works. Initially, he had no plans on writing for children, but in the 1960's, Tom Ungerer introduced Silverstein to his editor, Harper Collins' Ursula Nordstrom, which resulted in the publication of the Giving Tree in 1964. Only selling marginal copies initially, decades after its initial publication, the book has sold more than five and a half million copies and holds a permanent stop atop lists of bestsellers (as well as one of my favorites.)
Where the Sidewalk Ends, Shel Silverstein's first collection of poems, was published in 1974 and was hailed as an instant classic. Two more collections followed: A Light in the Attic in 1981, and Falling Up in 1996. Both books dominated bestseller lists for months and as a result, his poetry books are widely used in schools as a child's first introduction to poetry.
Friday, February 8, 2008
Ever After-- The Movie
After watching the beginning of the movie in class today, I realized that there are many similarities between Ever After and the Cinderella fairy tales that we have been studying. But what I noticed is, even with the typical Cinderella, this story seems to be for an older audience than maybe some other Cinderella tales.
First, the death of her father is shown. That was pretty intense for a fairy tale. I wasn't expecting them to show that, and that would be something that I would not want my little children to see.
Also, the language and accents seems rather advanced for school aged children. I guess it all depends on the family. I remember when I was a little kid I had difficulty understanding people with accents. Maybe because of television now and all the different kinds of people there are it is not so difficult anymore.
I'm enjoying watching Ever After in class. This is the first time for me to see it, so I look forward to class on Monday.
First, the death of her father is shown. That was pretty intense for a fairy tale. I wasn't expecting them to show that, and that would be something that I would not want my little children to see.
Also, the language and accents seems rather advanced for school aged children. I guess it all depends on the family. I remember when I was a little kid I had difficulty understanding people with accents. Maybe because of television now and all the different kinds of people there are it is not so difficult anymore.
I'm enjoying watching Ever After in class. This is the first time for me to see it, so I look forward to class on Monday.
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Gender Roles
In my English literature class today, we were talking about gender roles in our society. I think that the traditional gender roles are given to us by the traditional roles of fairy tales characters. There is always a princess and a handsome prince that is supposed to come to the rescue, especially in the fairy tales exploited by Disney. Also, the women in the traditional fairy tales are the ones who do the cooking and cleaning.
I think as teachers we have to be aware of these traditional roles, and take it into thought as we teach children’s literature. We have to make sure that our students do not get trapped in these traditional roles, but explore what other gender roles are in the real world—a world where the father can stay at home and the mother brings in income or a world where both parents can work to bring in the source of income.
I think as teachers we have to be aware of these traditional roles, and take it into thought as we teach children’s literature. We have to make sure that our students do not get trapped in these traditional roles, but explore what other gender roles are in the real world—a world where the father can stay at home and the mother brings in income or a world where both parents can work to bring in the source of income.
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Cinderella's Around the World
When I first entered this class, I only knew a few written versions of the Cinderella tales. I had no clue that there were so many different versions all around the world. I love reading these fairy tales from different parts of the world. However, I wish we could spend more time studying why the differences are there for different countries and cultures.
This past summer I traveled to South America, spending seven weeks in five countries. It was an amazing experience! And now that I have had that basic knowledge of the cultural differences of Paraguay, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and of Bolivia, I know why they interpret things differently when reading stories. Based on their backgrounds and perspectives, people read and take from stories different things.
So sometimes what a story means to one child will be totally different than what someone else takes from that story. I just think that is something to take to heart when reading and interpretting the different children stories in class.
This past summer I traveled to South America, spending seven weeks in five countries. It was an amazing experience! And now that I have had that basic knowledge of the cultural differences of Paraguay, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and of Bolivia, I know why they interpret things differently when reading stories. Based on their backgrounds and perspectives, people read and take from stories different things.
So sometimes what a story means to one child will be totally different than what someone else takes from that story. I just think that is something to take to heart when reading and interpretting the different children stories in class.
Saturday, February 2, 2008
Outside Book Number 1
You Are Mine by Max Lucado
This children's book is one for all ages, but the deeper meaning would most likely be understood better by older kids. The book is about wooden people called Wemmicks, who live in Wemmicksville. The main character is a Wemmick named Punchinello. Punchinello is a poor Wemmick who just wants to fit in with all the other Wemmicks.
The latest craze in Wemmicksville is boxes and balls. Every Wemmick who is a "someone" has many boxes and balls--basically the boxes and balls determine status. However, Punchinello could not afford many boxes and balls. So he decided to sell all his possessions for boxes and balls. He was trying to fit in and be happy. Punchinello would do whatever it took to have what other Wemmicks had. In the mist of all this, Punchinello stumbled his way into the presence of his maker, Eli. Eli convinced Punchinello that boxes and balls do not determine wealth or create happiness. At the end of the story, Eli told Punchinello, "You are special, not because of what you have, but because you are mine."
This story has beautiful pictures that really bring the story alive. But the most amazing part of the story is how much it parallels to the Christian faith. Max Lucado writes many Christian books for adults and youth, but he has a series of books like You Are Mine for children. Eli represents God, Punchinello represents you and me, and the balls and boxes symbolize the material things that give us false satisfaction. Max Lucado writes this book to remind the children (and their parents) that they are special, not because of what they have (material-wise), but because they belong to God.
This children's book is one for all ages, but the deeper meaning would most likely be understood better by older kids. The book is about wooden people called Wemmicks, who live in Wemmicksville. The main character is a Wemmick named Punchinello. Punchinello is a poor Wemmick who just wants to fit in with all the other Wemmicks.
The latest craze in Wemmicksville is boxes and balls. Every Wemmick who is a "someone" has many boxes and balls--basically the boxes and balls determine status. However, Punchinello could not afford many boxes and balls. So he decided to sell all his possessions for boxes and balls. He was trying to fit in and be happy. Punchinello would do whatever it took to have what other Wemmicks had. In the mist of all this, Punchinello stumbled his way into the presence of his maker, Eli. Eli convinced Punchinello that boxes and balls do not determine wealth or create happiness. At the end of the story, Eli told Punchinello, "You are special, not because of what you have, but because you are mine."
This story has beautiful pictures that really bring the story alive. But the most amazing part of the story is how much it parallels to the Christian faith. Max Lucado writes many Christian books for adults and youth, but he has a series of books like You Are Mine for children. Eli represents God, Punchinello represents you and me, and the balls and boxes symbolize the material things that give us false satisfaction. Max Lucado writes this book to remind the children (and their parents) that they are special, not because of what they have (material-wise), but because they belong to God.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Biography of Dr. Seuss
For decades, the infamous stories of The Cat in the Hat, How the Grinch Stole Christmas and Green Eggs and Ham have plagued the lives of countless children. The author and illustrator of 44 rhyming tales was Theodor Seuss Geisel, but he ised the pen name of Dr. Seuss.
Theodor Seuss Geisel was born on March 2, 1904 in Springfield, Massachusetts. After attaining his degree from Darmouth University, Geisel pursued a doctorate in literature from Lincoln University in Oxford. While in Oxford, Geisel met and married Helen Palmer and moved to the United States without earning his doctorate degree. Seuss places the "Dr." in his name in order to acknowledfe his father's unfulfilled hopes that he would one day attain his doctorate degree from Oxford University.
In 1937, while Seuss was returning from an ocean voyage to Europe, the rhythm of the ship's engines inspired the poem that became his first book, And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street. As World War II began, Dr. Seuss turned to political cartoons. After the war, however, Seuss returned to writing children's books and wrote what many consider to be his finest works, which include favorites: If I Ran the Zoo, Scrambled Eggs Super!, On Beyond Zebra!, If I Ran the Circus, and How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
On September 24, 1991, Seuss died in La Jolla, California after fighting illness for several years. In 2002, the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden opened in his birthplace of Springfield, Massachusetts, featuring sculptures of Dr. Seuss and many of his characters.
Basic Information pulled from wikipedia.org
Theodor Seuss Geisel was born on March 2, 1904 in Springfield, Massachusetts. After attaining his degree from Darmouth University, Geisel pursued a doctorate in literature from Lincoln University in Oxford. While in Oxford, Geisel met and married Helen Palmer and moved to the United States without earning his doctorate degree. Seuss places the "Dr." in his name in order to acknowledfe his father's unfulfilled hopes that he would one day attain his doctorate degree from Oxford University.
In 1937, while Seuss was returning from an ocean voyage to Europe, the rhythm of the ship's engines inspired the poem that became his first book, And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street. As World War II began, Dr. Seuss turned to political cartoons. After the war, however, Seuss returned to writing children's books and wrote what many consider to be his finest works, which include favorites: If I Ran the Zoo, Scrambled Eggs Super!, On Beyond Zebra!, If I Ran the Circus, and How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
On September 24, 1991, Seuss died in La Jolla, California after fighting illness for several years. In 2002, the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden opened in his birthplace of Springfield, Massachusetts, featuring sculptures of Dr. Seuss and many of his characters.
Basic Information pulled from wikipedia.org
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Creating Imagination
Is there a way to give a child imagination? Do you show them a movie and read them a story with pictures? Or do you read a story to them and let them tell you what is happening?
I believe that giving children imagination or at least the opportunity to have a vivid imagination is important to their happiness in adulthood. Speaking of imagination, G.K. Chesterton said that "there are no rules of architecture for a castle in the clouds." I think what Chesterton was trying to say is that our imagination allows us to dream, and in our dreams there are no rules or boundaries that bind us.
I think that our "castles in the clouds" are very important for inside of them we hold our secrets and creativity and even our personal dreams. If anyone would be so evil to tear down these castles, I think they would be destroying that individual very quickly and harshly.
I hope that through children's literature we can give the youth of today the tools needed to build their perfect castles in the sky.
I believe that giving children imagination or at least the opportunity to have a vivid imagination is important to their happiness in adulthood. Speaking of imagination, G.K. Chesterton said that "there are no rules of architecture for a castle in the clouds." I think what Chesterton was trying to say is that our imagination allows us to dream, and in our dreams there are no rules or boundaries that bind us.
I think that our "castles in the clouds" are very important for inside of them we hold our secrets and creativity and even our personal dreams. If anyone would be so evil to tear down these castles, I think they would be destroying that individual very quickly and harshly.
I hope that through children's literature we can give the youth of today the tools needed to build their perfect castles in the sky.
Friday, January 25, 2008
My Version of Red Riding Hood
We've all read the typical tale of Little Red.. but I have created an Aggie version of this tale.
Little Aggie Hood © by Samantha Bingham
Once upon a time in a land far, far away
There lived a girl with a hood of maroon and gray.
She lived with her family, filled with Aggie pride
A kind of tradition that is known worldwide.
Little Hood was told to make a trip
Mother gave her a can of Southern cheese dip.
To grandmother's house, Hood took off in a hurry
While assuring her mother there was no need to worry.
Her mother was right in her unsecurities there
Because in the wood lay a monster with burnt orange hair.
Hood made it to grandmother's house not
Instead by the burnt orange bevo she was caught.
But fear not for this little Aggie girl
For a tune came to mind and she gave it a whirl.
Hullabaloo Caneck, Caneck... she sang so strong
And it was heard in the wood by all those who belong.
Among these were members of the Corps of Cadets
And soon that bull bevo had many regrets.
The cadets rescued her from that creature so mean
And Hood said she'd repay them with something routine.
All the Aggies had a great dinner that night
Because Little Aggie Hood knew how to cook bevo just right!
Little Aggie Hood © by Samantha Bingham
Once upon a time in a land far, far away
There lived a girl with a hood of maroon and gray.
She lived with her family, filled with Aggie pride
A kind of tradition that is known worldwide.
Little Hood was told to make a trip
Mother gave her a can of Southern cheese dip.
To grandmother's house, Hood took off in a hurry
While assuring her mother there was no need to worry.
Her mother was right in her unsecurities there
Because in the wood lay a monster with burnt orange hair.
Hood made it to grandmother's house not
Instead by the burnt orange bevo she was caught.
But fear not for this little Aggie girl
For a tune came to mind and she gave it a whirl.
Hullabaloo Caneck, Caneck... she sang so strong
And it was heard in the wood by all those who belong.
Among these were members of the Corps of Cadets
And soon that bull bevo had many regrets.
The cadets rescued her from that creature so mean
And Hood said she'd repay them with something routine.
All the Aggies had a great dinner that night
Because Little Aggie Hood knew how to cook bevo just right!
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Conveying the Real World to Kids
As some of you may know, Heath Ledger died today. He was 28 years old, and he left family, friends, an ex-wife (I think) and a daughter behind. His daughter is two years old, and she will never know her father.
This blog is for my Children's literature class. And while I was reading these stories about Heath Ledger, the teacher in me feels for his daughter. I mean she is two and her father could have committed suicide (police really do not know the cause of death yet). How do you convey that to a child? At what point do the children have to stop believing in the fairy tales and start with reality? Are there any books that really dive into reality or is reading just a way for these kids to escape the reality that is right outside their door?
I think Children's literature provides both an escape and some insight into the world outside. I think all literature does that. But right now in the world we live in, I think it is very important for kids to have an escape from this world--a place where they can come alive and let their imaginations soar.
As I'm learning daily in my Children's literature class, the things we read as children have deeper meanings that might not have been so obvious to us when we were little. But they teach us things that we need to know.
So how do we know what's a good mix for the children in the classroom (or in your life)? Is it always best to teach them about life as they read it or as they are experiencing life? I guess one extreme or the other is never beneficial, and a medium is always the better options. I guess I will learn as I go.
I guess the important thing to remember is that children's literature is first and foremost about the children and benefiting their life. Hopefully, the more kids read now, the more they will read in the future. And the more they read in the future, the more the real world will be revealed to them.
OUTSIDE READING LIST:
Book 1: You Are Mine
Author: Max Lucado
Picture Book? Yes
Posting date and/or number: February 2, 2008
Book 2: Horton Hatches the Egg
Author: Dr. Seuss
Picture Book? Yes
Posting date and/or number: February 12, 2008
Book 3: Animorphs: The Invasion
Author: K. A. Applegate
Picture Book? No
Posting date and/or number: February 23, 2008
Book 4: How Jackrabbit Got His Very Long Ears
Author: Heather Irbinskas
Picture Book? Yes
Posting date and/or number: March 2, 2008
Book 5: The New Kid on the Block
Author: Jack Prelutsky
Picture Book? No
Posting date and/or number: March 4, 2008
Book 6: Charlie the Caterpillar
Author: Dom De Luise
Picture Book? Yes
Posting date and/or number: March 25, 2008
Book 7: Holes
Author: Louis Sarchar
Picture Book? No
Posting date and/or number: April 6, 2008
Book 8: Charlotte's Web
Author: E.B. White
Picture Book? No
Posting date and/or number: April 12, 2008
Book 9: The Giving Tree
Author: Shel Silverstein
Picture Book? Yes
Posting date and/or number: April 18, 2008
Book 10: Welcome to Dead House (Goosebumps Series)
Author: R. L. Stine
Picture Book? No
Posting date and/or number: April 26, 2008
This blog is for my Children's literature class. And while I was reading these stories about Heath Ledger, the teacher in me feels for his daughter. I mean she is two and her father could have committed suicide (police really do not know the cause of death yet). How do you convey that to a child? At what point do the children have to stop believing in the fairy tales and start with reality? Are there any books that really dive into reality or is reading just a way for these kids to escape the reality that is right outside their door?
I think Children's literature provides both an escape and some insight into the world outside. I think all literature does that. But right now in the world we live in, I think it is very important for kids to have an escape from this world--a place where they can come alive and let their imaginations soar.
As I'm learning daily in my Children's literature class, the things we read as children have deeper meanings that might not have been so obvious to us when we were little. But they teach us things that we need to know.
So how do we know what's a good mix for the children in the classroom (or in your life)? Is it always best to teach them about life as they read it or as they are experiencing life? I guess one extreme or the other is never beneficial, and a medium is always the better options. I guess I will learn as I go.
I guess the important thing to remember is that children's literature is first and foremost about the children and benefiting their life. Hopefully, the more kids read now, the more they will read in the future. And the more they read in the future, the more the real world will be revealed to them.
OUTSIDE READING LIST:
Book 1: You Are Mine
Author: Max Lucado
Picture Book? Yes
Posting date and/or number: February 2, 2008
Book 2: Horton Hatches the Egg
Author: Dr. Seuss
Picture Book? Yes
Posting date and/or number: February 12, 2008
Book 3: Animorphs: The Invasion
Author: K. A. Applegate
Picture Book? No
Posting date and/or number: February 23, 2008
Book 4: How Jackrabbit Got His Very Long Ears
Author: Heather Irbinskas
Picture Book? Yes
Posting date and/or number: March 2, 2008
Book 5: The New Kid on the Block
Author: Jack Prelutsky
Picture Book? No
Posting date and/or number: March 4, 2008
Book 6: Charlie the Caterpillar
Author: Dom De Luise
Picture Book? Yes
Posting date and/or number: March 25, 2008
Book 7: Holes
Author: Louis Sarchar
Picture Book? No
Posting date and/or number: April 6, 2008
Book 8: Charlotte's Web
Author: E.B. White
Picture Book? No
Posting date and/or number: April 12, 2008
Book 9: The Giving Tree
Author: Shel Silverstein
Picture Book? Yes
Posting date and/or number: April 18, 2008
Book 10: Welcome to Dead House (Goosebumps Series)
Author: R. L. Stine
Picture Book? No
Posting date and/or number: April 26, 2008
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