The Cat and the Hat
I enjoyed rereading The Cat and the Hat story. As I was reading the book I didn’t notice the anarchy in it. After thinking about it more, I realized that there could be a battle between the nonsense and wanting to do the right thing. I think that mainly this book shows a good message to children that there need to be rules followed.
a. Is there a contemporary book that has this tension presented in The Cat in the Hat?
There is not a current book that I could think of that presented a tension.
b. Does this book still appeal to children and why?
This book is still adored by children and will probably always be a classic for children to read.
The Lorax
I am surprised that the Lorax was controversial. The Lorax is didactic because it displays the importance of taking care of our Earth. Many different children’s books display a message that is didactic, but I don’t think any compare to the message in this book.
Seuss. (1957). The Cat in the Hat. New York: Random House Children’s Books.
Seuss. (1971). The Lorax. New York: Random House Children's Books.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Newbery vs Caldecott
The American Library Association gives the Newbery and Caldecott Awards each year. The Newbery is awarded for the “most distinguished American children’s book.” It was the first award given for children’s books. The purpose was "to encourage original creative work in the field of books for children.” The award was named after English writer John Newbery.
The Caldecott is awarded to “the artist who had created the most distinguished picture book.” This award was created later because the ALA realized that artists creating picture books needed to be rewarded as well. The award goes to the artist whether or not he or she is the author of the text. The award was named in honor of English illustrator Randolph J. Caldecott.
Each award is a great honor to achieve and not necessarily better than the other. Books can sometimes be nominated for both awards, but judges will only vote for it under one of the awards.
The John Newbery Award. Retrieved on July 18, 2009 from http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/alsc/awardsgrants/bookmedia/newberymedal/aboutnewbery/aboutnewbery.cfm
The Caldecott is awarded to “the artist who had created the most distinguished picture book.” This award was created later because the ALA realized that artists creating picture books needed to be rewarded as well. The award goes to the artist whether or not he or she is the author of the text. The award was named in honor of English illustrator Randolph J. Caldecott.
Each award is a great honor to achieve and not necessarily better than the other. Books can sometimes be nominated for both awards, but judges will only vote for it under one of the awards.
The John Newbery Award. Retrieved on July 18, 2009 from http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/alsc/awardsgrants/bookmedia/newberymedal/aboutnewbery/aboutnewbery.cfm
Coretta Scott King Bronx Masquerade
Grimes, N. (2002). Bronx Masquerade. New York: Dial Books.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I absolutely loved this book and it was my favorite that I was asked to read. I loved that the story wove poetry into the lives of the students we read about. I love how there was a teacher who was involved in the lives of his students to create a weekly poetry reading session. After reading the poetry the students learned more about themselves and each other. After reading the poetry a student said he felt like his fellow classmates weren’t as different as he once thought.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
This story reminded me of why I’m a teacher and how I want to impact the lives of my students beyond the classroom.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
This book reminded me of a mix of the movie Dangerous Minds and the book Goodbye Mr. Chips. This book told the story of a teacher who encouraged his students to become involved in their poetry just like these teachers were involved in their students. In this book many students came from challenging lives and told about them in their poetry.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?
I learned that children’s literature can inspire you to follow your dreams. It can also give you great ideas for things to do in your classroom.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I absolutely loved this book and it was my favorite that I was asked to read. I loved that the story wove poetry into the lives of the students we read about. I love how there was a teacher who was involved in the lives of his students to create a weekly poetry reading session. After reading the poetry the students learned more about themselves and each other. After reading the poetry a student said he felt like his fellow classmates weren’t as different as he once thought.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
This story reminded me of why I’m a teacher and how I want to impact the lives of my students beyond the classroom.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
This book reminded me of a mix of the movie Dangerous Minds and the book Goodbye Mr. Chips. This book told the story of a teacher who encouraged his students to become involved in their poetry just like these teachers were involved in their students. In this book many students came from challenging lives and told about them in their poetry.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?
I learned that children’s literature can inspire you to follow your dreams. It can also give you great ideas for things to do in your classroom.
Jerry Pinkney Rikki Tikki Tavi
Kipling. R. (1997). Rikki Tikki Tavi. New York: Morrow Junior Books.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I did not like the plot of this book. It was about a mongoose versus a snake. I also never felt like I developed an interest for the mongoose or the family it was protecting.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
I have never experienced a story where I enjoyed reading about snakes or mongooses. I also never really being interested in what I’m reading and care about the main characters and I did not develop that interest.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
The book is similar to the story of Because of Winn Dixie. They both involved stories of animals and their owners establishing relationships. The difference is that I cared about the characters of Opal and Winn Dixie more than I did the mongoose and his family.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?
I learned that not all children’s literature is interesting to adults, but hopefully it has interest with young boys or girls.
Other Books by Jerry Pinkney
Selected Books Illustrated for Children The Adventures of Spider: West African Folk Tales, written by Joyce Cooper Arkhurst, Little, Brown, 1964.
Folktales and Fairytales of Africa, compiled by Lila Green, Silver Burdett, 1967.
Babushka and the Pig, written by Ann Trofimuk, Houghton, 1969.
More Adventures of Spider, written by Joyce Cooper Arkhurst, Scholastic Book Services, 1972.
Song of the Trees, written by Mildred D. Taylor, Dial, 1975.
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry, written by Mildred D. Taylor, Dial, 1976.
Mary McLeod Bethune (biography), written by Eloise Greenfield, Crowell, 1977.
Tonweya and the Eagles, and Other Lakota Indian Tales, written by Rosebud Yellow Robe, Dial, 1979.
Childtimes: A Three-Generation Memoir, written by Eloise Greenfield and Lessie Jones Little, Crowell, 1979.
Count on Your Fingers African Style, written by Glaudia Zaslavsky, Crowell, 1980.
The Patchwork Quilt, written by Valerie Flournoy, Dial, 1985. Half a Moon and One Whole Star, written by Crescent Dragonwagon, Macmillan, 1986
Creatures of the Desert World and Strange Animals of the Sea, written by Barbara Gibson, National Geographic Society, 1987.
The Tales of Uncle Remus, written by Julius Lester, Dial, 1987.
More Tales of Uncle Remus: Further Adventures of Brer Rabbit, His Friends, Enemies and Others, written by Julius Lester, Dial, 1988.
Mirandy and Brother Wind, written by Pat McKissack, Knopf, 1988.
The Talking Eggs, written by Robert D. San Souci, Dial, 1989.
Turtle in July, written by Marilyn Singer, Macmillan, 1989.
Home Place, written by Crescent Dragonwagon, Macmillan, 1990.
Pretend You're a Cat, written by Jean Marzollo, Dial, 1990.
Back Home, written by Gloria Jean Pinkney, Dial/Penguin, 1992.
The Last Tales of Uncle Remus, written by Julius Lester, Dial, 1994.
The Sunday Outing, written by Gloria Jean Pinkney, Dial/Penguin, 1994.
John Henry, written by Julius Lester, Dial, 1994.
Tanya's Reunion, written by Valerie Flournoy, Dial, 1995.
Minty: A Story of Young Harriet Tubman, written by Alan Schroeder, Dial/Penguin, 1996.
The Hired Hand: An African-American Folktale, written by Robert D. San Souci, Dial, 1997.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I did not like the plot of this book. It was about a mongoose versus a snake. I also never felt like I developed an interest for the mongoose or the family it was protecting.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
I have never experienced a story where I enjoyed reading about snakes or mongooses. I also never really being interested in what I’m reading and care about the main characters and I did not develop that interest.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
The book is similar to the story of Because of Winn Dixie. They both involved stories of animals and their owners establishing relationships. The difference is that I cared about the characters of Opal and Winn Dixie more than I did the mongoose and his family.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?
I learned that not all children’s literature is interesting to adults, but hopefully it has interest with young boys or girls.
Other Books by Jerry Pinkney
Selected Books Illustrated for Children The Adventures of Spider: West African Folk Tales, written by Joyce Cooper Arkhurst, Little, Brown, 1964.
Folktales and Fairytales of Africa, compiled by Lila Green, Silver Burdett, 1967.
Babushka and the Pig, written by Ann Trofimuk, Houghton, 1969.
More Adventures of Spider, written by Joyce Cooper Arkhurst, Scholastic Book Services, 1972.
Song of the Trees, written by Mildred D. Taylor, Dial, 1975.
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry, written by Mildred D. Taylor, Dial, 1976.
Mary McLeod Bethune (biography), written by Eloise Greenfield, Crowell, 1977.
Tonweya and the Eagles, and Other Lakota Indian Tales, written by Rosebud Yellow Robe, Dial, 1979.
Childtimes: A Three-Generation Memoir, written by Eloise Greenfield and Lessie Jones Little, Crowell, 1979.
Count on Your Fingers African Style, written by Glaudia Zaslavsky, Crowell, 1980.
The Patchwork Quilt, written by Valerie Flournoy, Dial, 1985. Half a Moon and One Whole Star, written by Crescent Dragonwagon, Macmillan, 1986
Creatures of the Desert World and Strange Animals of the Sea, written by Barbara Gibson, National Geographic Society, 1987.
The Tales of Uncle Remus, written by Julius Lester, Dial, 1987.
More Tales of Uncle Remus: Further Adventures of Brer Rabbit, His Friends, Enemies and Others, written by Julius Lester, Dial, 1988.
Mirandy and Brother Wind, written by Pat McKissack, Knopf, 1988.
The Talking Eggs, written by Robert D. San Souci, Dial, 1989.
Turtle in July, written by Marilyn Singer, Macmillan, 1989.
Home Place, written by Crescent Dragonwagon, Macmillan, 1990.
Pretend You're a Cat, written by Jean Marzollo, Dial, 1990.
Back Home, written by Gloria Jean Pinkney, Dial/Penguin, 1992.
The Last Tales of Uncle Remus, written by Julius Lester, Dial, 1994.
The Sunday Outing, written by Gloria Jean Pinkney, Dial/Penguin, 1994.
John Henry, written by Julius Lester, Dial, 1994.
Tanya's Reunion, written by Valerie Flournoy, Dial, 1995.
Minty: A Story of Young Harriet Tubman, written by Alan Schroeder, Dial/Penguin, 1996.
The Hired Hand: An African-American Folktale, written by Robert D. San Souci, Dial, 1997.
Caldecott Winner The Three Pigs
Wiesner, D. (2001). The Three Pigs. New York. Clarion Books.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I liked that this book took a different take on a traditional story. It was neat to see that the three pigs came out of the story to create their own. I thought the illustrations helped to show the creative story aspects.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
I think my enjoyment in reading the classic Three Pigs story made this story enjoyable. I like that the animals still defeated the big bad wolf.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
This book is very comparable to the three pigs book, but it changes the ending to the story. It is a very creative take on the traditional story.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?
I learned that old stories can be made new in a creative way.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I liked that this book took a different take on a traditional story. It was neat to see that the three pigs came out of the story to create their own. I thought the illustrations helped to show the creative story aspects.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
I think my enjoyment in reading the classic Three Pigs story made this story enjoyable. I like that the animals still defeated the big bad wolf.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
This book is very comparable to the three pigs book, but it changes the ending to the story. It is a very creative take on the traditional story.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?
I learned that old stories can be made new in a creative way.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Laurence Yep Cockroach Cooties
Yep, L. (2000). Cockroach Cooties. New York: Hyperion Books for Children.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I liked that this book was about siblings who bonded together to get rid of a bully. I thought the title was cute, but that the book was more about the friendship of two brothers and not so much the cooties of bugs. I think this would be a good book to use to introduce students to a different culture because it is about a Chinese family living in California.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
This book reminded me of the way I stood up for my younger sister. She was never bullied because she always had her big sister looking out for her. I could also relate to the way these two brothers argued and fought but trusted in each other.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
This book reminded of Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing. Both books involve younger brothers that get in trouble and they need help from their older brothers. Both books show the relationships between brothers and the joy of having a family.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?I learned that children’s literature can be multicultural and show children different backgrounds.
Other Books by Laurence Yep
The Serpent's Children (1849)
Mountain Light (1855)
Dragon's Gate (1867) (Newbery Honor)
The Traitor (1885)
Dragonwings (1903) (Newbery Honor)
Dragon Road (1939) (originally titled The Red Warrior)
Child of the Owl (1960)
Sea Glass (1970)
Thief of Hearts (1995)
Dragon
Dragon of the Lost Sea
Dragon Steel
Dragon Cauldron
Dragon War
Chinatown Mysteries
The Case of the Goblin Pearls
The Case of the Lion Dance
The Case of the Firecrackers
The Tiger's Apprentice
The Tiger's Apprentice: Book One
Tiger's Blood: Book Two
Tiger Magic: Book Three
Ribbons (untitled group of books)
Ribbons
The Cook's Family
The Amah
Angelfish
Later, Gator (untitled group of books)
Later, Gator
Skunk Scout
Nonfiction
American Dragons: Twenty-five Asian American Voices (editor)
The Lost Garden (autobiography, part of the In my own Words series)
Picture Books
The Magic Paintbrush
The Dragon Prince: A Chinese Beauty and the Beast Tale
The Butterfly Boy
The Shell Woman and the King: a Chinese folktale
The Khan's Daughter: a Mongolian folktale
When the Circus Came to Town
The Ghost Fox
The Boy Who Swallowed Snakes
The Man who Tricked a Ghost
Other books
Tongues of Jade
The Rainbow People
Sweetwater
The Star Fisher
Dream Soul (sequel to The Star Fisher)
Hiroshima: A Novella
The Earth Dragon Awakes: the San Francisco Earthquake of 1906
Lady of Ch'iao Kuo: Warrior of the South (part of The Royal Diaries series)
The Journal of Wong Ming-Chung: A Chinese Miner (part of the I Am America series)
Spring Pearl: The Last Flower (part of the Girls of Many Lands series)
The Imp that Ate My Homework
Kind Hearts and Gentle Monsters
The Mark Twain Murders
The Tom Sawyer Fires
Shadow Lord (a Star Trek novel)
Mia
Bravo, Mia!
Plays
The Age of Wonders
Dragonwings
Pay the Chinaman (one-act)
Fairy Bones (one-act)
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I liked that this book was about siblings who bonded together to get rid of a bully. I thought the title was cute, but that the book was more about the friendship of two brothers and not so much the cooties of bugs. I think this would be a good book to use to introduce students to a different culture because it is about a Chinese family living in California.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
This book reminded me of the way I stood up for my younger sister. She was never bullied because she always had her big sister looking out for her. I could also relate to the way these two brothers argued and fought but trusted in each other.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
This book reminded of Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing. Both books involve younger brothers that get in trouble and they need help from their older brothers. Both books show the relationships between brothers and the joy of having a family.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?I learned that children’s literature can be multicultural and show children different backgrounds.
Other Books by Laurence Yep
The Serpent's Children (1849)
Mountain Light (1855)
Dragon's Gate (1867) (Newbery Honor)
The Traitor (1885)
Dragonwings (1903) (Newbery Honor)
Dragon Road (1939) (originally titled The Red Warrior)
Child of the Owl (1960)
Sea Glass (1970)
Thief of Hearts (1995)
Dragon
Dragon of the Lost Sea
Dragon Steel
Dragon Cauldron
Dragon War
Chinatown Mysteries
The Case of the Goblin Pearls
The Case of the Lion Dance
The Case of the Firecrackers
The Tiger's Apprentice
The Tiger's Apprentice: Book One
Tiger's Blood: Book Two
Tiger Magic: Book Three
Ribbons (untitled group of books)
Ribbons
The Cook's Family
The Amah
Angelfish
Later, Gator (untitled group of books)
Later, Gator
Skunk Scout
Nonfiction
American Dragons: Twenty-five Asian American Voices (editor)
The Lost Garden (autobiography, part of the In my own Words series)
Picture Books
The Magic Paintbrush
The Dragon Prince: A Chinese Beauty and the Beast Tale
The Butterfly Boy
The Shell Woman and the King: a Chinese folktale
The Khan's Daughter: a Mongolian folktale
When the Circus Came to Town
The Ghost Fox
The Boy Who Swallowed Snakes
The Man who Tricked a Ghost
Other books
Tongues of Jade
The Rainbow People
Sweetwater
The Star Fisher
Dream Soul (sequel to The Star Fisher)
Hiroshima: A Novella
The Earth Dragon Awakes: the San Francisco Earthquake of 1906
Lady of Ch'iao Kuo: Warrior of the South (part of The Royal Diaries series)
The Journal of Wong Ming-Chung: A Chinese Miner (part of the I Am America series)
Spring Pearl: The Last Flower (part of the Girls of Many Lands series)
The Imp that Ate My Homework
Kind Hearts and Gentle Monsters
The Mark Twain Murders
The Tom Sawyer Fires
Shadow Lord (a Star Trek novel)
Mia
Bravo, Mia!
Plays
The Age of Wonders
Dragonwings
Pay the Chinaman (one-act)
Fairy Bones (one-act)
Yoshiko Uchida The Wise Old Woman
Uchida, Y. (1994). The Wise Old Woman. New York: Margaret K. McElderry Books.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I liked that this was a short story where a woman was able to provide the answers to the riddles over the men. I thought it was neat that the son disobeyed the rules and hid his mom and she ended up provided the solution needed.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
I was influenced by my joy trying to figure out riddles and the meaning of things. This contributed to my enjoyment reading this story.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
This story reminded me of the story of Moses. Moses and all children were to be killed. Moses parents put him in a basket for someone to save. He was found, raised illegally, and turned out to be an amazing biblical character. Thankfully someone didn’t listen and spared the lives of the old woman and Moses.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?
I learned that children’s stories can tell a message and prove that adults don’t always have all the right answers.
Other Books by Yoshiko Uchida
The Invisible Thread: An Autobiography
The Terrible Leak
Picture Bride
The Dancing Kettle and Other Japanese Folk Tales (1949)
New Friends for Susan (1951)
The Magic Listening Cap: More Folk Tales from Japan (1955)
The Full Circle (1957)
Takao and Grandfather's Sword (1958)
The Promised Year (1959)
Mik and the Prowler (1960)
Rokubei and the Thousand Rice Bowls (1962)
The Forever Christmas Tree (1963)
Sumi's Prize (1964)
The Sea of Gold, and Other Tales from Japan (1965)
In-Between Maya (1967)
Hisako's Mysteries (1969)
Sumi and the Goat and the Tokyo Express (1969)
Makoto, The Smallest Boy (1970)
Journey to Topaz: A Story of the Japanese American Evacuation (1971)
Samurai of Gold Hill (1972)
The Birthday Visitor (1975)
The Rooster who Understood Japanese (1976)
The Bracelet (1976)
originally published as a short story, Journey Home (1978)
Jar of Dreams (1981)
Desert Exile: The Uprooting of a Japanese-American Family (Autobiography) (1982)
Best Bad Thing (1983)
Picture Bride (1987)
Invisible Thread: An Autobiography (1991)
Magic Purse (1993)
Two Foolish Cats
The Happiest Ending
The Magic Purse
The Birthday Visitor
Sumi's Prize
A Jar of Dreams
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I liked that this was a short story where a woman was able to provide the answers to the riddles over the men. I thought it was neat that the son disobeyed the rules and hid his mom and she ended up provided the solution needed.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
I was influenced by my joy trying to figure out riddles and the meaning of things. This contributed to my enjoyment reading this story.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
This story reminded me of the story of Moses. Moses and all children were to be killed. Moses parents put him in a basket for someone to save. He was found, raised illegally, and turned out to be an amazing biblical character. Thankfully someone didn’t listen and spared the lives of the old woman and Moses.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?
I learned that children’s stories can tell a message and prove that adults don’t always have all the right answers.
Other Books by Yoshiko Uchida
The Invisible Thread: An Autobiography
The Terrible Leak
Picture Bride
The Dancing Kettle and Other Japanese Folk Tales (1949)
New Friends for Susan (1951)
The Magic Listening Cap: More Folk Tales from Japan (1955)
The Full Circle (1957)
Takao and Grandfather's Sword (1958)
The Promised Year (1959)
Mik and the Prowler (1960)
Rokubei and the Thousand Rice Bowls (1962)
The Forever Christmas Tree (1963)
Sumi's Prize (1964)
The Sea of Gold, and Other Tales from Japan (1965)
In-Between Maya (1967)
Hisako's Mysteries (1969)
Sumi and the Goat and the Tokyo Express (1969)
Makoto, The Smallest Boy (1970)
Journey to Topaz: A Story of the Japanese American Evacuation (1971)
Samurai of Gold Hill (1972)
The Birthday Visitor (1975)
The Rooster who Understood Japanese (1976)
The Bracelet (1976)
originally published as a short story, Journey Home (1978)
Jar of Dreams (1981)
Desert Exile: The Uprooting of a Japanese-American Family (Autobiography) (1982)
Best Bad Thing (1983)
Picture Bride (1987)
Invisible Thread: An Autobiography (1991)
Magic Purse (1993)
Two Foolish Cats
The Happiest Ending
The Magic Purse
The Birthday Visitor
Sumi's Prize
A Jar of Dreams
Caldecott Winner The Man who Walked Between the Towers
Gerstein, M. (2003). The Man Who Walked Between the Towers. Westport, CT: Roaring Brook Press.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I liked that this book was based on a true event. I had no idea that a man walked on a rope tied between the twin towers as they were being built. What was neat about this book is that it was written after 9-11 and it was done very tastefully. The ending left you happy with the thought that we still have the memory of the twin towers.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
I think that I responded well to this book because it was handled tastefully and was a neat story to help us remember the twin towers. We can all remember what we were doing the moment when the twin towers were hit. With such an important event authors have to handle the subject appropriately and Gerstein did.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
This book reminded me of the story Fledgling. In the story a bird has to have faith in order to fly. Both Peter and the Fledging were brave and performed an act in the sky.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?
I learned that a great children’s book can be made about a true story. Stories don’t all have to be about fairytales and happy endings.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I liked that this book was based on a true event. I had no idea that a man walked on a rope tied between the twin towers as they were being built. What was neat about this book is that it was written after 9-11 and it was done very tastefully. The ending left you happy with the thought that we still have the memory of the twin towers.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
I think that I responded well to this book because it was handled tastefully and was a neat story to help us remember the twin towers. We can all remember what we were doing the moment when the twin towers were hit. With such an important event authors have to handle the subject appropriately and Gerstein did.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
This book reminded me of the story Fledgling. In the story a bird has to have faith in order to fly. Both Peter and the Fledging were brave and performed an act in the sky.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?
I learned that a great children’s book can be made about a true story. Stories don’t all have to be about fairytales and happy endings.
Movie vs Book Because of Winn Dixie
DiCamillo, K. (2000). Because of Winn-Dixie. New York: Candlewick Press.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I loved reading this book. I thought it was a touching story about a different type of family. I loved the different characters: the librarian, Otis, and Gloria Dump. They all added depth to the story. This story makes me want to go out and get to know the people around me more.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
I could relate to Opal because I had two parents who were ministers. I could also relate to her because I know what’s it like to love a dog as much as a person. I remember when my dog got lost and we panicked and went around looking for him.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
This book reminds of DiCamillo’s other book The Tiger Rising. It’s about another child with one parent who finds a tiger that someone is keeping. The boy ends up letting the tiger out of his cage, which symbolizes him letting go of the things going on in his life. DiCamillo has the ability to make great connections to the family through these two books.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?
I learned that children’s literature can make you feel like you are a part of a family or a town because of the way it is written. Great writing can make you feel as if you are a part of the story.
(5). How is this story like the movie?
The movie was very much like the book. It included many exact lines from the book. I thought it provided a great visual for the storyline and I was pleased with how well they followed the book. I loved being able to see Winn Dixie and his mannerisms on screen.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I loved reading this book. I thought it was a touching story about a different type of family. I loved the different characters: the librarian, Otis, and Gloria Dump. They all added depth to the story. This story makes me want to go out and get to know the people around me more.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
I could relate to Opal because I had two parents who were ministers. I could also relate to her because I know what’s it like to love a dog as much as a person. I remember when my dog got lost and we panicked and went around looking for him.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
This book reminds of DiCamillo’s other book The Tiger Rising. It’s about another child with one parent who finds a tiger that someone is keeping. The boy ends up letting the tiger out of his cage, which symbolizes him letting go of the things going on in his life. DiCamillo has the ability to make great connections to the family through these two books.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?
I learned that children’s literature can make you feel like you are a part of a family or a town because of the way it is written. Great writing can make you feel as if you are a part of the story.
(5). How is this story like the movie?
The movie was very much like the book. It included many exact lines from the book. I thought it provided a great visual for the storyline and I was pleased with how well they followed the book. I loved being able to see Winn Dixie and his mannerisms on screen.
Julius Lester Ackamarackus
Lester, J. (2001). Ackamarackus. New York: Scholastic Press.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I liked how the author included animals in unusual situations. I thought it was neat how this book included many different short fables with great meaning. My favorite part was at the end of each fable they included two ideas the fable proved. For example, “Appreciate somebody for who he is instead of getting upset about who he isn’t.”
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
I like to attach meaning to things in life. I liked that this book gave great meaning to life and I liked how the animals were in situations that weren’t normal, like a bee that can’t buzz.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
This book reminded me of many of Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney. Both stories were silly stories about animals. I liked how the Llama story added rhyme to provide more reading enjoyment. I also like that both stories attached meaning to their writing.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?
I learned that children’s books can give great life lessons for children. Children can attach meaning to silly stories about unusual animals.
Other Books by Julius Lester
To be a Slave
John Henry
Day of Tears
Pharaoh's Daughter: A Novel of Ancient Egypt
Cupid: A Tale of Love and Desire
Sam and the Tigers: A Retelling of 'Little Black Sambo' (Picture Puffins)
When Dad Killed Mom
From Slave Ship to Freedom Road
Lovesong: Becoming a Jew
Let's Talk About Race
How Many Spots Does a Leopard Have?: And Other Tales
Guardian
The Autobiography of God: A Novel
Uncle Remus: The Complete Tales
Long Journey Home
Black Cowboy, Wild Horses
The Old African
What A Truly Cool World
Black Folktales
This Strange New Feeling
Look Out, Whitey! Black Power's Gon' Get Your Mama!
Time's Memory
Othello,
More Tales of Uncle Remus: Volume 1
Revolutionary notes
On Writing for Children & Other People
The Knee-High Man and Other Tales (Picture Puffins)
And All Our Wounds Forgiven (Harvest Book)
Last Tales of Uncle Remus
Further Tales of Uncle Remus
When the Beginning Began: Stories about God, the Creatures, and Us
Shining
Why Heaven Is Far Away
Search for the new land; history as subjective experience
Blues Singers, The
Do Lord Remember Me: A Novel
Albidaro and the Mischievous Dream
All is well
MAN WHO KNEW TOO MUCH CL
Falling Pieces of the Broken Sky
Basketball Game (New Windmills)
A Folksinger's Guide to the 12-String Guitar As Played by Leadbelly
The Seventh Son (v. 2)
John Henry. …
VAROKAA VALKOISET
The Hungry Ghosts
To be a slave. Illustrated by Tom Feelings.
A Christmas Love Story
Scrumptuously Silly Fantastically Funny Fables
Two Love Stories
The 12-string guitar as played by Leadbelly;
Sevent Son (Volume One): The thought and writings of W.E.B. DuboisWho I Am
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I liked how the author included animals in unusual situations. I thought it was neat how this book included many different short fables with great meaning. My favorite part was at the end of each fable they included two ideas the fable proved. For example, “Appreciate somebody for who he is instead of getting upset about who he isn’t.”
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
I like to attach meaning to things in life. I liked that this book gave great meaning to life and I liked how the animals were in situations that weren’t normal, like a bee that can’t buzz.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
This book reminded me of many of Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney. Both stories were silly stories about animals. I liked how the Llama story added rhyme to provide more reading enjoyment. I also like that both stories attached meaning to their writing.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?
I learned that children’s books can give great life lessons for children. Children can attach meaning to silly stories about unusual animals.
Other Books by Julius Lester
To be a Slave
John Henry
Day of Tears
Pharaoh's Daughter: A Novel of Ancient Egypt
Cupid: A Tale of Love and Desire
Sam and the Tigers: A Retelling of 'Little Black Sambo' (Picture Puffins)
When Dad Killed Mom
From Slave Ship to Freedom Road
Lovesong: Becoming a Jew
Let's Talk About Race
How Many Spots Does a Leopard Have?: And Other Tales
Guardian
The Autobiography of God: A Novel
Uncle Remus: The Complete Tales
Long Journey Home
Black Cowboy, Wild Horses
The Old African
What A Truly Cool World
Black Folktales
This Strange New Feeling
Look Out, Whitey! Black Power's Gon' Get Your Mama!
Time's Memory
Othello,
More Tales of Uncle Remus: Volume 1
Revolutionary notes
On Writing for Children & Other People
The Knee-High Man and Other Tales (Picture Puffins)
And All Our Wounds Forgiven (Harvest Book)
Last Tales of Uncle Remus
Further Tales of Uncle Remus
When the Beginning Began: Stories about God, the Creatures, and Us
Shining
Why Heaven Is Far Away
Search for the new land; history as subjective experience
Blues Singers, The
Do Lord Remember Me: A Novel
Albidaro and the Mischievous Dream
All is well
MAN WHO KNEW TOO MUCH CL
Falling Pieces of the Broken Sky
Basketball Game (New Windmills)
A Folksinger's Guide to the 12-String Guitar As Played by Leadbelly
The Seventh Son (v. 2)
John Henry. …
VAROKAA VALKOISET
The Hungry Ghosts
To be a slave. Illustrated by Tom Feelings.
A Christmas Love Story
Scrumptuously Silly Fantastically Funny Fables
Two Love Stories
The 12-string guitar as played by Leadbelly;
Sevent Son (Volume One): The thought and writings of W.E.B. DuboisWho I Am
Movie vs Book The City of Ember
DuPrau, J. (2004). The City of Ember. New York: Random House.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I like that this book was a very unique story. The author used the element of suspense to keep readers hooked. I really cared about Lina and Doon and the hope they had for what was outside the city of Ember.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
This book reminded me of the mystery books I read as a child like Nancy Drew. I enjoy reading mysteries and that is why I liked the book so much.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
This book reminded me of one of my favorite books, Among the Hidden. In Among the Hidden two children try to do something very brave and The City of Ember two children also make a trip of bravery. Both children are forced to do something great in order to help others. These books are both well written with lots of suspense.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?
I learned that it is fun to think of a fictional world and to think about what if this world existed. It is fun to get children involved in fantasy readings that take them on an adventure.
(5). How would you compare this to the movie?
I enjoyed watching the movie of this book. I thought it was very well done and followed closely with the book. They added and changed a few things but these did not change the story in a way that was disappointing. The movie did a good job adding a visual to the book.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I like that this book was a very unique story. The author used the element of suspense to keep readers hooked. I really cared about Lina and Doon and the hope they had for what was outside the city of Ember.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
This book reminded me of the mystery books I read as a child like Nancy Drew. I enjoy reading mysteries and that is why I liked the book so much.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
This book reminded me of one of my favorite books, Among the Hidden. In Among the Hidden two children try to do something very brave and The City of Ember two children also make a trip of bravery. Both children are forced to do something great in order to help others. These books are both well written with lots of suspense.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?
I learned that it is fun to think of a fictional world and to think about what if this world existed. It is fun to get children involved in fantasy readings that take them on an adventure.
(5). How would you compare this to the movie?
I enjoyed watching the movie of this book. I thought it was very well done and followed closely with the book. They added and changed a few things but these did not change the story in a way that was disappointing. The movie did a good job adding a visual to the book.
Newbery Winner Bud, not Buddy
Curtis, C. (1999). Bud, not Buddy. New York: Random House Children’s Books.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I thought this book was a great story about a courageous boy trying to find his place in the world. I enjoyed reading about Bud and his search for his father. Throughout the book you feel sorry for Bud and the situations he is faced with once his mother dies. He gets this idea in his head that his father is a famous musician. In the end you are thankful that Bud finally finds a good home.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
My family and the knowledge that everyone needs to be loved is why I loved this book. I can’t imagine being homeless or living with a bad family so I liked that this boy was able to find a good family to take care of him
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
The book reminded me of the book called A Child Called It by Dave Pelzer. In this book a child is placed in different foster homes and many abusive situations. This book was a harsher version of Bud, not Buddy. Bud was placed in a bad foster situation and thankfully finds a good home in the end.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?
I learned that books can be made about children’s’ dreams and that they can have happy endings.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I thought this book was a great story about a courageous boy trying to find his place in the world. I enjoyed reading about Bud and his search for his father. Throughout the book you feel sorry for Bud and the situations he is faced with once his mother dies. He gets this idea in his head that his father is a famous musician. In the end you are thankful that Bud finally finds a good home.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
My family and the knowledge that everyone needs to be loved is why I loved this book. I can’t imagine being homeless or living with a bad family so I liked that this boy was able to find a good family to take care of him
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
The book reminded me of the book called A Child Called It by Dave Pelzer. In this book a child is placed in different foster homes and many abusive situations. This book was a harsher version of Bud, not Buddy. Bud was placed in a bad foster situation and thankfully finds a good home in the end.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?
I learned that books can be made about children’s’ dreams and that they can have happy endings.
Caldecott Winner Kitten's First Full Moon
Henkes, K. (2004). Kitten’s First Full Moon. New York: Greenwillow Books.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I thought this was a cute story about a kitten’s adventure to find some milk. It’s a book that I could see myself reading to a young child
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
I enjoy reading stories involving animals and this influenced my joy in reading this book.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
I would compare this book to Goodnight Moon. Both would be good stories to tell a young child at night and they involve the moon.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book? I learned that books can be written for fun and for the purpose of telling a nighttime story.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I thought this was a cute story about a kitten’s adventure to find some milk. It’s a book that I could see myself reading to a young child
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
I enjoy reading stories involving animals and this influenced my joy in reading this book.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
I would compare this book to Goodnight Moon. Both would be good stories to tell a young child at night and they involve the moon.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book? I learned that books can be written for fun and for the purpose of telling a nighttime story.
Caldecott Winner My Friend Rabbit
Rohman, E. (2002). My Friend Rabbit. Brookfield, CT: Roaring Brook Press.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I liked that this story was fun and clever. Rabbit was a cute character that got himself into trouble. I liked that his plans didn’t exactly work as planned but he was able to get what he needed.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
I think just the enjoyment of reading fun children’s stories helped me enjoy reading this story.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author? I would compare this book to The Tale of Peter Rabbit. They are both about rabbits getting themselves in some interesting situations because they have ideas and are curious.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?
I learned that great stories can be written about characters who are not perfect and who have a different way of thinking. They can also just be written to make you laugh.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I liked that this story was fun and clever. Rabbit was a cute character that got himself into trouble. I liked that his plans didn’t exactly work as planned but he was able to get what he needed.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
I think just the enjoyment of reading fun children’s stories helped me enjoy reading this story.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author? I would compare this book to The Tale of Peter Rabbit. They are both about rabbits getting themselves in some interesting situations because they have ideas and are curious.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?
I learned that great stories can be written about characters who are not perfect and who have a different way of thinking. They can also just be written to make you laugh.
Caldecott Winner Flotsam
Wiesner, D. (2006). Flotsam. New York: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I thought this book was very clever and creative. Flotsam was creative because this story was told through only pictures. The meaning of the story was neat because other children were going to carry on the tradition of taking their picture with this underwater camera.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
I don’t think that anything really influenced my reaction to this book. I do love the ocean and photography so the fact that this story is about the two contributes to my joy in reading the story.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
I have read other Wiesner books and this one is my favorite. I like this one the best because of the creative story it tells. Wiesner’s stories can be quite weird like the story Tuesday. In this story there are flying frogs. This is an unusual story and does not have a profound meaning like Flotsam.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?
I learned that you can make an amazing children story with just pictures and not words.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I thought this book was very clever and creative. Flotsam was creative because this story was told through only pictures. The meaning of the story was neat because other children were going to carry on the tradition of taking their picture with this underwater camera.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
I don’t think that anything really influenced my reaction to this book. I do love the ocean and photography so the fact that this story is about the two contributes to my joy in reading the story.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
I have read other Wiesner books and this one is my favorite. I like this one the best because of the creative story it tells. Wiesner’s stories can be quite weird like the story Tuesday. In this story there are flying frogs. This is an unusual story and does not have a profound meaning like Flotsam.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?
I learned that you can make an amazing children story with just pictures and not words.
Movie vs Book-The Tale of Despereaux
DiCamillo, K. (2003). The Tale of Despereaux. New York: Scholastic Inc.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I absolutely loved reading this story. The story made you care about the mouse, Despereaux, who was a little different than other mice. It was also written in a fun way, which engaged the readers’ interest.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
I think that I had high expectations for this book because I read The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane and The Tiger Rising and loved them. The Tale of Despereaux was just as great as those books. I also think that already having loved stories with animals like Charlotte’s Web influenced my love for this book.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
This book reminded me of Stuart Little. Both tell stories of mice displaying acts of bravery.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book? The new thing I learned is it is okay for an author to include messages to the readers. I thought it was a fun way to include readers into the story they are reading.
(5). How would you compare the book to the movie?The movie of The Tale of Despereaux was disappointing as most movies are compared to the book. The movie expanded on different story elements and developed the characters more by adding in some extra pizzazz. I loved how they developed the character of Despearaux. I was glad they took out some of the violence from the book such as the girl getting hit in the ears. They also added some extra dramatic events that added more to the movie, but weren’t part of the book. An example of this is when Desperaux fights a cat. I was disappointed in the way that they didn’t follow the book as closely as it could have been. If I had seen the movie without having read the book first, I may have liked it more.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
I absolutely loved reading this story. The story made you care about the mouse, Despereaux, who was a little different than other mice. It was also written in a fun way, which engaged the readers’ interest.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
I think that I had high expectations for this book because I read The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane and The Tiger Rising and loved them. The Tale of Despereaux was just as great as those books. I also think that already having loved stories with animals like Charlotte’s Web influenced my love for this book.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
This book reminded me of Stuart Little. Both tell stories of mice displaying acts of bravery.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book? The new thing I learned is it is okay for an author to include messages to the readers. I thought it was a fun way to include readers into the story they are reading.
(5). How would you compare the book to the movie?The movie of The Tale of Despereaux was disappointing as most movies are compared to the book. The movie expanded on different story elements and developed the characters more by adding in some extra pizzazz. I loved how they developed the character of Despearaux. I was glad they took out some of the violence from the book such as the girl getting hit in the ears. They also added some extra dramatic events that added more to the movie, but weren’t part of the book. An example of this is when Desperaux fights a cat. I was disappointed in the way that they didn’t follow the book as closely as it could have been. If I had seen the movie without having read the book first, I may have liked it more.
Newbery Winner-The Higher Power of Lucky
Patron, S. (2006). The Higher Power of Lucky. New York: Atheneum Books for Young Readers.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
At first, I thought this was a very strange book. The story begins with a child who is spying on an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting. As I continued reading, I began to really love the character Lucky. Lucky, a ten-year-old girl was left with a guardian after her mother died. She lives in a trailer park in a town with a population of 42 people. In the story, I love the journey Lucky takes as she searches for a “higher power.” The book, though very different, had a great story about a different kind of family. I was not surprised that this book was a Newberry Award because it was well written and told a unique story.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
In my life I think I could place myself in Lucky’s shoes because there were times when I thought my family was a little strange. I could relate to Lucky wanting to run away because I remember a few times thinking about running away.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
This book reminds me of a different version of Because of Winn-Dixie. Both stories involve a girl around ten who is struggling with the type of family situation they are left with after someone leaves or dies. In the end they both develop relationships with others and are happy with the families they have.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?
The reason why I chose to read this book was because I had heard it was controversial. It was interesting that the used the word scrotum on the first page and defined it on the last page. I learned that in children’s literature there are many different stories to be told involving the family. This story, while a little inappropriate at times is able to relate to children who have an unconventional family.
(1). What did you like or dislike about the book?
At first, I thought this was a very strange book. The story begins with a child who is spying on an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting. As I continued reading, I began to really love the character Lucky. Lucky, a ten-year-old girl was left with a guardian after her mother died. She lives in a trailer park in a town with a population of 42 people. In the story, I love the journey Lucky takes as she searches for a “higher power.” The book, though very different, had a great story about a different kind of family. I was not surprised that this book was a Newberry Award because it was well written and told a unique story.
(2). What in your life may have influenced your reaction or response to this book?
In my life I think I could place myself in Lucky’s shoes because there were times when I thought my family was a little strange. I could relate to Lucky wanting to run away because I remember a few times thinking about running away.
(3). How would you compare this book to another book or books, or book or books by same author?
This book reminds me of a different version of Because of Winn-Dixie. Both stories involve a girl around ten who is struggling with the type of family situation they are left with after someone leaves or dies. In the end they both develop relationships with others and are happy with the families they have.
(4). What new thing (information or insight) did you learn about children's literature in reading this book?
The reason why I chose to read this book was because I had heard it was controversial. It was interesting that the used the word scrotum on the first page and defined it on the last page. I learned that in children’s literature there are many different stories to be told involving the family. This story, while a little inappropriate at times is able to relate to children who have an unconventional family.
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