Wong, Li Keng. (2006). Good Fortune: My Journey to Gold Mountain. Atlanta: Peachtree Publishers.
Grades: 4 - 7
Book Type: Auto-Biography
Curriculum Links: Social Studies
Author Credibility: Li Keng Wong wrote this book which tells of her experience as a child coming to the United States to live. In the author`s note, she says that she was the first in her family to attend college. She taught elementary school for over thirty-five years in the San Francisco Bay area. This book is her first one for young readers.
Awards: 2007 Notable Social Studies Tradebook
Summary:
This is a biography of Li Keng Wong`s life that tells of her journey to Gold Mountain in the 1930s. It begins by describing her life with her sisters and mother in the village of Good Do Hong, a very poor but peaceful area in China. Her father was the only one in the village who had traveled to the United States in search of a job that paid great money. Her father, Baba, had been gone for several years. Baba sent money back and forth to his family, but rarely visited them. Li Keng and her family did not have to work hard in the fields like their neighbors, because of the money Baba sent them. La Keng barely knew her father and was very excited when he wrote to them about coming home soon. Baba was preparing for his family to travel to the United States with him. The United States was given the name, Gold Mountain, by the Chinese because it was the land of opportunities. In this book, Li Keng talks about how her life changed after coming to Gold Mountain. It tells of the good and bad experiences her family faced. Her family struggled financially for many years and had to be careful for fear of being deported. However, they were happy for their family to finally be together. They always celebrated the little fortunes or happy moments, even in times of great struggle. Li Keng liked living in San Francisco. This book is told through her eyes as a child coming to a foreign place where their would be greater opportunities for her family.
Standards: Culture; Time, Continuity, and Change; Individual Development and Identity
Illustrations: The only illustrations in the book are black and white photographs of her family found in the author`s note.
Access Features: Table of contents, author`s note, information about Angel Island and the Chinese Exclusion Act, web resources, and related texts
Classroom Use: I would use this book to discuss how many people migrated to the United States in search of jobs and better pay. The Chinese Exclusion Act could be discussed.
Response: I really enjoyed reading this book. It was a wonderful biography, and I loved the story it told about Li Keng`s journey to Gold Mountain. It cast a new perspective on what it was like coming to the United States and leaving the only land you had ever known. I think older children would really like this book a lot!
Related Texts:
Kai`s Journey to Gold Mountain by Katrina Currier
The Chinese American Family Album by Dorothy and Thomas Hoobler
Journey to Gold Mountain: The Chinese in 19th Century America by Ronald Takaki
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Emeka`s Gift: An African Counting Story by Ifeoma Onyefulu #33
Onyefulu, Ifeoma. (1995). Emeka`s Gift: An African Counting Story. New York: Puffin Books.
Grades: PreK-1
Book Type: Picture
Curriculum Links: Math, Social Studies
Author Credibility: The author`s own son, Emeka, is written about in this book. Onyefulu wrote this story which presents the math concept of counting by telling a story about his very own son.
Awards: African Studies Children`s Association Book Award
Summary:
Emeka lives in southern Nigeria in the village of Ibaji with his family. He wants to take his grandmother a present, but can`t decide what to bring her. Giving simple gifts to family members is part of their culture. In the book, Emeka is seeing different things he could give his grandmother like a necklace, an instrument, and a hat. This book presents a very simple story about counting 1 – 10 through the photographs. The author in a very special way brings in information about their culture. We not practice counting, but also learn about the games, instruments, and families that live in Ibaji. The book contains full-color photographs taken by the author himself of his very own village and people.
Standards: Math - Number and Operations (NCTM); Social Studies – Culture Strand
Illustrations: Beautiful full-color photographs taken by the author are used to illustrate this simple counting story. They capture they spirit and culture of the village.
Access Features: Author`s note, the number and words are displayed in a large font, the text is framed in an African-like décor
Classroom Use: This book could be used in pre-kindergarten to focus on the concept of counting. Also, a discussion of how parts of the world are different from where we live could be brought in by reading this book.
Response: I thought this was a lovely little book about counting. It takes a very simple concept in math and brings in a culture view of southern Nigeria. It is definitely not what you expect to see in most counting stories. Young children would love this book!
Related Texts:
A is for Africa by Ifeoma Onyefulu
Grades: PreK-1
Book Type: Picture
Curriculum Links: Math, Social Studies
Author Credibility: The author`s own son, Emeka, is written about in this book. Onyefulu wrote this story which presents the math concept of counting by telling a story about his very own son.
Awards: African Studies Children`s Association Book Award
Summary:
Emeka lives in southern Nigeria in the village of Ibaji with his family. He wants to take his grandmother a present, but can`t decide what to bring her. Giving simple gifts to family members is part of their culture. In the book, Emeka is seeing different things he could give his grandmother like a necklace, an instrument, and a hat. This book presents a very simple story about counting 1 – 10 through the photographs. The author in a very special way brings in information about their culture. We not practice counting, but also learn about the games, instruments, and families that live in Ibaji. The book contains full-color photographs taken by the author himself of his very own village and people.
Standards: Math - Number and Operations (NCTM); Social Studies – Culture Strand
Illustrations: Beautiful full-color photographs taken by the author are used to illustrate this simple counting story. They capture they spirit and culture of the village.
Access Features: Author`s note, the number and words are displayed in a large font, the text is framed in an African-like décor
Classroom Use: This book could be used in pre-kindergarten to focus on the concept of counting. Also, a discussion of how parts of the world are different from where we live could be brought in by reading this book.
Response: I thought this was a lovely little book about counting. It takes a very simple concept in math and brings in a culture view of southern Nigeria. It is definitely not what you expect to see in most counting stories. Young children would love this book!
Related Texts:
A is for Africa by Ifeoma Onyefulu
Math Fables by Gregg Tang #32
Tang, Gregg. (2004). Math Fables. New York: Scholastic Press.
Grades: PreK – 1 (ages 3 – 6)
Book Type: Picture
Illustrator: Heather Cahoon
Author Credibility: Greg Tang has a M.A. in Math Education from New York University. He is the author of The Grapes of Math, a New York Times Bestseller. He enjoys writing books that help further extend math concepts and make math fun.
Awards: none given
Summary:
In this book, the author has written short fables that introduce the numbers 1 – 10 by counting. But, he also shows each number in different ways in terms of grouping them. This book encourages children at a very young age to start thinking about math in different ways. The illustrations are whimsical and cartoon-like, and they are inviting for children. They also help present the concepts laid out in the book.
Standards: Number and Operations Standard (NCTM)
Illustrations: The illustrator Heather Cahoon created the illustrations in this book using a computer and various graphics. The illustrations correspond with the short fables and math concepts presented in the book. They are very beautiful to look at, and children would definitely enjoy looking at them.
Access Features: Author`s note, practice Challenges for kids working with numbers, headings for each new fable that are big and colorful
Classroom Use: I used this book to present the math concept of counting in different ways, while teaching pre-kindergarten last year. My children loved it! They enjoyed looking at the pictures and were able to grasp the concept in a different way.
Response: I think this is a great book for very young children! The earlier math concepts like these are presented the better! I liked that it didn`t just focus on counting like 1,2,3, and so on, but it shows how numbers can be grouped in different ways. The book really makes math fun, and that is so important to teaching math concepts.
Other Books in this series by Gregg Tang:
The Grapes of Math
Math for All Seasons
The Best of Times
Math Appeal
Math-terpieces
Grades: PreK – 1 (ages 3 – 6)
Book Type: Picture
Illustrator: Heather Cahoon
Author Credibility: Greg Tang has a M.A. in Math Education from New York University. He is the author of The Grapes of Math, a New York Times Bestseller. He enjoys writing books that help further extend math concepts and make math fun.
Awards: none given
Summary:
In this book, the author has written short fables that introduce the numbers 1 – 10 by counting. But, he also shows each number in different ways in terms of grouping them. This book encourages children at a very young age to start thinking about math in different ways. The illustrations are whimsical and cartoon-like, and they are inviting for children. They also help present the concepts laid out in the book.
Standards: Number and Operations Standard (NCTM)
Illustrations: The illustrator Heather Cahoon created the illustrations in this book using a computer and various graphics. The illustrations correspond with the short fables and math concepts presented in the book. They are very beautiful to look at, and children would definitely enjoy looking at them.
Access Features: Author`s note, practice Challenges for kids working with numbers, headings for each new fable that are big and colorful
Classroom Use: I used this book to present the math concept of counting in different ways, while teaching pre-kindergarten last year. My children loved it! They enjoyed looking at the pictures and were able to grasp the concept in a different way.
Response: I think this is a great book for very young children! The earlier math concepts like these are presented the better! I liked that it didn`t just focus on counting like 1,2,3, and so on, but it shows how numbers can be grouped in different ways. The book really makes math fun, and that is so important to teaching math concepts.
Other Books in this series by Gregg Tang:
The Grapes of Math
Math for All Seasons
The Best of Times
Math Appeal
Math-terpieces
Mississippi River by Peter Lourie #31
Lourie, Peter. (2000). Mississippi River: A Journey Down the Father of Waters. Honesdale, PA: Boyds Mill Press.
Grades: 3 -6
Book Type: Photographic Essay
Curriculum Links: Social Studies
Author Credibility: Peter Lourie has traveled and studied places all over the world. For this book, he also traveled down the Mississippi River beginning at Lake Itasca near Canada and ending near the Gulf of Mexico.
Awards: Best Books of 2000 (Center for Children`s Books)
Summary:
This book is told through the eyes of the author, Peter Lourie. He actually canoed with a friend from Lake Itasca all the way down the Mississippi River ending near the Gulf of Mexico. Throughout the book, he discusses his experiences during his journey and provides information from the past and present about people and places along the way. The illustrations provide a photographic journey of his travel down the river along with historic photos of important places. The book is told in a very conversational tone that makes you feel like you are right there with him on his journey.
Standards: People, Places and Environments
Illustrations: The illustrations are full-color photographs taken along Peter Lourie`s journey down the Mississippi River. Also, black-and white photographs are dispersed throughout the book that show some historical places and people related to the Mississippi River.
Access Features: Prologue, table of contents, chapter headings, index
Classroom Use: This book could be used during a study of important rivers in the United States. It has so much history, past and present, that it would be a great book to use to discuss the geography of the Mississippi River and learn about the stories of the river.
Response: I really liked this book, because it was so interesting! There is so much fascinating information in this book about the river and people and places that live near the river. I enjoyed learning more about a river that is so important to the United States and our area!
Other books by Peter Lourie:
Amazon
Hudson River
Yukon River
Eric Canal
Everglades
Rio Grande
Grades: 3 -6
Book Type: Photographic Essay
Curriculum Links: Social Studies
Author Credibility: Peter Lourie has traveled and studied places all over the world. For this book, he also traveled down the Mississippi River beginning at Lake Itasca near Canada and ending near the Gulf of Mexico.
Awards: Best Books of 2000 (Center for Children`s Books)
Summary:
This book is told through the eyes of the author, Peter Lourie. He actually canoed with a friend from Lake Itasca all the way down the Mississippi River ending near the Gulf of Mexico. Throughout the book, he discusses his experiences during his journey and provides information from the past and present about people and places along the way. The illustrations provide a photographic journey of his travel down the river along with historic photos of important places. The book is told in a very conversational tone that makes you feel like you are right there with him on his journey.
Standards: People, Places and Environments
Illustrations: The illustrations are full-color photographs taken along Peter Lourie`s journey down the Mississippi River. Also, black-and white photographs are dispersed throughout the book that show some historical places and people related to the Mississippi River.
Access Features: Prologue, table of contents, chapter headings, index
Classroom Use: This book could be used during a study of important rivers in the United States. It has so much history, past and present, that it would be a great book to use to discuss the geography of the Mississippi River and learn about the stories of the river.
Response: I really liked this book, because it was so interesting! There is so much fascinating information in this book about the river and people and places that live near the river. I enjoyed learning more about a river that is so important to the United States and our area!
Other books by Peter Lourie:
Amazon
Hudson River
Yukon River
Eric Canal
Everglades
Rio Grande
Solar System by Dr. Mike Goldsmith #30
Goldsmith, Mike. (2004). Solar System. Boston: Kingfisher Publications.
Grades: PreK - 3
Book Type: Picture
Curriculum Links: Science
Author Credibility: Dr. Mike Goldsmith has a Ph.D. in astrophysics and continues to study all about space and the solar system. He has authored more than twenty nonfiction books for children, most of which are on the topic of space.
Awards: 2005 Junior Aventis Prize
Summary:
This book contains engaging illustrations along with important information about each of the planets. It begins by giving an overview of the solar system in general. Then, it breaks down each of the planets by providing a vivid description, intriguing details, and keywords that are important to remember. The book also contains information about related topics such as astronauts who have traveled to space, asteroids, and shooting stars. The author uses a conversation tone throughout the book. The giant illustrations along with big text provide children with an interesting look into the great solar system.
Standards: Earth and Space Science (national science standards)
Illustrations: The information in each section is presented on a two-page spread. Many of the images come from NASA, the author notes. The images are very big and colorful and offer an up-close view of the solar system.
Access Features: Table of contents, giant headings that are very intriguing, bolded words that could be used for vocabulary study, step-by-step instructions for some interesting science projects, and an index
Classroom Use: This book could be used during a study of the planets and the solar system.
Response: I used this book to help with a unit during student teaching. I read parts of it aloud, and the children really enjoyed it. They really liked the big illustrations that were so colorful and interesting. This book contains really good information about the solar system and related topics. The author lays out the information in a very simply way.
Grades: PreK - 3
Book Type: Picture
Curriculum Links: Science
Author Credibility: Dr. Mike Goldsmith has a Ph.D. in astrophysics and continues to study all about space and the solar system. He has authored more than twenty nonfiction books for children, most of which are on the topic of space.
Awards: 2005 Junior Aventis Prize
Summary:
This book contains engaging illustrations along with important information about each of the planets. It begins by giving an overview of the solar system in general. Then, it breaks down each of the planets by providing a vivid description, intriguing details, and keywords that are important to remember. The book also contains information about related topics such as astronauts who have traveled to space, asteroids, and shooting stars. The author uses a conversation tone throughout the book. The giant illustrations along with big text provide children with an interesting look into the great solar system.
Standards: Earth and Space Science (national science standards)
Illustrations: The information in each section is presented on a two-page spread. Many of the images come from NASA, the author notes. The images are very big and colorful and offer an up-close view of the solar system.
Access Features: Table of contents, giant headings that are very intriguing, bolded words that could be used for vocabulary study, step-by-step instructions for some interesting science projects, and an index
Classroom Use: This book could be used during a study of the planets and the solar system.
Response: I used this book to help with a unit during student teaching. I read parts of it aloud, and the children really enjoyed it. They really liked the big illustrations that were so colorful and interesting. This book contains really good information about the solar system and related topics. The author lays out the information in a very simply way.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
A Picture Book of Lewis and Clark by David A. Adler #29
Adler, David A. (2003). A Picture Book of Lewis and Clark. New York: Holiday House
Grades: K – 3
Book Type: Picture, Partial Biography
Illustrator: Ronald Himler
Author Credibility: The author provided a bibliography of books that were used for the information provided in this book. They also acknowledge three people – David S. Lavender (author), Dr. Joseph Mussulman, and Bob Moore (park historian of the Jefferson National Expansion) – for their contributions.
Awards: 2004 Notable Social Studies Tradebook
Summary:
This is a picture book that tells of Lewis and Clark`s expedition where they explored the land west of the Mississippi River. The beginning of the book gives information about each of their lives. Lewis and Clark both had met while serving in the army. After Thomas Jefferson appointed Lewis to lead the expedition, Clark answered the call to help with it. The Corps, the name given to the mission and explorers involved, began on May 14, 1804. Along with them, were Sacagawea and Charbonneau who helped interpret when needed. Throughout their journey, they sent reports back to Thomas Jefferson on the animals, plants, and the Indians they had encountered along the way. In November of 1805, the Corps reached the Pacific Ocean finally. Lewis and Clark were real heroes, because of their successful exploration of the west. They had become real American pioneers. This book had a narrative tone, and the facts were presented in a simplistic manner.
Standards: Time, Continuity, and Change; People, Places, and Environments
Illustrations: The illustrations appear to be drawings that have been painted to give off a canvas-like appearance. There are many two-page spreads of the illustrations that give the reader a view of what it was like for Lewis and Clark during their expedition. Also, a map is provided in the book that outlines the course that Lewis and Clark traveled to reach the Pacific Ocean.
Access Features: Author`s note, timeline, bibliography, and related websites
Classroom Use: I would use this book in my classroom to discuss how expeditions like Lewis and Clark`s were very important to understanding what exactly was out there in terms of the undiscovered lands of the west. Their expedition played an important role in providing information about the land, animals, plants, and Indians of the west of the Mississippi River. It would be important to discuss how there were no maps of this area at the time, so expeditions like these were the only way to gather information.
Response: I thought this was a great book that offered information about Lewis and Clark in a simplistic way. It would be a great read for young readers. Also, I thought the illustrations were very beautiful.
Related Texts:
A Picture Book of Sacagawea by David A. Adler
Lewis and Clark: Explorers of the American West by Steven Kroll
Off the Map: The Journals of Lewis and Clark by Peter and Connie Roop
Lewis and Clark by Conrad Stein
Grades: K – 3
Book Type: Picture, Partial Biography
Illustrator: Ronald Himler
Author Credibility: The author provided a bibliography of books that were used for the information provided in this book. They also acknowledge three people – David S. Lavender (author), Dr. Joseph Mussulman, and Bob Moore (park historian of the Jefferson National Expansion) – for their contributions.
Awards: 2004 Notable Social Studies Tradebook
Summary:
This is a picture book that tells of Lewis and Clark`s expedition where they explored the land west of the Mississippi River. The beginning of the book gives information about each of their lives. Lewis and Clark both had met while serving in the army. After Thomas Jefferson appointed Lewis to lead the expedition, Clark answered the call to help with it. The Corps, the name given to the mission and explorers involved, began on May 14, 1804. Along with them, were Sacagawea and Charbonneau who helped interpret when needed. Throughout their journey, they sent reports back to Thomas Jefferson on the animals, plants, and the Indians they had encountered along the way. In November of 1805, the Corps reached the Pacific Ocean finally. Lewis and Clark were real heroes, because of their successful exploration of the west. They had become real American pioneers. This book had a narrative tone, and the facts were presented in a simplistic manner.
Standards: Time, Continuity, and Change; People, Places, and Environments
Illustrations: The illustrations appear to be drawings that have been painted to give off a canvas-like appearance. There are many two-page spreads of the illustrations that give the reader a view of what it was like for Lewis and Clark during their expedition. Also, a map is provided in the book that outlines the course that Lewis and Clark traveled to reach the Pacific Ocean.
Access Features: Author`s note, timeline, bibliography, and related websites
Classroom Use: I would use this book in my classroom to discuss how expeditions like Lewis and Clark`s were very important to understanding what exactly was out there in terms of the undiscovered lands of the west. Their expedition played an important role in providing information about the land, animals, plants, and Indians of the west of the Mississippi River. It would be important to discuss how there were no maps of this area at the time, so expeditions like these were the only way to gather information.
Response: I thought this was a great book that offered information about Lewis and Clark in a simplistic way. It would be a great read for young readers. Also, I thought the illustrations were very beautiful.
Related Texts:
A Picture Book of Sacagawea by David A. Adler
Lewis and Clark: Explorers of the American West by Steven Kroll
Off the Map: The Journals of Lewis and Clark by Peter and Connie Roop
Lewis and Clark by Conrad Stein
When I Was A Soldier by Valerie Zenatti (4 books) (235 pages) #25, #26, #27, #28
Zenatti, Valerie. (2002). When I Was a Soldier. New York: Bloomsbury Publishing.
Grades: 9th and up
Book Type: Biography
Curriculum Links: Social Studies
Author Credibility: This is Valerie Zenatti`s own story of becoming an adult in the Israeli Defense Force as a soldier. She tells of her experiences and how life changed for her after serving in the army.
Awards: 2006 Mildred L. Batchelder Honor Book
Summary:
This book is about Valerie Zenatti`s life and how it changed after being required to serve in the Israeli army for at least two years after turning 18. From her experiences, we can see how life was different living in Israel. Her family moved when she was 13 to Beersheva, a part of Israel that didn`t have much to offer her. It was difficult for her moving not knowing the Hebrew language. But, as she got older her friends and others were always asking her to speak in French, because they liked her accent. After enlisting in the army, she realizes that she is changing. She faces a difficult time when she is hospitalized after suffering from a breakdown. Her story really shares the emotional aspect of serving in an army that is not even in her homeland. Being away from family and friends was very difficult for her and especially dealing with questions about why she was even having to serve.
Standards: Culture; People, Places, and Environments; Individual Development and Identity
Illustrations: This book contains no illustrations.
Access Features: The only access features this book contains is headings for each new section of the book and an author`s note at the end.
Classroom Use: I would use this book in older grades to discuss how life is different in other parts of the world. For example, young adults being required to serve in the army for two years after finishing school. We could discuss the changes a young adult would go through having to face such grown-up responsibilities at such a young age.
Response: I have to admit that when I first got this book, I was not really looking forward to reading it. But, then after I started I realized it was a very different read than I had expected. I thought it was going to be about politics and bloodshed. It was nothing like that at all. It was about a young girl facing the army at such a young age and how she faced emotional struggles like missing her family and questioning her life throughout her two years in the army. This book really told the story of Valerie Zenatti growing up in a very different land.
Grades: 9th and up
Book Type: Biography
Curriculum Links: Social Studies
Author Credibility: This is Valerie Zenatti`s own story of becoming an adult in the Israeli Defense Force as a soldier. She tells of her experiences and how life changed for her after serving in the army.
Awards: 2006 Mildred L. Batchelder Honor Book
Summary:
This book is about Valerie Zenatti`s life and how it changed after being required to serve in the Israeli army for at least two years after turning 18. From her experiences, we can see how life was different living in Israel. Her family moved when she was 13 to Beersheva, a part of Israel that didn`t have much to offer her. It was difficult for her moving not knowing the Hebrew language. But, as she got older her friends and others were always asking her to speak in French, because they liked her accent. After enlisting in the army, she realizes that she is changing. She faces a difficult time when she is hospitalized after suffering from a breakdown. Her story really shares the emotional aspect of serving in an army that is not even in her homeland. Being away from family and friends was very difficult for her and especially dealing with questions about why she was even having to serve.
Standards: Culture; People, Places, and Environments; Individual Development and Identity
Illustrations: This book contains no illustrations.
Access Features: The only access features this book contains is headings for each new section of the book and an author`s note at the end.
Classroom Use: I would use this book in older grades to discuss how life is different in other parts of the world. For example, young adults being required to serve in the army for two years after finishing school. We could discuss the changes a young adult would go through having to face such grown-up responsibilities at such a young age.
Response: I have to admit that when I first got this book, I was not really looking forward to reading it. But, then after I started I realized it was a very different read than I had expected. I thought it was going to be about politics and bloodshed. It was nothing like that at all. It was about a young girl facing the army at such a young age and how she faced emotional struggles like missing her family and questioning her life throughout her two years in the army. This book really told the story of Valerie Zenatti growing up in a very different land.
Friday, July 20, 2007
With Love: Ten Heartwarming Stories of Chimpanzees in the Wild by Jane Goodall #24
Goodall, Jane. (1994).With Love: Ten Heartwarming Stories of Chimpanzees in the Wild. New York: Scholastic Inc.
Grades: 2nd grade through adult
Curriculum Link: Science
Author Credibility: Jane Goodall wrote this book after dedicating forty years to studying and helping the chimpanzees of Tanzania.
Awards: none given for her books, but numerous awards for her work and dedication in her studies
Summary:
This book is divided into ten short-stories that are told through the eyes of Jane Goodall. For over forty years, she has studied the chimpanzees in the forests of Tanzania. The stories discuss how chimpanzees, which can be very aggressive, also have another side to them. They can be gentle, affectionate, and caring towards each other. The stories show how chimpanzees interact with each other, care and protect each other, and at times have taken the place as mother to an infant chimpanzee that has lost its own family.
Standards: Science as Inquiry Standard
Illustrations: Alan Marks was chosen to be her illustrator. In the book, Jane Goodall states that she chose him for his ability to successfully capture the nature and spirit of chimpanzees in his illustrations. The illustrations appear to be hand-drawn with the addition of water color.
Access Features: Introduction, headings for each new section, information about the research done at Gombe, information and contacts for the Jane Goodall Institute
Classroom Use: This book could be used during a study of animals to find research on the chimpanzees. Also, this book could be used to show kids how people have contributed to saving chimpanzees that are harmed by poachers and individuals who want to take use them in a ways that are inappropriate.
Response: I loved reading these stories about the chimpanzees! Some of the stories even brought tears to my eyes. I especially liked when Jane Goodall told the story of her encounter with David Greybeard, a chimpanzee, and how after offering a nut in her hand he took it. I also liked how the stories are told by Jane Goodall herself. They really capture the chimpanzees, and it makes it more significant knowing how she actually watched the stories as they were carried out in person. Wonderful book!
Related Texts:
Gorilla Doctors by Pamela S. Turner
Grades: 2nd grade through adult
Curriculum Link: Science
Author Credibility: Jane Goodall wrote this book after dedicating forty years to studying and helping the chimpanzees of Tanzania.
Awards: none given for her books, but numerous awards for her work and dedication in her studies
Summary:
This book is divided into ten short-stories that are told through the eyes of Jane Goodall. For over forty years, she has studied the chimpanzees in the forests of Tanzania. The stories discuss how chimpanzees, which can be very aggressive, also have another side to them. They can be gentle, affectionate, and caring towards each other. The stories show how chimpanzees interact with each other, care and protect each other, and at times have taken the place as mother to an infant chimpanzee that has lost its own family.
Standards: Science as Inquiry Standard
Illustrations: Alan Marks was chosen to be her illustrator. In the book, Jane Goodall states that she chose him for his ability to successfully capture the nature and spirit of chimpanzees in his illustrations. The illustrations appear to be hand-drawn with the addition of water color.
Access Features: Introduction, headings for each new section, information about the research done at Gombe, information and contacts for the Jane Goodall Institute
Classroom Use: This book could be used during a study of animals to find research on the chimpanzees. Also, this book could be used to show kids how people have contributed to saving chimpanzees that are harmed by poachers and individuals who want to take use them in a ways that are inappropriate.
Response: I loved reading these stories about the chimpanzees! Some of the stories even brought tears to my eyes. I especially liked when Jane Goodall told the story of her encounter with David Greybeard, a chimpanzee, and how after offering a nut in her hand he took it. I also liked how the stories are told by Jane Goodall herself. They really capture the chimpanzees, and it makes it more significant knowing how she actually watched the stories as they were carried out in person. Wonderful book!
Related Texts:
Gorilla Doctors by Pamela S. Turner
Gorilla Doctors: Saving Endangered Great Apes by Pamela S. Turner #23
Turner, Pamela S. (2005). Gorilla Doctors: Saving Endangered Great Apes. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company
Grades: 3 – 8
Curriculum Links: Science
Author Credibility: In order to write this book, Pamela Turner experienced first-hand the work these scientists to in order to save the mountain gorillas and study them.
Awards: 2005 Flora Stieglitz Straus Award
Summary: This book is about the mountain gorillas of east-central Africa and how scientists track them in order to treat them when their sick and do research on them. Throughout the book, interesting facts are told about the gorillas. The scientists discussed in the book study the gorillas and are very much a part of their lives. The close-up photographs are interesting and capture the gorillas and scientists in their element. The book also discussed how scientists and others are constantly battling with poachers who try to capture the mountain gorillas.
Grades: 3 – 8
Curriculum Links: Science
Author Credibility: In order to write this book, Pamela Turner experienced first-hand the work these scientists to in order to save the mountain gorillas and study them.
Awards: 2005 Flora Stieglitz Straus Award
Summary: This book is about the mountain gorillas of east-central Africa and how scientists track them in order to treat them when their sick and do research on them. Throughout the book, interesting facts are told about the gorillas. The scientists discussed in the book study the gorillas and are very much a part of their lives. The close-up photographs are interesting and capture the gorillas and scientists in their element. The book also discussed how scientists and others are constantly battling with poachers who try to capture the mountain gorillas.
Standards: Science as Inquiry, Science in Social and Personal Perspectives (National Standards)
Illustrations: Full-color photographs taken of the mountain gorillas and scientists who work with them, these photographs are in full page spreads and smaller photos can be seen to, a map of Africa points out where the 2 species and 1 subspecies is located
Access Features: Each section displays an intriguing heading that describes what its going to be about, related books and websites, postscript, acknowledgements, index, and contacts for the Morris Animal Foundations`s Gorilla Veterinary Project
Classroom Use: I would use this book in my classroom to discuss how a team of scientists work together to save an endangered species. It could be used to found out more information about the mountain gorillas.
Response: I loved this book! It was a fascinating read! I learned so much about the mountain gorillas and was interesting to read how the scientists and park officials work together to try and save the gorillas. The photographs were so neat to look at truly captured how special they are.
Related Texts:
Gorillas in the Mist by Dian Fossey
Eyewitness Guides: Gorilla by Ian Redmond
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Voice That Challenged A Nation: Marian Anderson and the Struggle for Equal Rights by Russell Freedman (2 books) (114 pgs) #21, #22
Freedman, Russell. (2004). The Voice That Challenged A Nation: Marian Anderson and the Struggle for Equal Rights. New York: Clarion Books.
Grades: 4 - 8
Curriculum Links: Social Studies
Author Credibility: Russell Freedman has written over three dozen nonfiction books. He researches topics and people that he is interested in and wants to learn more about. In the author’s note, he writes how he became interested in Marian when he found out about her relationship with Eleanor Roosevelt and the Lincoln Memorial concert that established her as an important figure in the struggle for equal rights. He includes numerous books and articles in his bibliography.
Awards: 2005 Robert F. Sibert Medal, 2005 Newberry Honor Book
Summary:
This book is about Marian Anderson, a talented African American singer who endured many obstacles during a time when blacks were denied the same freedoms as others. She studied music through the financial help of her community and church growing up. Later on, she traveled to England and then Germany to study other languages. She became famous all over Europe traveling everywhere to perform on-stage, but she still had one dream. She wanted to be recognized as the talented artist she was by her own country. After being denied the right to sing at Constitutional Hall, she was thrust into giving a free concert on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial where over 75,000 people gathered waiting to hear her sing. This concert made both musical and civil rights history. The concert is recognized today as a milestone in the struggle for equal rights. Marian Anderson didn’t set out to be a spokesperson for equal rights, but through her voice she played an integral role in helping others see the importance of equal rights for every person no matter the color of their skin.
Standards: Time, Continuity, and Change; Individuals, Groups, and Institutions; Civic Ideals and Practices
Illustrations: Black-and-white photographs documenting Marian Anderson’s life, primary source documents
Access Features: Table of contents, chapter notes, bibliography, discography, acknowledgements and picture credits, index
Classroom Use: This book could be used during a study of the Civil Rights Movement and during Black History Month in February to discuss important figures and what they helped accomplish during this time.
Response: I really enjoyed reading this book. I had never even heard of Marian Anderson. I enjoyed reading about somebody I knew nothing about. She really broke barriers when she sang on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. It must have been surreal to have experienced this first-hand. After reading this book, I want to hear her sing!
Related Texts:
Rosa by Nikki Giovanni
If a Bus Could Talk: The Story of Rosa Parks by Faith Ringgold
Through My Eyes by Ruby Bridges
Freedom Walkers by Russell Freedman
Grades: 4 - 8
Curriculum Links: Social Studies
Author Credibility: Russell Freedman has written over three dozen nonfiction books. He researches topics and people that he is interested in and wants to learn more about. In the author’s note, he writes how he became interested in Marian when he found out about her relationship with Eleanor Roosevelt and the Lincoln Memorial concert that established her as an important figure in the struggle for equal rights. He includes numerous books and articles in his bibliography.
Awards: 2005 Robert F. Sibert Medal, 2005 Newberry Honor Book
Summary:
This book is about Marian Anderson, a talented African American singer who endured many obstacles during a time when blacks were denied the same freedoms as others. She studied music through the financial help of her community and church growing up. Later on, she traveled to England and then Germany to study other languages. She became famous all over Europe traveling everywhere to perform on-stage, but she still had one dream. She wanted to be recognized as the talented artist she was by her own country. After being denied the right to sing at Constitutional Hall, she was thrust into giving a free concert on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial where over 75,000 people gathered waiting to hear her sing. This concert made both musical and civil rights history. The concert is recognized today as a milestone in the struggle for equal rights. Marian Anderson didn’t set out to be a spokesperson for equal rights, but through her voice she played an integral role in helping others see the importance of equal rights for every person no matter the color of their skin.
Standards: Time, Continuity, and Change; Individuals, Groups, and Institutions; Civic Ideals and Practices
Illustrations: Black-and-white photographs documenting Marian Anderson’s life, primary source documents
Access Features: Table of contents, chapter notes, bibliography, discography, acknowledgements and picture credits, index
Classroom Use: This book could be used during a study of the Civil Rights Movement and during Black History Month in February to discuss important figures and what they helped accomplish during this time.
Response: I really enjoyed reading this book. I had never even heard of Marian Anderson. I enjoyed reading about somebody I knew nothing about. She really broke barriers when she sang on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. It must have been surreal to have experienced this first-hand. After reading this book, I want to hear her sing!
Related Texts:
Rosa by Nikki Giovanni
If a Bus Could Talk: The Story of Rosa Parks by Faith Ringgold
Through My Eyes by Ruby Bridges
Freedom Walkers by Russell Freedman
Marvelous Mattie: How Margaret E. Knight Became an Inventor by Emily Arnold McCully #20
McCully, Emily A. (2006). Marvelous Mattie: How Margaret E. Knight Became An Inventor. New York: Farrar Straus Giroux
Grades: K - 3
Curriculum Links: Social Studies
Book Type: Biography
Author Credibility: Emily Arnold McCully included a bibliography of where she obtained information about Margaret E. Knight. In the author’s note, she discussed that she learned about her childhood through a December 1872 issue of Women’s Journal. She also found a New York Times article from 1913 that mentioned Mattie’s invention of a shuttle cover.
Awards: none listed
Summary:
This is a biography of Margaret E. Knight’s (Mattie) life from when she was young until the time she became a professional inventor. As a child, she used her father’s toolbox to make inventions. She kept a notebook with drawings of her ideas. She would make kites and other gifts for her two brothers and their friends. When she turned twelve she went to work in a mill. After seeing a horrible accident, she invented a shuttle cover to keep workers guarded in case a shuttle came loose. Her invention quickly spread and was used by every mill in the city. When she was older, she became the inventor of a bag-making machine that gave paper bags a flat bottom in order to stand upright. She got a patent for her invention and eventually set up the Eastern Paper Bag Company. She was known as the “Lady Edison”. This is an inspiring read about a woman who became an inventor during a time when the woman’s place was at home with the children.
Standards: Individual Development and Identity, and Science, Technology, and Society
Illustrations: Black-and-white line drawings by Emily A. McCully, one drawing from an 1871 patent showing views of Margaret Knight`s paper bag machine
Access Features: author`s note, bibliography
Classroom Use: I would use this book in my classroom to discuss how women have made marvelous contributions in history.
Response: I really enjoyed reading this book. I had never heard of Marvelous Mattie and her invention of the paper bag machine. I think it is awesome that her invention is still being used today to create paper grocery bags that stand upright!
Grades: K - 3
Curriculum Links: Social Studies
Book Type: Biography
Author Credibility: Emily Arnold McCully included a bibliography of where she obtained information about Margaret E. Knight. In the author’s note, she discussed that she learned about her childhood through a December 1872 issue of Women’s Journal. She also found a New York Times article from 1913 that mentioned Mattie’s invention of a shuttle cover.
Awards: none listed
Summary:
This is a biography of Margaret E. Knight’s (Mattie) life from when she was young until the time she became a professional inventor. As a child, she used her father’s toolbox to make inventions. She kept a notebook with drawings of her ideas. She would make kites and other gifts for her two brothers and their friends. When she turned twelve she went to work in a mill. After seeing a horrible accident, she invented a shuttle cover to keep workers guarded in case a shuttle came loose. Her invention quickly spread and was used by every mill in the city. When she was older, she became the inventor of a bag-making machine that gave paper bags a flat bottom in order to stand upright. She got a patent for her invention and eventually set up the Eastern Paper Bag Company. She was known as the “Lady Edison”. This is an inspiring read about a woman who became an inventor during a time when the woman’s place was at home with the children.
Standards: Individual Development and Identity, and Science, Technology, and Society
Illustrations: Black-and-white line drawings by Emily A. McCully, one drawing from an 1871 patent showing views of Margaret Knight`s paper bag machine
Access Features: author`s note, bibliography
Classroom Use: I would use this book in my classroom to discuss how women have made marvelous contributions in history.
Response: I really enjoyed reading this book. I had never heard of Marvelous Mattie and her invention of the paper bag machine. I think it is awesome that her invention is still being used today to create paper grocery bags that stand upright!
What Happens in Summer? By Sara Latta #19
Latta, Sara. (2006). What Happens in Summer? New Jersey: Enslow Publishers.
Grades: PreK - 3
Type: Picture/Informational
Curriculum Link: Science
Author Credibility: Sara Latta has a degree in Microbiology from the University of Kansas. She recently earned her M.F.A. in Creative Writing from Lesley University. At first when she went to college she wanted to be a scientist, but soon decided she would rather write about it. She has written eight books and many articles on different topics in science. On her website, Sara writes that she loves sharing her two favorite things with children of all ages – science and writing.
Awards: 2006 Children’s Choices Award
Summary:
This book explores the season of summer. It begins by briefly discussing the four seasons and showing beautiful full-color photographs of winter, spring, summer, and fall. In a conversational tone, the book explores different questions related to summer – how earth’s tilt makes the weather warm, how summer days help plants grow, what animals, plants, and children do in the summertime. At the end of the book, there is an experiment for kids to do exploring the question if plants need sunlight to grow. This book also lists some excellent websites for kids to explore topics relating to weather and the seasons.
Standards: Unifying Concepts and Processes Standard, Physical Science Standards, and Earth and Space Science Standards
Illustrations: Each section contains a full page photograph and another smaller photo relating to topic, the full-color photographs are beautiful and capture some of the animals and plants of summertime, a kid friendly diagram is also provided to that shows how the earth tilts as it goes around the sun
Access Features: table of contents, headings feature questions that introduce each topic about summer, related books, website information, and index
Classroom Use: This book would be
Response: I liked how this book was divided into questions related to the topic of summer. It was easy to read and follow the information provided. Children would really enjoy this book, because of the big text font used and the incredible photographs of summertime.
Related Texts:
Sunshine Makes the Seasons by Franklyn Branley
Summer: Signs of the Season by Valerie Gerard
It`s Summer! by Linda Glaser
Summer by Darlene Stille
Janice VanCleave`s Science Around the Year by Janice VanCleave
Other Texts from the “I Like the Seasons” Series:
What Happens in the Fall?
What Happens in the Winter?
What Happens in the Spring?
Grades: PreK - 3
Type: Picture/Informational
Curriculum Link: Science
Author Credibility: Sara Latta has a degree in Microbiology from the University of Kansas. She recently earned her M.F.A. in Creative Writing from Lesley University. At first when she went to college she wanted to be a scientist, but soon decided she would rather write about it. She has written eight books and many articles on different topics in science. On her website, Sara writes that she loves sharing her two favorite things with children of all ages – science and writing.
Awards: 2006 Children’s Choices Award
Summary:
This book explores the season of summer. It begins by briefly discussing the four seasons and showing beautiful full-color photographs of winter, spring, summer, and fall. In a conversational tone, the book explores different questions related to summer – how earth’s tilt makes the weather warm, how summer days help plants grow, what animals, plants, and children do in the summertime. At the end of the book, there is an experiment for kids to do exploring the question if plants need sunlight to grow. This book also lists some excellent websites for kids to explore topics relating to weather and the seasons.
Standards: Unifying Concepts and Processes Standard, Physical Science Standards, and Earth and Space Science Standards
Illustrations: Each section contains a full page photograph and another smaller photo relating to topic, the full-color photographs are beautiful and capture some of the animals and plants of summertime, a kid friendly diagram is also provided to that shows how the earth tilts as it goes around the sun
Access Features: table of contents, headings feature questions that introduce each topic about summer, related books, website information, and index
Classroom Use: This book would be
Response: I liked how this book was divided into questions related to the topic of summer. It was easy to read and follow the information provided. Children would really enjoy this book, because of the big text font used and the incredible photographs of summertime.
Related Texts:
Sunshine Makes the Seasons by Franklyn Branley
Summer: Signs of the Season by Valerie Gerard
It`s Summer! by Linda Glaser
Summer by Darlene Stille
Janice VanCleave`s Science Around the Year by Janice VanCleave
Other Texts from the “I Like the Seasons” Series:
What Happens in the Fall?
What Happens in the Winter?
What Happens in the Spring?
Look What Whiskers Can Do by D.M. Souza #18
Souza, D.M. (2007). Look What Whiskers Can Do. Minneapolis: Lerner Publications.
Grades: 2 – 4
Curriculum Links: Science
Author Credibility: I could not find any information about the sources for the information in the book. This book along with three others is part of a series – Look what animals can do.
Awards: Society of School Librarians International Honor Book (SSLI)
Summary:
This book shows how a variety of animals use their whiskers. It is divided into eight chapters that briefly discuss cats, fish, manatees, and many others discussing why their whiskers are so important to their survival. The sharp, clear photographs of the animals are very interesting to look at. Words found in the glossary are in bold throughout the chapters. Each chapter features a particular animal with a two page photo spread. Children would definitely enjoy reading this book, because it focuses on something that is usually not discussed.
Standards: Science as Inquiry
Illustrations: Beautiful full color photographs that capture the animals and their whiskers
Access Features: Table of contents, glossary of terms, related websites, index, engaging chapter headings, small sidebar describing each photograph
Writing Style: Conversational tone that is kid friendly, facts are engaging to read
Classroom Use: I think this would be a great book to use for comparing and contrasting animals and their particular features. It could be used during a unit where children are studying different kinds of animals and presenting information on them.
Response: I thought this was a really interesting book! I loved the neat facts about whiskers and their importance. One of my favorites was how mice use their whiskers to stay afloat in the water.
Related Texts by author:
Look What Mouths Can Do
Look What Feet Can Do
Look What Tails Can Do
Grades: 2 – 4
Curriculum Links: Science
Author Credibility: I could not find any information about the sources for the information in the book. This book along with three others is part of a series – Look what animals can do.
Awards: Society of School Librarians International Honor Book (SSLI)
Summary:
This book shows how a variety of animals use their whiskers. It is divided into eight chapters that briefly discuss cats, fish, manatees, and many others discussing why their whiskers are so important to their survival. The sharp, clear photographs of the animals are very interesting to look at. Words found in the glossary are in bold throughout the chapters. Each chapter features a particular animal with a two page photo spread. Children would definitely enjoy reading this book, because it focuses on something that is usually not discussed.
Standards: Science as Inquiry
Illustrations: Beautiful full color photographs that capture the animals and their whiskers
Access Features: Table of contents, glossary of terms, related websites, index, engaging chapter headings, small sidebar describing each photograph
Writing Style: Conversational tone that is kid friendly, facts are engaging to read
Classroom Use: I think this would be a great book to use for comparing and contrasting animals and their particular features. It could be used during a unit where children are studying different kinds of animals and presenting information on them.
Response: I thought this was a really interesting book! I loved the neat facts about whiskers and their importance. One of my favorites was how mice use their whiskers to stay afloat in the water.
Related Texts by author:
Look What Mouths Can Do
Look What Feet Can Do
Look What Tails Can Do
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Freak Out! Animals Beyond Your Wildest Imagination by Ginjer Clarke #17
Clarke, Ginjer. (2006). Freak Out! Animals Beyond Your Wildest Imagination. New York: Grosset and Dunlap.
Grades: 1-4
Curriculum Links: Science
Author Credibility: Ginjer Clarke writes nonfiction books, but her specialty is writing nonfiction books about extreme or unusual animals that many children have not heard of. She majored in English and Theater in college, and after graduating she began to write nonfiction stories about animals.
Awards: none given
Summary:
This is a wonderful book for children who are beginning readers. It is divided into four chapters covering all kinds of interesting creatures like an electric eel, hissing cockroach, flying lizard, and pink dolphins. The tone is very conversational, and all of the science facts about these animals make this book definitely an interesting read. The watercolor illustrations really capture how these animals are so unique.
Standards: Life Science
Illustrations: Pete Mueller used watercolor illustrations for each animal discussed in the chapters
Access Features: An introduction to the book, interesting headings for each chapter, important words are bolded throughout book, pronunciation key for difficult words
Classroom Use: This book could be used to read aloud to kindergarteners to get them excited all the different kinds of unique animals in the world. Also, beginning readers would love this book because of its conversational approach to discussing facts about animals.
Response: I thought this was a great little book! I especially loved the conversational tone of the book and how the author described the animals what they eat, how they smell, and how the different parts of their bodies function and aid in their survival.
Other Books Written by Author:
Bug Out!: The World's Creepiest, Crawliest Critters
Cheetah Cubs
Gross Out! Animals that Do Disgusting Things
Platypus!
Grades: 1-4
Curriculum Links: Science
Author Credibility: Ginjer Clarke writes nonfiction books, but her specialty is writing nonfiction books about extreme or unusual animals that many children have not heard of. She majored in English and Theater in college, and after graduating she began to write nonfiction stories about animals.
Awards: none given
Summary:
This is a wonderful book for children who are beginning readers. It is divided into four chapters covering all kinds of interesting creatures like an electric eel, hissing cockroach, flying lizard, and pink dolphins. The tone is very conversational, and all of the science facts about these animals make this book definitely an interesting read. The watercolor illustrations really capture how these animals are so unique.
Standards: Life Science
Illustrations: Pete Mueller used watercolor illustrations for each animal discussed in the chapters
Access Features: An introduction to the book, interesting headings for each chapter, important words are bolded throughout book, pronunciation key for difficult words
Classroom Use: This book could be used to read aloud to kindergarteners to get them excited all the different kinds of unique animals in the world. Also, beginning readers would love this book because of its conversational approach to discussing facts about animals.
Response: I thought this was a great little book! I especially loved the conversational tone of the book and how the author described the animals what they eat, how they smell, and how the different parts of their bodies function and aid in their survival.
Other Books Written by Author:
Bug Out!: The World's Creepiest, Crawliest Critters
Cheetah Cubs
Gross Out! Animals that Do Disgusting Things
Platypus!
Rescues! by Sandra Markle #16
Markle, Sandra. (2006). Rescues! Minneapolis: Millbrook Express.
Book Type: Informative, (survey)
Grades: 4 - 7
Curriculum Link: Science
Author Credibility: Sandra Markle is a former science teacher and the author of many award winning books. She had her own frightening experience while observing penguins in Antarctica. When a terrible storm struck the area they were in, she and two other scientists had to be rescued. Having gone through her own life and death situation, she wanted to write a book about other rescue stories all over the world. In her book, she cites the telephone interviews with survivors, books about disasters, websites that list information about hurricanes and search dogs, newspaper articles about each of the rescue stories, and other related websites.
Awards: 2006 Children’s Choices Award
Summary:
This is an informative book that describes real life situations that have occurred all over the world. It discusses each story and how the technology and people work together to save lives. Some of the rescue stories mentioned includes nine miners trapped underground, a baby in a burning house, and mountain climbers stranded by a storm. This book is packed with vocabulary and facts about the technology used in each of the rescue stories. Engaging photographs of the people and technology involved and an afterward about each survivor makes this book an exciting and “edge of your seat” read.
Standards: Science and Technology
Illustrations: Full page photographs that document where each rescue story takes place, along with smaller photographs of the rescuers, technology, and survivors
Access Features: World map that highlights where each rescue story takes place, bottom bar or either a sidebar that briefly introduces each story, full page photograph with information on the technology used, sidebar of information about glossary terms, table of contents, glossary, source notes, bibliography, index, websites, other books to read
Classroom Use: This book could be used to discuss how science and technology have saved lives. Students could compare and contrast technology that we have now to what was used in the past.
Response: This was an exciting read! I had actually heard about some of the rescue stories in this book from the news and magazines. I really liked how the author broke each story down to discuss the technology used, how the rescuers worked together, and how each survivor is currently doing. It was a very up-to-date read!
Related Texts:
Rescues at Sea with the U.S. and Canadian Coast Guards by Lewis Lyons
Hurricanes by D.M. Souza
Other Texts by Author:
Can You Believe: Hurricanes
Can You Believe: Amazing Earth: Earthquakes
Can You Believe: Powerful Waves
Book Type: Informative, (survey)
Grades: 4 - 7
Curriculum Link: Science
Author Credibility: Sandra Markle is a former science teacher and the author of many award winning books. She had her own frightening experience while observing penguins in Antarctica. When a terrible storm struck the area they were in, she and two other scientists had to be rescued. Having gone through her own life and death situation, she wanted to write a book about other rescue stories all over the world. In her book, she cites the telephone interviews with survivors, books about disasters, websites that list information about hurricanes and search dogs, newspaper articles about each of the rescue stories, and other related websites.
Awards: 2006 Children’s Choices Award
Summary:
This is an informative book that describes real life situations that have occurred all over the world. It discusses each story and how the technology and people work together to save lives. Some of the rescue stories mentioned includes nine miners trapped underground, a baby in a burning house, and mountain climbers stranded by a storm. This book is packed with vocabulary and facts about the technology used in each of the rescue stories. Engaging photographs of the people and technology involved and an afterward about each survivor makes this book an exciting and “edge of your seat” read.
Standards: Science and Technology
Illustrations: Full page photographs that document where each rescue story takes place, along with smaller photographs of the rescuers, technology, and survivors
Access Features: World map that highlights where each rescue story takes place, bottom bar or either a sidebar that briefly introduces each story, full page photograph with information on the technology used, sidebar of information about glossary terms, table of contents, glossary, source notes, bibliography, index, websites, other books to read
Classroom Use: This book could be used to discuss how science and technology have saved lives. Students could compare and contrast technology that we have now to what was used in the past.
Response: This was an exciting read! I had actually heard about some of the rescue stories in this book from the news and magazines. I really liked how the author broke each story down to discuss the technology used, how the rescuers worked together, and how each survivor is currently doing. It was a very up-to-date read!
Related Texts:
Rescues at Sea with the U.S. and Canadian Coast Guards by Lewis Lyons
Hurricanes by D.M. Souza
Other Texts by Author:
Can You Believe: Hurricanes
Can You Believe: Amazing Earth: Earthquakes
Can You Believe: Powerful Waves
Snapshots: The Wonders of Monterey Bay by Celeste Davidson Mannis #15
Mannis, Celeste D. (2006). Snapshots: The Wonders of Monterey Bay. New York: Penguin Group.
Author/Illustrator: Celeste Mannis
Grades: K - 4
Curriculum Links: Science
Author Credibility: Mannis is the award winning author of several children’s books. On her website, she says that it is her goal to explore aspects of our world - its people, cultures, history, and natural wonders - in a way that fuels their amazing intelligence and curiosity. She visited Monterey Bay as a child many times. In fact, Monterey Bay actually inspired her to become a writer and later on a photographer. In the book, she states that an ecologist and curator assisted with the identification of the plants and animals in the photographs.
Awards:
2007 Southern California Children’s Literature Council, Outstanding Achievement in Nonfiction; 2006 Children’s Choice Award; 2007 Cornerstones of Science Award Nominee; 2006 Southern California Booksellers Association Award, Best Children`s Book
Summary:
This is a specialized book that introduces the many wonders of the Monterey Bay. It has a simple, narrative tone that draws the reader in from beginning to end. The book contains beautiful, full-color (2 page spread) photographs of Monterey Bay and its diverse inhabitants. Each two page spread has a short phrase that describes the photographs in an intriguing way. There is also a sidebar and bottom bar that contains facts and small photographs of Monterey Bay. There are many interesting facts about Monterey Bay’s marine life, tidepools, beaches, and its ocean floor.
Standards: Life Science
Illustrations: Full-color photographs over a two page spread that capture the life and beauty of Monterey Bay. The sidebar and bottom bar also contain close-up photographs of the marine animals and plants that are a part of it.
Access Features: Author’s note, key that notes what each photograph contains, websites on the marine animals discussed in book
Classroom Use: This book could be used during a study of marine animals and their inhabitants right here in the United States. It could also be used to discuss habitats and ecosystems.
Response: I really enjoyed reading this book! I learned so much about Monterey Bay and its unique wonders! The photographs in this book were really interesting.
Author/Illustrator: Celeste Mannis
Grades: K - 4
Curriculum Links: Science
Author Credibility: Mannis is the award winning author of several children’s books. On her website, she says that it is her goal to explore aspects of our world - its people, cultures, history, and natural wonders - in a way that fuels their amazing intelligence and curiosity. She visited Monterey Bay as a child many times. In fact, Monterey Bay actually inspired her to become a writer and later on a photographer. In the book, she states that an ecologist and curator assisted with the identification of the plants and animals in the photographs.
Awards:
2007 Southern California Children’s Literature Council, Outstanding Achievement in Nonfiction; 2006 Children’s Choice Award; 2007 Cornerstones of Science Award Nominee; 2006 Southern California Booksellers Association Award, Best Children`s Book
Summary:
This is a specialized book that introduces the many wonders of the Monterey Bay. It has a simple, narrative tone that draws the reader in from beginning to end. The book contains beautiful, full-color (2 page spread) photographs of Monterey Bay and its diverse inhabitants. Each two page spread has a short phrase that describes the photographs in an intriguing way. There is also a sidebar and bottom bar that contains facts and small photographs of Monterey Bay. There are many interesting facts about Monterey Bay’s marine life, tidepools, beaches, and its ocean floor.
Standards: Life Science
Illustrations: Full-color photographs over a two page spread that capture the life and beauty of Monterey Bay. The sidebar and bottom bar also contain close-up photographs of the marine animals and plants that are a part of it.
Access Features: Author’s note, key that notes what each photograph contains, websites on the marine animals discussed in book
Classroom Use: This book could be used during a study of marine animals and their inhabitants right here in the United States. It could also be used to discuss habitats and ecosystems.
Response: I really enjoyed reading this book! I learned so much about Monterey Bay and its unique wonders! The photographs in this book were really interesting.
They Called Her Molly Pitcher by Anne Rockwell #14
Rockwell, Anne. (2002). They Called Her Molly Pitcher. New York: Random House
Illustrator: Cynthia von Buhler
Grades: 2-5
Curriculum Links: Social Studies
Author Credibility: When Anne Rockwell was young, she already had in mind that she wanted to draw and write. She said in an interview that listening to kids and understanding what they like has been one of the keys to her success. In the author’s note, she talks about how she loved the story of Molly Pitcher as a child. There had been some question about who Molly Pitcher really was. She found information about her from the United States Artillery Association in Fort Sill, Oklahoma. Her actual name was Mary Hays McCauly. There were no other sources for the text in the book.
Awards: none
Summary:
This is a picture book biography of Molly Hays and her contribution during the American Revolution. She followed her husband into battle carrying a pitcher of cold water to soldiers as they grew hot and tired. That is how she received the nickname, Molly Pitcher. During the Battle of Monmouth, her husband was injured and she took over firing his cannon with much bravery. After seeing her dedication, George Washington decided she earned the rank of sergeant in the Continental Army. This story is exciting and presents history in engaging language.
Standards: People, Places, and Environments
Illustrations: Buhler used oil paints on stretched linen canvas. The paintings are burnished with sepia tones to give the appearance of age. There is a two page spread of a battle scene that shows the wounded and dying during a battle.
Access Features: author’s note, illustration of a map of the Battle of Monmouth, timeline, first and last page of book has words written from the Constitution
Tone: The author uses language that is exciting and engaging. She even provides humor in parts of the story.
Book Design: Hardback cover with an illustration of Molly Pitcher looking hard at the British firing a cannon with the confidence of a hundred soldiers, while her hair and apron blows in the wind.
Classroom Use: I would use this book to discuss contributions of women in history. Molly Pitcher should definitely be discussed while talking about the American Revolution, because she was such a hero.
Response: What an outstanding book! I really enjoyed reading it and had some laughs along the way. I wonder what her husband thought her following him to battle and her receiving the honor of sergeant in the Continental Army.
Other Books by the Author:
Only Passing Through: The Story of Sojourner Truth
Our Earth
Our Stars
Illustrator: Cynthia von Buhler
Grades: 2-5
Curriculum Links: Social Studies
Author Credibility: When Anne Rockwell was young, she already had in mind that she wanted to draw and write. She said in an interview that listening to kids and understanding what they like has been one of the keys to her success. In the author’s note, she talks about how she loved the story of Molly Pitcher as a child. There had been some question about who Molly Pitcher really was. She found information about her from the United States Artillery Association in Fort Sill, Oklahoma. Her actual name was Mary Hays McCauly. There were no other sources for the text in the book.
Awards: none
Summary:
This is a picture book biography of Molly Hays and her contribution during the American Revolution. She followed her husband into battle carrying a pitcher of cold water to soldiers as they grew hot and tired. That is how she received the nickname, Molly Pitcher. During the Battle of Monmouth, her husband was injured and she took over firing his cannon with much bravery. After seeing her dedication, George Washington decided she earned the rank of sergeant in the Continental Army. This story is exciting and presents history in engaging language.
Standards: People, Places, and Environments
Illustrations: Buhler used oil paints on stretched linen canvas. The paintings are burnished with sepia tones to give the appearance of age. There is a two page spread of a battle scene that shows the wounded and dying during a battle.
Access Features: author’s note, illustration of a map of the Battle of Monmouth, timeline, first and last page of book has words written from the Constitution
Tone: The author uses language that is exciting and engaging. She even provides humor in parts of the story.
Book Design: Hardback cover with an illustration of Molly Pitcher looking hard at the British firing a cannon with the confidence of a hundred soldiers, while her hair and apron blows in the wind.
Classroom Use: I would use this book to discuss contributions of women in history. Molly Pitcher should definitely be discussed while talking about the American Revolution, because she was such a hero.
Response: What an outstanding book! I really enjoyed reading it and had some laughs along the way. I wonder what her husband thought her following him to battle and her receiving the honor of sergeant in the Continental Army.
Other Books by the Author:
Only Passing Through: The Story of Sojourner Truth
Our Earth
Our Stars
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Sky Pioneer by Corinne Szabo #13
Szabo, Corinne. (1997). Sky Pioneer: A Photobiography of Amelia Earhart. New York: Scholastic Inc.
Grades: 4-8
Curriculum Link: Social Studies
Author Credibility: Corinne Szabo is a graphic designer and photo researcher. She became interested in Amelia Earhart while gathering photos of her. She discusses in the book that after learning about Earhart, she wanted to share her story with young people.
Awards: none found
Summary:
This book is a photobiography of Amelia Earhart`s life. She became interested in airplanes while working as a nurse’s aide during World War I. She would watch the soldiers train in the fields around Toronto, Canada. She took flying lessons and eventually earned her pilot’s license in 1923. She set many records as a pilot. In this book, the author sheds light on her dedication, skill, courage, and grace. Amelia Earhart overcame many obstacles to become a pilot and do what she loved. She had a strong determination, and she was a great role model for women during this time and even today.
Standards: People, Places, and Environments
Illustrations: Black and white photographs of Amelia Earhart, primary source documents
Access Features: Foreword by Linda Finch, timeline, index, a map that outlined her unfinished trip around the world, sidebar with quotes from Amelia Earhart
Writing Style: This book was organized chronologically beginning in 1897 – 1937. The structure, interesting language, and important facts work together to make this a fascinating read.
Classroom Use: I would use this book in my classroom to talk about how women have contributed greatly to society. This book could be used to discuss how Amelia Earhart was a role model to women during this time, and people saw her as an important figure that overcame many obstacles to accomplish her goals.
Response: I loved this book! I love to read books that discuss how women have been successful in the face of adversity and have had to overcome obstacles to reach their goals. I really thought this book shed light on Amelia Earhart as a person and discussed the wonderful qualities she had that pushed her to dream big. So many books about her just simply focus on disappearance. It was great to read something new about Amelia Earhart.
Related Text:
Women Aloft by Valerie Modman
The Sound of Wings by Mary Lovell
Grades: 4-8
Curriculum Link: Social Studies
Author Credibility: Corinne Szabo is a graphic designer and photo researcher. She became interested in Amelia Earhart while gathering photos of her. She discusses in the book that after learning about Earhart, she wanted to share her story with young people.
Awards: none found
Summary:
This book is a photobiography of Amelia Earhart`s life. She became interested in airplanes while working as a nurse’s aide during World War I. She would watch the soldiers train in the fields around Toronto, Canada. She took flying lessons and eventually earned her pilot’s license in 1923. She set many records as a pilot. In this book, the author sheds light on her dedication, skill, courage, and grace. Amelia Earhart overcame many obstacles to become a pilot and do what she loved. She had a strong determination, and she was a great role model for women during this time and even today.
Standards: People, Places, and Environments
Illustrations: Black and white photographs of Amelia Earhart, primary source documents
Access Features: Foreword by Linda Finch, timeline, index, a map that outlined her unfinished trip around the world, sidebar with quotes from Amelia Earhart
Writing Style: This book was organized chronologically beginning in 1897 – 1937. The structure, interesting language, and important facts work together to make this a fascinating read.
Classroom Use: I would use this book in my classroom to talk about how women have contributed greatly to society. This book could be used to discuss how Amelia Earhart was a role model to women during this time, and people saw her as an important figure that overcame many obstacles to accomplish her goals.
Response: I loved this book! I love to read books that discuss how women have been successful in the face of adversity and have had to overcome obstacles to reach their goals. I really thought this book shed light on Amelia Earhart as a person and discussed the wonderful qualities she had that pushed her to dream big. So many books about her just simply focus on disappearance. It was great to read something new about Amelia Earhart.
Related Text:
Women Aloft by Valerie Modman
The Sound of Wings by Mary Lovell
Abe Lincoln: The Boy Who Loved Books by Kay Winters #12
Winters, Kay. (2003). Abe Lincoln: The Boy Who Loved Books. New York: Simon and Schuster
Illustrator: Nancy Carpenter
Grades: K-2
Curriculum Links: Social Studies
Author Credibility: Winters includes a bibliography of where she got information about Abraham Lincoln’s life. She was very interested in Lincoln’s life, because he faced so many obstacles yet still became our Sixteenth President. She liked how Lincoln was so in love with books and reading.
Summary: This is a simple, easy to read biography of Abraham Lincoln’s life. The author used simple language, which would make it a great read for young children. It goes through his humble beginnings in Kentucky to his move to Illinois where he became involved in politics. The story also focuses on his love for reading and how books played an important role in his life.
Standards: People, Places, and Environment
Illustrations: The beautiful illustrations by Nancy Carpenter are done in oil paint on canvas. The simple text appears on the illustrations, but is easy to read because of the contrast.
Access Features: Author’s note, bibliography
Classroom Use: This book would be a great read aloud to young children. It will also be a wonderful read for children who are interested in Abraham Lincoln and his life. It could be read aloud during a unit or study of the presidents of the United States. Also, it would be great book to share with your class, and you could talk about how Lincoln loved to read.
Response: This was a simple, but wonderfully done book about Lincoln’s life. I love that it focuses so much on his love for reading. Children would definitely enjoy reading this book and would absolutely love to look at the illustrations!
Related Texts:
Meet Abraham Lincoln by Patricia A. Pingry
Young Abe Lincoln: The Frontier Days: 1809-1837 by Cheryl Harness
Abe Lincoln Goes to Washington: 1837-1865 by Kay Weisman
Illustrator: Nancy Carpenter
Grades: K-2
Curriculum Links: Social Studies
Author Credibility: Winters includes a bibliography of where she got information about Abraham Lincoln’s life. She was very interested in Lincoln’s life, because he faced so many obstacles yet still became our Sixteenth President. She liked how Lincoln was so in love with books and reading.
Summary: This is a simple, easy to read biography of Abraham Lincoln’s life. The author used simple language, which would make it a great read for young children. It goes through his humble beginnings in Kentucky to his move to Illinois where he became involved in politics. The story also focuses on his love for reading and how books played an important role in his life.
Standards: People, Places, and Environment
Illustrations: The beautiful illustrations by Nancy Carpenter are done in oil paint on canvas. The simple text appears on the illustrations, but is easy to read because of the contrast.
Access Features: Author’s note, bibliography
Classroom Use: This book would be a great read aloud to young children. It will also be a wonderful read for children who are interested in Abraham Lincoln and his life. It could be read aloud during a unit or study of the presidents of the United States. Also, it would be great book to share with your class, and you could talk about how Lincoln loved to read.
Response: This was a simple, but wonderfully done book about Lincoln’s life. I love that it focuses so much on his love for reading. Children would definitely enjoy reading this book and would absolutely love to look at the illustrations!
Related Texts:
Meet Abraham Lincoln by Patricia A. Pingry
Young Abe Lincoln: The Frontier Days: 1809-1837 by Cheryl Harness
Abe Lincoln Goes to Washington: 1837-1865 by Kay Weisman
The Man Who Walked Between the Towers by Mordicai Gerstein #11
Gerstein, Mordicai (2003). The Man Who Walked Between the Towers. Brookfield: Roaring Book Press
Grades: 4-8
Curriculum Links: Social Studies
Author Credibility: Mordicai Gerstein is an author and illustrator. He acknowledges in the book that his sources were articles from The New Yorker, The New York Post, The Daily News, and To Reach the Clouds (a book written by Petit).
Awards: 2004 Caldecott Award; 2004 Boston-Glove Hornbook Award
Summary: This book is about a Philippe Petit, a street performer, who walked across a wire suspended between the Twin Towers in New York City. Philippe had performed in Paris, but one day while performing in the park he got the idea to walk between the towers.
Standards: People, Places, and Environment
Illustrations: Gerstein, the author of this book, also did the illustrations. He used ink and oil to complete these illustrations. The author used fold out pages to help the reader have a sense of just how high the Twin Towers were. The illustrations were really neat to look at and very important in this book.
Access Features: Acknowledgment and fold out illustrations
Classroom Use: I would use this book to discuss the events of September 11th. I think especially for younger children, it would help them see how tall the Twin Towers stood and how a special person used them for a famous walk.
Response: I really liked this book! I think it shed light on a happier aspect than we are used to hearing about when the Twin Towers are discussed. The fold out illustrations were so neat to look at. Children would definitely enjoy reading this book!
Grades: 4-8
Curriculum Links: Social Studies
Author Credibility: Mordicai Gerstein is an author and illustrator. He acknowledges in the book that his sources were articles from The New Yorker, The New York Post, The Daily News, and To Reach the Clouds (a book written by Petit).
Awards: 2004 Caldecott Award; 2004 Boston-Glove Hornbook Award
Summary: This book is about a Philippe Petit, a street performer, who walked across a wire suspended between the Twin Towers in New York City. Philippe had performed in Paris, but one day while performing in the park he got the idea to walk between the towers.
Standards: People, Places, and Environment
Illustrations: Gerstein, the author of this book, also did the illustrations. He used ink and oil to complete these illustrations. The author used fold out pages to help the reader have a sense of just how high the Twin Towers were. The illustrations were really neat to look at and very important in this book.
Access Features: Acknowledgment and fold out illustrations
Classroom Use: I would use this book to discuss the events of September 11th. I think especially for younger children, it would help them see how tall the Twin Towers stood and how a special person used them for a famous walk.
Response: I really liked this book! I think it shed light on a happier aspect than we are used to hearing about when the Twin Towers are discussed. The fold out illustrations were so neat to look at. Children would definitely enjoy reading this book!
In Defense of Liberty: The Story of America`s Bill of Rights by Russell Freedman (3bks) #8, #9, #10
Freedman, Russell. (2003). In Defense of Liberty: The Story of America’s Bill of Rights. New York: Holiday House.
This book is 173 pages.
Grades: 5th and up
Curriculum Links: Social Studies
Author Credibility: Russell Freedman has written over three dozen nonfiction books. For this book, he researched information about the history of the Bill of Rights and how things have changed since the beginning.
Awards: 2004 Orbis Pictus Honor Book
Summary: This book discusses in much detail how the Bill of Rights was first formed. Each chapter of the book discusses each of the amendments and how they came to be. He also includes major Supreme Court cases that have challenged the liberties outlined in the Constitution. Throughout the book, he challenges the reader to think about where we would be now if we did not have the Bill of Rights.
Standards: Individuals, Groups, and Institutions; Power, Authority, and Governance; Civic Ideals and Practices
Illustrations: Black and white photographs from a variety of sources that document the information in the text and an archival print of the Bill of Rights in the back of the book.
Access Features: Table of contents, a page devoted to engaging questions about the Constitution, a page that list the Bill of Rights, index of Supreme Court Cases, and a bibliography
Classroom Use: This book could be used as students were learning about the history of the Constitution the Bill of Rights. It could also be used to discuss the landmark Supreme Court Cases that have played a major role in the United States.
Response: I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It was a long book, but has a wealth of information about how the Constitution came to be and who the major players were in its development. I liked how Freedman devoted a chapter to each of the amendments. I also learned much about the cases that have been challenged in the Supreme Court and the decisions that were ultimately made. I really liked how Freedman provided up-to-date information about conflicts that are going on now.
Related Texts:
Voice that Challenged a Nation: Marian Anderson and the Struggle for Equal Rights by Russell Freedman
Give Me Liberty! The Story of the Declaration of Independence by Russell Freedman
This book is 173 pages.
Grades: 5th and up
Curriculum Links: Social Studies
Author Credibility: Russell Freedman has written over three dozen nonfiction books. For this book, he researched information about the history of the Bill of Rights and how things have changed since the beginning.
Awards: 2004 Orbis Pictus Honor Book
Summary: This book discusses in much detail how the Bill of Rights was first formed. Each chapter of the book discusses each of the amendments and how they came to be. He also includes major Supreme Court cases that have challenged the liberties outlined in the Constitution. Throughout the book, he challenges the reader to think about where we would be now if we did not have the Bill of Rights.
Standards: Individuals, Groups, and Institutions; Power, Authority, and Governance; Civic Ideals and Practices
Illustrations: Black and white photographs from a variety of sources that document the information in the text and an archival print of the Bill of Rights in the back of the book.
Access Features: Table of contents, a page devoted to engaging questions about the Constitution, a page that list the Bill of Rights, index of Supreme Court Cases, and a bibliography
Classroom Use: This book could be used as students were learning about the history of the Constitution the Bill of Rights. It could also be used to discuss the landmark Supreme Court Cases that have played a major role in the United States.
Response: I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It was a long book, but has a wealth of information about how the Constitution came to be and who the major players were in its development. I liked how Freedman devoted a chapter to each of the amendments. I also learned much about the cases that have been challenged in the Supreme Court and the decisions that were ultimately made. I really liked how Freedman provided up-to-date information about conflicts that are going on now.
Related Texts:
Voice that Challenged a Nation: Marian Anderson and the Struggle for Equal Rights by Russell Freedman
Give Me Liberty! The Story of the Declaration of Independence by Russell Freedman
Freedom Walkers by Russell Freedman (2bks) #6, #7
Freedman, Russell (2006). Freedom Walkers. New York: Holiday House
This book is 108 pages.
Grades: 4-8
Curriculum Links: Social Studies
Author Credibility: Russell Freedman has written over three dozen nonfiction books. He researches topics and people that he is interested in and wants to learn more about. For this book, he researched information about the Civil Rights Movement and ended up learning about people he had never even heard of. He wanted to include those people in this book.
Awards: 2007 Orbis Pictus Honor Book; 2007 Jane Addams Children’s Book Award
Summary:
This book is about the obstacles that African Americans in Montgomery, Alabama faced in order to have the freedoms and rights they deserved. Rosa Park’s refusal to give up her seat on a bus paved the way to the Montgomery Bus Boycott. African Americans walked, carpooled, and shared rides during this time to get around the city. This boycott was led by Martin Luther King who encouraged peaceful protests rather than the use of violence. The events discussed in this book lead to the Supreme Court ruling that Alabama’s bus segregation laws were unconstitutional.
Standards: Time, Continuity, and Change; Individuals, Groups, and Institutions; Civic Ideals and Practices
Illustrations: The illustrations are black and white photographs from a variety of sources that document the events and important people in the book.
Access Features: Table of contents, map of Montgomery Alabama, chapter notes, bibliography
Classroom Use: This book could be used during a study of the Civil Rights Movement and during Black History Month in February.
Response: I really enjoyed reading this book, because I learned a lot about the challenges African Americans faced during this time. I also learned about people that contributed a lot to the Civil Rights Movement that I had never heard of. I liked the way this book was written, because it was organized chronologically.
Related Texts:
If a Bus Could Talk: The Story of Rosa Parks by Faith Ringgold
Rosa by Nikki Giovanni
In Defense of Liberty by Russell Freedman
Through My Eyes by Ruby Bridges
Monday, July 16, 2007
The Man Who Went to the Far Side of the Moon: The Story of Apollo 11 Astronaut Michael Collins by Bea Uusma Schyffert #5
Schyffert, B. (1999). The Man Who Went to the Far Side of the Moon: The Story of Apollo 11 Astronaut Michael Collins. San Francisco: Chronicle Books.
Grade Level
Third – seventh grade
Curriculum Link
Science
Author Credibility
Schyffert has illustrated more than ten books, but this one is the first she has illustrated and written.
Awards
2004 Boston Globe-Horn Nonfiction Honor Book
2004 Batchelder Honor Book
2004 ALA Notable Books for Children (Middle Readers)
Summary
This book is about a man I had never heard of named Michael Collins who played a kind of behind the scenes role during the Apollo 11 mission. While Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin walked on the moon, Michael Collins was in charge of the command module. He flew 14 times around the moon, and while on the dark side of the moon had no communication with anyone. This was a fascinating read with interesting facts, photos, and notes from Michael Collins himself.
National/State Standards
Earth and Space Science
Illustrations/Graphics
The illustrations used in this book are photographs taken from Earth and from space, diagrams of the Columbia spacecraft/rocket/lunar module, and simple drawings with information from the Apollo 11 mission.
Access Features
Important access features in this book include personal notes written by Michael Collins during the mission, facts about each of the three astronauts, checklists, and interesting information about what its was like being in space.
Use in my Classroom
I would use this book during a unit on space to discuss people who have contributed to the wealth of knowledge we now have about space.
My Response
This book is so interesting! I was really impressed with how this book was written with such fascinating detail and interesting information about space and the astronauts of the Apollo 11 mission. I had never heard of Michael Collins, however I had heard about Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin and their accomplishments. It was really interesting to read about someone that I didn`t know a thing about. This book was an accumulation of personal notes and interesting information the Apollo 11 mission from a different perspective, one from Michael Collins.
Related Texts
Astronauts: Life Exploring Outer Space by Chris Hayhurst
Flying to the Moon by Michael Collins
The Moon by Seymour Simon
Moon Landing: The Race for the Moon by Carole Stott
The Story of Apollo 11 by R. Conrad Stein
Grade Level
Third – seventh grade
Curriculum Link
Science
Author Credibility
Schyffert has illustrated more than ten books, but this one is the first she has illustrated and written.
Awards
2004 Boston Globe-Horn Nonfiction Honor Book
2004 Batchelder Honor Book
2004 ALA Notable Books for Children (Middle Readers)
Summary
This book is about a man I had never heard of named Michael Collins who played a kind of behind the scenes role during the Apollo 11 mission. While Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin walked on the moon, Michael Collins was in charge of the command module. He flew 14 times around the moon, and while on the dark side of the moon had no communication with anyone. This was a fascinating read with interesting facts, photos, and notes from Michael Collins himself.
National/State Standards
Earth and Space Science
Illustrations/Graphics
The illustrations used in this book are photographs taken from Earth and from space, diagrams of the Columbia spacecraft/rocket/lunar module, and simple drawings with information from the Apollo 11 mission.
Access Features
Important access features in this book include personal notes written by Michael Collins during the mission, facts about each of the three astronauts, checklists, and interesting information about what its was like being in space.
Use in my Classroom
I would use this book during a unit on space to discuss people who have contributed to the wealth of knowledge we now have about space.
My Response
This book is so interesting! I was really impressed with how this book was written with such fascinating detail and interesting information about space and the astronauts of the Apollo 11 mission. I had never heard of Michael Collins, however I had heard about Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin and their accomplishments. It was really interesting to read about someone that I didn`t know a thing about. This book was an accumulation of personal notes and interesting information the Apollo 11 mission from a different perspective, one from Michael Collins.
Related Texts
Astronauts: Life Exploring Outer Space by Chris Hayhurst
Flying to the Moon by Michael Collins
The Moon by Seymour Simon
Moon Landing: The Race for the Moon by Carole Stott
The Story of Apollo 11 by R. Conrad Stein
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Rosie the Riveter by Penny Colman (2bks) #3, #4
Coleman, P. (1995). Rosie the Riveter. New York: Crown Publishers.
This book is 103 pages.
Grade Level
This book would be appropriate for grades 6 – 9.
Curriculum Links
This book could be used in social studies instruction.
Author Credibility
Penny Colman is the author of many nonfiction books where she explores women and their contributions at different times in history. This book contains quotes from women workers and information from magazine and newspaper articles during the time of World War II.
Awards
1996 Blue Ribbon Award
1996 Junior Library Guild selection
1996 Orbis Pictus Honor Book citation
1996 National Council of Teachers of English
1996 Teachers Choice and Young Adult Choice
1996 International Reading Association
Summary
Between 1943 and the beginning of 1945, the United States government and industry encouraged all women to take jobs on the home front while the men were on the battlefront during World War II. This book discusses the changes that occurred during a time where America had to pull together and how women took jobs that had never been offered to them before. They became very skilled in laborious jobs that only men had worked. This book shows how women took charge and showed what they could do in a male dominated society.
National/State Standards
The social studies strands addressed by this book include:
Time, Continuity, and Change
Individuals, Groups, and Institutions
Production, Distribution, and Consumption
Illustrations and Graphics
The book is illustrated with black and white photographs that validate the truth of the text. The photographs are very powerful in their portrayal of how women were very important and much needed as America was preparing for war.
Access Features
Important access features in this book include a table of contents, bibliography, timeline and index. Other features that add to the wealth of knowledge about this subject is a list of women’s wartime jobs and facts/figures about women in the workforce.
Use in My Classroom
I would use this book during my study of World War II to show how America had to change to prepare for war. It would be very useful to discuss how the role of women was empowered and how their contributions were tremendous during a time of need.
My Response
I really enjoyed this book! I like to read books about how women have contributed or changed society in a very important way. The photographs in this book captured the women in action. The advertisements from the U.S. government showed how much they depended on women to step up to the plate. I thought this book was wonderful!
Related Text
Spies!: Women in the Civil War by Penny Colman
Women in Society: United States of America by Penny Colman
Strike!: The Bitter Struggle of American Workers from Colonial Times to the Present by Penny Colman
Adventuring Women: Eight True Stories about Women Who Made a Difference by Penny Colman
This book is 103 pages.
Grade Level
This book would be appropriate for grades 6 – 9.
Curriculum Links
This book could be used in social studies instruction.
Author Credibility
Penny Colman is the author of many nonfiction books where she explores women and their contributions at different times in history. This book contains quotes from women workers and information from magazine and newspaper articles during the time of World War II.
Awards
1996 Blue Ribbon Award
1996 Junior Library Guild selection
1996 Orbis Pictus Honor Book citation
1996 National Council of Teachers of English
1996 Teachers Choice and Young Adult Choice
1996 International Reading Association
Summary
Between 1943 and the beginning of 1945, the United States government and industry encouraged all women to take jobs on the home front while the men were on the battlefront during World War II. This book discusses the changes that occurred during a time where America had to pull together and how women took jobs that had never been offered to them before. They became very skilled in laborious jobs that only men had worked. This book shows how women took charge and showed what they could do in a male dominated society.
National/State Standards
The social studies strands addressed by this book include:
Time, Continuity, and Change
Individuals, Groups, and Institutions
Production, Distribution, and Consumption
Illustrations and Graphics
The book is illustrated with black and white photographs that validate the truth of the text. The photographs are very powerful in their portrayal of how women were very important and much needed as America was preparing for war.
Access Features
Important access features in this book include a table of contents, bibliography, timeline and index. Other features that add to the wealth of knowledge about this subject is a list of women’s wartime jobs and facts/figures about women in the workforce.
Use in My Classroom
I would use this book during my study of World War II to show how America had to change to prepare for war. It would be very useful to discuss how the role of women was empowered and how their contributions were tremendous during a time of need.
My Response
I really enjoyed this book! I like to read books about how women have contributed or changed society in a very important way. The photographs in this book captured the women in action. The advertisements from the U.S. government showed how much they depended on women to step up to the plate. I thought this book was wonderful!
Related Text
Spies!: Women in the Civil War by Penny Colman
Women in Society: United States of America by Penny Colman
Strike!: The Bitter Struggle of American Workers from Colonial Times to the Present by Penny Colman
Adventuring Women: Eight True Stories about Women Who Made a Difference by Penny Colman
Brooklyn Bridge by Lynn Curlee #2
Curlee, L. (2001). Brooklyn Bridge. New York: Simon & Schuster.
Grade Level
This book would be appropriate for grades 3 – 6.
Curriculum Link
I would use this book in social studies instruction.
Author Credibility
Lynn Curlee has written several children’s books about historical monuments and architectural structures in the United States. No information about his research was listed in the book.
Awards
Robert F. Sibert Honor Book
Summary
This book has a lot of indepth information about the Brooklyn Bridge describing the planning, construction, and history of the bridge. It discusses the hardships that John Roebling, the mastermind behind the bridge, and his workers face throughout the construction of the bridge. The illustrations and diagrams in the book really supplement the story well. This story shows how the construction of the “World’s Greatest Bridge” was a major achievement of the United States.
National/State Standards
Social Studies Standards – Science, Technology, and Society
Illustrations/Graphics
The illustrations are acrylic paintings that were photographed and included in the book. The illustrations support the story being told and show the reader what it might have been like to have been a part of the crew building the bridge.
Access Features
Important access features in this book include labeled diagrams, a map of the surrounding area near the Brooklyn Bridge, a page dedicated to the specifications of the parts of the bridge, and a timeline beginning in 1869 and ending in 1883 when the bridge was completed.
Use in My Classroom
I would use this book during a study of the great monuments and architectural icons of the United States. We would discuss their significance in the history of the United States.
My Response
I really enjoyed reading this book. I was surprised at what I learned from the reading. I never knew the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge was such an important accomplishment in the United States.
Related Texts
Wonders of the World by Elizabeth Mann
Capital by Lynn Curlee
A Picture History of the Brooklyn Bridge by Mary J. Shapiro
The Great Bridge: The Epic Story of the Building of the Brooklyn Bridge by David McCullough
Grade Level
This book would be appropriate for grades 3 – 6.
Curriculum Link
I would use this book in social studies instruction.
Author Credibility
Lynn Curlee has written several children’s books about historical monuments and architectural structures in the United States. No information about his research was listed in the book.
Awards
Robert F. Sibert Honor Book
Summary
This book has a lot of indepth information about the Brooklyn Bridge describing the planning, construction, and history of the bridge. It discusses the hardships that John Roebling, the mastermind behind the bridge, and his workers face throughout the construction of the bridge. The illustrations and diagrams in the book really supplement the story well. This story shows how the construction of the “World’s Greatest Bridge” was a major achievement of the United States.
National/State Standards
Social Studies Standards – Science, Technology, and Society
Illustrations/Graphics
The illustrations are acrylic paintings that were photographed and included in the book. The illustrations support the story being told and show the reader what it might have been like to have been a part of the crew building the bridge.
Access Features
Important access features in this book include labeled diagrams, a map of the surrounding area near the Brooklyn Bridge, a page dedicated to the specifications of the parts of the bridge, and a timeline beginning in 1869 and ending in 1883 when the bridge was completed.
Use in My Classroom
I would use this book during a study of the great monuments and architectural icons of the United States. We would discuss their significance in the history of the United States.
My Response
I really enjoyed reading this book. I was surprised at what I learned from the reading. I never knew the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge was such an important accomplishment in the United States.
Related Texts
Wonders of the World by Elizabeth Mann
Capital by Lynn Curlee
A Picture History of the Brooklyn Bridge by Mary J. Shapiro
The Great Bridge: The Epic Story of the Building of the Brooklyn Bridge by David McCullough
Through My Eyes by Ruby Bridges #1
Bridges, R. (1999). Through My Eyes. New York: Scholastic Press.
Grade Level
This book would be appropriate for second grade through eighth grade. Reading aloud would be more appropriate for the younger grades.
Curriculum Link
I would use this book in social studies instruction.
Author Credibility
Through My Eyes is an autobiography of Ruby Bridges` experiences during her first grade year as the only African American in her school. She experienced integration first-hand in the New Orleans school she attended in 1960.
Awards
2000 Jane Addams Children’s Book Award; 2000 Carter G. Woodson Book Award
Summary
At just six years old, Ruby Bridges was the only African American student to integrate the William Frantz Public School in 1960. This book recalls her vivid memories of the obstacles she faced during the Civil Rights Movement.
National/State Standards
Individuals, Groups, and Institutions and Civic Ideals and Practices are the social studies strands addressed by this book.
Illustrations/Graphics
The illustrations used in this book are black and white photographs from a variety of sources. These illustrations show Ruby’s first-hand experience as she integrated William Frantz Public School at the age of six.
Access Features
Access features in the book include a Dear Reader written by Harry Belafonte, a bar on many pages that gives excerpts from interviews and articles, a heading at the top of each two page spread, a timeline of major events during the Civil Rights Movement, and a section devoted to informing the reader about what Ruby is doing now as an adult.
Use in my Classroom
I would use this book to study Black History month in February and to study the Civil Rights Movement.
My Response
I really enjoyed reading this book! This book really captured what it was like as a young African American child being right there at the center of integration. It was an emotional read, but it shed light on how life was back then. It was very inspirational!!
Related Texts
If a Bus Could Talk: The Story of Rosa Parks by Faith Ringgold
Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Doreen Rappaport
Grade Level
This book would be appropriate for second grade through eighth grade. Reading aloud would be more appropriate for the younger grades.
Curriculum Link
I would use this book in social studies instruction.
Author Credibility
Through My Eyes is an autobiography of Ruby Bridges` experiences during her first grade year as the only African American in her school. She experienced integration first-hand in the New Orleans school she attended in 1960.
Awards
2000 Jane Addams Children’s Book Award; 2000 Carter G. Woodson Book Award
Summary
At just six years old, Ruby Bridges was the only African American student to integrate the William Frantz Public School in 1960. This book recalls her vivid memories of the obstacles she faced during the Civil Rights Movement.
National/State Standards
Individuals, Groups, and Institutions and Civic Ideals and Practices are the social studies strands addressed by this book.
Illustrations/Graphics
The illustrations used in this book are black and white photographs from a variety of sources. These illustrations show Ruby’s first-hand experience as she integrated William Frantz Public School at the age of six.
Access Features
Access features in the book include a Dear Reader written by Harry Belafonte, a bar on many pages that gives excerpts from interviews and articles, a heading at the top of each two page spread, a timeline of major events during the Civil Rights Movement, and a section devoted to informing the reader about what Ruby is doing now as an adult.
Use in my Classroom
I would use this book to study Black History month in February and to study the Civil Rights Movement.
My Response
I really enjoyed reading this book! This book really captured what it was like as a young African American child being right there at the center of integration. It was an emotional read, but it shed light on how life was back then. It was very inspirational!!
Related Texts
If a Bus Could Talk: The Story of Rosa Parks by Faith Ringgold
Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Doreen Rappaport
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Through My Eyes - Bridges, Ruby
This book was so inspirational and powerful! One thing I loved about this story was how it was told through Ruby`s eyes as a young child. She was going through this event in history, and she really didn`t realize until later on how important it was. On November 14, 1960, as Ruby walked up to the William Frantz Public School, she thought Mardi Gras was going on. She had no idea that all the noise and commotion was really because of the integration of African Americans into the school. She described her first day at the school as "easy", because all she did that day was sit with her mother and wait. The book captured the innocense of this little girl who just wanted to go to school and make friends. It was powerful to read at the end of the story how finally it dawned on her that everything that happened to her was because of the color of her skin.
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