Lehman, Barbara. (2007). Rainstorm. Houghton Mifflin Company: New York.
Title: Rainstorm
Stereotypes: None
Readability: No words, but pictures guide you through to understand the story easily. Illustrations: Creatively illustrated and throughout the pictures were in a sequence format to easily follow.
Accuracy: The setting made the story interesting and it reminded me of the books The Chronicles of Narnia where the children escape to another world through a closet of a big house.
Recommendation: I think this book would be good for all primary grades to use.
Lee, Suzy. (2008). Wave. Chronicle Books: San Francisco, California.
Title: Wave
Stereotypes: None
Readability: This book has beautiful artistic use of simple lines and color that makes the story easily read.
Illustrations: The pictures of this book bring you to the setting of an ocean and provides an enjoyable and humorous experience of a young girl.
Accuracy: Has an accurate setting for a child to experience some waves:)
Recommendation: I feel this book would be great for infants through primary grades and could be great to use in art class.
Wiesner, David. (2006). Flotsam. Houghton Mifflin Company: New York, New York.
Title: Flotsam
Stereotypes: None
Readability: The book can be easily readable and understandable for children in the older primary grades. Some younger children may not understand the concept just from looking at the pictures.
Illustrations: The pictures were colorful and creative, bring the story to life. This book also included sequence pictures that can easily be followed.
Accuracy: The setting was accurate for exploring the beach.
Recommendation: This book would be great to use for all ages and would be interesting to use when introducing history into the classroom.
Briggs, Raymond. (1978). The Snowman. Random House: New York, New York.
Title: The Snowman
Stereotypes: None
Readability: Each page has from 9 to 11 pictures per page to create a easily flowing story; easy to follow but the reader is still able to create story in their mind while reading. I feel through any age would enjoy The Snowman, I would recommend it for Early Childhood and younger elementary grades.
Illustrations: Pictures are simple yet timeless. The soft use of colored pencils is relaxing and just enough going on in scene to keep reader's attention.
Accuracy: The story could have taken place in the readers backyard, that is of course if they live in an area of snow. Readers can relate to the snow fall and building of a snowman as it is shown in the story.
Recommendation: This book is one of my all time favorite books. The easy flowing, simple story accompanied by relaxingly simple illustrations welcome a child into the wintery wonderland where imagination is free.
Franson, Scott E. (2007). Un Brella. Roaring Brook Press: New Milford, Connectiut.
Title:Un Brella
Stereotypes: None
Readability: The beginning of the story offers a lot of questions for the reader as to what is going to happen. Very imaginative story. Would use as a circle time read in Early Childhood and definitely use it in primary grades.
Illustrations: Franson has a graphic design background which gives him the edge on this story. Through cartoonish, the dimensions created and details added, gives this book a highly visual appeal that many readers would enjoy.
Accuracy: The story is for creative thinking, pure imagination. As far as having un brella to provide a sunny summer day in middle of winter, then accurancy is of course no. However, this book offers the reader a chance to see anything is possible through reading.
Recommendation: The story is fun and I believe young readers would enjoy. It was the illustrations that won me over and really take notice of the book.
Wilson, April. (1999). Magpie Magic. Dial Books for Young Readers: New York, New York.
Title:Magpie Magic
Stereotypes: None
Readability: Great book for Early Childhood to use in teaching colors. As the story goes on, each color is brought in as a new element of the story.
Illustrations: Simple grayscale, hand written pictures with excellent use of color to keep reader enaged.
Accuracy: If you draw a bird does it mean it will fly off the page? Of course not but that is the joy of drawing and reading, the what if's. This story offers plenty of free to believe and also offers a few laughs courtesy of the mischievous lead character.
Recommendation: Enjoyable read with freedom to imagine. As a study tool of drawing hands, still book would serve as perfect text.
Reviewer: Carrie Peters Rockhill, Dennis.(2004). Polar Slumber, Sueno Polar. Raven Tree Press:Green Bay, WI. Title:Polar Slumber, Sueno Polar Stereotypes: None. Readability: The fluency from one page to another is great. This book leaves much to the imagination. Accuracy: The environment for polar bears is correct.
Illustrations: Seems to fit the theme "slumber" they seem [[#|dreamy]] and soft. The pictures are bold with soft curves and flowing ideas. Recommendation: Must have for your library! This book is for all ages old an young. Another plus is that it is written in dual language Spanish and English.
Reviewer: Carrie Peters Cristini, E., & Puricelli, L. (1983). In the woods. Picture Book Studio: Saxonville, MA. Title:In The Woods Stereotypes: None Readability: Good story subject. Nice, this is the kind of book children love to make up stories about the woods and animals. Illustrations: The pages literally flow into one another. Close to a seek and find book the butterfly is on each page. Accuracy: Correct for the woods scene, you want more in the end! Setting correct for the animals who live there . Recommendations: Again all ages. Lovely concept of how the book pages, if put together make a long mural. This is displayed at the end of the book. Great book for middle [[#|school]] art project, high scool, or [[#|college]] art.
Reviewer: Carrie Peters
Mogensen, J. (1990). The 46 little men. Greenwillow Books: New York,NY. Title:The 46 Little Men Stereotypes: Possibly depending how it is presented. Readability: Would most likely work with one or two readers at a time. Good reading nook book because children like to look at all the little 46 men. Illustrations: So many to look at and take in very busy. Accuracy: Make believe world anything goes I guess. You jump into a picture and let your imagination run as far as it can go! Recommendations: At first I thought this book would be better represented with 5th grade on up. Then my 5 year old granson spent an hour looking at it. It does have a sense of humor, like a seek and find if you have the time kind of book.
*One concern it does have a terrorist, and a doomsday prophet as 2 of the 46 little men, it is in how you present it to children who can read. Children who cannot read will enjoy the busy art work, children who can read may ask about these two men, be prepared to answer for these two little men.
Reviewer: Marcus Denny Ludy, M. (2005). The Flower Man. Green Pastures Publishing: Windsor, CO.
Title: The Flower Man Stereotypes: No stereotypes evident. Many races or nationalities evident in the story. Readability: Meaning of the story was very evident. Illustrations: Illustrartions were well done. Characters were done well. Accuracy: The accuracy of city depiction was right in the sense that there is alot going on in the city and there is a lot going on in the pictures. The attitude of the people changed over time as the story progressed. Recommendations: This book could be used as a morale story for children. It could be used to show that one person can make a difference for another person.
Reviewer: Marcus Denny Wiesner, D. (2006). Flotsam. Houghton Mifflin: New York, NY.
Title: Flotsam Stereotypes:none Readability: A lot of pictures to follow the meaning of the story. Illustrations: Life-like illustrations. Accuracy: Great depiction of the beach. Fictional depiction of ocean life takes away from accuracy but adds to imagination. Recomendations: great book for stirring the imaginations of students.
Reviewer: Marcus Denny Bang, M. (1980). The Grey Lady and the Strawberry Snatcher. Four Winds Press: New York, NY. Title: The Grey Lady and the Strawberry Snatcher. Stereotypes:None Readability: Easy to follow and figure the plot of the story. Illustrations: Unique. could be hard for a child to distinguish the meanings of the illustrations. Accuracy: Illustrations were very unique so it made the accuracy of the story hard to follow. Recommendations: Did not like the book. Not for children. Easy for an adult or older child maybe. Too hard for children to decipher the meaning of the story.
Reviewer:Janelle Schroeder
Tan, Shaun. (2006). The Arrival. Arthur A. Levine Books: New York, New York.
Title: The Arrival
Stereotypes: None
Readability: No words, but many interesting and creative illustrations that are open for interpretation. Although the pictures seem to flow through the story, they are not so specific that you know exactly where its going, what's going on, or how it will end. I had to page through twice, and I'm still not sure what's going on. Any creative or imaginative child would do well developing their own story to follow the pictures. The illustrations are so interesting that you get lost in the images.
Illustrations: Very detailed, monochromatic, ranging in size from thumbnail to full page/s.
Accuracy: It's not really based on reality, but in regard to the illustrations, they depict a variety of people, various facial features, ages, and ethnicity.
Recommendation: I feel it would be best for students age 9 or older (possibly high school level for creative writing inspiration).
Andreasen, Dan. (2009). The Treasure Bath. Henry Holt and Company, LLC: New York, New York.
Title: The Treasure Bath
Stereotypes: None
Readability: The pictures are very easy to follow to develop the story. It progresses from one situation to another, but the illustrations are open ended enough to allow for creative contributions to the story.
Illustrations: Bold, colorful, cartoon'ish.
Accuracy: Given the right environment, I feel this book has an appropriate/familiar depiction of a child and their mother. Some children would be able to identify with the illustrations and the child mother relationship, while others may not. I think It depends on the area or individual child that this book is used with.
Recommendation: Appropriate for children as young as preschool, but not really good for students older than 6 or 7.
Wiesner, David. (1988). Tree Fall. Lothrop, Lee & Shepard Books: New York, New York.
Title: Tree Fall
Stereotypes: All of the royalty depicted in the illustrations are white.
Readability: The illustrations are beautiful and interesting, leaving room for creativity in story development for the reader and progressing from one situation to another.
Illustrations: Subdued colors, softer images, and besides being beautiful, there is hidden imagery in the illustrations which is always fun, I think.
Accuracy: Although the story is based on fantasy, there are images that would be familiar to a fairly broad demographic (mountains, chess, knights, castles, birds, dragon, books, pigs, cities, a glass, a spoon, leaves, swans, and others).
Recommendation: Appropriate for grades first through sixth.
Reviewer: Leona Dixon
de Paola, Tomie (1981). The Hunter and the Animals. Holiday House: New York Title- The Hunter and the Animals Stereotypes- There is a distinct pattern in the way the hunter is dressed to suggest where he is from I would assume. The hunter is dressed in a clothing and attire that includes boots and a hat with a feather floating out of it. Readability- The author/illustrator did a good job of defining each action by borders within the pages, thus making it easier to read.
Illustrations- Easy to interpret, quite vivid and suggests detail of the story Accuracy- A definite purpose or message can be conveyed by the pictures that the hunter was shaken when the animals took fate into their own hands and took his weapon and belongings and further gave them back for him to decide what action to take Recommendation- With the exception of there being a gun in the illustrations I would recommend the book for use because it has a moral lesson instilled in the purpose.
Reviewer: Leona Dixon
Wildsmith, Brian (1983) The Apple Bird. Oxford University Press: Oxford Toronto Melbourne Title- The Apple Bird Stereotypes- I really didn't recognize any stereotypes. Readability- Very easy to see sequence of events because pages are limited to one picture dictating one action. Accuracy- Although the pictures are scare and limited it enables the reader to understand what is being told in the story. Recommendation- I would highly recommend this book for young students and encourage them to tell it on their own considering how short it is.
Reviewer: Leona Dixon
Jenkins, Steve (1995) Looking Down. Houghton/Mifflin Company: Boston New York Title- Looking Down Stereotypes- No stereotypes present Readability- Illustrations make it easy to follow and interpret story Accuracy- This particular book portrays images from above earth from the moon and satellite view. For this reason I would say the accuracy was sufficient in conveying geographical properties of the world. Recommendation- Excellent book to use with all ages. Craetes awareness of geography from many angles including at a world view as well as neighborhood view.
Reviewer: Jeremy Wescott Title: Schories, Pat (2004) Breakfast for Jack. Front Street, NC Stereotypes: I thought this was a good pick with no to little stereotypes, mom and dad both have a job! Readability: Easy to follow the story Accuracy: This book told a story of a child who for got to feed the dog but later did, I believe the lesson is; Sometimes life is so busy,we forget to take care of the smaller things! Recommendation: I recommend this book
Reviewer: Jeremy Wescott Title: De Groat, Diane (1977) Alligator's Toothache. Crown Pub. NY, NY Stereotypes: It was pretty hard to pin point any stereotypes however, the alligator does seem a little aggressive. Maybe the stereo type is that alligators are mean :) Readability: Easy to follow the story Accuracy: When we eat to many sweets we get a toothaches (pretty accurate)
Recommendation: Did not really care for this read
Reviewer: Jeremy Wescott Title: Graham, Alastair (1991) Full Moon Soup Stereotypes: No Readability: Cool Illustrations, one can easily follow the story Accuracy: The book tells a story of a hotel where bad things can happen during a full moon. Recommendation: Recommend this book to older students (middle school aged) a lot going on
Reviewer: Cameo Self
Lehman, Barbara. (2006). Museum Trip. Houghton Mifflin Company. Boston, Massachusetts.
Title: Museum Trip
Stereotypes: None that I could see
Readability: Very easy to follow story
Illustrations: Colorful, details of the museum were detailed. Maze parts were large enough if a student wanted to follow the maze with their finger.
Accuracy: Museum artifacts looked very close to being accurate.
Recommendation: I would recommend this book because the illustrations are simple yet engaging and the story line is cute.
Reviewer: Cameo Self
Wiesner, David. (1991). Tuesday. Hought Mifflin Company. New York, New York.
Title: Tuesday
Stereotypes: None
Readability:I think this book would be better for older children because the idea of the story is pretty abstract.
Illustrations: Well illustrated, a little dark however. The flying frogs in capes are cute!
Accuracy: Abstract idea: flying frogs and pigs
Recommendation: I would recommend this book for older children who may enjoy the more abstract ideas.
Reviewer: Cameo Self
Wiesner, David. (2006). Flotsam. Clarion Books. New York, New York
Title: Flotsam
Stereotypes: None
Readability: All the different sections on each page made it distracting and seems like it would be harder for younger kids to follow.
Illustrations: Very beautiful illustrations, very detailed.
Accuracy: Ideas are abstract
Recommendation: I would not recommend this book, did not enjoy it because the story served no purpose, or moral.
Reviewer: Lauren Stoehr
Krahn, Fernando. (1981). Arthur's adventure in the abandoned house. E.P. Dutton: New York
Title:Arthur's Adventure in the Abandoned House
Sterotypes: None
Readability: Easy to follow and make predictions about what happens next
Illustrations: All illustrations in black and white, and with a lot of detail
Accuracy: Depicts a story of a little boy who get's caught up in something unexpected while exploring an abandoned house
Recommendation: Not sure whether I would recommend this book to anyone or not. If I did, it would surely be geared towards older kids- It tells of a boy and a man being held hostage at gun-point by some sort of mob/gang.
Reviewer: Lauren Stoehr
Banyai, Istvan. (1995). Zoom. Viking: New York
Title:Zoom
Sterotypes: Not too sure... shows pictures of a native smoking a pipe, sitting in front of a TV, and with a small trailor/camper in a desolate area in the desert. Also, shows island natives with painted bodies, minimal clothing, wearing headresses, necklaces, bracelets, anklets, and living in huts. Shows a mailman as well, whose skin color is similar, but he is dressed in a blue shirt, white pants and carrying a mail bag. I guess it depends on how the story is presented.
Readability: Difficult to make predictions as to what happens next, but each on-coming page "explains" the previous pages.
Illustrations: Brightly colored, vibrant illustrations. All pictures are only on the right-sided pages (which probably is a good thing because with all the vibrant colors, having illustration on both pages might be visually overwhelming). All the left-sided pages are solid black.
Accuracy: Same answer as Sterotypes
Recommendation: I guess I would recommend this book for older children because it may help one to realize that there is always more to the picture than meets the eye and may also help one to see that the world is made up of more/bigger things than one's self... that there is always a bigger picture in life.
Reviewer: Lauren Stoehr
Sara. (1990). Across Town. Orchard Books: New York Title:Across Town Sterotypes: None Readability: Easy to make your one story- could be a story about a person trying to get away from someone/something, someone just going for a walk. I guess you could make it into a a spooky or suspensful story, too. Illustrations: Creative artwork using torn paper. Whole book is only in three colors: black, white, gray. Accuracy: Story tells of a person going across town and coming across a cat, whom he makes friends with. Recommendation: I would recommend this book because of the imagination that is prompted while going through the pages. My 2 year old wasn't very interested, but my five year old liked it. We spent quite a while going over and over this book, making a new storyline each time.
Reviewer: Linda Delgado
Lehman, Barbara. (2004). The Red Book. Houghton Mifflin Co.: Boston, MA.
Title: The Red Book
Stereotypes: None
Readability: I think this is a great story. It may be harder for younger children to see what is going on.
Illustrator: The illustrations are very well done. I like the creativity the artist puts into it.
Accuracy: The setting of this book is right for this story.
Recommendation: I would recommend this book for third grade and up, to read on their own. For younger children it would have to be explained.
Varon, Sara. (2009). Chicken and Cat Clean Up. Scholastic Press: New York, NY.
Title: Chicken and Cat Clean Up
Stereotypes: None
Readability: The readability of this book is very easy. It would be a great book for younger children as well as older.
Illustrations: Illustrations are easy to follow. Children would love this book because it looks like the cartoon Catdog.
Accuracy: The setting is the city where animals live like people so it is not accurate, but would be fun for children. That's what learning needs, to be fun.
Recommendation: I would recommend this book to anyone. It has a very good story about responsibility.
Wiesner, David. (1999). Sector 7. Clarion Books: New York, NY.
Title: Sector 7
Stereotypes: None
Readability: It probably would be a good book for second grade and up. It's an easy book to follow.
Illustrations: The illustrations in this book tell a wonderful story about cloud shapes.
Accuracy: The setting of this story is very accurate, the sky's the limit!
Recommendation: This is a wonderful book for young and old alike. If you've ever looked at the clouds and saw shapes, you'll love this book.
Readability: The book is in 3 different languages so may be hard to read, however a good way to begin teaching spanish, french, or english.
Illustrations: I think the illustrations were too plain.
Accuracy: I think the words are accurate
Recommendation: I would recommend this to ESL teachers and people who are bilingual at home.
Reviewer: Cameo Self
Asimov, Isaac. (1971). ABC's of the Earth. Walker Publishing Company Inc. USA.
Title: ABC's of the Earth
Stereotypes: None
Readability: For upper grades
Illustrations: Plain, no color, could have used better photographs
Accuracy: Information seems to be accurate, may need some updating since it was from 1971
Recommendation: It is an old book, so may not be a good read for today's era. I would recommend it for the geography/science center if it was a newer edition.
Reviewer: Ashley Bierman
Scillian, Devin. (2001). A is for America. Sleeping Bear Press: Chelsea, MI.
Title: A is for America
Stereotypes: None Readability: This book is historically descriptive introducing many unique places and people from the Americas past written through poetry. As children read this book, they are able to easily follow the script by also following the beautiful imagery through detailed illustrations. Illustrations: As each letter describes either a person, place, or thing from America's history, they are featured in colorful and vibrant drawings bringing history to life. Accuracy: The information provided in this book is accurate knowledge from America's history and is perceived as accurate throughout its images. Recommendation: I would recommend using this book for older primary grades and it would be a useful resource for students to learn history and social studies.
Reviewer: Ashley Bierman
Litchfield, J. & Young, C. (2004). First picture ABC. EDC Publishing: Tulsa, OK.
Title: First Picture ABC Stereotypes: None Readability: Each page provides the ABC's at the bottom highlighting what letters or letters are being shown, where young children will be able to easily follow. There are around eight to ten recognizable words on each page along with a picture to understand what each word symbolizes. Illustrations: Many of the images of this book are real-life objects that children will be able to recognize in everyday life. When children are learning their ABC's it is important for them to learn from things they already see and are aware of. Accuracy: This book uses a variety of words and pictures for children to learn the alphabet. Recommendation: I would recommend using this book for early childhood through early primary grades to help them learn and build on learning the alphabet.
Reviewer: Ashley Bierman
James, Helen Foster. (2007). S is for s'mores: a camping alphabet. Sleeping Bear Press: Chelsea, MI.
Title: S is for S'mores: A Camping Alphabet Stereotypes: None Readability: With the use of catchy rhymes representing each letter of the alphabet, early readers will enjoy reading this book about the exploration of camping. Older children will also enjoy this book by reading the section of each page which includes interesting facts and details of a camping trip. Illustrations: As each letter of the alphabet is described in the aspect of camping, beautiful watercolor images accompany the camping experience. The illustrations provide children with their own personal guide for what they will see and find as they explore camping in the wilderness. From listening to the chirping of a small bird to exploring the mountains by foot, the images of this book bring camping to a different level. Accuracy: The use of camping as a guide to learning the alphabet can be a useful tool. Camping is something many children do with their families and friends and by relating the ABC's to the experience of camping, something children know about already, can help them build their skills. Recommendation: I would recommend using this book with both early readers and older children. The book provides a resource for both of these readers to learning more about the alphabet and interesting facts.
Reviewer: Bernadette Tourtillott
Schnur, Steven. (2002). WINTER: An Alphabet Acrostic. Clarion Books: 215 Park Avenue South, New York, New York 10003.
Title: Winter An Alphabet Acrostic Stereotypes: none Readability: The acrostic words are put into a feeling always dealing with the winter months. This book is for at least the third grade, but it can be used to read to younger students when introducing the menaing of acrostic. This is agood read for students who are working on acrostics, maybe this can also be used int the third and fourth grade as an introduction to acrostic writing. It also goes to show the many ways we can use words to describe a wide variety of ways in which words can be used. This book shows creativity with words, not only that but also puts it alphabetically. Illustrations: The illustarations are eye-appealing for any age reader to connecft with the book. This book has the color and textures of winter, captured by the illustrator in hr linoleum-cut illustrations. Accuracy: The use of winter is very creative to bring out some definitely acrostic words. I look at these books nowt only for children but adults also, who can get a lot of ideas for doing different things with their children. Recommendations: Recommendations are: It is a great read for a variety of age groups and also very educational in the teaching of the alphabet along with acrostics. Reviewer: Bernadette Tourtillott
Shaw, Eve. (1997). Grandmother's Alphabet. Pfeifer-Hamilton Publishers.
Title: Grandmother's Alphabet Stereotypes: none Readability: Easy reading and straight to the point all the things Grandma can be from A to Z. The employment Grandma can have are not just jobs for women but anything such as an engineer,legislator and horse trainer. This book also gives children n idea of what thy might like to become when they grow-up. Being a grandmothe myself it gives me the initiative not to give up and keep on striving for that ultimate goal of one day being able to work with children, no matter what obstacles come into play. Illustrations: Grandmother's in all different shapes, colors and ages doing what they want to do in life and at the end of each page saying ....and so can I. Accuracy: It is as accurate as can be because you know these grandmother's are always right. Recommendations: It is a must read to our young, because if they've got a grandmother they know themselves that their Grandma can work wonders and that there is nothing that she can not do. Reviewer: Bernadette Tourtillott
Allsburg. Van, Chris. The Z Was Zapped. A Play In Twenty-Six Acts. Houghton-Mifflin Company Boston.
Title: The Z was Zapped. Stereotypes: none Readability: Powerful one liners. The reader can feel the pictures. Like it is said, "A picture speaks a 1000 words." This is a must read for future educators to have in their own personal library. Illustrations: Intense and comprehendable for the very young. Accuracy: Right--on for teaching the alphabet, to anyone at any age. A good teacher never forgets about the accomodations that might be needed down the line if not today it will be someday, and that teacher always has a bag of tricks within reach.
Reviewer: Melody Peterman
Baker, Alan. (2004). Black and White Rabbit's ABC. Kingfisher, Boston; Mass.
Title: Black and White's Rabbit's ABC Stereotypes: none, unless the animal kingdom is offended by the rabbit receiving the starring role in this book. Readability: The story is based on an accident prone rabbit trying to create a picture of an apple. Each letter brings a new solution or obstacle to the rabbit's mission. Through the story is an easy reader for younger elementary grades, it book would serve as a great book in Early Childhood. Even if the student is unable read the words, the pictures or question cues from the teacher can convey the story to the student. Illustrations: Set on an all white background, the eye is focused on the scene of the rabbit, which to relate to my statement in Readability, helps the non reader to create the story in their own words. Using the pictures to explain in their words the message the author was putting out for them. Accuracy: A child's pet rabbit would not be able to create such an amusing act but doesn't mean the child couldn't believe or imagine it happening. Solutions the rabbit comes up with in the story, such as mopping up the leaking ink, would indirectly tell the student clean up your messes. Recommendations: For me this book offers many opportunities to learn, other then just ABC's. Great book to have in any Early Childhood or Elementary library for the students to use in silent reading or at a group time/circle time discussion.
Title: The Absolutely Awful Alphabet. Stereotypes: none, each of the monsters and ghouls are equally as awful as the next. Readability: Amazing job of introducing new vocabulary with many new "big" words that the students may not have been accustom to hearing. If being used as an silent reader/independent reader, this book should be used in higher elementary grades however young grades could benefit found this book as a read a loud in group or circle time in younger grades. Another interesting part of the book is that the whole story is only one sentence long. Great book to use for learning new adjectives. Illustrations: Through the backgrounds are not blank or one solid color, it isn't distracting. This is an important fact because the page is focused on the letter, written in standard font, the letter pops out first to the student to set in their mind how letters differ from one another. A closer look at the letter shows the absolutely awfully amazing job done by illustrator to bring the ghouly soul of each letter out. Very funny and creative use of letters. Accuracy: Yes this book teaches the alphabet but it also dared to take a step farther to teach more with new vocab, new takes on illustrations, and writing style. Feel through this approaches this book will attract more readers. Recommendations: For me, books need to have good pictures to carry out the story as much as the wording in the book. This book as great pictures and makes awful pretty.
Title: Alison's Zinia Stereotypes: This book holds true to the old stereotype that only girls like flowers. Each pages as a girl's name to go with the flower, a picture of the girl at the bottom which serves another stereotype, the young girls are all white. For me, the lower picture of the girl reminds me of The Secret Garden with all the wealthy girls in beautiful dresses, all white. Illustrations: As for the flowers, which are the focus of the page, taking up about 70% of the page, they are beautifully painted. With so many letters, many new flowers are introduced, some many of the students many have never seen before. Accuracy: As far as accuracy of the flowers, right on. They are painted amazingly, soft and delicate like real life flowers. But as far accuracy of the real world, I feel it was a lost opportunity to reach across the board and to bring in others then young, Caucasian girls to the book. Recommendations: To use for opportunity to introduce new flowers, great book. Even shows that not all plants labeled flowers have blossons on them. But dont recommend as a stable reader in a library because of the stereotype that only girls like flowers.
Reviewer: Jeremy Wescott Title: Pallotta, Jerry (1991) The Underwater Alphabet Book Charlesbridge, MA. Stereotypes: None present Readability: This book would be an easy and exiting way to know the ABC’s of underwater life. *4th – 5th grade reading level Illustrations: Edgar Stewart does a wonderful job of illustrating, the pictures show the fish accurately in a setting Accuracy: I thought this book would educate any one who read it, the facts about where the fish live, what they eat, and where they live are very accurate. Recommendations: I would recommend this book to any one who would like to learn the ABC’s of the ocean.
Reviewer: Jeremy Wescott Title: Nickle, John (2006) Alphabet Explosion Schwartz & Wade Books, NY, NY Stereotypes: Looked hard to find stereotypes in this book could not locate any. Readability: Experienced a little difficulty trying to figure out why the illustration was on the page it was onL Illustrations: Illustrations were interesting to say the least, I like the way the illustrator captured what the author wanted on that particular page. Accuracy: The author of this book was not trying to be accurate he is just trying to teach children the alphabet in a creative way. Recommendations: Although some of the pictures were a little hard to figure out, I would definitely recommend this book to people 10 and up, it was fun trying to link the illustrations to the letter on the page.
Seuss, D. (1963). Dr. Seuss's ABC. Random House Inc: New York, NY.
Reviewer: Marcus Denny Title: Dr. Seuss's ABC Stereotypes: None Readability: As with all Dr. Seuss books some of the words are hard for children to read but not for an adult to read to a child as they are intended for. Illustrations: Classic Dr. Seuss illustrations make the book appealing for all children. Accuracy: The author uses many words to describe each letter and reinforce the letter. It uses words that help the sounds of the letter grow into words. Recommendations: Great book for any teacher or parent trying to teach the alphabet and letter sounds to smaller children. A good book for individual reading for 1st and 2nd graders.
Bannatyne-Cugnet, J. (1992). A Prairie Alphabet. Tundra Books: New York, NY.
Reviewer: Marcus Denny Title: A Prairie Alphabet Stereotypes: There is some stereotyping in this book. Most of the farmers are portrayed as white people. The only ethnic or minorities in the book are for the letter R. There is a Native American Fancy dancer and it looks like some Indian cowboys. In the back of the book the illustrator explains each picture but doesnt say anything about the Fancy dancer. Readabilty: The sentences on each page are real easy to read. Illustrations: The illustrations are well done and very life like. It makes you seem as though you are there. Accuracy: The accuracy of farmlife and other things that are associated with it seem to be right on. Recomendations: A good book to use for introducing a farm theme or farm life. I would recommend for 2nd grade on up. There would be some new words that would be intorduced for second graders in ths book.
Hoena, B. A. (2005). Toys ABC. Capstone Press: Mankato, MN.
Reviewer: Marcus Denny Title: Toys ABC Stereotypes:No stereotypes. The book used both boy and girl toys in it. It also used children of different races. Readability:Pretty easy read. A lot of words that a child can relate to. A great book for 1st and 2nd graders to practice reading. Illustrations: No illustrations just actual pictures of toys. The photos were very well taken and interesting. Accuracy: The accuracy of the book is right on. It relates to children very well. Recommendations: Good book for any child thats just starting to learn their ABC's. My 4 year old son loved the book when i read it to him. He loved every part of the book except D for Doll. Would be a would be a good book for a 1st or 2nd grader to read because it has a lot of simple words in it.
Conn Beall, Pamela and Hagen Hipp, Susan (2001) Wee Sing & Learn ABC. Price Stern Sloan: New York
Reviewer- Leona Dixon Title- Wee Sing and Learn ABC Stereotypes- None Present Readability- Being that is is an ABC book, it can be hard at times to find a relevant representation of each letter of the alphabet and this particular book had a letter represented by an animal and a musical instrument. At times there were animals and instruments that an adult may find unfamiliar and could be hard for a child with emerging understanding of literacy to comprehend. Illustrations- Each page had bright colorful representations of each animal and instrument and had smaller pictures around the page borders of other things that began with that letter. Accuracy- As previously mentioned, ample representation was given for each letter so the idea came across very well to the reader Recommendations- Very good book! My two year old absolutely loved it. I had to sneak it back out of the house.
Bulloch, Ivan & James, Diane (2007) Learn with Me ABC. Two Can Publishing: Minnetonka, MN Reviewer- Leona Dixon Title- Learn with Me ABC Stereotypes- None Present Readability- Each page begins with A is for or B is for etc. and includes a picture of an object and its title beneath it. Very simple to follow. Illustrations- Very colorful, bright pages full of objects that children can recognize and relate to including a child on each page.
Accuracy- Provided some excellent examples and pictures of each letters that can be easily understood and interpreted. Recommendations- Excellent book to use for young children! Highly recommended to keep children interest.
Todd, Tracy N. (2007) C is for Caboose: Riding The Rails From A To Z. Raincast Books: Vancouver, British Columbia Reviewer- Leona Dixon Title- C is for Caboose: Riding The Rails From A To Z Stereotypes- There was reference to African Americans that isnt necessarily a representation of the group as a whole. Readability- Very advanced book with a lot of historical reference to people, places and events. Illustrations- Provides both illustrations and pictures. Pictures are very interesting and appealing. The illustrations are very colorful and eye catching. Accuracy- Useful and factual information is provided for the reader in addition to dates of history that it is relevant to. Recommendations- I think that this wold be an excellent book for grades 3-4 and up. It provides a lot of information for a reader to indulge in.
Reviewer: Janelle Schroeder-Unger
Layne, Steven & Deborah. (2007). P is for Princess: A Royal Alphabet. Sleeping Bear Press: Chelsea, Michigan.
Title: P is for Princess: A Royal Alphabet
Stereotypes: None that I'm aware of.
Readability: The side notes on each page are for older readers and contain more difficult vocabulary. The text contained within the illustrations are easier to read, brief, and utilizes rhyming which appeals to readers of all ages.
Illustrations: Full color, vivid, detailed and very realistic. The styles of each illustration varies from cartoonish to realistic depictions of actual people.
Accuracy: The side notes explain factual and historical information about the subjects in the illustrations. The rhyming expletives describe the letters briefly and relate them to something factual. (Ex: in the illustration it reads, "A is for Aurora, a princess put to sleep. Awakened by a prince's kiss, she fell in love so deep." The side notes expand on the classic fairy tale "Sleeping Beauty", who published it, and includes some info on the first appearance of the name Princess Aurora in the 1890 Tchaikovsky ballet also named "Sleeping Beauty")
Recommendation: Appropriate for somewhat experienced readers all the way up to very experience readers (grades Second or Third to Sixth). This book would work well with units on history, famous people, government, other countries, etc.
Base, Graeme. (1986). Animalia. Harry N. Abrams, Incorporated: New York.
Title: Animalia
Stereotypes: None that I'm aware of.
Readability: The lettering is stylistic including old English and other various fonts, which makes it difficult for younger students to decipher. The vocabulary is advanced.
Illustrations: Full color, fantastic, vivid, realistic, full page illustrations that are fun to look at. Includes hidden images and entices readers to investigate illustrations, possibly finding something new in them every time they check out the book. Images promote thought and introduce images that will help to expand student's vocabulary, depicting things that students may not be familiar with.
Accuracy: The illustrations and text include both reality and fantasy. The subject matter of each illustration is depicted with realistic detail, and includes objects and creatures from all over the world.
Recommendation: Appropriate for grades preschool through 6th just based on the illustrations. Reading level would be appropriate for 3rd or 4th grade based on the difficulty of the words. This book could be used in units about animals and zoos, as well as units covering the alphabet and letter sounds.
Downie, Mary. (2005). A Pioneer ABC. Tundra Books: New York.
Title: A Pioneer ABC
Stereotypes: Depict the pioneers as strictly Aryan (pale skin, blond or light colored hair) with a prim and proper house and no sign of difficulties or hardships.
Readability: The repetitive sounds make it a good book for early readers (and includes glossary or terms from the text). The text is brief and corresponds with the iluustrations.
Illustrations: Subdued colors, simple illustrations, not overly detailed, but fun to look at. The boarder illustrations depict objects relative to the era.
Accuracy: The text seems to be accurate, but more picturesque for that period. It reminds me of Little House on the Prairie, minus some of the true to life difficulties that I'm sure the pioneers experienced.
Recommendation: Due to the simplicity of the text, I feel this book is appropriate for early readers, perhaps 2nd or 3rd grade through 4th. This book could be used in a unit about United States history.
Reviewer: Mrs.Peters
Oxenbury, S. (1971). Helen Oxenbury's ABC of Things.Delacorte Press.N.Y, New York. Title:Helen Oxebury's ABC of Things Stereotypes: None Readability: It is quickly understood or read, that all the items on the page start with that letter being showcased. Illustrations: Simple, funny, colored, pencil drawings that seem to bring the kid out of you as you read. Accuracy: Well, all the items start with the correct letter on each page. This is the only connection that really needs to be made in ABC book. Recommendations: Ages 0-6 would like this book. It is a nice book to have for young readers, it stands out due to the shape of the book, not to mention the pictures are cool.
Chubb, M. (1966). An Alphabet of Ancient Egypt. Great Britian. Title:An Alphabet of Ancient Egypt Stereotypes: Slaves are protrayed as Working men under the W, and they were happy learning to make many things for the king. Readability: It is for sure a higher end read for students. Words pronunciation is difficult if you lack the schema of Egypt. Illustrations: Ok, the pictures seemed older like hyrogliphics,no pun intended. The colors were nice, bold and dark. Accuracy: Besides the slave issue, I must admit the book was quite accurate with the facts about Egypt. Recommendations: 6th -12th The book would be great for any class projects having to do with Egypt. Although I would stress to them that the slaves were not happy working men. This book is an informational book about a culture and people.
Reviewer: Lauren Stoehr Pelletier, D. (1996). The graphic alaphabet. Orchard:New York Title:The Graphic Alaphabet Sterotypes: None Readability: Easy read; each page displays a picture of each letter in some type of action or object, and connects each letter with a word that begins with that letter. Illustrations: Very bold colors, fun pictures. Accuracy: Kids would be able to identify with each picture and word, although depending on environment/location, some children might not know Avalanche or Iceberg. Recommendation: I would recommend this book. Very bright, bold pictures.. both my 2 year old and 5 year old enjoyed this book.
Reviewer: Lauren Stoehr Ruurs, M. (1996). A mountain alaphabet. Tundra Books: Toronto, Ontario Title:A Mountain Alaphabet Sterotypes: None Readability: I think this would be a good book for any age. Has very good alliteration throughout the whole book. Illustrations: Very detailed, colorful illustrations. Accuracy: All of the animals and backgrounds are pictured accurately of a forest area. Recommendation: I would recommend this book- it had good use of language and alliteration, detailed pictures, and I think kids, especially from around our area, would be able to relate to the book.
Reviewer: Lauren Stoehr Wood, A. (2006). Alaphabet rescue. The Sky Blue Press: New York Title:Alaphabet Rescue Sterotypes: None Readability: Very good read- not your typical ABC's book. Illustrations: Very bold, colorful illustrations. Accuracy: I think kids would be able to relate to the senario of the little letters trying to help out the big letters, but getting in the way/messing things up, then proving that they can really be helpful. Recommendation: I really liked this book because it's not your typical A is for apple, B is for broom, alaphabet book. Threre really is a story line in this book and all of the pictures show all of the letters. My 2 year really loved this book.
Reviewer: Linda Delgado
Grundy, Lynn. (No copyright year). a is for apple. Ladybird Books: Loughborough
Title: a is for apple
Stereotypes: None
Readability: Very readable for younger and older children. Young children can read the letters and pictures, while older children can read the words.
Illustrations: The illustrations are very bright and very well done. They are very life-like.
Accuracy: Nothing to do with accuracy in this book.
Recommendation: I would definitely recommend this book for headstart and kindergarten classrooms. The letters are big and noticeable, great for teaching the alphabet.
Geddes, Anne. (1995). ABC. Cedco Publishing Company: San Rafael, CA.
Title: ABC
Stereotypes: None
Readability: A book for younger children learning their ABC's, but it would have to be read by an adult or older child.
Illustrations: Very great work, but some of it young children would not recognize.
Accuracy: Some of the settings for the babies and children are real, but some are made up. Great for the imagination!
Recommendation: This book would be great for an adult to read to a baby or young child. They could relate well to the pictures because of the babies and children in them.
Leuck, Laura. (2003). Jeepers Creepers a Monstrous ABC. Chronical Books: San Francisco, CA.
Title: Jeepers Creepers a Monstrous ABC
Stereotypes: who's to say what a monster looks like?
Readability: Great for all ages, younger children would have to be read to because of big words, but they could read the letters.
Illustrations: They are bright and colorful and full of imagination. Children would definitely be engaged.
Accuracy: What happened to teaching that monsters aren't real. As long as children know that you can be imaginative in stories, and write about what you want to.
Recommendation: As long as children know it is just make believe, it can be a great story.
Pattern Books
Reviewer: Ashley Bierman
Hinman, Bobbie. (2008). The sock fairy. Best Fairy Books: Bel Air, MD.
Title: The Sock Fairy Stereotypes: None Readability: This story about a sock fairy who takes your socks, mismatches, and puts holes in them will surely relate to young children. Each page gives a concept for the children to follow, having up to twelve words a page. As the story is read, there is a flow of the words that makes this book easy to read. Questions are asked in the book where children will be able to answer and interact with to better read and understand the book. A great book for children to use their imagination. Illustrations: The pictures of this book our filled with vibrant colors featuring the many colorful mismatched socks found by the children after the sock fairy has sorted through them. As children read this imagination-filled story, they will escape into another world as they view the illustrations. Accuracy: Although there is no such thing as a fairy, young children don't need to know. Let them use their creativity and imagination as they explore this book about a mischievous sock fairy. Recommendation: I would recommend this book for young children possibly ages as young as three and up to seven or eight years of age. It would also be a great book to spark ideas for children to create their own stories.
Reviewer: Ashley Bierman
Dewdney, Anna. (2005). llama llama red pajama. Penguin Young Readers Group: New York, NY.
Title: Llama Llama Red Pajama Stereotypes: None, it uses only one type of animal in the story, but I don't feel the llama was used in a stereotypical way. Readability: Throughout the book, rhyming guides the reader through the story about a young llama in need of his mother llamas presence. There are also highlighted words shown in various sentences, mostly about how the young llama is feeling or doing to get his mothers attention. These words can also become new words for students to learn. Illustrations: The illustrations are large and bold, especially when the young llama is trying to express is various feelings towards his mother. "Llama llama red pajama weeping, wailing for his mama..." displays a bold picture where the young llama has its mouth wide open yelling for mom. I feel the picture will allow children to feel exactly how the llama is feeling and will help them relate to prior experiences they may have had. Accuracy: I feel that there is an accurate portrayal of feelings between a mother and her child. There are many times when a child wants or needs their mom and this story brings this concept in an interesting way. Recommendation: I would recommend using this book for infants and young elementary students. It is a great story that they will relate to and understand.
Reviewer: Ashley Bierman
Rylant, Cynthia. (2009). All in a day. Abrams Books for Young Readers: New York, NY.
Title: All In A Day
Sreotypes: None Readability: Th book provides the reader with a interesting story about a young child who looks forward to what a single day will bring him. Anything can happen in a single day and this inspires each child to do anything they desire in their life. This book can easily be read older elementary children, but younger children will enjoy learning the new words and the correlating illustrations. Illustrations: The illustrations are bold, black and white with bright yellow and some light blue on some of the pages to keep the reader alert and aware of the story being read. The illustrator used a unique and interesting cut paper technique which brings an artistic feature to this book. It would be a neat idea to copy pages from the book because its format will allow children to color the pages, possible as a follow up to the story. Accuracy: I feel that there is really no need for accuracy in this book. If each child had a single day to do whatever they desired, they would each do different things. This book just gave one aspect of what one child could do in a day. Recommendation: I would recommend this book for both young and older elementary children. It would be an interesting book to relate to the concept of time.
Reviewer: Bernadette Tourtillott McDonnell, Patrick. (2006). Art. Little Brown and Company. New York, NY.
Title: ART Stereotype: Judging by the year, I would say it has a stereotype about it. It is about the boy things society has placed on little boys. (cars, dogs, and especially being messy). Readability: On most of the pages there is either one word or one liners, I did not think there was a distinguishing amount of pattern words either. The say this author is the next Charles Schulz, I beg to differ. Illustrations: There was a lot of white left on a lot of pages. Used the primary colors of red,yellow and blue. Simple drawings that can encourage children to be creative and that a few simple shakes of the hand can produce. Art is not always about how artistic one can be but can also be about expressing ourselves. Accuracy: In reading the book to my five-year old granddaughter she did not get over ecstatic, but did relate to the back pages of putting art on the refrigerator. Recommendations: A good introduction to books and to the young who can not sit still for more than a second!!
Reviewer: Bernadette Tourtillott Andreae, Giles. (1999). Giraffes Can't Dance. Orchard Books. New York. NY.
Title: Giraffes Can't Dance Stereotype: None Readability: I read the book to my three grandchildren (ages: 3,5, & 8). it was getting to long for the three-year-old, the five-year-old was mouth-wide-open in to it. My eight-year old being so perceptive recognized the cover of the book when Gerald could dance, to his own music. Illustrations: My grandchildren enjoyed every page and how the animals performed their own unique style of dance. Bright colors on silky paper. Accuracy: The text was fun reading to children of almost any age. Recommendations: A good read when focusing on how we are all individuals, and that everyone has their own special talent.
Reviewer: Berrnadette Tourtillott Bond, Felicia. Tumble Bumble. (1996). Laura Geringer Book. Front Street.
Title: Tumble Bumble Stereotypes: None Readability: Pattern friendly, good read for children to answer with the last word on certain pages. Illustrations: Very color friendly and keeps children engaged. Accuracy: Tells a story of friends runnning into one another as they are out and about. Recommendations: A good read for young children and the art of using animals to tell a story of friendship.
Reviewer: Melody Peterman
Curtis, Jamie Lee. Where Do Balloons Go? An Uplifting Mystery. (2000). Joanna Cotler Books. U.S.A
Title: Where do balloons go? Stereotypes: None,balloons of all shapes and sizes are represented Readability: Easy to read, whereas some pattern books can be turned into a simple song based off the flow of the words, this story would be a bit difficult to do so just for the fact that some lines, through they have pattern, dont share the same syllable count.. Illustrations: Creativity messing in the greatest sense. Blurry backgrounds yet still detailed enough to show the story. Full of colors and imagination. Created with a young reader in mind but also with the understanding that than adult will also be reading and looking at its bright pages. Illustrations contain light adult humor such when the balloon travels to Bates Motel. Accuracy: Where would balloons go? When you let one go, you never are very sure where it will go. This book is a great imaginary tool to use for prompt decussion on where balloons go. The sky is the limit, no pun intended Recommendations: My favorite children's book I have found in a while. Routinely read at bedtime for my sister for years. Great book to use as resource when covering units on wind, sky, or even using to stimulate creativity and to think of endless possibilities.
Reviewer: Melody Peterman
Metzger, Steve. My Bossy Dolly. (2006). Scholastic Inc. New York, New York.
Title: My Bossy Dolly Stereotypes: None Readability: Written through the eyes of a young girl, using her logo and terminalogy makes it easier to be read by a young audience. The rhymes are easy to fine and rest of the text as repeats, such as mom and dad, making it build fluency in reading Illustrations: Very simply done. Calm color palette with just enough detail to saw the story. Simply drawn, child inspired, but the part of the drawing enjoyed the most is Sally and Betsy, the girl and doll in the story, are always dresses the same. Feel this is a great yet subtle so show the connection bewteen the two. Accuracy: For children who have a connection to a doll or any other toy, this is a great book to relate to. Activities and thought Sally describes are very much the same as children do in real life, and if there is trouble, well of course the doll did it. Recommendations: Good book to use in classrooms to help children learn to take responsiblity for their actions and nice things to say vs the not so nice.
Reviewer: Melody Peterman
O'Connell George, Kristine. Up. (2005). Clarion Books. New York, New York.
Title: Up Stereotypes: None. The story is just about a young girl and her dad. Dads can have sons to but to pick apart this book would take away from the relationship created in this book and its purpose. Readability: Very simple read with lot of action words, descriptive words, and great phrasing to descirbe the many ways of up. Very well written to reflect the energy of a toddler though words. Illustrations: Bright and cheery pictures perfectly reflect the birght and cheery story. Stickes to very earthy color tones to stay in sync with the story ( a day at the park), lot of bright yellows, blues, and greens. Accuracy: Father daugther bonding at its prime, a day at the park on a bright clear, sunny day. An energetic toddler wakes up and wants her daddy, to see if he is up, to have him toss her up, and to push her swing up. Does a great job of presenting a positive relationship through words as well as pictures. Recommendations: Have not found many fun father daughter books, this one is the best i have found. Good to use around Father's Day or spring time when the park is on every child's mind. Would also like to see this book as a staple in any classroom.
Reviewer: Carrie Peters
Bryant-Mole, K. (2000). Rhyming Words. Gareth Stevens Publishing. Milwaukee,WI Title:Rhyming Words Stereotypes: None Readability: Mortimer the bear gets his point across, Directions are clearly given for each page, the illustrations are clear and fit the rhyme. Illustrations:Life like photographs are used to fill the pages, Mort is posed in many ways to match each pages rhyming words,clever. Accuracy: Yes the directions match the actions as well as the pictures. Some pictures are used instead of words at times, but is even more helpful for young minds. Recommendations: 2nd Grade at least. This book gives me the impresssion it was made for teachers to read to their class as a group read.It would be great discussion on words that sound the same in the end or at least open the doorway for a rhyming fun disscussion. This book also has a glossary which can be introduced to the students as well.
Barrett, J. (2000). I knew two who said moo. NY,New York: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division. Title:I Knew Two Who Said Moo Stereotypes: None Readability: Vocabulary is higher, the book is like having 10 short stories because each page is one in its own connected only by the numbers which come before and after. This book is cross catogories it combines math with literature and language in an awe inspiring way! Illustrations: Colorful life like drawings with many hidden messages, much to look at while having a learning experience. Accuracy: Well, as far as rhyming word books go this one is outside the box for sure, it is accurate in silliness, fun and correct phonics. Recommendations: All ages. Read it to your kids in and out of school, push it on every kid that comes your way, place this book front and center in the book shelf, because it is an oustanding book.
Fleming, D. (1993). In the small,small pond. NY, New York: Henry Holt and Company. Title:In the Small, Small Pond Readability: The story is clear but throws in an odd word that seems kind of confusing. I had two children tell me this word does not rhyme with the rest of the book. It does make the story line a little odd. Illustrations: The picutes are slightly muted with beautful colors, and soft edges. I think this was for me, the best part of the book. Accuracy: Yes, it does show correct pond life. Reccomendations: I did not care for this book because it left too many questions, and I lost the story line wondering why the odd word.
Reviewer: Cameo Self
Rylant, C. (2008). Puppies and Piggies. Orlando, Florida. Harcourt Books Title:Puppies and Piggies Readability: It is very easy to read, the rhymes are cute. Illustrations: The illustrations are very good, simple, yet engaging. Accuracy: The information is acurate. Recommendations: I would recommend this book to the younger grades because the rhymes are geared toward younger children.
Reviewer: Cameo Self
Lansky, B. (2004). Mary Had a Little Jam And Other Silly Rhymes. Minnetonka, MN. Meadowbrook Press. Title:Mary Had a Little Jam And Other Silly Rhymes Readability: Very easy to read! The rhymes are so cute and silly, young kids will love them! Illustrations: They are good and go along with the poems Accuracy: The poems aren't really accurate because they are made to be silly. Recommendations: I would definitely recommend this book, I used it in my classroom and my kids loved it.
Reviewer: Cameo Self
Downey, L. (2000). The Flea's Sneeze. New York, NY. Henry Holt and Company Title:The Flea's Sneeze Readability: It is very easy to read and the language is fun and playful. Illustrations: The illustrations are great. They are detailed and colorful Accuracy: Information seems to be as accurate as it can be. Recommendations: I would definitely recommend this book, my kids loved the playful language.
Reviewer: Leona Dixon Beaumont, Karen. (2005) I Ain't Gonna Paint No More! Harcourt Inc.: Singapore Title- I Ain't Gonna Paint No More! Stereotypes- If you are reading the book, the mother speaks on one page and she say's "You Ain't AGONNA Paint No More" and the last page says "Ya'll don't faint" The pages show a boy and mother that are clearly caucasian and such language could be interpreted to suggest they are or talk like hillbillies. Readability- The book is written to read as if you are singing it to a song. It is very fun and playful to read if you capture the essence of the rhyming pattern. Illustrations- Images are portrayed in black and white and color is introduced from the paint the child is using and the way he paints is really interesting and full of designs. Accuracy- You really can't get as accurate as this book! This being because the whole entire time the kid is painting he is painting his body parts and while painting he is rhyming. He eventually works his way all to his feet and you think it is over until he suggests "I'm such a nut, I think I'll paint my....?" and the mother comes to his room door and says WHAT?!!..The illustrations show a completely painted boy who had just underwear on the whole time painting his body, who now has NO underwear and an exposed and unpainted rear end! The book continues on the last page to say "Ya'll don't faint, cause there's no more paint. Recommendations- For the reasons I just provided I probably wouldn't use it. It is an excellent colorful, rhyming and fun book until it exposes children to something you don't necessarily know how they'll take it, children are children but you don't want to assume what they do or do not know or think of given that situation. Plus it shows the boys butt.
Reviewer: Leona Dixon Fleming, Denise. (1991) In the Tall, Tall Grass. Henry Holt and Co: New York Title- In the Tall, Tall Grass Stereotypes- None present Readability- The book is very easy to read, there are only 3 to four words on each page and they are in a rhyming pattern. Illustrations- Very nice abstract art is included, different animals and insects are introduced through art and sounds. Accuracy- The different sounds and words that are introduced give you a very good idea of how the animals and insects would sound, the illustrations are excellent in showing how each would look too. Recommendations- Great book, would definitely use in a classroom. It has provides opportunities to explore more ideas on each page!
Reviewer: Leona Dixon Keeler, Patricia and McCall Francis. (2002) A Huge Hog Is a Big Pig. Greenwillow Books: Harpors/Collins Company Title- A Huge Hog Is a Big Pig: a rhyming word game Stereotypes- None Present Readability- Very fun and easy to read wording, easy pattern to rhyme with. Illustrations- Pictures are of real life children and animals on a farm. Accuracy- Being that it is actual pictures it is good. It also provides for synonyms to different words and animals. Recommendations- Excellent book! My kids loved the silly rhymes.
Reviewer: Marcus Denny Prap, L. (2007) Daddies. North-South Books Inc: Switzerland.
Title: Daddies. Stereotypes- None Readability- Very easy to distinguish the rhymes in the reading. Illustrations- Illustrations are very plain but go along perfect with the text. Accuracy- The theme of Dad's mathces perfect with the different aspects of animals. Great book for children to relate to. Recommendations- Great book for children to read. Very engaging and a great book to add to a classroom collection.
Reviewer: Marcus Denny Prelutsky, J. (2007) The Wizard. Greenwillow Books: Illinois Title: The Wizard Stereotypes: None Readability: Great book for third and fourth graders. Good rhymes that are easy to identify. Some new vocab in there that might need to be explained or reinforced. Illustrations: Pictures are great and make the book even more appealing. Nice use of colors and shapes. Accuracy: Dont really know what actual wizards do but from what I've seen in movies it looks pretty accurate. Recommendations: great book with great illustrations that would be appealing to any child.
Reviewer: Marcus Denny Fleming, D. (2007) Beetle Bop. Harcourt Books: Florida.
Title: Beetle Bop Stereotypes: None Readability: Very easy sentences. Great book for children that are just begging to learn to read. Illustrations: very unique pictures that go great with the book. Accuracy:The text describes the actions of the animals and is very detailed on their actions. Recommendations:Great book to include in the earlier grades.
Title: Hello Muddah, Hello Faddah! (A letter from home) Written by: Allan Sherman and Lou Busch Illustrated by: Jack E. Davids Published by: Dutton Children’s Books; N.Y., N.Y. Hello Muddah, Hello Faddah! Is a book about a boy who goes away to camp and doesn’t like being away from home. He writes a letter to his mother and father begging to come home, exaggerating the events that take place throughout his first day at camp. As the first day comes to an end the boy changes his mind about the camp and tells his parents to disregard the letter, he is going to stay. This is a good read for 2nd-3rd grade reading level, the illustrations are hilarious and full of color. (JW)
Title: Silly Tilly Written by: Eileen Spinelli Illustrated by: David Slonim Published by: Marshall Cavendish Corporation; Tarrytown, N.Y. Tilly the Silly Goose is a book about a goose that makes all the other animals on the farm go crazy because of her silliness. After the other get the goose to stop being silly they discover that they miss her (the goose) and her silliness. 2nd grade reading level, highly recommended and the illustrations are funny. (JW)
Reviewer: Janelle Schroeder-Unger MacLennan, C. (2009) Spooky Spooky Spooky. Sterling Publishing Co.: New York. Title: Spooky Spooky Spooky! Stereotypes: None Readability: Bold open letters and rhyming making it easy to read. Illustrations: Bright, colorful, whimsical, and fun to look at and easy to identify with the characters because it includes familiar subject matter (cats, rats, etc.) Accuracy: This book is more about fun and playing with words and rhyming than accurately portraying any subject matter. Recommendations: Great book for early readers and for units on Halloween.dd
Buehner, C. (2002) Snowmen at Night. Phyllis Fogelman Books: New York. Title: Snowmen at Night Stereotypes: That all snow is white :) just kidding Readability: Easy reading with rhyming, not too many words per page, the focus is more on the illustrations. Illustrations: BEAUTIFUL, full of color, vivid illustrations that are fun to look at. Accuracy: Well, snowmen can't really move around. Recommendations: K through 3rd, good for units on seasons, winter, snow, snowflakes, ice, etc.
Picture Story
Author Study
Please post your favorite Author here-we should have 11 different authors. To define assignment:
Bring in samples of the authors books. If you don't own many please visit your local library. We will share what we know about the author and then pass around the books for the night.
Shel Silverstein (AB)
He was a poet, playwright, illustrator, screenwriter, and songwriter. In the 1950's he served in the U.S. Army and drew cartoons for the Pacific Stars and Stripes. In 1952, he began his career as a writer and cartoonist for Playboy Magazine. He was later introduced to an editor of Harper and Brothers who convinces him he could write for children. His first collection of poems, Where the sidewalk ends, was published in 1974. His poetry is widely used in schools as a child's first introduction to poetry. He continued to write various children's books and collection of poetry including The light in the Attic, Runny Babbit, The missing piece meets the big O, and A giraffe and a half.
Jane Yolen (JSU)
Beverly Cleary (cp)
Eric Carle (LSD)
Beatrix Potter (JW) Dr. Seuss (CS)
Jamie Lee Curtis (MP)
Peggy Parish (LMD)
Dr. Seuss is a pen name for the author Theodor Seuss Geisel. He was born on March 2, 1904 in Springfield, Massachusetts. Dr. Seuss has published over 60 books. Today his books are still widely celebrated, especially in March on his birthday!
Beverly Cleary (cp)
On a hot, blazing, day in May gazing out of a St.Joseph's windows on the 2nd floor, it was Beverly Cleary whom carried me away. I loved SR(silent reading) time. It was time to get away no computers back then, just read. The nuns and school all drifted away,it was Ramona and Beezus, and Ramona could find herself some trouble. If only for 30 minutes a day Ramona was the queeen of my imagination that rolled out like a picture, while I read.This is why I love Mrs.Cleary's books, she wrote about down to earth problems in any kid's life. Titles:Beezus and Ramona, Ramona the Pest, Ramona Forever, Henry Huggins, Henry and Ribsy,Mouse and the Motorcycle, Ralph S. Mouse, Dear Mr.Henshaw, Strider ect.... Author: Beverly Cleary
Beverly Cleary was born in Oregon on April 12,1916. Her mother was a teacher who surrounded her with books. Beverly was still placed in a lower reading group in the third grade. She later went on to college to become a librarian, after college she married Clearance Cleary. It was her husband who encouraged her to write the first book "Henry Huggins published in 1950. Cleary's books are some of the first chapter books that we read in school between the 2nd and 4th grades. The characters are normal, average children who face many challenges that any child growing up will encounter, this makes it easy for her readers to identify with them. Mrs.Cleary has won many,many awards over her long writing career. You can also check out www.beverlycleary.com.
(lsd)-Author Study
Author: Eric Carle
My favorite author is Eric Carle. He grew up in Germany and went to the Academy of Applied Art to study art and design. After college he returned to the United States. My favorite book by him is The Tiny Seed. It can be used so many ways in the classroom. Another one of my favorites is Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What do You See? He illustrated this one, it was his first.
Other books include: The very Hungry Caterpillar, The Grouchy Ladybug, 123 to the Zoo and Do You Want to be My Friend?
Titles: How Do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight?, How Do Dinosaurs Get Well Soon?, How Do Dinosaurs Eat Their Food?, How Do Dinosaurs Clean Their Rooms?, Good Griselle, and more than 600 others. Author: Jane Yolen
Jane Yolen was born in New York City and now lives in Hatfield, Massachusetts. She has a master's degree in education from the University of Massachusetts. When she's not writing, she composes songs, works as a professional storyteller on the stage, is a wife, mother, and a grandmother. Yolan is also on the Board of Directors of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators, and was the president of the Science Fiction Writers of America from 1986 to 1988. She has been on the editorial board of several magazines. She has been referred to as "America's Hans Christian Anderson." She has said of herself, "I don't care whether the story is real or fantastical. I tell the story that needs to be told." (JSU)
My favorite Author is also Eric Carle Eric Carle- His best known work, The Very Hungry Caterpillar. This book has been translated into more than 47 languages and sold over 29 million copies. It was published in 1969.
Eric Carle was born in Syracuse, New York, in 1929. His family moved to Germany when he was very young, but Eric's dream was to back to America,, which he did when he became of age. He graduated from a very prestigiuous college in Germany and returned to America. He pursued his dream of illustrating for top authors which brought out hiws own abilities as well.
He has written and illustrated many books such as: The Very Lonely Butterfly, The Very Quiet Cricket, Brown Bear, Brown Bear What Do You See? (btt)
Titles: Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs, Pickles to Pittsburgh, Never Take a Shark to the Dentist: and Other Things Not to Do, Which Witch is Which.
Author: Judi Barret
She teaches art to kindergarten students at a school in her Brooklyn, New York, neighborhood. She has written a number of books but the ones I listed are the most notable.
(MD)
Peggy Parish was born in Manning, South Carolina on July 14, 1927. She developed a love for reading at an early age and, even as a child, enjoyed writing very much. She attended the University of South Carolina and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. Her biggest breakthrough --- the creation of Amelia Bedelia in 1963. Peggy went on to write 11 more Amelia Bedelia books. She also wrote a number of mystery novels, as well as arts and crafts books. Among these other titles are HAUNTED HOUSE, DINOSAUR TIME, THE CHIMP THAT WENT TO SCHOOL and LET'S CELEBRATE: Holiday Decorations You Can Make (which includes instructions on making decorations for different holidays, such as an Easter bush, a log cabin and a valentine mobile). In addition to writing books, Peggy did television pieces on preschool education and children's books, wrote book review columns and led a number of in-service training workshops for teachers. Sadly, Peggy died of an aneurysm on November 19, 1988.
Amelia Bedelia (1963) Thank You, Amelia Bedelia (1964) Amelia Bedelia and the Surprise Shower (1966) Come Back, Amelia Bedelia (1971) Play Ball, Amelia Bedelia (1972) Good Work, Amelia Bedelia (1976) Teach Us, Amelia Bedelia (1977) Amelia Bedelia Helps Out (1979) Amelia Bedelia and the Baby (1981) Amelia Bedelia Goes Camping (1985) Merry Christmas, Amelia Bedelia (1986) Amelia Bedelia's Family Album (1988)
Poetry
Title:Doodle Dandies: Poems That Take Shape
Author: J. Patrick Lewis
Titles: Daddy Poems, Mommy Poems, Grandparent Poems
Author: John Micklos Jr.
I really enjoy the poems in these books. They make reading poetry to children more personal.(lsd)
Title: Dirt on My Shirt
Author: Jeff Foxworthy
I just recently found this book and it is great. There are poems of all kinds. Some about nature, some about relatives and even some that will make you cry.(lsd)
Author write up from Reading Conference
Author: John Micklos Jr.
Books: Daddy Poems, Mommy Poems, Grandparent Poems
The first author I saw was John Micklos Jr. He talked about the process of writing and gave tips for writing and revising. The most important thing I think he talked about was writing about what you love. It makes writing easier and more fun. John also talked about poems. He gave the children a list of different types of poems and explained what goes into writing them types of poems. John did an activity with the children in the room that made it fun. He wrote Poetry Writing on the board and did an acrostic poem. Eleven second graders came up with lots of great words.(lsd)
Author: Kelly Milner Halls
Books: Dinosuar Mummies Beyond the Bare Bone Fossils, Albino Animals and Tales of the Cryptids.
The next author I saw was Kelly Milner Halls. She enjoys the wonders of weird. Kelly is a non-fiction writer who says writing non-fiction is like treasure hunting. She says she is 52 years old, but 10 inside. She loves her job because it takes her all over the world. The children in the room were engaged by the way she presented, the books that she showed and also by the artifacts that she had from digs. After Kell'y presentation she gave everyone an opportunity to come up and touch the artifacts. It was a great day, but I wish I was able to attend the whole conference.(lsd)
Annotated BIb. APA Style
Genre
Wordless Picture Books
Reviewer: Ashley Bierman
Lehman, Barbara. (2007). Rainstorm. Houghton Mifflin Company: New York.
Title: Rainstorm
Stereotypes: None
Readability: No words, but pictures guide you through to understand the story easily. Illustrations: Creatively illustrated and throughout the pictures were in a sequence format to easily follow.
Accuracy: The setting made the story interesting and it reminded me of the books The Chronicles of Narnia where the children escape to another world through a closet of a big house.
Recommendation: I think this book would be good for all primary grades to use.
Lee, Suzy. (2008). Wave. Chronicle Books: San Francisco, California.
Title: Wave
Stereotypes: None
Readability: This book has beautiful artistic use of simple lines and color that makes the story easily read.
Illustrations: The pictures of this book bring you to the setting of an ocean and provides an enjoyable and humorous experience of a young girl.
Accuracy: Has an accurate setting for a child to experience some waves:)
Recommendation: I feel this book would be great for infants through primary grades and could be great to use in art class.
Wiesner, David. (2006). Flotsam. Houghton Mifflin Company: New York, New York.
Title: Flotsam
Stereotypes: None
Readability: The book can be easily readable and understandable for children in the older primary grades. Some younger children may not understand the concept just from looking at the pictures.
Illustrations: The pictures were colorful and creative, bring the story to life. This book also included sequence pictures that can easily be followed.
Accuracy: The setting was accurate for exploring the beach.
Recommendation: This book would be great to use for all ages and would be interesting to use when introducing history into the classroom.
*Great Job Ashley, Lets follow Ashley's format. Thanks
Reviewer: Melody Peterman
Briggs, Raymond. (1978). The Snowman. Random House: New York, New York.
Title: The Snowman
Stereotypes: None
Readability: Each page has from 9 to 11 pictures per page to create a easily flowing story; easy to follow but the reader is still able to create story in their mind while reading. I feel through any age would enjoy The Snowman, I would recommend it for Early Childhood and younger elementary grades.
Illustrations: Pictures are simple yet timeless. The soft use of colored pencils is relaxing and just enough going on in scene to keep reader's attention.
Accuracy: The story could have taken place in the readers backyard, that is of course if they live in an area of snow. Readers can relate to the snow fall and building of a snowman as it is shown in the story.
Recommendation: This book is one of my all time favorite books. The easy flowing, simple story accompanied by relaxingly simple illustrations welcome a child into the wintery wonderland where imagination is free.
Franson, Scott E. (2007). Un Brella. Roaring Brook Press: New Milford, Connectiut.
Title: Un Brella
Stereotypes: None
Readability: The beginning of the story offers a lot of questions for the reader as to what is going to happen. Very imaginative story. Would use as a circle time read in Early Childhood and definitely use it in primary grades.
Illustrations: Franson has a graphic design background which gives him the edge on this story. Through cartoonish, the dimensions created and details added, gives this book a highly visual appeal that many readers would enjoy.
Accuracy: The story is for creative thinking, pure imagination. As far as having un brella to provide a sunny summer day in middle of winter, then accurancy is of course no. However, this book offers the reader a chance to see anything is possible through reading.
Recommendation: The story is fun and I believe young readers would enjoy. It was the illustrations that won me over and really take notice of the book.
Wilson, April. (1999). Magpie Magic. Dial Books for Young Readers: New York, New York.
Title: Magpie Magic
Stereotypes: None
Readability: Great book for Early Childhood to use in teaching colors. As the story goes on, each color is brought in as a new element of the story.
Illustrations: Simple grayscale, hand written pictures with excellent use of color to keep reader enaged.
Accuracy: If you draw a bird does it mean it will fly off the page? Of course not but that is the joy of drawing and reading, the what if's. This story offers plenty of free to believe and also offers a few laughs courtesy of the mischievous lead character.
Recommendation: Enjoyable read with freedom to imagine. As a study tool of drawing hands, still book would serve as perfect text.
Reviewer: Carrie PetersRockhill, Dennis.(2004). Polar Slumber, Sueno Polar. Raven Tree Press:Green Bay, WI.
Title: Polar Slumber, Sueno Polar
Stereotypes: None.
Readability: The fluency from one page to another is great. This book leaves much to the imagination.
Accuracy: The environment for polar bears is correct.
Illustrations: Seems to fit the theme "slumber" they seem [[#|dreamy]] and soft. The pictures are bold with soft curves and flowing ideas.
Recommendation: Must have for your library! This book is for all ages old an young. Another plus is that it is written in dual language Spanish and English.
Reviewer: Carrie Peters
Cristini, E., & Puricelli, L. (1983). In the woods. Picture Book Studio: Saxonville, MA.
Title: In The Woods
Stereotypes: None
Readability: Good story subject. Nice, this is the kind of book children love to make up stories about the woods and animals.
Illustrations: The pages literally flow into one another. Close to a seek and find book the butterfly is on each page.
Accuracy: Correct for the woods scene, you want more in the end! Setting correct for the animals who live there .
Recommendations: Again all ages. Lovely concept of how the book pages, if put together make a long mural. This is displayed at the end of the book. Great book for middle [[#|school]] art project, high scool, or [[#|college]] art.
Reviewer: Carrie Peters
Mogensen, J. (1990). The 46 little men. Greenwillow Books: New York,NY.
Title: The 46 Little Men
Stereotypes: Possibly depending how it is presented.
Readability: Would most likely work with one or two readers at a time. Good reading nook book because children like to look at all the little 46 men.
Illustrations: So many to look at and take in very busy.
Accuracy: Make believe world anything goes I guess. You jump into a picture and let your imagination run as far as it can go!
Recommendations: At first I thought this book would be better represented with 5th grade on up. Then my 5 year old granson spent an hour looking at it. It does have a sense of humor, like a seek and find if you have the time kind of book.
Reviewer: Marcus DennyLudy, M. (2005). The Flower Man. Green Pastures Publishing: Windsor, CO.
Title: The Flower Man
Stereotypes: No stereotypes evident. Many races or nationalities evident in the story.
Readability: Meaning of the story was very evident.
Illustrations: Illustrartions were well done. Characters were done well.
Accuracy: The accuracy of city depiction was right in the sense that there is alot going on in the city and there is a lot going on in the pictures. The attitude of the people changed over time as the story progressed.
Recommendations: This book could be used as a morale story for children. It could be used to show that one person can make a difference for another person.
Reviewer: Marcus Denny
Wiesner, D. (2006). Flotsam. Houghton Mifflin: New York, NY.
Title: Flotsam
Stereotypes:none
Readability: A lot of pictures to follow the meaning of the story.
Illustrations: Life-like illustrations.
Accuracy: Great depiction of the beach. Fictional depiction of ocean life takes away from accuracy but adds to imagination.
Recomendations: great book for stirring the imaginations of students.
Reviewer: Marcus Denny
Bang, M. (1980). The Grey Lady and the Strawberry Snatcher. Four Winds Press: New York, NY.
Title: The Grey Lady and the Strawberry Snatcher.
Stereotypes:None
Readability: Easy to follow and figure the plot of the story.
Illustrations: Unique. could be hard for a child to distinguish the meanings of the illustrations.
Accuracy: Illustrations were very unique so it made the accuracy of the story hard to follow.
Recommendations: Did not like the book. Not for children. Easy for an adult or older child maybe. Too hard for children to decipher the meaning of the story.
Reviewer: Janelle Schroeder
Tan, Shaun. (2006). The Arrival. Arthur A. Levine Books: New York, New York.
Title: The Arrival
Stereotypes: None
Readability: No words, but many interesting and creative illustrations that are open for interpretation. Although the pictures seem to flow through the story, they are not so specific that you know exactly where its going, what's going on, or how it will end. I had to page through twice, and I'm still not sure what's going on. Any creative or imaginative child would do well developing their own story to follow the pictures. The illustrations are so interesting that you get lost in the images.
Illustrations: Very detailed, monochromatic, ranging in size from thumbnail to full page/s.Accuracy: It's not really based on reality, but in regard to the illustrations, they depict a variety of people, various facial features, ages, and ethnicity.
Recommendation: I feel it would be best for students age 9 or older (possibly high school level for creative writing inspiration).
Andreasen, Dan. (2009). The Treasure Bath. Henry Holt and Company, LLC: New York, New York.
Title: The Treasure Bath
Stereotypes: None
Readability: The pictures are very easy to follow to develop the story. It progresses from one situation to another, but the illustrations are open ended enough to allow for creative contributions to the story.
Illustrations: Bold, colorful, cartoon'ish.Accuracy: Given the right environment, I feel this book has an appropriate/familiar depiction of a child and their mother. Some children would be able to identify with the illustrations and the child mother relationship, while others may not. I think It depends on the area or individual child that this book is used with.
Recommendation: Appropriate for children as young as preschool, but not really good for students older than 6 or 7.
Wiesner, David. (1988). Tree Fall. Lothrop, Lee & Shepard Books: New York, New York.
Title: Tree Fall
Stereotypes: All of the royalty depicted in the illustrations are white.
Readability: The illustrations are beautiful and interesting, leaving room for creativity in story development for the reader and progressing from one situation to another.
Illustrations: Subdued colors, softer images, and besides being beautiful, there is hidden imagery in the illustrations which is always fun, I think.
Accuracy: Although the story is based on fantasy, there are images that would be familiar to a fairly broad demographic (mountains, chess, knights, castles, birds, dragon, books, pigs, cities, a glass, a spoon, leaves, swans, and others).
Recommendation: Appropriate for grades first through sixth.
Reviewer: Leona Dixon
de Paola, Tomie (1981). The Hunter and the Animals. Holiday House: New York
Title- The Hunter and the Animals
Stereotypes- There is a distinct pattern in the way the hunter is dressed to suggest where he is from I would assume. The hunter is dressed in a clothing and attire that includes boots and a hat with a feather floating out of it.
Readability- The author/illustrator did a good job of defining each action by borders within the pages, thus making it easier to read.
Illustrations- Easy to interpret, quite vivid and suggests detail of the story
Accuracy- A definite purpose or message can be conveyed by the pictures that the hunter was shaken when the animals took fate into their own hands and took his weapon and belongings and further gave them back for him to decide what action to take
Recommendation- With the exception of there being a gun in the illustrations I would recommend the book for use because it has a moral lesson instilled in the purpose.
Reviewer: Leona Dixon
Wildsmith, Brian (1983) The Apple Bird. Oxford University Press: Oxford Toronto Melbourne
Title- The Apple Bird
Stereotypes- I really didn't recognize any stereotypes.
Readability- Very easy to see sequence of events because pages are limited to one picture dictating one action.
Accuracy- Although the pictures are scare and limited it enables the reader to understand what is being told in the story.
Recommendation- I would highly recommend this book for young students and encourage them to tell it on their own considering how short it is.
Reviewer: Leona Dixon
Jenkins, Steve (1995) Looking Down. Houghton/Mifflin Company: Boston New York
Title- Looking Down
Stereotypes- No stereotypes present
Readability- Illustrations make it easy to follow and interpret story
Accuracy- This particular book portrays images from above earth from the moon and satellite view. For this reason I would say the accuracy was sufficient in conveying geographical properties of the world.
Recommendation- Excellent book to use with all ages. Craetes awareness of geography from many angles including at a world view as well as neighborhood view.
Reviewer: Jeremy Wescott
Title: Schories, Pat (2004) Breakfast for Jack. Front Street, NC
Stereotypes: I thought this was a good pick with no to little stereotypes, mom and dad both have a job!
Readability: Easy to follow the story
Accuracy: This book told a story of a child who for got to feed the dog but later did, I believe the lesson is; Sometimes life is so busy,we forget to take care of the smaller things!
Recommendation: I recommend this book
Reviewer: Jeremy Wescott
Title: De Groat, Diane (1977) Alligator's Toothache. Crown Pub. NY, NY
Stereotypes: It was pretty hard to pin point any stereotypes however, the alligator does seem a little aggressive. Maybe the stereo type is that alligators are mean :)
Readability: Easy to follow the story
Accuracy: When we eat to many sweets we get a toothaches (pretty accurate)
Recommendation: Did not really care for this read
Reviewer: Jeremy Wescott
Title: Graham, Alastair (1991) Full Moon Soup
Stereotypes: No
Readability: Cool Illustrations, one can easily follow the story
Accuracy: The book tells a story of a hotel where bad things can happen during a full moon.
Recommendation: Recommend this book to older students (middle school aged) a lot going on
Reviewer: Cameo Self
Lehman, Barbara. (2006). Museum Trip. Houghton Mifflin Company. Boston, Massachusetts.Title: Museum Trip
Stereotypes: None that I could see
Readability: Very easy to follow story
Illustrations: Colorful, details of the museum were detailed. Maze parts were large enough if a student wanted to follow the maze with their finger.
Accuracy: Museum artifacts looked very close to being accurate.
Recommendation: I would recommend this book because the illustrations are simple yet engaging and the story line is cute.
Reviewer: Cameo Self
Wiesner, David. (1991). Tuesday. Hought Mifflin Company. New York, New York.
Title: Tuesday
Stereotypes: None
Readability:I think this book would be better for older children because the idea of the story is pretty abstract.
Illustrations: Well illustrated, a little dark however. The flying frogs in capes are cute!
Accuracy: Abstract idea: flying frogs and pigs
Recommendation: I would recommend this book for older children who may enjoy the more abstract ideas.
Reviewer: Cameo Self
Wiesner, David. (2006). Flotsam. Clarion Books. New York, New YorkTitle: Flotsam
Stereotypes: None
Readability: All the different sections on each page made it distracting and seems like it would be harder for younger kids to follow.
Illustrations: Very beautiful illustrations, very detailed.
Accuracy: Ideas are abstract
Recommendation: I would not recommend this book, did not enjoy it because the story served no purpose, or moral.
Reviewer: Lauren Stoehr
Krahn, Fernando. (1981). Arthur's adventure in the abandoned house. E.P. Dutton: New York
Title: Arthur's Adventure in the Abandoned House
Sterotypes: None
Readability: Easy to follow and make predictions about what happens next
Illustrations: All illustrations in black and white, and with a lot of detail
Accuracy: Depicts a story of a little boy who get's caught up in something unexpected while exploring an abandoned house
Recommendation: Not sure whether I would recommend this book to anyone or not. If I did, it would surely be geared towards older kids- It tells of a boy and a man being held hostage at gun-point by some sort of mob/gang.
Reviewer: Lauren Stoehr
Banyai, Istvan. (1995). Zoom. Viking: New York
Title: Zoom
Sterotypes: Not too sure... shows pictures of a native smoking a pipe, sitting in front of a TV, and with a small trailor/camper in a desolate area in the desert. Also, shows island natives with painted bodies, minimal clothing, wearing headresses, necklaces, bracelets, anklets, and living in huts. Shows a mailman as well, whose skin color is similar, but he is dressed in a blue shirt, white pants and carrying a mail bag. I guess it depends on how the story is presented.
Readability: Difficult to make predictions as to what happens next, but each on-coming page "explains" the previous pages.
Illustrations: Brightly colored, vibrant illustrations. All pictures are only on the right-sided pages (which probably is a good thing because with all the vibrant colors, having illustration on both pages might be visually overwhelming). All the left-sided pages are solid black.
Accuracy: Same answer as Sterotypes
Recommendation: I guess I would recommend this book for older children because it may help one to realize that there is always more to the picture than meets the eye and may also help one to see that the world is made up of more/bigger things than one's self... that there is always a bigger picture in life.
Reviewer: Lauren Stoehr
Sara. (1990). Across Town. Orchard Books: New York
Title: Across Town
Sterotypes: None
Readability: Easy to make your one story- could be a story about a person trying to get away from someone/something, someone just going for a walk. I guess you could make it into a a spooky or suspensful story, too.
Illustrations: Creative artwork using torn paper. Whole book is only in three colors: black, white, gray.
Accuracy: Story tells of a person going across town and coming across a cat, whom he makes friends with.
Recommendation: I would recommend this book because of the imagination that is prompted while going through the pages. My 2 year old wasn't very interested, but my five year old liked it. We spent quite a while going over and over this book, making a new storyline each time.
Reviewer: Linda Delgado
Lehman, Barbara. (2004). The Red Book. Houghton Mifflin Co.: Boston, MA.
Title: The Red Book
Stereotypes: None
Readability: I think this is a great story. It may be harder for younger children to see what is going on.
Illustrator: The illustrations are very well done. I like the creativity the artist puts into it.
Accuracy: The setting of this book is right for this story.
Recommendation: I would recommend this book for third grade and up, to read on their own. For younger children it would have to be explained.
Varon, Sara. (2009). Chicken and Cat Clean Up. Scholastic Press: New York, NY.
Title: Chicken and Cat Clean Up
Stereotypes: None
Readability: The readability of this book is very easy. It would be a great book for younger children as well as older.
Illustrations: Illustrations are easy to follow. Children would love this book because it looks like the cartoon Catdog.
Accuracy: The setting is the city where animals live like people so it is not accurate, but would be fun for children. That's what learning needs, to be fun.
Recommendation: I would recommend this book to anyone. It has a very good story about responsibility.
Wiesner, David. (1999). Sector 7. Clarion Books: New York, NY.
Title: Sector 7
Stereotypes: None
Readability: It probably would be a good book for second grade and up. It's an easy book to follow.
Illustrations: The illustrations in this book tell a wonderful story about cloud shapes.
Accuracy: The setting of this story is very accurate, the sky's the limit!
Recommendation: This is a wonderful book for young and old alike. If you've ever looked at the clouds and saw shapes, you'll love this book.
Alphabet Books
Reviewer: Cameo Self
Rey, H.A. (1998). Curious George's ABC's. Houghton Mifflin Company: Boston, Massachusetts.
Title: Curious George's ABC's
Stereotypes: None
Readability: Words are pretty easy to understand. I like how they use alliteration
Illustrations: Very simple, I like how they put the letter in the picture.
Accuracy: Information was accurate
Recommendation: I would recommend it because it is associated the letter with the picture
Reviewer: Cameo Self
Jocelyn, Marthe. Slaughter, Tom. (2005). ABC x 3. Tundra Books. Canada.Title: ABC x 3
Stereotypes: None
Readability: The book is in 3 different languages so may be hard to read, however a good way to begin teaching spanish, french, or english.
Illustrations: I think the illustrations were too plain.
Accuracy: I think the words are accurate
Recommendation: I would recommend this to ESL teachers and people who are bilingual at home.
Reviewer: Cameo Self
Asimov, Isaac. (1971). ABC's of the Earth. Walker Publishing Company Inc. USA.Title: ABC's of the Earth
Stereotypes: None
Readability: For upper grades
Illustrations: Plain, no color, could have used better photographs
Accuracy: Information seems to be accurate, may need some updating since it was from 1971
Recommendation: It is an old book, so may not be a good read for today's era. I would recommend it for the geography/science center if it was a newer edition.
Reviewer: Ashley Bierman
Scillian, Devin. (2001). A is for America. Sleeping Bear Press: Chelsea, MI.
Title: A is for America
Stereotypes: None
Readability: This book is historically descriptive introducing many unique places and people from the Americas past written through poetry. As children read this book, they are able to easily follow the script by also following the beautiful imagery through detailed illustrations.
Illustrations: As each letter describes either a person, place, or thing from America's history, they are featured in colorful and vibrant drawings bringing history to life.
Accuracy: The information provided in this book is accurate knowledge from America's history and is perceived as accurate throughout its images.
Recommendation: I would recommend using this book for older primary grades and it would be a useful resource for students to learn history and social studies.
Reviewer: Ashley Bierman
Litchfield, J. & Young, C. (2004). First picture ABC. EDC Publishing: Tulsa, OK.
Title: First Picture ABC
Stereotypes: None
Readability: Each page provides the ABC's at the bottom highlighting what letters or letters are being shown, where young children will be able to easily follow. There are around eight to ten recognizable words on each page along with a picture to understand what each word symbolizes.
Illustrations: Many of the images of this book are real-life objects that children will be able to recognize in everyday life. When children are learning their ABC's it is important for them to learn from things they already see and are aware of.
Accuracy: This book uses a variety of words and pictures for children to learn the alphabet.
Recommendation: I would recommend using this book for early childhood through early primary grades to help them learn and build on learning the alphabet.
Reviewer: Ashley Bierman
James, Helen Foster. (2007). S is for s'mores: a camping alphabet. Sleeping Bear Press: Chelsea, MI.
Title: S is for S'mores: A Camping Alphabet
Stereotypes: None
Readability: With the use of catchy rhymes representing each letter of the alphabet, early readers will enjoy reading this book about the exploration of camping. Older children will also enjoy this book by reading the section of each page which includes interesting facts and details of a camping trip.
Illustrations: As each letter of the alphabet is described in the aspect of camping, beautiful watercolor images accompany the camping experience. The illustrations provide children with their own personal guide for what they will see and find as they explore camping in the wilderness. From listening to the chirping of a small bird to exploring the mountains by foot, the images of this book bring camping to a different level.
Accuracy: The use of camping as a guide to learning the alphabet can be a useful tool. Camping is something many children do with their families and friends and by relating the ABC's to the experience of camping, something children know about already, can help them build their skills.
Recommendation: I would recommend using this book with both early readers and older children. The book provides a resource for both of these readers to learning more about the alphabet and interesting facts.
Reviewer: Bernadette Tourtillott
Schnur, Steven. (2002). WINTER: An Alphabet Acrostic. Clarion Books: 215 Park Avenue South, New York, New York 10003.
Title: Winter An Alphabet Acrostic
Stereotypes: none
Readability: The acrostic words are put into a feeling always dealing with the winter months. This book is for at least the third grade, but it can be used to read to younger students when introducing the menaing of acrostic. This is agood read for students who are working on acrostics, maybe this can also be used int the third and fourth grade as an introduction to acrostic writing. It also goes to show the many ways we can use words to describe a wide variety of ways in which words can be used. This book shows creativity with words, not only that but also puts it alphabetically.
Illustrations: The illustarations are eye-appealing for any age reader to connecft with the book. This book has the color and textures of winter, captured by the illustrator in hr linoleum-cut illustrations.
Accuracy: The use of winter is very creative to bring out some definitely acrostic words. I look at these books nowt only for children but adults also, who can get a lot of ideas for doing different things with their children.
Recommendations: Recommendations are: It is a great read for a variety of age groups and also very educational in the teaching of the alphabet along with acrostics.
Reviewer: Bernadette Tourtillott
Shaw, Eve. (1997). Grandmother's Alphabet. Pfeifer-Hamilton Publishers.
Title: Grandmother's Alphabet
Stereotypes: none
Readability: Easy reading and straight to the point all the things Grandma can be from A to Z. The employment Grandma can have are not just jobs for women but anything such as an engineer,legislator and horse trainer. This book also gives children n idea of what thy might like to become when they grow-up. Being a grandmothe myself it gives me the initiative not to give up and keep on striving for that ultimate goal of one day being able to work with children, no matter what obstacles come into play.
Illustrations: Grandmother's in all different shapes, colors and ages doing what they want to do in life and at the end of each page saying ....and so can I.
Accuracy: It is as accurate as can be because you know these grandmother's are always right.
Recommendations: It is a must read to our young, because if they've got a grandmother they know themselves that their Grandma can work wonders and that there is nothing that she can not do.
Reviewer: Bernadette Tourtillott
Allsburg. Van, Chris. The Z Was Zapped. A Play In Twenty-Six Acts. Houghton-Mifflin Company Boston.
Title: The Z was Zapped.
Stereotypes: none
Readability: Powerful one liners. The reader can feel the pictures. Like it is said, "A picture speaks a 1000 words." This is a must read for future educators to have in their own personal library.
Illustrations: Intense and comprehendable for the very young.
Accuracy: Right--on for teaching the alphabet, to anyone at any age. A good teacher never forgets about the accomodations that might be needed down the line if not today it will be someday, and that teacher always has a bag of tricks within reach.
Reviewer: Melody Peterman
Baker, Alan. (2004). Black and White Rabbit's ABC. Kingfisher, Boston; Mass.
Title: Black and White's Rabbit's ABC
Stereotypes: none, unless the animal kingdom is offended by the rabbit receiving the starring role in this book.
Readability: The story is based on an accident prone rabbit trying to create a picture of an apple. Each letter brings a new solution or obstacle to the rabbit's mission. Through the story is an easy reader for younger elementary grades, it book would serve as a great book in Early Childhood. Even if the student is unable read the words, the pictures or question cues from the teacher can convey the story to the student.
Illustrations: Set on an all white background, the eye is focused on the scene of the rabbit, which to relate to my statement in Readability, helps the non reader to create the story in their own words. Using the pictures to explain in their words the message the author was putting out for them.
Accuracy: A child's pet rabbit would not be able to create such an amusing act but doesn't mean the child couldn't believe or imagine it happening. Solutions the rabbit comes up with in the story, such as mopping up the leaking ink, would indirectly tell the student clean up your messes.
Recommendations: For me this book offers many opportunities to learn, other then just ABC's. Great book to have in any Early Childhood or Elementary library for the students to use in silent reading or at a group time/circle time discussion.
Reviewer: Melody Peterman
Gerstein, Mordical. (1999). The Absolutely Awful Alphabet. Voyager Books; Harcourt, Inc: Boston, Mass.
Title: The Absolutely Awful Alphabet.
Stereotypes: none, each of the monsters and ghouls are equally as awful as the next.
Readability: Amazing job of introducing new vocabulary with many new "big" words that the students may not have been accustom to hearing. If being used as an silent reader/independent reader, this book should be used in higher elementary grades however young grades could benefit found this book as a read a loud in group or circle time in younger grades. Another interesting part of the book is that the whole story is only one sentence long. Great book to use for learning new adjectives.
Illustrations: Through the backgrounds are not blank or one solid color, it isn't distracting. This is an important fact because the page is focused on the letter, written in standard font, the letter pops out first to the student to set in their mind how letters differ from one another. A closer look at the letter shows the absolutely awfully amazing job done by illustrator to bring the ghouly soul of each letter out. Very funny and creative use of letters.
Accuracy: Yes this book teaches the alphabet but it also dared to take a step farther to teach more with new vocab, new takes on illustrations, and writing style. Feel through this approaches this book will attract more readers.
Recommendations: For me, books need to have good pictures to carry out the story as much as the wording in the book. This book as great pictures and makes awful pretty.
Reviewer: Melody Peterman
Lobel, Anita. (1990). Alison's Zinia. Greenwillow Books:Singapore.
Title: Alison's Zinia
Stereotypes: This book holds true to the old stereotype that only girls like flowers. Each pages as a girl's name to go with the flower, a picture of the girl at the bottom which serves another stereotype, the young girls are all white. For me, the lower picture of the girl reminds me of The Secret Garden with all the wealthy girls in beautiful dresses, all white.
Illustrations: As for the flowers, which are the focus of the page, taking up about 70% of the page, they are beautifully painted. With so many letters, many new flowers are introduced, some many of the students many have never seen before.
Accuracy: As far as accuracy of the flowers, right on. They are painted amazingly, soft and delicate like real life flowers. But as far accuracy of the real world, I feel it was a lost opportunity to reach across the board and to bring in others then young, Caucasian girls to the book.
Recommendations: To use for opportunity to introduce new flowers, great book. Even shows that not all plants labeled flowers have blossons on them. But dont recommend as a stable reader in a library because of the stereotype that only girls like flowers.
Reviewer: Jeremy Wescott
Title: Pallotta, Jerry (1991) The Underwater Alphabet Book Charlesbridge, MA.
Stereotypes: None present
Readability: This book would be an easy and exiting way to know the ABC’s of underwater life. *4th – 5th grade reading level
Illustrations: Edgar Stewart does a wonderful job of illustrating, the pictures show the fish accurately in a setting
Accuracy: I thought this book would educate any one who read it, the facts about where the fish live, what they eat, and where they live are very accurate.
Recommendations: I would recommend this book to any one who would like to learn the ABC’s of the ocean.
Reviewer: Jeremy Wescott
Title: Nickle, John (2006) Alphabet Explosion Schwartz & Wade Books, NY, NY
Stereotypes: Looked hard to find stereotypes in this book could not locate any.
Readability: Experienced a little difficulty trying to figure out why the illustration was on the page it was onL
Illustrations: Illustrations were interesting to say the least, I like the way the illustrator captured what the author wanted on that particular page.
Accuracy: The author of this book was not trying to be accurate he is just trying to teach children the alphabet in a creative way.
Recommendations: Although some of the pictures were a little hard to figure out, I would definitely recommend this book to people 10 and up, it was fun trying to link the illustrations to the letter on the page.
Seuss, D. (1963). Dr. Seuss's ABC. Random House Inc: New York, NY.
Reviewer: Marcus Denny
Title: Dr. Seuss's ABC
Stereotypes: None
Readability: As with all Dr. Seuss books some of the words are hard for children to read but not for an adult to read to a child as they are intended for.
Illustrations: Classic Dr. Seuss illustrations make the book appealing for all children.
Accuracy: The author uses many words to describe each letter and reinforce the letter. It uses words that help the sounds of the letter grow into words.
Recommendations: Great book for any teacher or parent trying to teach the alphabet and letter sounds to smaller children. A good book for individual reading for 1st and 2nd graders.
Bannatyne-Cugnet, J. (1992). A Prairie Alphabet. Tundra Books: New York, NY.
Reviewer: Marcus Denny
Title: A Prairie Alphabet
Stereotypes: There is some stereotyping in this book. Most of the farmers are portrayed as white people. The only ethnic or minorities in the book are for the letter R. There is a Native American Fancy dancer and it looks like some Indian cowboys. In the back of the book the illustrator explains each picture but doesnt say anything about the Fancy dancer.
Readabilty: The sentences on each page are real easy to read.
Illustrations: The illustrations are well done and very life like. It makes you seem as though you are there.
Accuracy: The accuracy of farmlife and other things that are associated with it seem to be right on.
Recomendations: A good book to use for introducing a farm theme or farm life. I would recommend for 2nd grade on up. There would be some new words that would be intorduced for second graders in ths book.
Hoena, B. A. (2005). Toys ABC. Capstone Press: Mankato, MN.
Reviewer: Marcus Denny
Title: Toys ABC
Stereotypes:No stereotypes. The book used both boy and girl toys in it. It also used children of different races.
Readability:Pretty easy read. A lot of words that a child can relate to. A great book for 1st and 2nd graders to practice reading.
Illustrations: No illustrations just actual pictures of toys. The photos were very well taken and interesting.
Accuracy: The accuracy of the book is right on. It relates to children very well.
Recommendations: Good book for any child thats just starting to learn their ABC's. My 4 year old son loved the book when i read it to him. He loved every part of the book except D for Doll. Would be a would be a good book for a 1st or 2nd grader to read because it has a lot of simple words in it.
Conn Beall, Pamela and Hagen Hipp, Susan (2001) Wee Sing & Learn ABC. Price Stern Sloan: New York
Reviewer- Leona Dixon
Title- Wee Sing and Learn ABC
Stereotypes- None Present
Readability- Being that is is an ABC book, it can be hard at times to find a relevant representation of each letter of the alphabet and this particular book had a letter represented by an animal and a musical instrument. At times there were animals and instruments that an adult may find unfamiliar and could be hard for a child with emerging understanding of literacy to comprehend.
Illustrations- Each page had bright colorful representations of each animal and instrument and had smaller pictures around the page borders of other things that began with that letter.
Accuracy- As previously mentioned, ample representation was given for each letter so the idea came across very well to the reader
Recommendations- Very good book! My two year old absolutely loved it. I had to sneak it back out of the house.
Bulloch, Ivan & James, Diane (2007) Learn with Me ABC. Two Can Publishing: Minnetonka, MN
Reviewer- Leona Dixon
Title- Learn with Me ABC
Stereotypes- None Present
Readability- Each page begins with A is for or B is for etc. and includes a picture of an object and its title beneath it. Very simple to follow.
Illustrations- Very colorful, bright pages full of objects that children can recognize and relate to including a child on each page.
Accuracy- Provided some excellent examples and pictures of each letters that can be easily understood and interpreted.
Recommendations- Excellent book to use for young children! Highly recommended to keep children interest.
Todd, Tracy N. (2007) C is for Caboose: Riding The Rails From A To Z. Raincast Books: Vancouver, British Columbia
Reviewer- Leona Dixon
Title- C is for Caboose: Riding The Rails From A To Z
Stereotypes- There was reference to African Americans that isnt necessarily a representation of the group as a whole.
Readability- Very advanced book with a lot of historical reference to people, places and events.
Illustrations- Provides both illustrations and pictures. Pictures are very interesting and appealing. The illustrations are very colorful and eye catching.
Accuracy- Useful and factual information is provided for the reader in addition to dates of history that it is relevant to.
Recommendations- I think that this wold be an excellent book for grades 3-4 and up. It provides a lot of information for a reader to indulge in.
Reviewer: Janelle Schroeder-Unger
Layne, Steven & Deborah. (2007). P is for Princess: A Royal Alphabet. Sleeping Bear Press: Chelsea, Michigan.
Title: P is for Princess: A Royal Alphabet
Stereotypes: None that I'm aware of.
Readability: The side notes on each page are for older readers and contain more difficult vocabulary. The text contained within the illustrations are easier to read, brief, and utilizes rhyming which appeals to readers of all ages.
Illustrations: Full color, vivid, detailed and very realistic. The styles of each illustration varies from cartoonish to realistic depictions of actual people.
Accuracy: The side notes explain factual and historical information about the subjects in the illustrations. The rhyming expletives describe the letters briefly and relate them to something factual. (Ex: in the illustration it reads, "A is for Aurora, a princess put to sleep. Awakened by a prince's kiss, she fell in love so deep." The side notes expand on the classic fairy tale "Sleeping Beauty", who published it, and includes some info on the first appearance of the name Princess Aurora in the 1890 Tchaikovsky ballet also named "Sleeping Beauty")
Recommendation: Appropriate for somewhat experienced readers all the way up to very experience readers (grades Second or Third to Sixth). This book would work well with units on history, famous people, government, other countries, etc.
Base, Graeme. (1986). Animalia. Harry N. Abrams, Incorporated: New York.
Title: Animalia
Stereotypes: None that I'm aware of.
Readability: The lettering is stylistic including old English and other various fonts, which makes it difficult for younger students to decipher. The vocabulary is advanced.
Illustrations: Full color, fantastic, vivid, realistic, full page illustrations that are fun to look at. Includes hidden images and entices readers to investigate illustrations, possibly finding something new in them every time they check out the book. Images promote thought and introduce images that will help to expand student's vocabulary, depicting things that students may not be familiar with.
Accuracy: The illustrations and text include both reality and fantasy. The subject matter of each illustration is depicted with realistic detail, and includes objects and creatures from all over the world.Recommendation: Appropriate for grades preschool through 6th just based on the illustrations. Reading level would be appropriate for 3rd or 4th grade based on the difficulty of the words. This book could be used in units about animals and zoos, as well as units covering the alphabet and letter sounds.
Downie, Mary. (2005). A Pioneer ABC. Tundra Books: New York.
Title: A Pioneer ABC
Stereotypes: Depict the pioneers as strictly Aryan (pale skin, blond or light colored hair) with a prim and proper house and no sign of difficulties or hardships.
Readability: The repetitive sounds make it a good book for early readers (and includes glossary or terms from the text). The text is brief and corresponds with the iluustrations.
Illustrations: Subdued colors, simple illustrations, not overly detailed, but fun to look at. The boarder illustrations depict objects relative to the era.
Accuracy: The text seems to be accurate, but more picturesque for that period. It reminds me of Little House on the Prairie, minus some of the true to life difficulties that I'm sure the pioneers experienced.
Recommendation: Due to the simplicity of the text, I feel this book is appropriate for early readers, perhaps 2nd or 3rd grade through 4th. This book could be used in a unit about United States history.
Reviewer: Mrs.Peters
Oxenbury, S. (1971). Helen Oxenbury's ABC of Things.Delacorte Press.N.Y, New York.
Title: Helen Oxebury's ABC of Things
Stereotypes: None
Readability: It is quickly understood or read, that all the items on the page start with that letter being showcased.
Illustrations: Simple, funny, colored, pencil drawings that seem to bring the kid out of you as you read.
Accuracy: Well, all the items start with the correct letter on each page. This is the only connection that really needs to be made in ABC book.
Recommendations: Ages 0-6 would like this book. It is a nice book to have for young readers, it stands out due to the shape of the book, not to mention the pictures are cool.
Chubb, M. (1966). An Alphabet of Ancient Egypt. Great Britian.
Title: An Alphabet of Ancient Egypt
Stereotypes: Slaves are protrayed as Working men under the W, and they were happy learning to make many things for the king.
Readability: It is for sure a higher end read for students. Words pronunciation is difficult if you lack the schema of Egypt.
Illustrations: Ok, the pictures seemed older like hyrogliphics,no pun intended. The colors were nice, bold and dark.
Accuracy: Besides the slave issue, I must admit the book was quite accurate with the facts about Egypt.
Recommendations: 6th -12th The book would be great for any class projects having to do with Egypt. Although I would stress to them that the slaves were not happy working men. This book is an informational book about a culture and people.
Reviewer: Lauren Stoehr
Pelletier, D. (1996). The graphic alaphabet. Orchard:New York
Title: The Graphic Alaphabet
Sterotypes: None
Readability: Easy read; each page displays a picture of each letter in some type of action or object, and connects each letter with a word that begins with that letter.
Illustrations: Very bold colors, fun pictures.
Accuracy: Kids would be able to identify with each picture and word, although depending on environment/location, some children might not know Avalanche or Iceberg.
Recommendation: I would recommend this book. Very bright, bold pictures.. both my 2 year old and 5 year old enjoyed this book.
Reviewer: Lauren Stoehr
Ruurs, M. (1996). A mountain alaphabet. Tundra Books: Toronto, Ontario
Title: A Mountain Alaphabet
Sterotypes: None
Readability: I think this would be a good book for any age. Has very good alliteration throughout the whole book.
Illustrations: Very detailed, colorful illustrations.
Accuracy: All of the animals and backgrounds are pictured accurately of a forest area.
Recommendation: I would recommend this book- it had good use of language and alliteration, detailed pictures, and I think kids, especially from around our area, would be able to relate to the book.
Reviewer: Lauren Stoehr
Wood, A. (2006). Alaphabet rescue. The Sky Blue Press: New York
Title: Alaphabet Rescue
Sterotypes: None
Readability: Very good read- not your typical ABC's book.
Illustrations: Very bold, colorful illustrations.
Accuracy: I think kids would be able to relate to the senario of the little letters trying to help out the big letters, but getting in the way/messing things up, then proving that they can really be helpful.
Recommendation: I really liked this book because it's not your typical A is for apple, B is for broom, alaphabet book. Threre really is a story line in this book and all of the pictures show all of the letters. My 2 year really loved this book.
Reviewer: Linda Delgado
Grundy, Lynn. (No copyright year). a is for apple. Ladybird Books: Loughborough
Title: a is for apple
Stereotypes: None
Readability: Very readable for younger and older children. Young children can read the letters and pictures, while older children can read the words.
Illustrations: The illustrations are very bright and very well done. They are very life-like.
Accuracy: Nothing to do with accuracy in this book.
Recommendation: I would definitely recommend this book for headstart and kindergarten classrooms. The letters are big and noticeable, great for teaching the alphabet.
Geddes, Anne. (1995). ABC. Cedco Publishing Company: San Rafael, CA.
Title: ABC
Stereotypes: None
Readability: A book for younger children learning their ABC's, but it would have to be read by an adult or older child.
Illustrations: Very great work, but some of it young children would not recognize.
Accuracy: Some of the settings for the babies and children are real, but some are made up. Great for the imagination!
Recommendation: This book would be great for an adult to read to a baby or young child. They could relate well to the pictures because of the babies and children in them.
Leuck, Laura. (2003). Jeepers Creepers a Monstrous ABC. Chronical Books: San Francisco, CA.
Title: Jeepers Creepers a Monstrous ABC
Stereotypes: who's to say what a monster looks like?
Readability: Great for all ages, younger children would have to be read to because of big words, but they could read the letters.
Illustrations: They are bright and colorful and full of imagination. Children would definitely be engaged.
Accuracy: What happened to teaching that monsters aren't real. As long as children know that you can be imaginative in stories, and write about what you want to.
Recommendation: As long as children know it is just make believe, it can be a great story.
Pattern Books
Reviewer: Ashley Bierman
Hinman, Bobbie. (2008). The sock fairy. Best Fairy Books: Bel Air, MD.
Title: The Sock Fairy
Stereotypes: None
Readability: This story about a sock fairy who takes your socks, mismatches, and puts holes in them will surely relate to young children. Each page gives a concept for the children to follow, having up to twelve words a page. As the story is read, there is a flow of the words that makes this book easy to read. Questions are asked in the book where children will be able to answer and interact with to better read and understand the book. A great book for children to use their imagination.
Illustrations: The pictures of this book our filled with vibrant colors featuring the many colorful mismatched socks found by the children after the sock fairy has sorted through them. As children read this imagination-filled story, they will escape into another world as they view the illustrations.
Accuracy: Although there is no such thing as a fairy, young children don't need to know. Let them use their creativity and imagination as they explore this book about a mischievous sock fairy.
Recommendation: I would recommend this book for young children possibly ages as young as three and up to seven or eight years of age. It would also be a great book to spark ideas for children to create their own stories.
Reviewer: Ashley Bierman
Dewdney, Anna. (2005). llama llama red pajama. Penguin Young Readers Group: New York, NY.
Title: Llama Llama Red Pajama
Stereotypes: None, it uses only one type of animal in the story, but I don't feel the llama was used in a stereotypical way.
Readability: Throughout the book, rhyming guides the reader through the story about a young llama in need of his mother llamas presence. There are also highlighted words shown in various sentences, mostly about how the young llama is feeling or doing to get his mothers attention. These words can also become new words for students to learn.
Illustrations: The illustrations are large and bold, especially when the young llama is trying to express is various feelings towards his mother. "Llama llama red pajama weeping, wailing for his mama..." displays a bold picture where the young llama has its mouth wide open yelling for mom. I feel the picture will allow children to feel exactly how the llama is feeling and will help them relate to prior experiences they may have had.
Accuracy: I feel that there is an accurate portrayal of feelings between a mother and her child. There are many times when a child wants or needs their mom and this story brings this concept in an interesting way.
Recommendation: I would recommend using this book for infants and young elementary students. It is a great story that they will relate to and understand.
Reviewer: Ashley Bierman
Rylant, Cynthia. (2009). All in a day. Abrams Books for Young Readers: New York, NY.
Title: All In A Day
Sreotypes: None
Readability: Th book provides the reader with a interesting story about a young child who looks forward to what a single day will bring him. Anything can happen in a single day and this inspires each child to do anything they desire in their life. This book can easily be read older elementary children, but younger children will enjoy learning the new words and the correlating illustrations.
Illustrations: The illustrations are bold, black and white with bright yellow and some light blue on some of the pages to keep the reader alert and aware of the story being read. The illustrator used a unique and interesting cut paper technique which brings an artistic feature to this book. It would be a neat idea to copy pages from the book because its format will allow children to color the pages, possible as a follow up to the story.
Accuracy: I feel that there is really no need for accuracy in this book. If each child had a single day to do whatever they desired, they would each do different things. This book just gave one aspect of what one child could do in a day.
Recommendation: I would recommend this book for both young and older elementary children. It would be an interesting book to relate to the concept of time.
Reviewer: Bernadette Tourtillott
McDonnell, Patrick. (2006). Art. Little Brown and Company. New York, NY.
Title: ART
Stereotype: Judging by the year, I would say it has a stereotype about it. It is about the boy things society has placed on little boys. (cars, dogs, and especially being messy).
Readability: On most of the pages there is either one word or one liners, I did not think there was a distinguishing amount of pattern words either. The say this author is the next Charles Schulz, I beg to differ.
Illustrations: There was a lot of white left on a lot of pages. Used the primary colors of red,yellow and blue. Simple drawings that can encourage children to be creative and that a few simple shakes of the hand can produce. Art is not always about how artistic one can be but can also be about expressing ourselves.
Accuracy: In reading the book to my five-year old granddaughter she did not get over ecstatic, but did relate to the back pages of putting art on the refrigerator.
Recommendations: A good introduction to books and to the young who can not sit still for more than a second!!
Reviewer: Bernadette Tourtillott
Andreae, Giles. (1999). Giraffes Can't Dance. Orchard Books. New York. NY.
Title: Giraffes Can't Dance
Stereotype: None
Readability: I read the book to my three grandchildren (ages: 3,5, & 8). it was getting to long for the three-year-old, the five-year-old was mouth-wide-open in to it. My eight-year old being so perceptive recognized the cover of the book when Gerald could dance, to his own music.
Illustrations: My grandchildren enjoyed every page and how the animals performed their own unique style of dance. Bright colors on silky paper.
Accuracy: The text was fun reading to children of almost any age.
Recommendations: A good read when focusing on how we are all individuals, and that everyone has their own special talent.
Reviewer: Berrnadette Tourtillott
Bond, Felicia. Tumble Bumble. (1996). Laura Geringer Book. Front Street.
Title: Tumble Bumble
Stereotypes: None
Readability: Pattern friendly, good read for children to answer with the last word on certain pages.
Illustrations: Very color friendly and keeps children engaged.
Accuracy: Tells a story of friends runnning into one another as they are out and about.
Recommendations: A good read for young children and the art of using animals to tell a story of friendship.
Reviewer: Melody Peterman
Curtis, Jamie Lee. Where Do Balloons Go? An Uplifting Mystery. (2000). Joanna Cotler Books. U.S.A
Title: Where do balloons go?
Stereotypes: None,balloons of all shapes and sizes are represented
Readability: Easy to read, whereas some pattern books can be turned into a simple song based off the flow of the words, this story would be a bit difficult to do so just for the fact that some lines, through they have pattern, dont share the same syllable count..
Illustrations: Creativity messing in the greatest sense. Blurry backgrounds yet still detailed enough to show the story. Full of colors and imagination. Created with a young reader in mind but also with the understanding that than adult will also be reading and looking at its bright pages. Illustrations contain light adult humor such when the balloon travels to Bates Motel.
Accuracy: Where would balloons go? When you let one go, you never are very sure where it will go. This book is a great imaginary tool to use for prompt decussion on where balloons go. The sky is the limit, no pun intended
Recommendations: My favorite children's book I have found in a while. Routinely read at bedtime for my sister for years. Great book to use as resource when covering units on wind, sky, or even using to stimulate creativity and to think of endless possibilities.
Reviewer: Melody Peterman
Metzger, Steve. My Bossy Dolly. (2006). Scholastic Inc. New York, New York.
Title: My Bossy Dolly
Stereotypes: None
Readability: Written through the eyes of a young girl, using her logo and terminalogy makes it easier to be read by a young audience. The rhymes are easy to fine and rest of the text as repeats, such as mom and dad, making it build fluency in reading
Illustrations: Very simply done. Calm color palette with just enough detail to saw the story. Simply drawn, child inspired, but the part of the drawing enjoyed the most is Sally and Betsy, the girl and doll in the story, are always dresses the same. Feel this is a great yet subtle so show the connection bewteen the two.
Accuracy: For children who have a connection to a doll or any other toy, this is a great book to relate to. Activities and thought Sally describes are very much the same as children do in real life, and if there is trouble, well of course the doll did it.
Recommendations: Good book to use in classrooms to help children learn to take responsiblity for their actions and nice things to say vs the not so nice.
Reviewer: Melody Peterman
O'Connell George, Kristine. Up. (2005). Clarion Books. New York, New York.
Title: Up
Stereotypes: None. The story is just about a young girl and her dad. Dads can have sons to but to pick apart this book would take away from the relationship created in this book and its purpose.
Readability: Very simple read with lot of action words, descriptive words, and great phrasing to descirbe the many ways of up. Very well written to reflect the energy of a toddler though words.
Illustrations: Bright and cheery pictures perfectly reflect the birght and cheery story. Stickes to very earthy color tones to stay in sync with the story ( a day at the park), lot of bright yellows, blues, and greens.
Accuracy: Father daugther bonding at its prime, a day at the park on a bright clear, sunny day. An energetic toddler wakes up and wants her daddy, to see if he is up, to have him toss her up, and to push her swing up. Does a great job of presenting a positive relationship through words as well as pictures.
Recommendations: Have not found many fun father daughter books, this one is the best i have found. Good to use around Father's Day or spring time when the park is on every child's mind. Would also like to see this book as a staple in any classroom.
Reviewer: Carrie Peters
Bryant-Mole, K. (2000). Rhyming Words. Gareth Stevens Publishing. Milwaukee,WI
Title: Rhyming Words
Stereotypes: None
Readability: Mortimer the bear gets his point across, Directions are clearly given for each page, the illustrations are clear and fit the rhyme.
Illustrations:Life like photographs are used to fill the pages, Mort is posed in many ways to match each pages rhyming words,clever.
Accuracy: Yes the directions match the actions as well as the pictures. Some pictures are used instead of words at times, but is even more helpful for young minds.
Recommendations: 2nd Grade at least. This book gives me the impresssion it was made for teachers to read to their class as a group read.It would be great discussion on words that sound the same in the end or at least open the doorway for a rhyming fun disscussion. This book also has a glossary which can be introduced to the students as well.
Barrett, J. (2000). I knew two who said moo. NY,New York: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division.
Title: I Knew Two Who Said Moo
Stereotypes: None
Readability: Vocabulary is higher, the book is like having 10 short stories because each page is one in its own connected only by the numbers which come before and after. This book is cross catogories it combines math with literature and language in an awe inspiring way!
Illustrations: Colorful life like drawings with many hidden messages, much to look at while having a learning experience.
Accuracy: Well, as far as rhyming word books go this one is outside the box for sure, it is accurate in silliness, fun and correct phonics.
Recommendations: All ages. Read it to your kids in and out of school, push it on every kid that comes your way, place this book front and center in the book shelf, because it is an oustanding book.
Fleming, D. (1993). In the small,small pond. NY, New York: Henry Holt and Company.
Title: In the Small, Small Pond
Readability: The story is clear but throws in an odd word that seems kind of confusing. I had two children tell me this word does not rhyme with the rest of the book. It does make the story line a little odd.
Illustrations: The picutes are slightly muted with beautful colors, and soft edges. I think this was for me, the best part of the book.
Accuracy: Yes, it does show correct pond life.
Reccomendations: I did not care for this book because it left too many questions, and I lost the story line wondering why the odd word.
Reviewer: Cameo Self
Rylant, C. (2008). Puppies and Piggies. Orlando, Florida. Harcourt Books
Title: Puppies and Piggies
Readability: It is very easy to read, the rhymes are cute.
Illustrations: The illustrations are very good, simple, yet engaging.
Accuracy: The information is acurate.
Recommendations: I would recommend this book to the younger grades because the rhymes are geared toward younger children.
Reviewer: Cameo Self
Lansky, B. (2004). Mary Had a Little Jam And Other Silly Rhymes. Minnetonka, MN. Meadowbrook Press.
Title: Mary Had a Little Jam And Other Silly Rhymes
Readability: Very easy to read! The rhymes are so cute and silly, young kids will love them!
Illustrations: They are good and go along with the poems
Accuracy: The poems aren't really accurate because they are made to be silly.
Recommendations: I would definitely recommend this book, I used it in my classroom and my kids loved it.
Reviewer: Cameo Self
Downey, L. (2000). The Flea's Sneeze. New York, NY. Henry Holt and Company
Title: The Flea's Sneeze
Readability: It is very easy to read and the language is fun and playful.
Illustrations: The illustrations are great. They are detailed and colorful
Accuracy: Information seems to be as accurate as it can be.
Recommendations: I would definitely recommend this book, my kids loved the playful language.
Reviewer: Leona Dixon
Beaumont, Karen. (2005) I Ain't Gonna Paint No More! Harcourt Inc.: Singapore
Title- I Ain't Gonna Paint No More!
Stereotypes- If you are reading the book, the mother speaks on one page and she say's "You Ain't AGONNA Paint No More" and the last page says "Ya'll don't faint" The pages show a boy and mother that are clearly caucasian and such language could be interpreted to suggest they are or talk like hillbillies.
Readability- The book is written to read as if you are singing it to a song. It is very fun and playful to read if you capture the essence of the rhyming pattern.
Illustrations- Images are portrayed in black and white and color is introduced from the paint the child is using and the way he paints is really interesting and full of designs.
Accuracy- You really can't get as accurate as this book! This being because the whole entire time the kid is painting he is painting his body parts and while painting he is rhyming. He eventually works his way all to his feet and you think it is over until he suggests "I'm such a nut, I think I'll paint my....?" and the mother comes to his room door and says WHAT?!!..The illustrations show a completely painted boy who had just underwear on the whole time painting his body, who now has NO underwear and an exposed and unpainted rear end! The book continues on the last page to say "Ya'll don't faint, cause there's no more paint.
Recommendations- For the reasons I just provided I probably wouldn't use it. It is an excellent colorful, rhyming and fun book until it exposes children to something you don't necessarily know how they'll take it, children are children but you don't want to assume what they do or do not know or think of given that situation. Plus it shows the boys butt.
Reviewer: Leona Dixon
Fleming, Denise. (1991) In the Tall, Tall Grass. Henry Holt and Co: New York
Title- In the Tall, Tall Grass
Stereotypes- None present
Readability- The book is very easy to read, there are only 3 to four words on each page and they are in a rhyming pattern.
Illustrations- Very nice abstract art is included, different animals and insects are introduced through art and sounds.
Accuracy- The different sounds and words that are introduced give you a very good idea of how the animals and insects would sound, the illustrations are excellent in showing how each would look too.
Recommendations- Great book, would definitely use in a classroom. It has provides opportunities to explore more ideas on each page!
Reviewer: Leona Dixon
Keeler, Patricia and McCall Francis. (2002) A Huge Hog Is a Big Pig. Greenwillow Books: Harpors/Collins Company
Title- A Huge Hog Is a Big Pig: a rhyming word game
Stereotypes- None Present
Readability- Very fun and easy to read wording, easy pattern to rhyme with.
Illustrations- Pictures are of real life children and animals on a farm.
Accuracy- Being that it is actual pictures it is good. It also provides for synonyms to different words and animals.
Recommendations- Excellent book! My kids loved the silly rhymes.
Reviewer: Marcus Denny
Prap, L. (2007) Daddies. North-South Books Inc: Switzerland.
Title: Daddies.
Stereotypes- None
Readability- Very easy to distinguish the rhymes in the reading.
Illustrations- Illustrations are very plain but go along perfect with the text.
Accuracy- The theme of Dad's mathces perfect with the different aspects of animals. Great book for children to relate to.
Recommendations- Great book for children to read. Very engaging and a great book to add to a classroom collection.
Reviewer: Marcus Denny
Prelutsky, J. (2007) The Wizard. Greenwillow Books: Illinois
Title: The Wizard
Stereotypes: None
Readability: Great book for third and fourth graders. Good rhymes that are easy to identify. Some new vocab in there that might need to be explained or reinforced.
Illustrations: Pictures are great and make the book even more appealing. Nice use of colors and shapes.
Accuracy: Dont really know what actual wizards do but from what I've seen in movies it looks pretty accurate.
Recommendations: great book with great illustrations that would be appealing to any child.
Reviewer: Marcus Denny
Fleming, D. (2007) Beetle Bop. Harcourt Books: Florida.
Title: Beetle Bop
Stereotypes: None
Readability: Very easy sentences. Great book for children that are just begging to learn to read.
Illustrations: very unique pictures that go great with the book.
Accuracy:The text describes the actions of the animals and is very detailed on their actions.
Recommendations:Great book to include in the earlier grades.
Title: Hello Muddah, Hello Faddah! (A letter from home)
Written by: Allan Sherman and Lou Busch
Illustrated by: Jack E. Davids
Published by: Dutton Children’s Books; N.Y., N.Y.
Hello Muddah, Hello Faddah! Is a book about a boy who goes away to camp and doesn’t like being away from home. He writes a letter to his mother and father begging to come home, exaggerating the events that take place throughout his first day at camp. As the first day comes to an end the boy changes his mind about the camp and tells his parents to disregard the letter, he is going to stay. This is a good read for 2nd-3rd grade reading level, the illustrations are hilarious and full of color. (JW)
Title: Silly Tilly
Written by: Eileen Spinelli
Illustrated by: David Slonim
Published by: Marshall Cavendish Corporation; Tarrytown, N.Y.
Tilly the Silly Goose is a book about a goose that makes all the other animals on the farm go crazy because of her silliness. After the other get the goose to stop being silly they discover that they miss her (the goose) and her silliness. 2nd grade reading level, highly recommended and the illustrations are funny. (JW)
Reviewer: Janelle Schroeder-Unger
MacLennan, C. (2009) Spooky Spooky Spooky. Sterling Publishing Co.: New York.
Title: Spooky Spooky Spooky!
Stereotypes: None
Readability: Bold open letters and rhyming making it easy to read.
Illustrations: Bright, colorful, whimsical, and fun to look at and easy to identify with the characters because it includes familiar subject matter (cats, rats, etc.)
Accuracy: This book is more about fun and playing with words and rhyming than accurately portraying any subject matter.
Recommendations: Great book for early readers and for units on Halloween.dd
Buehner, C. (2002) Snowmen at Night. Phyllis Fogelman Books: New York.
Title: Snowmen at Night
Stereotypes: That all snow is white :) just kidding
Readability: Easy reading with rhyming, not too many words per page, the focus is more on the illustrations.
Illustrations: BEAUTIFUL, full of color, vivid illustrations that are fun to look at.
Accuracy: Well, snowmen can't really move around.
Recommendations: K through 3rd, good for units on seasons, winter, snow, snowflakes, ice, etc.
Picture Story
Author Study
Please post your favorite Author here-we should have 11 different authors. To define assignment:
Bring in samples of the authors books. If you don't own many please visit your local library. We will share what we know about the author and then pass around the books for the night.
Shel Silverstein (AB)
He was a poet, playwright, illustrator, screenwriter, and songwriter. In the 1950's he served in the U.S. Army and drew cartoons for the Pacific Stars and Stripes. In 1952, he began his career as a writer and cartoonist for Playboy Magazine. He was later introduced to an editor of Harper and Brothers who convinces him he could write for children. His first collection of poems, Where the sidewalk ends, was published in 1974. His poetry is widely used in schools as a child's first introduction to poetry. He continued to write various children's books and collection of poetry including The light in the Attic, Runny Babbit, The missing piece meets the big O, and A giraffe and a half.
Jane Yolen (JSU)
Beverly Cleary (cp)
Eric Carle (LSD)
Beatrix Potter (JW)
Dr. Seuss (CS)
Jamie Lee Curtis (MP)
Peggy Parish (LMD)
Dr. Seuss is a pen name for the author Theodor Seuss Geisel. He was born on March 2, 1904 in Springfield, Massachusetts. Dr. Seuss has published over 60 books. Today his books are still widely celebrated, especially in March on his birthday!
Beverly Cleary (cp)
On a hot, blazing, day in May gazing out of a St.Joseph's windows on the 2nd floor, it was Beverly Cleary whom carried me away. I loved SR(silent reading) time. It was time to get away no computers back then, just read. The nuns and school all drifted away,it was Ramona and Beezus, and Ramona could find herself some trouble. If only for 30 minutes a day Ramona was the queeen of my imagination that rolled out like a picture, while I read.This is why I love Mrs.Cleary's books, she wrote about down to earth problems in any kid's life.
Titles: Beezus and Ramona, Ramona the Pest, Ramona Forever, Henry Huggins, Henry and Ribsy,Mouse and the Motorcycle, Ralph S. Mouse, Dear Mr.Henshaw, Strider ect....
Author: Beverly Cleary
Beverly Cleary was born in Oregon on April 12,1916. Her mother was a teacher who surrounded her with books. Beverly was still placed in a lower reading group in the third grade. She later went on to college to become a librarian, after college she married Clearance Cleary. It was her husband who encouraged her to write the first book "Henry Huggins published in 1950. Cleary's books are some of the first chapter books that we read in school between the 2nd and 4th grades. The characters are normal, average children who face many challenges that any child growing up will encounter, this makes it easy for her readers to identify with them. Mrs.Cleary has won many,many awards over her long writing career. You can also check out www.beverlycleary.com.
(lsd)-Author Study
Author: Eric Carle
My favorite author is Eric Carle. He grew up in Germany and went to the Academy of Applied Art to study art and design. After college he returned to the United States. My favorite book by him is The Tiny Seed. It can be used so many ways in the classroom. Another one of my favorites is Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What do You See? He illustrated this one, it was his first.
Other books include: The very Hungry Caterpillar, The Grouchy Ladybug, 123 to the Zoo and Do You Want to be My Friend?
Titles: How Do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight?, How Do Dinosaurs Get Well Soon?, How Do Dinosaurs Eat Their Food?, How Do Dinosaurs Clean Their Rooms?, Good Griselle, and more than 600 others.
Author: Jane Yolen
Jane Yolen was born in New York City and now lives in Hatfield, Massachusetts. She has a master's degree in education from the University of Massachusetts. When she's not writing, she composes songs, works as a professional storyteller on the stage, is a wife, mother, and a grandmother. Yolan is also on the Board of Directors of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators, and was the president of the Science Fiction Writers of America from 1986 to 1988. She has been on the editorial board of several magazines. She has been referred to as "America's Hans Christian Anderson." She has said of herself, "I don't care whether the story is real or fantastical. I tell the story that needs to be told." (JSU)
My favorite Author is also Eric Carle
Eric Carle- His best known work, The Very Hungry Caterpillar. This book has been translated into more than 47 languages and sold over 29 million copies. It was published in 1969.
Eric Carle was born in Syracuse, New York, in 1929. His family moved to Germany when he was very young, but Eric's dream was to back to America,, which he did when he became of age. He graduated from a very prestigiuous college in Germany and returned to America. He pursued his dream of illustrating for top authors which brought out hiws own abilities as well.
He has written and illustrated many books such as: The Very Lonely Butterfly, The Very Quiet Cricket, Brown Bear, Brown Bear What Do You See? (btt)
Titles: Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs, Pickles to Pittsburgh, Never Take a Shark to the Dentist: and Other Things Not to Do, Which Witch is Which.
Author: Judi Barret
She teaches art to kindergarten students at a school in her Brooklyn, New York, neighborhood. She has written a number of books but the ones I listed are the most notable.
(MD)
Peggy Parish was born in Manning, South Carolina on July 14, 1927. She developed a love for reading at an early age and, even as a child, enjoyed writing very much. She attended the University of South Carolina and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. Her biggest breakthrough --- the creation of Amelia Bedelia in 1963. Peggy went on to write 11 more Amelia Bedelia books. She also wrote a number of mystery novels, as well as arts and crafts books. Among these other titles are HAUNTED HOUSE, DINOSAUR TIME, THE CHIMP THAT WENT TO SCHOOL and LET'S CELEBRATE: Holiday Decorations You Can Make (which includes instructions on making decorations for different holidays, such as an Easter bush, a log cabin and a valentine mobile). In addition to writing books, Peggy did television pieces on preschool education and children's books, wrote book review columns and led a number of in-service training workshops for teachers. Sadly, Peggy died of an aneurysm on November 19, 1988.
Poetry
Title:Doodle Dandies: Poems That Take Shape
Author: J. Patrick Lewis
Titles: Daddy Poems, Mommy Poems, Grandparent Poems
Author: John Micklos Jr.
I really enjoy the poems in these books. They make reading poetry to children more personal.(lsd)
Title: Dirt on My Shirt
Author: Jeff Foxworthy
I just recently found this book and it is great. There are poems of all kinds. Some about nature, some about relatives and even some that will make you cry.(lsd)
Author write up from Reading Conference
Author: John Micklos Jr.Books: Daddy Poems, Mommy Poems, Grandparent Poems
The first author I saw was John Micklos Jr. He talked about the process of writing and gave tips for writing and revising. The most important thing I think he talked about was writing about what you love. It makes writing easier and more fun. John also talked about poems. He gave the children a list of different types of poems and explained what goes into writing them types of poems. John did an activity with the children in the room that made it fun. He wrote Poetry Writing on the board and did an acrostic poem. Eleven second graders came up with lots of great words.(lsd)
Author: Kelly Milner Halls
Books: Dinosuar Mummies Beyond the Bare Bone Fossils, Albino Animals and Tales of the Cryptids.
The next author I saw was Kelly Milner Halls. She enjoys the wonders of weird. Kelly is a non-fiction writer who says writing non-fiction is like treasure hunting. She says she is 52 years old, but 10 inside. She loves her job because it takes her all over the world. The children in the room were engaged by the way she presented, the books that she showed and also by the artifacts that she had from digs. After Kell'y presentation she gave everyone an opportunity to come up and touch the artifacts. It was a great day, but I wish I was able to attend the whole conference.(lsd)