As we prepare for summer vacation, I’ve been on the hunt for that ”just right” addition to teachers’ gifts. Well, I found a treasure that can solidly stand on its own. Kobi Yamada has a wonderful collection of gift books for a myriad of occasions. In my search, I found this panegyric on teachers. The bear and cub duo featured in this selection engage in a variety of learning and growing experiences. Cub learns imaginations can become reality. Cub learns that there are many ways to be smart. Cub learns that his imaginings are the beginnings of real possibilities. The lesson that really resonated with me was evident within the text and was captured in the tender illustrations – some of the most important aspects of relationships require no words at all.
In keeping with the spirit of Yamada’s and Russell’s work, I’d like to thank all teachers everywhere for the love, care, and attention they’ve given to the students under their aegis. Thank you for your commitment to education. Thank you for going above and beyond in the face of COVID set-backs and disasters. The range of your influence, your encouragement, and your lessons is illimitable. I wish you time to rest, relax and rejuvenate. I wish you happy outings with family and friends. Be safe and have a great summer break.
10 Great Books to Gift
- Because I Had a Teacher by Kobi Yamada
- A Teacher Like You by Frank Murphy
- A Teacher is the Greatest Gift by E. B. Cobbler
- Dear Teacher by Paris Rosenthal
- The Heart of a Teacher by Karla Dornacher
- Thank You Mr. Falker by Patricia Polacco – oldie, but goodie
- Harbor Me by Jacqueline Woodson – use for older students
- The Hill we Climb by Amanda Gorman – use for older students
- Amal Unbound by Aisha Saeed – use for older students
- Never Forget the Difference You’ve Made by Jeanna Kirner (Create your own special message/forward in this journal)
