IT’S ME, HENRY(Orca Book Publishers, 2022) by Stéphanie Deslauriers with illustrations by Geneviève Després, gently and respectfully shines a light on the challenges presented at school for a child with autism. The story follows Henry through a day at school where we learn about his somewhat unexpected behaviors, such as calling plants by their Latin… Continue reading IT’S ME, HENRY
Author: Andrew Hacket
DINNER ON DOMINGOS
DINNER ON DOMINGOS by Alexandra Katona with illustrations by Claudia Navarro is a gorgeous story of family tradition that subtly explores the challenges faced by our narrator, Alejandra, as she hopes to connect with her beloved Abuelita. This story lovingly immerses the reader in Abuelita's casa for a weekly family meal. The energy of this… Continue reading DINNER ON DOMINGOS
SOMETHING GOOD by Marcy Campbell and Corinna Luyken
The day the bad-something is discovered written on the bathroom wall, everything changes. Confusion, anger and worry spread through the class as rumors fly. It is not until some encouraging words from their principal and a creative assignment from their teacher, do the children rediscover their kindness and their power to create something good. SOMETHING… Continue reading SOMETHING GOOD by Marcy Campbell and Corinna Luyken
My Sister, Daisy
Based on a true story, Adria Karlsson provides a gentle introduction to gender identity with a focus on positivity and acceptance in her debut, MY SISTER, DAISY, with illustrations by Linus Curci. This is the perfect book for parents or educators looking to have a conversation around gender identity and pronouns. Told from the perspective… Continue reading My Sister, Daisy
Kiyoshi’s Walk
A series of haiku wrapped in narrative, KIYOSHI'S WALK by Mark Karlins with illustrations by Nicole Wong is the perfect introduction to haiku and “finding” poetry in everyday situations. After Kiyoshi asks his grandfather where poems come from, he is taken on a walk through the city to discover the answer for himself. From seeing… Continue reading Kiyoshi’s Walk
JABARI TRIES by Gaia Cornwall
Young Jabari is determined to make his flying machine soar. But crashing planes, a pesky sister and failed attempts finally get him down. With some gentle encouragement and a new partner, Jabari is back at it and ready for success. This second title from author/illustrator Gaia Cornwall is beyond versatile and a must for all… Continue reading JABARI TRIES by Gaia Cornwall
ZOO-MATE WANTED by Korrie Leer
Hello teacher friends! I hope this post finds you feeling magnificent, speeding ahead with your lessons and filled with joy from your delightful, rule-following cherubs. But if you are like me, you are struggling. Not all the time. But sometimes. The picture-perfect class community I imagined forming with my students is taking longer than expected… Continue reading ZOO-MATE WANTED by Korrie Leer
30,000 Stitches: The Inspiring Story of the National 9/11 Flag by Amanda Davis
As the 20th anniversary of 9/11 neared, I found myself unsure of how to approach this sensitive topic with my young students. Thankfully, Amanda Davis and her debut picture book, 30,000 Stitches: The Inspiring Story of the National 9/11 Flag, provided the perfect solution. In 30,000 Stitches, Amanda Davis delicately recounts the events of 9/11… Continue reading 30,000 Stitches: The Inspiring Story of the National 9/11 Flag by Amanda Davis
My School Stinks! by Becky Scharnhorst
With the beginning of a new school year (especially this one) comes the often unspoken worries and fears that accompany the unknown of a new grade, new classroom, new teacher, and new classmates. My first job as a classroom teacher is to quell these anxieties and begin to lay the groundwork for our class community,… Continue reading My School Stinks! by Becky Scharnhorst