I am, that's who. And, actually, I never cared until I moved out of Florida. Floridians welcome winter. It's a temporary break from the oppressive heat and humidity. It's the one week of the year when your hair does what you always knew it could. And, if you happen to have a coat and a cute scarf, you can finally wear them. But now I live where it's cold. And I'm cold. I'm ready for … [Read more...]
A Crankenstein Valentine
Children's author Samantha Berger just came out with a new "Crankenstein" book for February, A Crankenstein Valentine. See what happens to an ordinary kid on the yuckiest, most lovey-dovey day of the year... Valentine's Day! Cheesy cards, smelly flowers, and heart-shaped everything? It's enough to turn any kid into a Valentine monster! Yuck!!! Until... Crankenstein meets someone just like … [Read more...]
What Do You Do with an Idea?
I know it's Wednesday and I missed Book Talk Tuesday, but sometimes you just have to jump when the inspiration strikes. And I've been struck. I have a LOT of books. It's what I collect. See? And this isn't even the half of it. There are dozens tucked away in baskets, bins, and drawers. As a matter of fact, as I type this, I'm reminded of a civics project my daughter is doing in high … [Read more...]
When Scientists Read & Write
Every year, I end up with a class full of students who LOVE science. (I'm guessing you do, too.) Of course, experiments are their favorite... being curious, gathering materials, getting messy, seeing what happens... it's the best. Because science is grounded in what's "real," most of my children also like to read nonfiction. I don't know what your science materials look like, but … [Read more...]
The Great Fuzz Frenzy
The Great Fuzz Frenzy is one my favorite picture books, especially for the first week back to school. A friend introduced the book to me years ago. She taught 3rd grade and I taught 1st, but all the children loved it, regardless of their age. It's a lively read-aloud and a great conversation starter for topics like: selfishness teamwork and forgiveness ...just to name a few. I think … [Read more...]