LIfe is Short, Pray Hard

This is a small book, recommended as part of WrestleMania Reading. It's a compilation of church signs across America. Like these...
"People do odd things to get even."
"Remember that the rabbit foot...didn't work for the rabbit."
"Smoking won't send you to Hell, it'll just make you smell like you've been there."
Authors : Mary Compton and David Compton
Publisher : New American Library
Copyright : 2003
Subject search : Church signs -- United States -- Humor
WrestleMania Recommended Book

How to Write Killer Fiction

How to Write Killer Fiction : The Funhouse of Mystery and the Roller Coaster of Suspense is a book about writing books. Author Carolyn Wheat knows what editors want and shows how to achieve writing and publishing goals.
Students who want to write -- to really write -- will want to check this out!
Author : Carolyn Wheat
Published by John Daniel and Company
Copyright : 2003.
Subject Search : Detective and mystery stories -- Authorship, Suspense fiction -- Authorship.

Bat Masterson : The man and the legend

Bat Masterson: The Man and the Legend isn't about the actor on the Western TV Channel. This biography tells about the real man, who was a typical Western hero but not a typical man of the Western frontier. He was a buffalo hunter, Indian fighter, lawman, professional gambler... He associated with Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday and William F. Cody. He was a fight promoter, sheriff, newspaperman.I like reading about the Old West and the real men and women who lived there. This biography includes several photos that tell stories of their own.
Author : Robert K. DeArment
University of Oklahoma Press
Subject Search : Frontier and pioneer life -- The West, The West -- History -- 1848-1950, Pioneers -- The West -- Biography.
Copyright : 1979.

Eighth Grade Book Club

Eighth grade book club members are blogging about books!
Check out their blogs and start reading!

Hello Mrs. Thompson's class!

Hello!
I have heard what a great group of students you are! We are in Heard County and I am the media specialist at our school. I updated the survey. Please vote on the kind of books you like. That will help me when I make an order for more books!
You may click on the comments on the Pompeii books to see what our students found while researching this interesting subject. If you want to comment here, click on the comments and let me hear from you.

BTW, Mrs. Thompson... I think your students deserve a marble for learning about blogs! So, add one to the jar from me.
:-)

Bodies from the Ash

Bodies from the Ash : Life and Death in Ancient Pompeii by James M. Deem. This book is located in non-fiction, 937 DEE. Publisher: Houghton Mifflin, p2005, c2005

Includes bibliographical references (p. 47-48) and index.;August 24 and 25, AD 79 -- Rediscovering Pompeii -- The plaster bodies of Pompeii -- Lives from the ashes -- Herculaneumaes different fate -- A final excavation. Describes the archaeological excavations that began on the ancient cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum which had been buried by the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in AD 79.

--Follett.com

This is one of the resources used in the collaboration lesson on Pompeii (South/Vinson) for sixth grade students. Students in the sixth grade first block, please post one fact in the comments and turn in your page of notes to Mrs. Vinson. Remember to post where you got your information and include your name (first name, last initial).

The History Puzzle

The History Puzzle: How We Know What We Know About the Past. By Susan Provost Beller. 901 BEL.
Publisher: Twenty-First Century Books, p2006, c2006

This book includes a collection of 19 stories that attempt to piece together events in history when not all the information is available, and includes stories of the Edmund Fitzgerald, Martin's Hundred, the Great Wall, Herculaneum and Pompeii, and Custer's Last Stand.
--follett.com


This is one of the resources used in a collaborated lesson between Mrs. South and Mrs. Vinson for her sixth grade language arts classes. Students, refer to Chapter 12: Buried History -- The story of Herculaneum and Pompeii.
Students in third block/sixth grade, post one fact on Pompeii and turn in your notes to Mrs. Vinson. Remember to include where you got your information and also your name (first name/last initial).

The Other Side of Truth

The Other Side of Truth
by Beverley Naidoo

Publisher: HarperCollins, 2001.

Smuggled out of Nigeria after their mother's murder, Sade and her younger brother are abandoned in London when their uncle fails to meet them at the airport and they are fearful of their new surroundings and of what may have happened to their journalist father back in Nigeria. Winner of the 2000 Carnegie Medal.

Lexile Number: 710

--Follett Library Resources : http://flr.follett.com

Reflection : This story deals with lots of issues such as bullying in school, telling the truth and what sometimes happens to innocent people because of the telling, refuges and foster care.

Lesson Connection : Social Studies/Research Nigera and discuss current events. Pose the question : What would you do if you suddenly found yourself on the street with no one to turn to, and hunger and cold weather to overcome?

Alexander and the Wind-Up Mouse

Alexander and the Wind-Up Mouse
by LeoLionni, 1910-1999
Alexander, the mouse, makes friends with Willy, a toy mouse, and wants to be just like him until he discovers that Willy is to be thrown away.

Publisher: Knopf , Distributed by Random House, 1987, c1969.

--Follett Library Resources / http://flr.follett.com

Reflection : This is a story about friendship and what one friend would do to save another. In this case, Alexander must change a granted wish to save Willy from the dust heap.

Lesson Connection : Character education/friendship may be discussed. Writing session : students write what they would do if given one wish. What would you do if you had one wish and you really wanted something -- but, your friend needed your wish more?

Dr. Doolittle

Doctor Doolittle : Video

"Rex Harrison and Anthony Newley are featured in this 1967 live-action classic about an English doctor who walks and squawks with the animals. The good doctor gets himself into all sorts of funny predicaments in this Academy Award nominee for Best Picture that combines terrific music, fine acting, lovable creatures and a joyous fantasy tale. Based on the Newbery Award-winning (1923) book by Hugh Lofting, The Voyages of Doctor Dolittle."

Copyright 1967: Rated G, Grades 1-6, Approved by the DOVE Foundation, Kids First! Endorsed. 1923 Newbery Medal Winner.
--libraryvideo.com

Reflection : Students will enjoy this 1967 film that goes along with the award-winning book. I like the older movies. This one is a Family Feature film, which is a good indicator of clean language and scenes. Those who have seen the Eddie Murphy version can add comments, reflections to the discussion session.
Lesson connection : Students read the book in small groups, taking turns reading chapters to each other. Class watches portions of the movie and compare the book to the movie. Discuss differences.

Because of Winn Dixie

Because of Winn-Dixie : Video

"Annasophia Robb and Jeff Daniels star in this live-action film based on the Newbery Award-winning book by Kate DiCamillo. After moving to a new town, ten-year-old Opal makes her first friend when she happens upon a lovable stray dog. Opal and the scruffy, fun-loving pooch form a special bond that works magic of her reserved dad and their eccentric neighbors over the course of one unforgettable summer. Rated PG for thematic elements and brief mild language, the film costars Cicely Tyson, Dave Matthews and Eva Marie Saint. "
Grades 2-Adult, Rated PG, Copyright 2005. Kids First! All Star,
2001 Newbery Honor Book

--libraryvideo.com

Reflection : This is a good story put to film. The movie has made the book so popular that I ordered extra copies to check to patrons. The copies stay checked out.

Lesson Connection : Students may read the book together as a class and watch portions of the movie afterward. Compare the book to the movie and discuss differences.

3-D shapes are like green grapes!

3-D shapes are like green grapes!
by Tracy Kompelien

Publisher: ABDO Pub., c2007.

Series: Math made fun
"Introduces three-dimensional shapes through the use of simple sentences and everyday examples. "
--Follett Library Resources, http://flr.follett.com

Reflection : Photos are intermingled with bold colors and shapes to encourage attention to the shapes on the pages.

Lesson Connection : Use this picture book to relate lessons on geometric shapes.

Grizzly Bear Family

Grizzly Bear Family
by Audrey Fraggalosch
illustrated by Donald G. Eberhart.

Publisher: Soundprints, 2003.

Series: Amazing animal adventures
"A mother grizzly bear teaches her cubs to find food, protects them, and helps them to prepare for winter hibernation. "
--Follett Library Resources, http://flr.follett.com

Reflection : This easy picture book title is for younger children, K-3. Nice illustrations with lots of bold colors to catch attention.

Lesson Connection : Older students can be paired with pre-k or kindergarten students to read the story to them.

Gecko gathering

Gecko Gathering
by Vanessa Giancamilli
illustrated by Kristin Kest
Publisher: Soundprints, 2004

Series: Amazing animal adventures

Fiction, picture book, 3-D, Toy.

"Includes a tear-out poster!"--Cover. A gecko spends an exciting night searching for something to eat while avoiding being eaten by some other creature. Includes a tear-out poster."
--Follett Library Resources, http://flr.follett.com

Reflection : This is a good book, series for younger children.

Lesson Connection : Pair older students with younger students and have them read during "story time."

Homecoming

Homecoming
By Cynthia Voigt
This fictional story begins when Dicey's mother leaves Dicey and her younger siblings in the family car at a supermarket. When she doesn't return, Dicey and her brood set off to find a grandmother they don't know.

Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers, c1981.

Lexile Number: 630

--Follett Library Resources / http://flr.follett.com

Reflection : This is one of my all-time favorite books. I couldn't put it down because I wanted to find out how Dicey and the children made it after their mom went crazy.

Lesson Connection : Students could pair this title with research on family domestic abuse or mental illness.

Uncharted

Uncharted
By Angela Elwell Hunt
"Six men and women who forged a unique friendship at Florida State University more than twenty-five years earlier are once again brought together by tragedy and a trip that will changes their lives forever."
--Follett Library Resources, http://flr.follett.com

Publisher: WestBow Press, c2006.

Reflection : This is one of my new favorite titles! If you like the TV Show, Lost, you'll love this one! The pages keep turning and the plot keeps twisting until the very end...and it's a good one.

Lesson Connection : Use this Christian Contemporary Fiction title to research unexplained events or places, such as the Bermuda Triangle.

Hatchet

Hatchet
By Gary Paulsen.
"After a plane crash, thirteen-year-old Brian spends fifty-four days in the Canadian wilderness, learning to survive initially with only the aid of a hatchet given him by his mother, and learning also to survive his parents' divorce. "

Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers, c1987.

--Follett Library Resources, http://flr.follett.com

Lexile Number: 1020

Reflection : The boys in our media center keep this book checked out! It's a story about survival and Brian must use his untested survival skills to stay alive. Great story by a terrific author.

Lesson Connection : Students could partner Guts: The True Story of Hatchet with this title to find out about Gary Paulsen and his many escapades that inspired his fiction stories.

Angel of hope

Angel of hope
by Lurlene McDaniel
Christian, contemporary realistic fiction.

"After her older sister Heather, enthusiastic about changing the world, returns from doing medical missionary work in Uganda, seventeen-year-old Amber feels ignored and confused about her own future and decides to go back to Africa in Heather's place. "
--Follett Library Resources, http://flr.follett.com

Publisher: Bantam Books, c2000.

Lexile Number: 640

Reflection : The girls in our media center like the Lurlene McDaniel books. We can't keep them on the shelves! This title, like the others, involves emotional plots, morals and possible death of a loved one.

Lesson connection : Students could pair this fiction title with a study of Uganda.

The Farm Animals

The Farm Animals
by Rolando Merino

This digital online talking eBook includes clickable sounds on all the animals in the story. Each page can be read, as well as each word in this picture book.

Learning Connection : This book is for pre-school to kindergarten aged children. The book can also be used in helping non-English speaking children to learn the English language.

http://magickeys.com

Grammar in Rhyme

Grammar in Rhyme

Routledge's New Sixpenny Toy Books, 70
Crane, Walter, 1845-1915

This digital book is in a special historical collection through the University of Florida. The parts of speech are illustrated.
Lesson Connection : Students study historic literature, language, advertising (on back cover) and compare this title to a similar modern title.

Evans, Edmund, 1826-1905 (Engraver)
Evans, Edmund, 1826-1905 (Printer)
ca1872
Children's poetry -- 1872.
Publishers' advertisements -- 1872.

http://www.uflib.ufl.edu

Ciconia Ciconia, White Stork

Ciconia Ciconia, White Stork
Author/Illustrator Andrea Petrlik.
In this digital title, the white stork's Croatian village is destroyed by war and he must search for a new place to live.

Publisher Kašmir Promet - Croatia. 2003. Awards Grand Prize, Oita Biennial of Illustrations http://www.childrenslibrary.org Lesson connection : Students learn about the culture of Croatia.

Handyong

Handyong
By Dettee Lorenzo Abrera
This digital book is a folk story about a brave warrior from named Handyong from Ibalon. AHe protects his people from a one-eyed, three-throated monster and a deceitful snake that turns into a woman.
Publisher : New Day Publishers, Phillipines; 1984.
14 pages.
Lesson Connection : Include this digital folk tale with lesson on traditional folk tales.

http://www.childrenslibrary.org

Schnitzel is Lost

Schnitzel is Lost
In this digital title, a dog named Schnitzel gets separated from his best friend, Pretzel, when he ventures from his back yard to chase leaves.
Written and illustrated by Hans Wilhelm.

The books has 30 pages and is available in English and French as a digital book. Soft watercolor illustrations enhance the dialogue between two dogs.
Publisher Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers - United States.
Lesson Connection : Introduce students to digital format of books online. For science, gather leaves to compare; draw and color.

http://www.childrenslibrary.org/

The Beast Arises

The Beast Arises

by Jerry B. Jenkins

"After a deadly earthquake fulfills yet another deadly prophecy in Jerusalem, Judd and Lionel make a startling discovery and try to warn kids around the world about what's ahead."
(--Follett Library Resources, http://flr.follett.com)

Publisher: Tyndale House, c2003.

Lexile : 690

Reflection : This book is a part of the popular Christian fiction series. It's interesting to read these books, along with the adult series. Settings, time frame and some characters overlap in the stories.

Charlie Bone and the Hidden King [sound recording]

Charlie Bone and the Hidden King [sound recording]

by Nimmo, Jenny.

Publisher: Listening Library, New York : p2006.

Compact disc.;Read by Simon Russell Beale. "When an ancient enchanter is released from the grounds of Bloor's Academy, threatening both of Charlie Bone's parents, the only way Charlie and his friends can defeat him is by finding the red king himself."

(--Follett Library Resources, http://flr.follett.com)

Lexile Number: 630

Reflection : The Charlie Bone series is a favorite in our media center. Charlie finds out he can hear thoughts from people in pictures and the Children of the Red King series follows his adventures. Charlie has been compared to "Harry" of the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling. I see several similarities, but there are many differences in the story and characters. Read this one to see for yourself!

Uglies

Uglies

by Scott Westerfeld

"Tally is faced with a difficult choice when her new friend Shay decides to risk life on the outside rather than submit to the forced operation that turns sixteen year old girls into gorgeous beauties, and realizes that there is a whole new side to the pretty world that she doesn't like."

Publisher: Simon Pulse, 2005.

Lexile : 770

(--Follett Library Resources, http://flr.follett.com)

Tally is almost 16 and 0n her birthday, like everyone else, she'll undergo extensive surgery to become a Pretty. She's only known life as an Ugly (everyone's considered hideous before surgery), whereas after she "turns," she'll have the huge eyes, perfect skin, and new bone structure that biology and evolution have determined to be objectively beautiful (Kirkus Review starred (February 15, 2005).

Lexile Number: 770

Reflection : Everyone thinks they're ugly until they have surgery at age 16. When I started reading this book, I didn't think I would like it. I figured there would be a superficial teenage plot. I was wrong. The story engages the reader from the start, raising ethical and "what if" questions. This is a good one!

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

by Rowling, J. K.

Year 7"--Spine.;Sequel to: Harry Potter and the half-blood prince. "Follows the journey of the series' protagonist Harry Potter as he attempts to bring an end to his archenemy, Lord Voldemort."

Publisher: A.A. Levine, 2007.

(--Follett Library Resources: http://flr.follett.com)

Lexile Number: 980

Reflection : It's a little sad when Harry is seen in the Dursley's home for the last time, remembering some of his escapades. Harry is a character who draws sympathy for the situation he's in and the life he's given.

Brave Story

Brave Story
by Miyabe, Miyuki, 1960-

"In order to bring his family back together, ten-year-old Wataru voluntarily enters a fantasy world to gain the attention of a goddess who has the ability to change destiny, and may grant his wish."

Dewey: 895.6

Publisher: VIZ Media, 2007.

(--Follett Library Resources: http://flr.follett.com)

Dewey: 895.6

Reflection/Lesson Connection : Look at fantasy genre titles and discuss. This story has a great plot idea and readers will crave the next page to find out what will happen.

Black Hands, White Sails :The Story of African-American Whalers

Black Hands, White Sails : The Story of African-American Whalers

by McKissack, Pat, 1944-

Includes bibliographical references (p. 144-147) and index. "A history of African-American whalers between 1730 and 1880, describing their contributions to the whaling industry and their role in the abolitionist movement."

Publisher: Scholastic Press, 1999. Dewey : 632.2

(--Follett Library Resources: http://flr.follett.com)

Lexile Number: 1130

Lesson Connection : Students research African Americans in history through Galileo databases and with Boolean searches.

Jazz on a Saturday night

Jazz on a Saturday night
by Lee Dillon
CD includes original song by Leo and Annie Dillon.;Includes discography. "A crowd gathers on a Saturday night to groove to an evening of jazz played by a "Dream Team" of musicians including Miles Davis on trumpet, Max Roach on drums, Charlie Parker on alto saxophone, John Coltrain on his sax, Thelonius Monk on piano, Stanley Parker on bass, and Ella Fitzgerald at the microphone. Includes a companion CD."

Publisher: Blue Sky Press, c2007.

Dewey: 781.65
(-- Follett Library Resources: http://flr.follett.com)
Lesson Connection : Students research music biographies with key-word searches. Evaluate web sites. Collaborate with music teacher for a lesson on Jazz and its history.

Twelve Rounds to Glory : the Story of Muhammad Ali

Twelve Rounds to Glory : The Story of Muhammad Ali

by Smith, Charles R., 1969-

"Grades 5-8. Smith and Collier takes an in-depth look at Ali’s life through 12 rhyming poems. Smith’s eccentric rhythm seems at first not to scan, but the longer one reads it aloud, the more it begins to sound like the meter of Ali’s famous rhymes. Includes many excellent quotes from both historical sources and Ali himself..." --Booklist starred (February 1, 2008 (Vol. 104, No. 11)
Cover Image -- Follett Library Resources: http://flr.follett.com.)
Publisher: Candlewick Press, 2007.

Dewey: 796.83

Lesson Connection : Research African Americans or sports personalities through Galileo databases.

Interactive 3-D maps : American History : Easy-to-Assemble 3-D Maps That Students Make and Manipulate to Learn Key Facts and Concepts--in a Kinestheti

Interactive 3-D Maps : American History : Easy-to-Assemble 3-D Maps That Students Make and Manipulate to Learn Key Facts and Concepts--in a Kinesthetic Way! / by Donald M. silver and Patricia J. Wynne.

"Twenty-six reproducible interactive three-dimensional maps on American history for grades four through eight designed to develop students' understanding of historical events and facts."

(--From Follett Library Resources: http://flr.follett.com)

Publisher: Scholastic, c2005

Dewey: 372.89

Lesson Connection : Students will learn about United States history, geography and maps.

(Cover image and cataloging information from Follett Library Resources: http://flr.follett.com)

3-D Explorer Rain Forest

3-D Explorer Rain Forest

By Green, Jen

Publisher: Silver Dolphin Books, 2008

This book offers a 3-D view of the rainforest. Hidden items are listed in key resources. Interest level 3-6.

(Cover image : Follett Library Resources http://flr.follett.com)

Dewey: 550

Lesson connection : Students can use this title as a catalyst for a lesson on the rainforest.

The Poet slave of Cuba : a Biography of Juan Francisco Manzano

The Poet Slave of Cuba : A Biography of Juan Francisco Manzano

By Margarita Engle.

This is a portrait in poems of Juan Francisco Manzano, the poet who was born a slave in Cuba in 1797.

"This biography-in-verse pays tribute to Juan Francisco Manzano, who lived between 1797 and 1853. Like many verse novels, the biography is told through alternating points of view, including Juan's as he grows from childhood to adulthood. Separated from his mother and father, Juan is reared by a slaveholder who adores his genius with words. When he is 11, she passes away. Even though she promised him his freedom upon her death, he remains enslaved, this time to a mentally unbalanced woman who abuses him unmercifully."
Publisher: Henry Holt, 2006.

Dewey: 861

(Kirkus Review (March 15, 2006) Cover image
from Follett Library Resources: http://www.flr.follett.com)

Lesson Connection : Students will research slavery, which happened in countries other than the United States. Biographies, poetry, Cuban cultures are all topics to be studied. This book could be a good catalyst for research on the subjects mentioned.

The Amazing Pop-up Stonehenge

The Amazing Pop-up Stonehenge

by Richards, Julian C.

Illustrator: Birkinshaw, Linda

Pop-up pages. This is a pop-up book for elementary readers that describes Stonehenge.

Publisher: English Heritage, 2005.

Dewey: 936.2

From Follett Library Resources : http://flr.follett.com

Lesson connection : Students could research Stonehenge with the electronic version of Encarta and use key word searching techniques in Galileo.

600 Black Spots : A Pop-up Book for Children of All ages

600 Black Spots: A Pop-Up Book for Children of All Ages

by David A. Carter.

Publisher: Little Simon, c2007.
Dewey: 516
Interest Level: 3-6
Reading Level: 5.5
"A follow-up to David A. Carter's One Red Dot and Blue 2, 600 Black Spots serves as a visual scavenger hunt. Kids will stay on their toes, searching for the many black spots that adorn the abstract art pop-ups. Using only primary colors, white, and black, Carter pairs each paper sculpture with a short piece of poetry and the relevant number of black spots. "
(Publishers Weekly (August 27, 2007); From Follett Library Resources : http://www.flr.follett.com.)

Lesson Connection : Students create their own art, using primary colors, white and black. Then, create an original poem. Students could discuss and make their own art and include hidden pictures for their classmates to find. Fun!

Adventurous Women: Eight True Stories About Women Who Made a Difference

Adventurous Women: True Stories About Women Who Made a Difference by Penny Colman.
Henry Holt Books for Young Readers
144pp.
"This book pulls together eight women adventurers born in the 1800s, each of whom went beyond boundaries to make a difference. ...The spacious layout and the chatty style are inviting, and Colman clearly documents her many primary sources, enabling today's Web-savvy researchers to find out more for assignments or for personal interest."

(Booklist (February 15, 2006 (Vol. 102, No. 12) Cover image from -- Follett Library Resources : http://flr.follett.com)

Publisher: Holt, 2006.

Dewey: 920.72

Profiles include a woman who served who served on hospital transport ships during the Civil War, an Arctic explorer and an industrial environmentalist, among others. This book includes an author’s note, selected bibliography, source notes, webliography and index.

Lesson Connection : Use the Webliography to research more about the eight adventurers. Create reports using Microsoft Power Point presentations. This source on women biographies makes history interesting!

Let it begin here! Lexington & Concord: First battles of the American Revolution

Let it begin here! Lexington and Concord: First battles of the American Revolution by Dennis Brindell Fradin.

The action, drama, and pathos in this re-telling of the events at Lexington and Concord create a story rich in human interest and historical fact. A “who’s who,” as well as a “what happened to the people,” provide rich contextual information. Includes a bibliography.

(School Library Journal (July 1, 2005) ; Cover image from Follett

Illustrator: Day, Larry

Publisher: Walker, 2005.

Dewey: 973.3

Library Resources, http://flr.follett.com)

Georgia Performance Standards:

SS8H3 The student will analyze the role of Georgia in the American Revolution.
SS8H4 The student will describe the impact of events that led to the ratification of the United States Constitution and the Bill of Rights.

Lesson Connection : Students in Grade 8 will:

Research the American Revolution and Georgia’s role during that time on the media center’s automated card catalog and search primary sources, including personal diaries, on the Galileo databases.
Record findings on Microsoft Word document; cite source and give attribution.
Locate reference books in the media center for information using keywords “Colonial Georgia” and “Diary,” or “American Revolution” and “Journal.”
Locate non-fiction books in the media center using the Call Numbers and card catalog and take notes on information found.
Create a classroom blog on research findings. Use information from books and Galileo to post ideas. (Each student will need a gmail account. Signed Internet Agreements must be turned in prior to participation.)
Use Flip Camera to record the group dramas representing a re-enactment of a scene from Georgia’s Revolutionary War.

Talkin' About Bessie

Talkin' About Bessie : The Story of Aviator Elizabeth Coleman is a biography written by Nikki Grimes and illustrated by E.B. Lewis. The book contains 48 pages. The book is also a Coretta Scott King Award book.
The book is a biography of the woman who became the first licensed African American pilot. Children will like the book because it has real events that occurred in our history. Children can easily read about historical events, such as the first licensed African American pilot.

Lesson connection : Students will research the first pilots.
Publisher: Orchard Books, 2002.

Lexile Number: 970

(Cover image from Follett Library Resources: http://flr.follett.com)

Rosa

Rosa is a biography written by Nikki Giovanni and illustrated by Bryan Collier. The book contains 33 pages. The book is also a Caldecott and Coretta Scott King book.
The book presents an illustrated account of Rosa Parks' refusal to give up her seat on a bus in Montgomery, Alabama in 1955, and the subsequent bus boycott by the black community.
Children will love the story of Rosa Parks. The book covers actual events that happen, and children will love to hear the history in their own words. The story is simple enough for children to understand.

(Horn Book (Spring 2006) From: Follett Library Resources, http://flr.follett.com)

Publisher: Holt, 2005.

Dewey: 323

Lesson connection : Students will research about the Civil Rights Movement and write a paper.
Giovanni, Nikki. (2005). Rosa. New York: Holt.

Lexile Number: 900

Al Capone Does My Shirts

Al Capone Does My Shirts is a Newbery Award book written and illustrated by Gennifer Choldenko.
The book contains 228 pages.
"A twelve-year-old boy named Moose moves to Alcatraz Island in 1935 when the prison guards' families were housed there. He has to deal with a strange new environment in addition to life with his autistic sister."

(--from Follett Library Resources: http://flr.follett.com)

Children will love this book because they can relate some of the story to events that actually occurred. Children will also love the suspense of the story.
Lesson connection : GPS: ELA5R1 The student demonstrates comprehension and shows evidence of a warranted and responsible explanation of a variety of literary and informational texts. Critical Component: For literary texts, the student identifies the characteristics of various genres and produces evidence of a reading that:a. Identifies and analyzes the elements of setting, characterization, and conflict in plot.d. Relates a literary work to information about its setting (historically or culturally).

Choldenko, Gennifer. (2004). Al Capone Does My Shirts. New York : G.P. Putnam’s Sons

Lexile Number: 600

My Brother Sam is Dead

My Brother Sam Is Dead is a historical fiction book written by James Lincoln Collier & Christopher Collier. The book contains 216 pages. The book is a Newbery Award Honor book.
"Recounts the tragedy that strikes the Meeker family during the Revolution when one son joins the rebel forces. The rest of the family tries to stay neutral in a Tory town."

(--Follett Library Resources: http://flr.follett.com)

Publisher: Scholastic, 2005, c1974.

This is a great children’s book because they can relate real events that occurred in history to events that occur in the book. Children will love the story and they will love the suspense of waiting to see what happens to Sam’s brother.

Students will write their own story about war times and comprehend the book.

Lesson Connection : GPS: ELA5R1 The student demonstrates comprehension and shows evidence of a warranted and responsible explanation of a variety of literary and informational texts. Critical Component: For literary texts, the student identifies the characteristics of various genres and produces evidence of a reading that:a. Identifies and analyzes the elements of setting, characterization, and conflict in plot.b. Identifies and analyzes the structural elements particular to dramatic literature (e.g., scenes, acts, cast of characters, stage directions) in the plays read, viewed, written, and performed.d. Relates a literary work to information about its setting (historically or culturally).Collier, James and Christopher. (1974). My Brother Sam Is Dead. New York: Four Winds Press.

Lexile Number: 770

The Whipping Boy

The Whipping Boy is a historical fiction book written by Sid Fleischman and illustrated by Peter Sis. The book was published by Greenwillow in 1986. Potential activities and lessons include having students switch roles with someone (parent, sibling, friend, teacher) for a specified time and fulfill their duties and responsibilities. Students could also calculate how much money they would have if they had their weight in gold.
It is unlawful to spank a prince in Jemmy’s land. Jemmy is taken from the orphans to receive the punishment Prince Brat deserves. Jemmy finds himself enmeshed in a dangerous plan surrounding Prince Brat.
This title is the 1987 Newbery winner.
(Cover image : Follett Library Resources, http://flr.follett.com)
Reflections include discussions of how it would feel to be in Jemmy’s place or how life would be different if you were someone else. Students could discuss whether the prince (or anyone) who has done something bad, should have someone else take the punishment. Ask: What would you do in that situation?

Publisher: HarperTrophy, 2003, c1986

Lexile Number: 570

Lexile Number: 570Lesson Connection : GPS: ELA5R1 The student demonstrates comprehension and shows evidence of a warranted and responsible explanation of a variety of literary and informational texts. Critical Component: For literary texts, the student identifies the characteristics of various genres and produces evidence of a reading that:a. Identifies and analyzes the elements of setting, characterization, and conflict in plot.b. Identifies and analyzes the structural elements particular to dramatic literature (e.g., scenes, acts, cast of characters, stage directions) in the plays read, viewed, written, and performed.d. Relates a literary work to information about its setting (historically or culturally).e. Identifies imagery, figurative language (e.g., personification, metaphor, simile, hyperbole), rhythm, or flow when responding to literature.f. Identifies and analyzes the author’s use of dialogue and description.

Sarah, Plain and Tall

Sarah Plain and Tall is a historical fiction book written by Patricia MacLachlan. There are no illustrations. The book was published in 1985 by Harper. Potential activities and lessons include having students search for bird nests with hair woven in them, writing an advertisement for a spouse. (What qualities would one look for in a mail-order spouse?)

This story is about a mail-order bride who moves in with a family, who eventually grows to love her. Sarah misses her old home and when she takes the wagon into town one day, the family becomes concerned that she will not return.

Publisher: HarperTrophy, 1987, c1985

Lexile Number: 560

This title is the 1986 Newbery winner.

(Cover image : Follett Library Resources, http://flr.follett.com)

Reflections include thinking of the qualities of a good person – a good spouse. It would also be interesting for students to put themselves in Sarah’s (or a member of the family) place and write their expectations and fears.

Lesson Connection : GPS: ELA5R1 The student demonstrates comprehension and shows evidence of a warranted and responsible explanation of a variety of literary and informational texts. Critical Component: For literary texts, the student identifies the characteristics of various genres and produces evidence of a reading that:a. Identifies and analyzes the elements of setting, characterization, and conflict in plot.b. Identifies and analyzes the structural elements particular to dramatic literature (e.g., scenes, acts, cast of characters, stage directions) in the plays read, viewed, written, and performed.c. Identifies and analyzes the similarities and differences between a narrative text and its film or play version.d. Relates a literary work to information about its setting (historically or culturally).f. Identifies and analyzes the author’s use of dialogue and description.g. Applies knowledge of the concept that theme refers to the message either implied or stated, that the author wants us to derive from a selection. i. Makes judgments and inferences about setting, characters, and events and supports them with elaborating and convincing evidence from the text.

Holes

Holes is a contemporary fiction book written by Louis Sachar. There are no illustrations. The book was published in 1998 by Farrar, Strass and Giroux. Potential use of this book in the classroom includes having students write about superstitions in their family (lucky and unlucky things). Students could also brainstorm words that sound the same spelled backwards.

The Yelnats family has a long history of bad luck, which appropriately, finds its way to young Stanley Yelnats. Stanley is wrongly convicted of a crime and sent to Camp Green Lake. While there, his luck changes as he discovers himself, a treasure and a best friend.

Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 1998.

(Cover image : Follett Library Resources)

This is the 1999 Newbery award winner.

Reflections include: promises are important to keep and good choices can garner good luck.

Lexile Number: 660

Walking the Bridge of Your Nose

Walking the Bridge of Your Nose is a poetry book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Chloe Cheese. The book contains 64 pages.

"...Rosen has chosen an attractive mixture of puns, tongue twisters, riddles, sayings, and chants that he promises will leave readers baffled, bewitched, and bedazzled. Some rhymes are familiar, some are not; most are taken from sources that are no longer in print. The selections are scattered across over-sized pages and embellished with bright, childlike illustrations that catch the humor and hint at the solutions to the riddles. The colorful format makes this volume more accessible to younger children than Schwartz's titles."

School Library Journal (January 1996) (From Follett Library Resources)

Children will love the poems and want to read more. The poems are funny and will entertain young children.

Students will create their own poems. Students will create art projects that correlate with their poems.

Rosen, Michael. (1999). Walking on the Bridge of Your Nose. Kingfisher Publishers.

Dog Days: Rhymes Around the Year

Dog Days: Rhymes Around the Year is a poetry book written by Jack Prelutsky and illustrated by Dyanna Wolcott. The book contains 32 pages.

Every month of the year, in rain, sun, wind, or cold, this book is full of adventure. A fuzzy yellow dog narrates the escapades that a typical dog might encounter from January to December.

From : Follett Library Resources

Children will love the book. Children will learn the months in a fun way. The children will love reading about the dogs for each month.

Students will create their own calendar and create stories for each month.

Prelutsky, Jack. (2001). Dog Days: Rhymes Around the Year. New York: Dragonfly Books.

Where the Sidewalk Ends

Where The Sidewalk Ends : the poems & drawings is a poetry book written by Shel Silverstein. It has 166 pages.

(--Cover image from Follett Library Resources)

A boy who turns into a TV set and a girl who eats a whale are only two of the characters in a collection of humorous poetry illustrated with the author's own drawings.

This book is great for children because it has so many wonderful poems full of humor and delight.

Dewey: 372.4

Lesson Connection : Students will create their own humorous poems and read aloud to class.

Silverstein, Shel. (1974). Where The Sidewalk Ends : the poems & drawings. New York: Harper and Row.

The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane

The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane is a modern fantasy book written by Kate DiCamillo and illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline. The book contains 198 pages.

Edward Tulane, a cold-hearted and proud toy rabbit, loves only himself until he is separated from the little girl who adores him and travels across the country. He encounters one new owner after another, experiencing their hopes and dreams.

(Cover image: Follett Library Resources)

Lexile Number: 700

Reflection : Children will love reading about the adventure of the rabbit, Edward Tulane, in the story. Children can relate to the story and use their imagination to understand the story. The story is great for experiencing new things and adjusting to changes in life.

Lesson Connection : Students will write about an adventure they have had or use their imagination to create an adventure.

DiCamillo, Kate. (2006). The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane. Candlewick Press.

Lexile Number: 700

Gossamer

Gossamer is a modern fantasy book written by Lois Lowry. The book contains 140 pages.

"While learning to bestow dreams, a young dream giver tries to save an eight-year-old boy from the effects of both his abusive past and the nightmares inflicted on him by the frightening Sinisteeds."

(--Follett Library Resources, http://flr.follett.com)

The book is great for children who are trying to cope with abuse. The book is really helpful for those children who need help. Children will love this book because it deals with life issues.

Students will write a story of how to cope with abuse or difficult times.

Lois, Lowry. (2006). Gossamer. New York: Houghton Mifflin.

Lexile Number: 660

A Wrinkle in Time

A Wrinkle In Time is a modern fantasy book written and illustrated by Madeleine L'Engle. The book contains 211 pages and is a Newbery Award Book.

Three extraterrestrial beings take Meg, her friend and her brother, Charles Wallace, to another world. Everyone in town thinks Meg is volatile and dull-witted and that her younger brother is dumb. People are also saying that their father has run off and left their brilliant scientist mother. The three embark on a perilous quest through space to find their father.

(Cover image: Follett Library Resources, http://flr.follett.com)

Young people who have trouble finding their place in the world will connect with the "misfit" characters in this provocative story. The travelers must rely on their individual and collective strengths, delving deep into their characters to find answers. Children will be able to relate well to the story.

Students will create their own description of time travel or travel into other worlds. Students should be very creative.

L’Engle, Madeleine. (1962). A Wrinkle In Time. New York: Ariel Books.

Davy Crockett

Davy Crockett is a traditional literature book written by Marianne Johnston. The book contains 24 pages.

This book describes the life and legend of Davy Crockett, a backwoodsman who became a frontier hero.

Children will love the interesting story about Davy Crockett’s life. The story is a timeline of his life easy enough to read for children to understand.

Students will research Davy Crockett and write a story about an adventure they would have if they were Davy.

Johnston, Marianne. (2001). Davy Crockett. New York: PowerKids Press.

Johnny Appleseed

Johnny Appleseed is a traditional literature book written and illustrated by Janeen R. Adil. It contains 24 pages.

The book explores the background, accomplishments, and stories of American folk hero Johnny Appleseed.

Children will love this unique and interesting story about Johnny Appleseed. The story has a timeline of Johnny Appleseed’s life easy enough for children to understand.

Students will research Johnny Appleseed and present their research to the class. Student can also create skits about Johnny Appleseed’s adventures.

Adil, Janeen. (2003). Johnny Appleseed. New York: Weigl.

(Cover image from Follett Library Resources, http://flr.follett.com)

Tales from the Brothers Grimm and the Sisters Weird

Tales from the Brothers Grimm and the Sisters Weird is a traditional literature book by Vande Velde Vivian and illustrated by Brad Weinman. The book contains 144 pages.

"Straw into gold -- Frog -- All points bulletin -- The granddaughter -- Excuses -- Jack -- And now a word from our sponsor -- The bridge -- Rated PG-13 -- Mattresses -- Twins -- Evidence -- Beast and Beauty. Presents thirteen twisted versions of such familiar fairy tales as Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk, Hansel and Gretel, and The Three Billy Goats Gruff."

--Follett Library Resources; http://flr.follett.com

Children will love the twists and the turns of each story. Children can make their own inferences about the story, and use their imagination.

Vande, Velde Vivian. (1995). Tales from the Brothers Grimm and the Sisters Weird. (Illus. by Brad Weinman). New York: Magic Carpet Books.

Looks great!

Looks awesome! Wow!

Sabrina

Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs

Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs is a picture book written by Judi Barrett and illustrated by Ron Barrett. It contains 32 pages. The book also won the Georgia Book Award.

"Life is delicious in the town of Chewandswallow where it rains soup and juice, snows mashed potatoes, and blows storms of hamburgers--until the weather takes a turn for the worse."

--Follett Library Resources; http://flr.follett.com

This is a great children’s book. It makes the reader use their imagination. The book is great for children because they can learn to use their imagination, and they could dream of a place like the town in the story.

Students should draw their imaginary town and write a story to present to class.

Barret, Judi. (1982). Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs. New York: Alladin.

Lexile Number: 730

Lexile Prefix: AD

A Cowboy Christmas

A cowboy Christmas : the miracle at Lone Pine Ridge is a picture book written by Audrey Wood and illustrated by Florczak, Robert. The book contains 42 pages.

"When Cully the cowboy, a friend and a father figure to Evan, fails to show up at the ranch on an icy Christmas Eve, Evan goes out into the night to find and rescue him."

--Follett Library Resources, http://flr.follett.com

Children will love the illustrations in this book. The book also has a great story for children to follow as the rescue occurs.

Students should write a story about how they would rescue someone in a tough situation. Students would be responsible for describing and illustrating the rescue.

Wood, Audrey. (2001) A cowboy Christmas : the miracle at Lone Pine Ridge. (Illus. by Robert Florczak). New York: Aladin Paperbacks.

Lexile Number: 520

Lexile Prefix: AD

Frog Went A Courtin'

Frog Went A Courtin' is a Caldecott Medal picture book written by John Langstaff. The book is illustrated by Feodor Rojankovsky. The book has 32 pages.
--Cover image: Follett Library Resources, http://flr.follett.com

The book illustrates the well-known American folk song about the courtship and marriage of a frog and a mouse.
This is a wonderful children’s book. Children will learn about the marriage and have curious questions about the story. The book makes children think about adult matters from a child’s view. Students can research about different cultures and how marriage is different in each culture.
Langstaff, John. (1955). Frog Went A Courtin’. New York: Harcourt Brace.

Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People's Ears

Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People's Ears : a West African Tale is a Caldecott Medal award picture book written by Verna Aardema. The book is illustrated by Leo and Diane Dillon. The book has 32 pages.
The book reveals the meaning of the mosquito's buzz.

Cover image: Follett Library Resources, http://flr.follett.com

Children will love the book because the story is exciting. The story lets students think about matters that they may not have thought about before. It teaches children to ask questions and use their imagination.
Children can understand the importance of clear communication and write a story of their own about how a communication problem occurred.
Aardema, Verna. (1992). Why mosquitoes buzz in people's ears : a West African tale. (Illus. by Leo and Diane Dillon). Hong Kong: Puffin Books.

Joseph Had a Little Overcoat

Joseph Had a Little Overcoat is a picture book illustrated in water color, gouache, pencil, ink and collage. Simms Taback is the writer and illustrator.
Potential lessons include: art-collage projects, recycling and environment, folklore and legends.

This story is based on a Yiddish folk song and is about a resourceful and resilient man who recycles his old, tattered overcoat into a variety of garments.
(Cover image: Follett Library Resources, http://flr.follett.com)

This title is the 2000 Caldecott winner.
Sometimes something old can be useful again. Students may be directed to think of an older person in their life and interview them on lessons they’ve learned. Students could also gather clothing and canned goods for needy families. Students could research history on Maine.
Taback, Simms. (1999). Joseph Had A Little Overcoat. New York: Viking.

Kitten's First Full Moon

Kitten's first full moon is a Caldecott Medal picture book written by Kevin Henkes. There are illustrations provided by author, and 32 pages.

"When Kitten mistakes the full moon for a bowl of milk she ends up tired, wet, and hungry trying to reach it."
--Follett Library Resources, http://flr.follett.com

Children will enjoy this book because it has a surprising ending children will love. The book also is unique in the way it portrays objects.
Potential use would be for an art class to draw objects that are seen in many different ways. Students can become creative trying to make images something they are not.
Henkes, Kevin. (2004). Kitten’s First Full Moon. New York: Greenwillow Books.

Welcome to my Blog!

Hi!
Welcome to my blog!
I am the media specialist at Heard County Middle School in Franklin, Georgia. Our students are in grades 6-8. I 've been media specialist here since our school opened in 2002 and we have a beautiful media center! I became a media specialist in 1993 and served two schools: Ephesus Elementary School (K-8) and Centralhatchee Elementary School (K-8). I worked at one school each morning and at the other each afternoon. Later, increased enrollment at Centralhatchee allowed me to serve that school full time before our county created the middle school from combining the middle grades from the other schools. I transferred to the new middle school, where I was able to fill the empty shelves with brand new books! It was very exciting and rewarding to be able to do this!
I have my National Board Certification Library Media/Early Childhood Through Young Adulthood (issued November 18, 2005). I have a bachelor's degree in Middle Grades Education. I have a master's degree in Media and am currently working on the Ed. S. degree in Media through the State University of West Georgia. The first degree program I completed (at WGC) was in Speech and Theatre Art with emphasis in Journalism (minor in Business Administration). I was editor of The Bowdon Bulletin for 10 years and also worked as reporter for two bi-weekly newspapers that later became the Daily Times-Georgian. I have freelanced articles and have had several published in the North Georgia Journal.
As you may guess, I love to read and write -- especially about local history. If I have free time, I like creating my own characters and putting them in their own stories. (I tease my children that my characters always do what they're told!).
My husband (Richard) and I have two children: Sabrina and Cullie. Sabrina will be a fourth grade teacher this fall and is working on her master's degree in Media. Cullie will be a sophomore. We have a farm that includes cows, chickens, ducks, guineas and turkeys. We also have a few Nubian and Boer goats, several cats and four Great Pyrenees livestock guardian dogs. Check out the family blog called Rocky South Acres!
You can find out about our school and media center by clicking http://www.heardmiddle.com/
I will be posting information about award-winning and favorite books on this blog. Email me at: gsouth@heard.k12.ga.us. I'd like to hear what you think. :-)
Thanks for looking!
-- Mrs. South