How to Have a Good Day

The Word Collector

The Word Collector is Peter H. Reynolds' newest book.  Jerome is a collector of words.  He finds them everywhere-in conversations with friends, in books he reads, and on signs.  He writes them all down on small pieces of paper, gathering a large collection.  Then he sorts them into groups.  At the end of the book, Jerome releases all the words so others can also enjoy them.  I liked this story because it is about collecting, words, and sharing. The story is short and worth sharing with a class of any age or your own child.  Those of you who are teachers could brainstorm at least a few activities to go along with this story. 

Willa and the Bear

Willa and the Bear by Philomena O'Neill is a new book that most children will enjoy.  Willa is going with her parents to her grandparents house, but loses her doll on the way.  She is sad because she has lost her favorite doll (made by her grandma).  Later that evening, Willa's doll is returned by an unexpected friend.    Even though the main character is a girl, this book has appeal for both boys and girls.

I Love to Read month

February is I Love to Read month at my school.  This year I came up with a new idea to help kids find reading interesting.  I collected a bunch of used picture books.  Then I wrapped each book.  Each time a group comes, one student gets to choose a book to unwrap.  I read the story aloud, and then another student's name is chosen.  That student gets to take the book home to keep.  By the end of the month, everyone will have at least one chance to open a book, as well as take a book home.

meet English and French

It has been over a year since I have had fish in my classroom.  English and French came to live in my classroom last Friday, adopted from Wal-mart.  They are definitely more interesting than the collection of plants I have on my desk and table.  The fish generate a lot more conversation, but I am sure that it would have been easier to take pictures of my plants than these squirmy little creatures.

Where Are All the Minnesotans?

Where Are All the Minnesotans? by Karlyn Coleman and illustrated by Carrie Hartman is a celebration of winter activities here in Minnesota.  From ice fishing to sledding, it depicts a variety of ways people spend time outdoors during Minnesota's long winters.  Though marketed as a children's book, adults who live in Minnesota will appreciate it as well.