The Book Stack (02.13.2012)
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It’s kind of an eclectic mix tonight…
I am thrilled about this new little gem!
LADYBUGS written and illustrated by Gail Gibbons; Holiday House, 2012
I can’t wait to share it with a second grade class I’ve been working in as they’ve been studying ALL ABOUT BOOKS. There’s a whole basket of Gail Gibbons’ books to use as mentor texts. They’ll be excited to see this new title. The thing I’m most excited to share with them are the rich diagrams. There is more than just labels on the diagrams. Some of them include sentences with key points, pronunciation guides, and specific titles. I’m sure we’ll see influences of Gail on the second graders’ books. Sam and I read it tonight and he gave it two thumbs up. (“Please tell your blog readers I said that, Mom,” he said as I tucked him into bed.)
Now this one just makes me smile…
PEAS ON EARTH by Todd H. Doodler; Robin Corey Books, a division of Random House, on sale February 14, 2012
The play on words throughout the pages just makes me smile even more. And to top it all off, a pop-up page is the ultimate ending. This is a board book, but I can see it used in many grades. I’d use it in a minilesson to show the power of craft to bring smiles and to make a point. (To find out more, click on the image of the book.)
I just cracked open this professional book…
OPENING MINDS: USING LANGUAGE TO CHANGE LIVES by Peter H. Johnston; Stenhouse, 2012
I’ve not finished it yet, but I think it is noteworthy. Just like in CHOICE WORDS, Johnston gets to the specifics of language and helps us understand the meanings our words are sending to children. It’s a short, but powerful book. I’m sure I’ll be sharing more about it as I read more. (To find out more, click the image of the book.)
How about you? What’s in your book stack? Find out what others are reading too at Teach Mentor Texts.
I am a huge Gail Gibbons fan– her books appeal on and across so many levels. And now, thanks to you and 1-Click, I’ll be reading Opening Minds!
Have you read LMNOPeas by Keith Baker? I love that alphabet book. Peas are just so darn cute!
Two to check out. Peas on Earth I think will make me smile as well. I have Choice Words sitting on my desk, but have yet to read it. Perhaps this week. And then I can open my mind. 😉
Looks like three good books, Ruth. I like that Ladybug book & will share it with others. What a good mentor text of what one can do with information. The little ones will enjoy it a lot. Thank you for telling about some of these for primary students. I don’t know those non-fiction books well, so will look to see if our library has any Gibbons books available.