books · mentor texts · writing workshop

A Bike Like Sergio’s: Review and Giveaway!

Maribeth Boelts' new book A Bike Like Sergio’s will appeal to readers and writers of all ages. It’s a heartfelt story with a message to which readers will relate; the right decision is often the hard choice. From the publisher: "Ruben feels like he is the only kid without a bike. His friend Sergio reminds… Continue reading A Bike Like Sergio’s: Review and Giveaway!

books · celebration · Read Aloud · writing workshop

Waving the White Flag on Valentine’s Day!

There are some days in an elementary school teacher's life where the white flag must be waved. Halloween. The day before holiday break. Pajama Day. Crazy Hat Day. And, of course, Valentine's Day...

books

Gifts From the Enemy: Book review and win a copy of this very special book.

“There are those who say that what I’ve lived through never happened. But I’m here to tell you that it did.  My name is Alter Wiener and I am an ordinary person with an extraordinary past.” So begins Trudy Ludwig’s remarkable picture book, Gifts from the Enemy, based on Alter Wiener’s true story.  That extraordinary… Continue reading Gifts From the Enemy: Book review and win a copy of this very special book.

books · character development · mentor texts

The Meaning of Maggie Book Review + Win a Copy of a Fabulous Read

Soon-to-be-released The Meaning of Maggie by Megan Jean Sovern is a lovely book that offers plenty of opportunities to study high-level character development.

books · guest blogger · mentor texts · primary grades · writing folder

Letting Go As Student Interests Take the Wheel

Kindergarten teacher Valerie Geshwind helps her students find their passions and their voice by honoring their interests, engaging them in a play-like writing workshop, & by supporting them as individuals.

authors · books

Kate Messner’s Latest Picture Book

I love this new title from Kate Messner and Andy Rash. As I read it, I was intrigued by the speech bubbles, and I wondered how they influenced Kate's writing process. Lucky for me, she was willing to write a few thoughts about Dialogue, Speech Bubbles and Picture Book Revision as part of the MAKING… Continue reading Kate Messner’s Latest Picture Book

blogging · books · picture book

A “Jog” You Have Energy For

I hope you didn't miss the BIG event on Saturday: Picture Books 10 for 10 hosted by Cathy Mere (Reflect and Refine) and Mandy Robek (Enjoy and Embrace Learning). Bloggers compiled their lists of 10 picture books and then shared the links with Cathy and Mandy. Cathy and Mandy then created a jog. With over 60 participants, it… Continue reading A “Jog” You Have Energy For

books · reading · reading workshop

Investing in Reading Lives {Nerdy Book Club Guest Post}

I'm so excited to be guest posting at The Nerdy Book Club today. Here's the start and then head over there to read the rest. "Mom, I've decided to start a reading club,” Sam, age 7, soon to be a second grader, declared. It’s 6:23 am and he’s standing beside me in Ninjago jammies, sticking… Continue reading Investing in Reading Lives {Nerdy Book Club Guest Post}

books · professional development · social media

Hello August!

Here I am and August is here too. It has been a long summer that is going too fast. It's the paradox of time. One thing is for sure: It keeps moving. Next Monday I will be in school. Here are a few things that make me excited to return. Check out how I plan… Continue reading Hello August!

authors · books · opinion writing · quote

Pretend it is Friday

So I was planning to try a new kind of post last Friday. And then Friday came and went. How does this happen? So right now, let's just pretend it is Friday. Or bookmark this post and save it for a Friday. I thought it would be fun to start a Friday Favorites post. So… Continue reading Pretend it is Friday