Every so often (emphasis on often) my son wakes up on the wrong side of life. It doesn't matter how much sleep he's gotten or how cheerfully I greet him with offers of food. He will grump and groan and be generally unpleasant for a good hour until his belly is full and he's realized the day holds good things in store. Dealing with this in a 4-year-old is tough, because I can't begrudge him feeling … [Read more...]
Goldilocks and the Three Bears
Part II of our Tales series is the beloved Goldilocks and the Three Bears. There are SO MANY different versions of this story, all with something to love. Because there are too many to choose from, I decided to introduce you to a couple of different ones. This first one is a delightful retelling, with illustrations by Ellie Jenkins. Her style is almost cartoony and certainly fun. What's more, this … [Read more...]
Listen, Buddy!
My sweet mother gave me this book when I first began teaching overseas. I stuck it on my shelf without reading it or really giving any thought to it. A few years later, I pulled it out and actually read it and immediately began using it in my classroom. It became another favorite and one of my "required readings" at the beginning of every year! This silly book is about a bunny named Buddy. He … [Read more...]
Terrible Monster or Wonderful Friend?
I bought Leonardo the Terrible Monster because it was written by Mo Willems. His books are basically my weakness. I can't NOT. If I had a Children's Literature author crush, it would be him. Anyway. I immediately fell in love with the book on its own merit. It stars Leonardo, a cute little monster who cannot scare a soul, no matter how hard he tries. He is quite determined to be scary and … [Read more...]