Valarie Budayr's Blog, page 22
October 27, 2018
Weekend Links: Resources and Storytelling Books for Kids
As long as there have been people, there have been stories
When we heard the word “storytelling” oftentimes the first thing that comes to mind is an evening sitting around a campfire listening to our elders tell tales of their life. Though that often the case, kids can be amazing storytellers too and this is a skill that is excellent for them to possess. Storytelling can help to improve their language skills, instills a love of reading and stirs their imagination.
But the big question I seem to encounter often is how parents can encourage their kids to have an interest in storytelling. The first way I would advise is having them observe other oral storytellers in action. Local libraries often bring storytellers and many professional storytellers make and sell recordings. They can even be found at festivals and other cultural events.
Another great way to cultivate an interest in storytelling is through age-appropriate books. Luckily, there are some excellent kidlit books about storytelling on the market. Here are a few that I have encountered. Enjoy!
6 Storytelling Books for Kids
Internationally acclaimed author-illustrator Dan Yaccarino presents a powerful picture book that celebrates storytelling—from the past to the present and beyond.
From cave drawings to the invention of the printing press to our digital age, discover how a story has been told in many different ways from the past to today. It’s always been around, making us happy, sad, excited, or scared and bringing people together.
With simple text and delightful illustrations, Dan Yaccarino reminds us of the power of story.
A young boy wants to write a story, just like his big sister. But there’s a problem, he tells her. Though he knows his letters, he doesn’t know many words. ?Every story starts with a single word and every word starts with a single letter,? his sister explains patiently. ?Why don’t you start there, with a letter?? So the boy tries. He writes a letter. An easy letter. The letter I. And from that one skinny letter, the story grows, and the little boy discovers that all of us, including him, have what we need to write our own perfect story.
The Word Collector by Peter H. Reynolds
Some people collect stamps.
Some people collect coins.
Some people collect art.
And Jerome?
Jerome collected words . . .
In this extraordinary new tale from Peter H. Reynolds, Jerome discovers the magic of the words all around him — short and sweet words, two-syllable treats, and multisyllable words that sound like little songs. Words that connect, transform and empower.
From the creator of The Dot, I Am Human, and Happy Dreamer comes a celebration of finding your own words — and the impact you can have when you share them with the world.
Author: A True Story by Helen Lester
So begins the story of Helen Lester, author of Tacky the Penguin and many other popular books for children. By sharing her struggles as a child and later as a successful author, she demonstrates that hurdles are part of the process. She even gives writing tips, such as keeping a “fizzle box.” Helen Lester uses her unique ability to laugh at her mistakes to create both a guide for young writers and an amusing personal story of the disappointments and triumphs of a writer’s life.
The Best Story by Eileen Spinelli
The best story is one that comes from the heart The library is having a contest for the best story, and the quirky narrator of this story just has to win that rollercoaster ride with her favorite author! But what makes a story the best?
Her brother Tim says the best stories have lots of action. Her father thinks the best stories are the funniest. And Aunt Jane tells her the best stories to have to make people cry. A story that does all these things doesn’t seem quite right, though, and the one thing the whole family can agree on is that the best story has to be your own.
Anne Wilsdorf’s hilarious illustrations perfectly capture this colorful family and their outrageous stories in Eileen Spinelli?s heartfelt tale about creativity and finding your own voice.
Ralph Tells A Story by Abby Hanlon
Nothing ever happens to Ralph. So every day when it’s time to write stories, Ralph thinks really hard. He stares at his paper. He stares at the ceiling. But he has no stories! With the help of his classmates, Ralph realizes that a great story can be about something very little . . . and that maybe he really does have some stories to tell.
Something To Do: Writing Tips and Resources for Kids and Budding Storytellers
Read Write Think
Read Write Think is one of the most popular websites to practice writing skills. This website has both informative and interactive elements. Children can learn about the various aspects of writing by reading the lessons provided. They can then put what they have learned into action by using the interactive resources like the build a comic creator, creating a timeline, and the Printing Press which helps students to make various documents like brochures and letters.
BBC Bite Size: Writing
The BBC Bite Size site has educational resources for younger children in the areas of reading, writing, spelling, grammar, math, and science. The writing component includes a game, a reading section, a video, and a quiz. Topics include persuasive writing, writing letters, newspapers, and reports, and how to write and follow instructions. The four components under each topic provide children with an online lesson into the various types of writing in a fun and interactive manner.
Mr. Nussbaum’s 1,000 Sites in 1
Mr. Nussbaum’s 1,000 Sites in 1 provides annotated image links to appropriate learning websites for children. They are broken down by subjects and topics like science, math, reading, and games, creativity, and apps. This teacher created site provides links to language arts sites on various topics including spelling, comprehension, nouns, pronouns, and commas. However, the best part of this is the games that are created specifically for this site. Under language arts games, there are games ranging from learning spelling, proper use of semicolons, digraphs, and sentence structure.
Check out Brighty’s list of the Top Sites for Teen Writers
Here are some other resources:
Ten tips for young writers from Aaron Shepard – includes turn on the TV which I agree with. I got rid of my TV 4 years ago and it really works!
A young author’s bookshelf – books you might like to read on being a young writer, also from Aaron Shepard
YoungWritersOnline.net – a community for young writers
Google Directory for young writers – lots of links to communities etc
Resources for young writers – more links to other sites
Figment- a community for young writers and readers run by HarperCollins but in the forums, there are a lot of teen writers to connect with
Magazines that young writers can submit to
If you are the parent or teacher of a budding author, encourage them! Encourage them to write, talk to other writers, enter competitions, take courses and do what they need to do to hone their craft. Show them the process of writing, editing, illustration and book production or connect them to someone who can.
The world needs more young authors!
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SO…what if I told you that all of the fairy tales, myths, and legends that have been told about dragons over the years are WRONG. What if I told you that Dragons are indeed Real and that they are different than you’ve ever imagined?
This fairly true story is based on the author’s childhood friendship with a REAL live Dragon; a very special Dragon that she and her brother spent two magical summers with.
As readers turn the pages and learn the truth about Dragons, they will see that the fiercest beasts in known history can actually be the best of friends. It’s a lesson in finding companionship in the most unusual of places. Dragons are Real is a magical book filled with stunning illustrations and hints that dragon are indeed all around us
October 25, 2018
Activities, Resources and Kidlit Books Celebrating Family History Month
October is Family History Month!
The following roundup is not only some excellent Kidlit Books Celebrating Family History Month but crafts, activities, and resources for discovering more of our family’s stories and legacies.
Kidlit Books Celebrating Family History Month
Sharing Family Memories with Nanna’s Button Tin -(Plus some super-cute button jar activities from Babies2Bookworms)
Catherine’s Pascha by Charlotte Riggle
Easter is a not far off, so this delightful book from author Riggle is perfect for celebrating the preciousness of family traditions formed around sacred holidays.
It’s Pascha, and Catherine is determined to stay awake all night. Can she do it? Will she remember how to say “Christ is risen!” in Russian? Will her best friend Elizabeth remember how to say it in Greek? Will their parents let them play with burning candles, smash hard-boiled eggs, and eat sweets until the sun rises on Pascha?
Special Aunties: Five Fabulous Books About….Aunts! from SavvyAuntie.com. There are lots of children’s books about moms, dads, and even grandparents, but what about aunties? What better way to celebrate Family Month that to shine the spotlight on some really sweet books about children and their aunts.
Grandpa’s Favorite by Erin Dealey ~ Illustrated by Luciana Navarro Powell
There’s nothing more magical than spending time with grandpa. Grandpa’s Favorite celebrates grandpa’s –and their grand-kids– around the world! No matter where, no matter what – a grandpa’s favorite is sharing what he loves with his grandchild. Check out Dealey companion book, Grandma’s Favorite as well!
Tashi and the Tibetan Flower Cure
Tashi loves listening to Popola, her grandpa, sing Tibetan chants to the click, click of his prayer beads. She also loves hearing Popola’s stories about the village in Tibet where he grew up. But recently Popola has been sick, and Tashi is worried.
One of the stories Tashi remembers told how people in Popola’s village use flowers to help themselves recover from illnesses. Will this healing tradition work in the United States, so far from Popola’s village? Determined to help Popola get better, Tashi recruits family, friends, and neighbors in a grand effort to find out.
Lyrically told and illustrated with impressionistic paintings, Tashi and the Tibetan Flower Cure shines a tender light on the universal bond between grandchild and grandparent. Readers of all ages are sure to be inspired by the gentle power of this story and its spirit of compassion and community.
From doting Grandmas to inappropriate aunts, PlanetJixonatron has a great booklist about families that will make you SMILE:
What books about family do YOU recommend?
Something To Do
Don’t forget to check out Babies2Bookworms wonderful button crafts for kids HERE!
Using Old Family Cookbooks to learn more about Family Geneology
Not only is October Family History Month, but it’s also National Cookbook Month! Family cookbooks that have been passed on from generation to generation can also be a treasure trove of information when it comes to learning about family history. What did they like to eat? What types of ingredients were common years ago? Are there any notes or thoughts written on the pages?
Interviewing Grandparents:
The matriarchs and patriarchs of families are a wealth of information and family history. Schedule some one-on-one time interviews with your family members with this wonderful and free Life History Question printable from MomItForward. The printable will help you find out fun new information about the person you are interviewing and help them start their personal history.
Life History Questions Printable
One More Thing..,
Does your heart long to roam? Discover more about your family history?
Evans Bowen’s new book, Pilgrimage: A Modern Seeker’s Guide, speaks to those who crave spiritual travel and soul-seeking adventures.
“A pilgrimage creates a sacred space where your physical body and heart can meet and meld into one. As the sacred space opens more light shines in and new vistas, ideas, languages, and experiences bring you to a new place in your life you could never imagine before.”
A tradition of all religions, Pilgrimage is a journey to sacred sites as an act of devotion and dedication. It is time to expand the definition of Pilgrimage to inform modern life. Taking time to visit a place near home or around the globe, to open the mind and heart to the Divine, brings healing and new meaning to life. Pilgrimage is both an external journey to a place longed for and an internal journey to the center of our most authentic self.
Each part of the journey, from the first desire to visit a holy place, to the return home to integrate the experience, becomes the pilgrimage to expand our world, both body and soul. Combining practical steps for the physical journey and 40 days of inspiration for the spirit, this guidebook gives this time-honored journey to the Divine to inform the whole person in our increasingly fragmented world.
Click here to view deeper details on this beautiful new book.
The post Activities, Resources and Kidlit Books Celebrating Family History Month appeared first on Jump Into a Book.
October 23, 2018
The Saint Nicholas Day Snow picture book (and cookie recipes!)
Guest post by Charlotte Riggle
Most folks know St. Nicholas from Clement Clark Moore’s “Night before Christmas.” In that nineteenth-century poem, the saint is a jolly old elf. And many families love celebrating the magic of this St. Nicholas. They love sending wish lists to the North Pole. They love the reindeer, the sleigh loaded with gifts, the stockings hung by the chimney with care and filled to overflowing with candy and toys.
But some families are uncomfortable with the materialism that this view of the saint encourages. During the winter holidays, they want an icon of faith, kindness, and generosity.
The Saint Nicholas Day Snow
And that’s just what they’ll find when they jump into The Saint Nicholas Day Snow. They’ll learn why we hang stockings for the saint to fill. It’s a true story, although it happened long ago and far away. There was a man who had fallen into such poverty that he decided to sell his daughters to a brothel so they would have food and shelter. St. Nicholas, who was then a wealthy young man, came to their house by night and dropped bags of gold through the window, to save the girls from this fate.
They’ll also see images of St. Nicholas as he has been known and honored around the world, from the fourth century until now. But those images are just the background of the story.
The story itself, the story of The Saint Nicholas Day Snow, is a story of here and now. A young girl’s grandmother is ill, so her parents arrange for her to spend the night with her best friend. They need to get to the hospital where the grandmother is being treated.
In the hurry and the worry, Elizabeth’s parents have forgotten that it’s St. Nicholas Eve.
Both families celebrate St. Nicholas. But their traditions are different. In Elizabeth’s family, St. Nicholas comes on St. Nicholas Eve. In Catherine’s family, he comes on Christmas Eve. That worries Elizabeth when she realizes that she might miss out on a visit from St. Nicholas. And, of course, she’s worried about her grandmother.
Catherine’s mom sees the worry, and reassures her with practical kindness, surrounding her with prayer and cookies and love.
In a beautiful, wordless story-within-the-story, Elizabeth’s grandmother is also surrounded with prayer and love, and her parents are supported with the kindness of the medical staff and a visiting priest.
The layered story allows young children to enjoy the simple story of friends having an overnight, while older children will find enough richness and complexity to bring them back to it again and again.
Something To Do: The Saint Nicholas Day Snow treats
Oranges, candy canes, chocolate coins, and cookies are all traditional St. Nicholas Day treats. The oranges and the chocolate coins represent the bags of gold that St. Nicholas gave the widower’s daughters so they could marry. Candy canes represent St. Nicholas’s crozier, the staff that a bishop carries. And cookies – I don’t know of any symbolic reason for cookies on St. Nicholas Day. I just can’t imagine celebrating the day without cookies!
Lime Snowball Cookie Recipe
In The Saint Nicholas Day Snow, Catherine and Elizabeth make coconut covered snowball cookies. Here’s one of my favorite recipes for snowball cookies.
Cookie ingredients
2 ½ cups flour
¾ cup sugar – superfine sugar or berry sugar, if you can get it
1 tsp finely grated lime zest
1 cup (2 sticks) butter, cool but not cold, cut into 16 pieces
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 Tbsp cream cheese, room temperature
Glaze ingredients
1 Tbsp cream cheese, room temperature
3 Tbsp lime juice
1 ½ cups powdered sugar
1 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut, pulsed in a food processor until finely chopped
Instructions
Heat the oven to 375F.
Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
Whisk the flour, sugar, and salt together, or use the mixer to whisk them together. With the mixer running on low, add the butter one piece at a time. Continue mixing until the dough looks crumbly and slightly wet. Add the vanilla and cream cheese. Mix on low until the dough starts forming large clumps.
Use your hands to shape rounded teaspoonfuls of the dough into one-inch balls. Put the balls about an inch and a half apart on the cookie sheet. Bake one pan of cookies at a time, about 12 minutes, until lightly browned.
Cool the cookies on a rack to room temperature.
In a medium bowl, whisk the cream cheese and lime juice until smooth and free of lumps. Whisk in the powdered sugar until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a bit more lime juice.
Dip the top half of the cookies into the glaze, then into the shredded coconut. Set the cookies on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper for half an hour or so, to allow the glaze to set.
Mint Meltaways
When you buy boxes of candy canes, inevitably some of them are broken. When that happens, don’t feel bad. Crush the broken candy canes and use them to make these amazingly, incredibly tender cookies.
Cookie ingredients
1-1/4 cups flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 tsp peppermint extract
Frosting ingredients
2 Tbsp butter, softened
2 Tbsp milk
1/4 tsp peppermint extract
1-1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
Instructions
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and cornstarch.
In another bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the peppermint extract. Gradually beat the flour mixture into the butter mixture, scraping the sides of the bowl often to make sure everything is evenly mixed.
Refrigerate the dough, covered, about half an hour, or until it’s firm enough to handle.
Heat the oven to 350F.
Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
Using your hands, shape the dough into 1-inch balls. Place the balls two inches apart on the cookie sheets. Bake 9 to 11 minutes or until bottoms are light brown. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool completely.
In a small bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Beat in the milk and peppermint extract. Gradually beat in powdered sugar until smooth.
Spread the frosting over the tops of the cookies, then dip the top of the cookies in the crushed candies. Store in an airtight container.
About Charlotte Riggle
Charlotte Riggle is the author of Catherine’s Pascha and The Saint Nicholas Day Snow. She’s a proud sponsor of Multicultural Children’s Book Day. You can find her online at her website, where she blogs about faith, hope, and picture books. And you can follow her on Facebook and Instagram.
The post The Saint Nicholas Day Snow picture book (and cookie recipes!) appeared first on Jump Into a Book.
October 21, 2018
Weekend Links: A Roundup of Diverse Graphic Novels for Kids
We have to disagree.
But first, what is a graphic novel? Wikipedia describes it best as “a book made up of comics content.
Although the word “novel” normally refers to long fictional works, the term “graphic novel” is applied broadly and includes fiction, non-fiction, and anthologized work. It is distinguished from the term “comic book”, which is generally used for comics periodicals.”Aimed at grades 4 through 8, these vibrant books are an excellent way to get reluctant readers interested in reading again.
Luckily, as time goes on, finding excellent diverse graphic novels for kids is getting easier and easier. That being said, here is a robust Roundup of Diverse Graphic Novels for Kids!
Diverse Graphic Novels
PragmaticMom: 16 Great Diversity Graphic Novels for Kids and Teens
55 MIDDLE-GRADE GRAPHIC NOVELS FOR RELUCTANT READERS {BOTH BOYS & GIRLS WILL LOVE} from Nerdy Mamma
Latest Graphic Novels for Ages 8 – 12, Spring 2018 from Imagination Soup
Read Your World Book Jam 2017: Diversity in Graphic Novels
Read Your World Book Jam 2018: Graphic Novels Recommended by Sci-Fu Characters
Frantic Mommy: 14 Diversity Graphic Novels for Middle Reader Girls
Indiana University Southeast Library: Diversity in Graphic Novels and Comics: Titles A-Z
School Library Journal: Celebrate Eisner Week With Diverse Graphic Novels
Something To Do
If you are looking for more quality multicultural books for kids, the Multicultural Children’s Book Day website is a treasure trove of FREE booklists and book recommends for all ages, genres and diverse topics.
Diversity Book Lists and Activities for Teachers and ParentsIt is essentially a List of Lists so parents, caregivers, grandparents, teachers, and librarians can find the books they need. Every blue title is a link to more book lists on that topic. MCBD as also has free downloadable classroom kits that are filled with booklists and activities focused on a specific topic:
Classroom Kindness Kit: Diverse book list, activities, and posters.
FREE Teacher Classroom Poverty Kit
FREE Classroom Poverty Kit 2019: Poverty Doesn’t Discriminate | Understanding Poverty in America
Our FREE Classroom Kit contains:
~27 Classroom Books that will help Readers Understand Poverty in America for ages 4 -12
~ Two Classroom or Home Activities
~ “Poverty Doesn’t Discriminate” Classroom Poster thanks to the talents of award-winning illustrator, Mehrdokht Amini
~Helpful Poverty Talking Points for Teachers
~Links, resources and services available to under-served families in the U.S.A
From the MCBD Team: As our sixth Multicultural Children’s Book Day holiday approaches on January 25, 2019, we are thrilled to have you as part of our amazing community of supporters! With enthusiasm, optimism, and hope, we are preparing for MCBD 2019 and hope you will, again, join our celebration of diversity through children’s books.
Thank you for cultivating understanding, kindness, inclusion, and exploration of this beautiful world in your classroom.
The post Weekend Links: A Roundup of Diverse Graphic Novels for Kids appeared first on Jump Into a Book.
October 18, 2018
YA Thriller/Mystery, Clandestine, wins SILVER at the 2018 Moonbeam Book Awards
So exciting! Long-time JIAB/Audrey Press guest writer and intern, Hannah Rials, released Book#2 in wildly popular Ascension trilogy in July and it’s already winning awards!
Imagine our excitement when we received the email that our very own author, Hannah Rials, won a SILVER in the YA Thriller/Mystery category at the 2018 Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards! The much-anticipated sequel to JIAB intern, Hannah Rials’ runaway YA hit, Ascension. Book Two in the Ascension series is Clandestine and not only is it winning awards, but it’s also bringing in raves reviews.
“Gripping until the very end.” – Scott Reintgen, author of Nyxia
“Dark, surprising, and full of twists, the Ascension series is a delectable addition to vampire canon. Rials paints a rich and engrossing world of vampires, half-vampires witches– each with their own agenda. Cheyenne’s struggle to be free is one that every girl will recognize, and I rooted for her as she bristled against the roles cast for her by society. It’s the story of a girl yearning to come into her own powers, powers both frightening and beautiful.” ~Maggie Thrash, author of L.A. Times Book Prize nominee Honor Girl
Cheyenne Lane never believed it could come to this—imprisoned by her own family, who are plotting to overthrow the vampire Council. Ripped away from the happiness of her summer romance and friendship in New Orleans, Cheyenne is forced to begin her education at Clandestine, the secret Deuxsang University, one year early.
She is guarded constantly, separated from her best friend Anne, and desperate for any word from Eli and the witches. Meanwhile, her cousin Lilith has discovered that Cheyenne possesses all four vampiric abilities—unheard of for a Deuxsang—and intends to use her in the Ascending’s rebellious scheme.
At 17, Cheyenne finds herself the center of a centuries-old conspiracy involving the vampires, Deuxsang, and witches, and everyone is telling her who she should trust and what she should do. Her head is too full of voices and opinions, and it’s time for Cheyenne to make up her own mind.
Is she ready to step into the role she was made for? Who can she trust? Who is her friend and who is her enemy? Is she really a born leader? All questions that only she can answer. As the information and scenario gets more confusing, she knows she must listen to her intuition if she is going to shift the truth from all the lies.
About The Author
author Hannah RialsAs Maryville native and a senior in college at University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Hannah Rials began writing her first novel, Ascension, at age twelve. Her first YA novel Ascension is a modern day teenage romance filled with “double-blooded” vampires and revenge-seeking witches. Published by Aletha Press of Maryville, TN is the second book in the trilogy, Clandestine, was written and editing while she was a full-time college student. After graduating from University of Tennessee at Chattanooga with a BA in Creative Writing, she will be attending college at Bath Spa University’s MA (England): Creative Writing for Young People; a yearlong master’s degree.
Hannah is a vampire fanatic, a New Orleans lover, and a dog obsessor. She loves her friends, family, and finding new adventures. To keep up with Hannah, you can find plenty of pictures of her corgi Buddy and her travels on Instagram @herials because who doesn’t love a cute corgi picture? Connect with Hannah on Facebook, Twitter and via her website.
“I feel like I am living proof that dreams do come true.”– Hannah Rials
Grab your copy of the #YAThriller Clandestine HERE and get sucked in…
The post YA Thriller/Mystery, Clandestine, wins SILVER at the 2018 Moonbeam Book Awards appeared first on Jump Into a Book.
October 16, 2018
Marvelous Makeable Monsters and Rube Goldberg Inventions!
The Halloween season is likely to make most of us think about ghouls, creepies and all sort of monsters.
But Jump Into a Book thinks monsters are pretty awesome and making them (all year long) is pretty spectacular too! One of our favorite children’s book publishers, Quartokids, wholeheartedly agrees and have created a book just for them when the Monster Making urge overcomes your family! Not only are these monsters scary-cool, but the activities also create chain reactions for young Makers.
Marvelous Monster Makers : What can a makeable monster do?
They can motor, inflate, wobble, drool, soar, and one can even do push-ups. Add a pair of wings, subtract a tentacle… The best thing about these monsters is that they’re part experiment, part imagination, and 100% customizable. Author Sam Haynor draws on his experience with the San Francisco Exploratorium, Oakland Toy Lab, GoldieBlox, and designing STEAM curriculum to create projects packed with fun features.
Build Your Own Chain Reaction Machines
I have to admit, I had never heard the name Rube Goldberg until my kids were in middle school.
With Build Your Own Chain Reaction Machines, you’ll create thirteen zany and awesome mechanical contraptions using stuff from around the house.
Build Your Own Chain Reaction Machines is inspired by the amazing artwork of renowned cartoonist, engineer, and inventor Rube Goldberg, whose wacky, imagined machines accomplished tasks by taking the most complicated route possible. This book invites kids to this wonderful world of creating crazy contraptions.
In this entertaining and instructive book, mechanical engineer and educator Paul Long gives step-by-step instructions for making low-tech devices using everyday objects in inspired and ingenious ways. Create machines that flip a light switch, squeeze toothpaste, dispense candy, make music, and more.
Each of the thirteen projects demonstrates how to build the machine’s various elements, and explains how they work together to make a mind-boggling mechanism that delivers hours of fun and fascination. Also included are interesting sidebars on the science behind each gadget, plus tips and tricks for success.
Why didn’t get all this fun stuff when I was in school?!
Lucky for this generation, QuartoKids has a wonderful book to help young Makers be inspired by the amazing artwork of renowned cartoonist, engineer, and inventor Rube Goldberg.
Goldberg’s wacky and imagined machines accomplished tasks by taking the most complicated route possible. In this entertaining and instructive book, mechanical engineer and educator Paul Long gives instructions for making devices using ordinary objects in ingenious ways. Create machines that flip a switch, squeeze toothpaste, dispense candy, and more.
Let’s get inventing!
Aletha Press’ YA Thriller/Mystery, Clandestine, wins SILVER at the 2018 Moonbeam Book Awards!
Imagine our excitement when we received the email that our very own author, Hannah Rials, won a SILVER in the YA Thriller/Mystery category at the 2018 Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards!The much-anticipated sequel to JIAB intern, Hannah Rials’ runaway YA hit, Ascension. Book Two in the Ascension series is Clandestine and not only is it winnning awards, it’s bringing in raves reviews.
“Gripping until the very end.” – Scott Reintgen, author of Nyxia
“Dark, surprising, and full of twists, the Ascension series is a delectable addition to vampire canon. Rials paints a rich and engrossing world of vampires, half-vampires witches– each with their own agenda. Cheyenne’s struggle to be free is one that every girl will recognize, and I rooted for her as she bristled against the roles cast for her by society. It’s the story of a girl yearning to come into her own powers, powers both frightening and beautiful.” ~Maggie Thrash, author of L.A. Times Book Prize nominee Honor Girl
Cheyenne Lane never believed it could come to this—imprisoned by her own family, who are plotting to overthrow the vampire Council. Ripped away from the happiness of her summer romance and friendship in New Orleans, Cheyenne is forced to begin her education at Clandestine, the secret Deuxsang University, one year early.
She is guarded constantly, separated from her best friend Anne, and desperate for any word from Eli and the witches. Meanwhile, her cousin Lilith has discovered that Cheyenne possesses all four vampiric abilities—unheard of for a Deuxsang—and intends to use her in the Ascending’s rebellious scheme.
At 17, Cheyenne finds herself the center of a centuries-old conspiracy involving the vampires, Deuxsang, and witches, and everyone is telling her who she should trust and what she should do. Her head is too full of voices and opinions, and it’s time for Cheyenne to make up her own mind.
Is she ready to step into the role she was made for? Who can she trust? Who is her friend and who is her enemy? Is she really a born leader? All questions that only she can answer. As the information and scenario gets more confusing, she knows she must listen to her intuition if she is going to shift the truth from all the lies.
Grab your copy of the #YAThriller Clandestine HERE and get sucked in…
The post Marvelous Makeable Monsters and Rube Goldberg Inventions! appeared first on Jump Into a Book.
October 11, 2018
Audible Book for Harry Potter Fans: Harry Potter History of Magic
Natalie Dormer invites you on an audio journey like no other.
Via this Audible Book for Harry Potter Fans, delve into the history of real-life magic and explore some of J.K. Rowling’s magical inventions, alongside their folkloric, cultural and historical forebears.
“Magic is more than superstitions of past or the magic of the future…”
So exciting! Audible and Pottermore announced a new and exciting addition to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter audiobooks! Harry Potter: A History of Magic, performed by Natalie Dormer (of Game of Thrones and The Hunger Games) will be out for your listening pleasure this October, but you can preorder it now exclusively at Audible at www.audible.com/historyofmagic.
Audible also announced today that a special audio tour featuring Natalie Dormer’s voice will accompany the Harry Potter: A History of Magic exhibition at the New-York Historical Society, which is scheduled to open on October 5, 2018.
Harry Potter: A History of Magic
“The history of magic is as long as time and as wide as the world. In every culture, in every age, in every place and, probably, in every heart, there is magic.”
Harry Potter: A History of Magic reveals some of the hidden stories behind real-world magic and explores some of J.K. Rowling’s magical inventions alongside their folkloric, cultural and historical forebears.
Narrator Natalie Dormer and a host of experts will take you on an audio journey like no other; from ancient China to a 14th-century apothecary’s shop, on to the Salem witch trials and beyond. They delve into a rich body of writings about magic and explore intriguing artifacts to bring to life deep-rooted ideas of mysticism from around the world.
Along the way, you can listen for handy tips on how to capture a basilisk, make yourself invisible or create your very own philosopher’s stone. You’ll hear about the dozens of drafts and drawings that went into J.K. Rowling’s writing process and enjoy exclusive interviews with Jim Dale, Stephen Fry, and illustrator Jim Kay, who all share their experiences of working on these incredible stories.
I loved the fact that this audiobook is a documentary of sorts. Awesome details and backstory of the intricate details of how J.K Rowlings created the stories and the characters of the Harry Potter series. It includes insights from illustrators, voice actors, historians, etc into the making of the Harry Potter Universe as well as historical accounts of magic, science, and medicine.
And my personal favorite, care of fantastic beasts
October 9, 2018
5 Middle Reader Books for Kids who Love Villains
Who doesn’t love a book with a good-ol-fashion-good-guy-vs-bad-guy theme?
Villains are important in books because battling them drives the story, adds an air of suspense and gives the heroes a sense of purpose. Some more memorable villains in books include Cruella deVille, Voldermort, and even The Grinch. We love to hate our villans and cheer like crazy when characters triumph over them!
Here’s another bonus; because the villain makes stories so intriguing, kids are more likely to read and stay engaged until the very end. Here is a handful of Books for Kids who Love Villains that have crossed my desk lately. Enjoy!
ALICE’S ADVENTURES IN WONDERLAND-The 150th Anniversary Edition from Penguin/RandomHouse
It’s been 150 years since Lewis Carroll introduced Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, the story which has become a favorite of children and adults the world over. Now, in a deluxe hardcover edition from Puffin, Alice’s story comes to life for a whole new generation of readers through the colorful, whimsical artwork of Anna Bond, best known as the creative director and artistic inspiration behind the worldwide stationery and gift brand Rifle Paper Co. Lose yourself in Alice’s story as she tumbles down the rabbit hole, swims through her own pool of tears, and finds herself in a rather curious place called Wonderland. There, she’ll encounter the frantic White Rabbit, have a frustrating conversation with an eccentric caterpillar, and play croquet with the hot-headed Queen of Hearts. Follow Alice on her wild adventure through the eyes of the artist in this definitive gift edition. The 150th anniversary of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland comes with a deluxe oversized hardcover edition, illustrated in full color by Anna Bond of Rifle Paper Co.
Willa of the Wood by Robert Beatty
A huge thanks to Disney-Hyperion for providing me with a copy of this book!
Willa, a young night-spirit forest girl, is her clan’s best thief. Move without a sound. Steal without a trace. Its the mantra her people live by.
Her people are the Faeran, ancient forest dwellers who once lived in harmony with the woods and the Great Smoky Mountains but now struggle to survive in an uncertain world. Once a wise and powerful people, the Faeran have been pushed to the edge of extinction, forced deep into the mountains and stealing from the day-folk to survive.
The only way Willa can help her people from becoming extinct is to creep into the homes of day-folk in the cover of darkness and takes what they won’t miss. It’s dangerous work—the day-folk kill whatever they do not understand. Life for the Faeran is all about survival and unity, but human “day folk” are encroaching on their lives in the forest And now an even stranger new threat is looming; the railroad.
When Willa’s curiosity leaves her hurt and stranded in the day world, she calls upon an ancient, unbreakable bond to escape. Only then does she discover the truth: not all day-folk are the same, and the foundations that have guarded the Faeran for eons are under attack. For ages 8-12.
Time Sandwich by Matt Brennan with illustrations by Jonathan Reich
This young adult graphic novel is quite the hoot! I knew I was going to be in for a treat when I saw the tagline of “A Start in the Middle Book” on the front cover.
When Tuckie and Huggs discover a time machine, they have no idea of the adventures they’re about to have – but their future selves do! Their crazy adventures are filled with hazards like hungry dinos, killer robots and even themselves! Start in the middle of the book and then turn the page backward or forwards to follow the timelines and to travel backward and forward in time. For ages 8-12.
The official release date for Time Sandwich is Nov. 6. Go here to pre-order ASAP.
The Pomegranate Witch by Denise Doyen
When a scary old tree blooms with the most beautiful pomegranates ever seen, the neighborhood kids’ mouths water with anticipation. But the tree isn’t theirs—and it has a protector! So begins the Pomegranate War, a fun, rollicking, rhyming tale of a battle between the sly, plucky young rascals and their wry, witchy neighbor who may have more than one trick up her sleeve. This delectable romp from award-winning children’s poet Denise Doyen and acclaimed illustrator Eliza Wheeler honors classic children’s literature and revels in nostalgia for free-to-roam days full of playful invention. For ages 4-9
The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes
How can one boy with a limp stop the Maya god of death, disaster, and darkness from destroying the world?
Zane has always enjoyed exploring the dormant volcano near his home in New Mexico, even though hiking it is challenging. He’d much rather hang out there with his dog, Rosie than go to middle school, where kids call him Sir Limps a Lot, McGimpster, or Uno – for his one good leg.
What Zane doesn’t know is that the volcano is a gateway to another world and he is at the center of a powerful prophecy. A new girl at school, Brooks, informs him that he’s destined to release an evil god from the ancient Maya relic he is imprisoned in–unless she can find and remove it first. Together they return to the volcano, where all kinds of crazy happen. Brooks turns into a hawk, a demon attacks them in a cave, and Rosie gives her all while trying to protect Zane. When Zane decides to save his dog no matter the cost, he is thrust into an adventure full of surprising discoveries, dangerous secrets, and an all-out war between the gods, one of whom happens to be his father.
To survive, Zane will have to become the Storm Runner. But how can he run when he can’t even walk well without a cane?
For ages 10-14. Grab a copy of this book on Amazon Barnes & Noble, IndieBound, and on Rick’s website.
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Here’s another excellent series with villains your YA readers will love to hate!
Recipient of the 2017 IBPA Ben Franklin Awards-Children’s/YA-New Voices GOLD Award!
Ascension by Hannah Rials
Enter this world of vampires, set in the south, and realize you are being pulled in more—and deeper—with each page.
Steeped in the mystery, intrigue and rich history of New Orleans and the secretive world of the Deuxsang, teen vampire, Cheyenne, and her forbidden love, Eli, embark on a very different, and vastly more dangerous, journey as the net of betrayal tightens around them. This intense and fresh novel is enchanting, engrossing and impossible to put down right up to the cliffhanger ending. Remember, the end is not the end.
What an extraordinary debut novel with new and intriguing twists on vampires—a strong female protagonist as one. I already can’t wait for book two.-Jill Murphy Long, author of The Conduit
This book is by the far the BEST YA/Adult fiction that I’ve read in a very long while. So exciting!-Rebecca F
Get sucked in…
Grab your copy of Ascension HERE and visit Hannah on Facebook, Twitter and on her website.
The post 5 Middle Reader Books for Kids who Love Villains appeared first on Jump Into a Book.
October 4, 2018
A brand new Graphic Novel from the DC Super Hero Girls!
Ever wanted to possess a superpower?
To be able to be swim like a fish, know what people were thinking or see into the future?
If that’s the case (I’m talking to the adults too!) then check out DC Super Hero Girls newest graphic novel, Search for Atlantis!
Search for Atlantis introduces several iconic DC characters like Mera, Aquaman, and Raven, among others, to young readers. The story also tells a kid-friendly origin story of the Teen Titans superhero team. With so many new characters, the story is a great way for parents to introduce their favorite DC Super Heroes to their kids and enjoy these characters together. The introduction of these particular superheroes is very timely with the upcoming Titans TV show and Aquaman film and offers young readers kid-friendly versions of these popular characters.
DC Super Hero Girls
Written by New York Times bestselling author Shea Fontana and illustrated by Yancey Labat, Search for Atlantis is an action-packed underwater adventure perfect for readers ages 6-12. The story explores themes of friendship, teamwork, and self-empowerment, and features several new DC characters including Mera and Aquaman. The book is a great introduction to these characters before they hit the big screen in the upcoming Aquaman film later this year and is a relatable story for kids starting the new school year.
In this new graphic novel, Mera is the new girl at Super Hero High and when Wonder Woman takes Mera under her wing, Wonder Woman’s best friend Bumblebee is overcome with jealousy. Despite her feelings, Bumblebee accompanies Mera and the Super Hero Girls on a field trip to Atlantis. But when they arrive, Atlantis is missing and Mera is horrified when they discover that Brainiac has shrunken and stolen Atlantis with the Atlanteans trapped inside. The Super Hero Girls must work together to defeat Brainiac and, along the way, Bumblebee must learn the true meaning of friendship.
“DC fans get a nice introduction to the fun, funny world of Super Hero High.”- School Library Journal
Another thing we love about this new graphic novel for tweens and teens is that offers up powerful lessons on FRIENDSHIP. In Search for Atlantis, readers see how to build and maintain friendships as Bumblebee and Wonder Woman learn how to make room for new friends while still maintaining their current bond.
In a world where inclusion is a hot button for teachers and parents, this message couldn’t come at a better time.
Something To Do
Delve into the Myth of Atlantis
Greek philosopher, Plato, told the story of Atlantis around 360 B.C. and described the creators of Atlantis as beings that were half god and half human. They created a utopian civilization and became a great naval power. Their home was made up of concentric islands separated by wide moats and linked by a canal that penetrated to the center. The lush islands contained gold, silver, and other precious metals and supported an abundance of rare, exotic wildlife. There was a great capital city on the central island. To learn more about the fascinating lore or Atlantis, check out this National Geographic story here.
Welcome to Atlantis!
Imagine you’ve found the lost underwater city-nation of Atlantis as you use Crayola® Tempera Paint, Markers, and Colored Pencils to draw your discovery.
Crayola has a fun Atlantis-themed lesson plan that will appeal to a wide variety of ages HERE.
Be Kind in the Classroom!
No matter what grade your students or kids are in, there’s always time to teach kindness. Multicultural Children’s Book Day Team couldn’t agree more. With that in mind we put our collective heads together and with the help of authors Jarrett Krosoczka and DEMI, have created a very special downloadable MCBD Kindness Classroom Kit for all teachers, parents, librarians, and educators to utilize.
MCBD’s FREE Kindness Classroom Kit contains:
Diverse Kindness Book List for ages 4 -12
Classroom Kindness Activities
“Be a Hero Be Kind” Kindness Poster
Multicultural Children’s Book Day Poster
Sign up is quick, easy and FREE. Go HERE to grab your Kindness Classroom Kit and together we can Be a Hero, Be Kind.
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One More Thing
The much-anticipated sequel to JIAB intern, Hannah Rials’ runaway YA hit, Ascension. Book Two in the Ascension series is Clandestine and its already bringing in raves reviews.
“Gripping until the very end.” – Scott Reintgen, author of Nyxia
“Dark, surprising, and full of twists, the Ascension series is a delectable addition to vampire canon. Rials paints a rich and engrossing world of vampires, half-vampires witches– each with their own agenda. Cheyenne’s struggle to be free is one that every girl will recognize, and I rooted for her as she bristled against the roles cast for her by society. It’s the story of a girl yearning to come into her own powers, powers both frightening and beautiful.” ~Maggie Thrash, author of L.A. Times Book Prize nominee Honor Girl
Cheyenne Lane never believed it could come to this—imprisoned by her own family, who are plotting to overthrow the vampire Council. Ripped away from the happiness of her summer romance and friendship in New Orleans, Cheyenne is forced to begin her education at Clandestine, the secret Deuxsang University, one year early.
She is guarded constantly, separated from her best friend Anne, and desperate for any word from Eli and the witches. Meanwhile, her cousin Lilith has discovered that Cheyenne possesses all four vampiric abilities—unheard of for a Deuxsang—and intends to use her in the Ascending’s rebellious scheme.
At 17, Cheyenne finds herself the center of a centuries-old conspiracy involving the vampires, Deuxsang, and witches, and everyone is telling her who she should trust and what she should do. Her head is too full of voices and opinions, and it’s time for Cheyenne to make up her own mind.
Is she ready to step into the role she was made for? Who can she trust? Who is her friend and who is her enemy? Is she really a born leader? All questions that only she can answer. As the information and scenario gets more confusing, she knows she must listen to her intuition if she is going to shift the truth from all the lies.
Grab your copy of the #YAThriller Clandestine HERE and get sucked in…
The post A brand new Graphic Novel from the DC Super Hero Girls! appeared first on Jump Into a Book.
A brand new #GraphicNovel from the DC Super Hero Girls!
Ever wanted to possess a superpower?
To be able to be swim like a fish, know what people were thinking or see into the future?
If that’s the case (I’m talking to the adults too!) then check out DC Super Hero Girls newest graphic novel, Search for Atlantis!
Search for Atlantis introduces several iconic DC characters like Mera, Aquaman, and Raven, among others, to young readers. The story also tells a kid-friendly origin story of the Teen Titans superhero team. With so many new characters, the story is a great way for parents to introduce their favorite DC Super Heroes to their kids and enjoy these characters together. The introduction of these particular superheroes is very timely with the upcoming Titans TV show and Aquaman film and offers young readers kid-friendly versions of these popular characters.
DC Super Hero Girls
Written by New York Times bestselling author Shea Fontana and illustrated by Yancey Labat, Search for Atlantis is an action-packed underwater adventure perfect for readers ages 6-12. The story explores themes of friendship, teamwork, and self-empowerment, and features several new DC characters including Mera and Aquaman. The book is a great introduction to these characters before they hit the big screen in the upcoming Aquaman film later this year and is a relatable story for kids starting the new school year.
In this new graphic novel, Mera is the new girl at Super Hero High and when Wonder Woman takes Mera under her wing, Wonder Woman’s best friend Bumblebee is overcome with jealousy. Despite her feelings, Bumblebee accompanies Mera and the Super Hero Girls on a field trip to Atlantis. But when they arrive, Atlantis is missing and Mera is horrified when they discover that Brainiac has shrunken and stolen Atlantis with the Atlanteans trapped inside. The Super Hero Girls must work together to defeat Brainiac and, along the way, Bumblebee must learn the true meaning of friendship.
“DC fans get a nice introduction to the fun, funny world of Super Hero High.”- School Library Journal
Another thing we love about this new graphic novel for tweens and teens is that offers up powerful lessons on FRIENDSHIP. In Search for Atlantis, readers see how to build and maintain friendships as Bumblebee and Wonder Woman learn how to make room for new friends while still maintaining their current bond.
In a world where inclusion is a hot button for teachers and parents, this message couldn’t come at a better time.
Something To Do
Delve into the Myth of Atlantis
Greek philosopher, Plato, told the story of Atlantis around 360 B.C. and described the creators of Atlantis as beings that were half god and half human. They created a utopian civilization and became a great naval power. Their home was made up of concentric islands separated by wide moats and linked by a canal that penetrated to the center. The lush islands contained gold, silver, and other precious metals and supported an abundance of rare, exotic wildlife. There was a great capital city on the central island. To learn more about the fascinating lore or Atlantis, check out this National Geographic story here.
Welcome to Atlantis!
Imagine you’ve found the lost underwater city-nation of Atlantis as you use Crayola® Tempera Paint, Markers, and Colored Pencils to draw your discovery.
Crayola has a fun Atlantis-themed lesson plan that will appeal to a wide variety of ages HERE.
Be Kind in the Classroom!
No matter what grade your students or kids are in, there’s always time to teach kindness. Multicultural Children’s Book Day Team couldn’t agree more. With that in mind we put our collective heads together and with the help of authors Jarrett Krosoczka and DEMI, have created a very special downloadable MCBD Kindness Classroom Kit for all teachers, parents, librarians, and educators to utilize.
MCBD’s FREE Kindness Classroom Kit contains:
Diverse Kindness Book List for ages 4 -12
Classroom Kindness Activities
“Be a Hero Be Kind” Kindness Poster
Multicultural Children’s Book Day Poster
Sign up is quick, easy and FREE. Go HERE to grab your Kindness Classroom Kit and together we can Be a Hero, Be Kind.
–
One More Thing
The much-anticipated sequel to JIAB intern, Hannah Rials’ runaway YA hit, Ascension. Book Two in the Ascension series is Clandestine and its already bringing in raves reviews.
“Gripping until the very end.” – Scott Reintgen, author of Nyxia
“Dark, surprising, and full of twists, the Ascension series is a delectable addition to vampire canon. Rials paints a rich and engrossing world of vampires, half-vampires witches– each with their own agenda. Cheyenne’s struggle to be free is one that every girl will recognize, and I rooted for her as she bristled against the roles cast for her by society. It’s the story of a girl yearning to come into her own powers, powers both frightening and beautiful.” ~Maggie Thrash, author of L.A. Times Book Prize nominee Honor Girl
Cheyenne Lane never believed it could come to this—imprisoned by her own family, who are plotting to overthrow the vampire Council. Ripped away from the happiness of her summer romance and friendship in New Orleans, Cheyenne is forced to begin her education at Clandestine, the secret Deuxsang University, one year early.
She is guarded constantly, separated from her best friend Anne, and desperate for any word from Eli and the witches. Meanwhile, her cousin Lilith has discovered that Cheyenne possesses all four vampiric abilities—unheard of for a Deuxsang—and intends to use her in the Ascending’s rebellious scheme.
At 17, Cheyenne finds herself the center of a centuries-old conspiracy involving the vampires, Deuxsang, and witches, and everyone is telling her who she should trust and what she should do. Her head is too full of voices and opinions, and it’s time for Cheyenne to make up her own mind.
Is she ready to step into the role she was made for? Who can she trust? Who is her friend and who is her enemy? Is she really a born leader? All questions that only she can answer. As the information and scenario gets more confusing, she knows she must listen to her intuition if she is going to shift the truth from all the lies.
Grab your copy of the #YAThriller Clandestine HERE and get sucked in…
The post A brand new #GraphicNovel from the DC Super Hero Girls! appeared first on Jump Into a Book.
