Valarie Budayr's Blog, page 51
October 8, 2016
Indie Author Day 2016 and a Multicultural Indie Author Booklist
During the Inaugural Indie Author Day on October 8, 2016, libraries from all across North America will host their own local author events with the support of the Indie Author Day team. In addition to these local programs, each library’s indie community will come together for an hour-long digital gathering at 2 pm Eastern featuring Q&A with writers, agents and other industry leaders. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity for libraries and authors to connect on both local and global levels!
From small towns to big cities, Toronto to San Antonio, the array of hosts captures a true cross-section of North America’s indie writing scene. No matter where you are, you’ll get the best of what both local and global networks have to offer. Each individual library’s activities for the big day are different, but the digital Q&A session at 2pm EST will bring all libraries, publishers and authors together for an hour of insight and inspiration.
SO, WHAT IS AN INDIE AUTHOR?
According to writing and publishing guru, Joanna Penn, “Indie author means truly independent. At its most basic, indie means there is no separate publisher involved. Many indies may have setup their own micro-press, so their books still have a publisher name that is not the author’s name but the publisher is not one of the author services companies. The indie author most likely owns their own ISBNs. The indie pays the bills and is paid by the distributors e.g. Amazon/Smashwords directly. The only middleman is the distributor.”
WHY PARTICIPATE IN INDIE AUTHOR DAY?
The Indie Author Day team’s lead strategist, Allie McKinney, explains that the idea for Indie Author Day originally sprung from SELF-e’s mission to connect libraries, authors and readers, then expanded into the international event it is today. The event is unique in that it maintains a distinctly local feel for each library, while also facilitating global connections through the digital Q&A with publishing and library industry experts.
Both libraries hosting events and authors attending them will leave having gained valuable connections and information. Indie Author Day is a fantastic opportunity for authors to learn about new avenues of writing and publishing, and to connect with other local creatives involved in the publishing industry. At the same time, the event can help librarians find previously-undiscovered local talent, and strengthen a crucial relationship with their local writing communities.
Your libraries support you. Show support for them with a shout out on Facebook and Twitter by tagging them and using the hashtag #MyIndieAuthorDay!
As co-founder of Multicultural Children’s Book Day I’ve been lucky enough to work with many high-quality indie authors. I also understand the very real struggles these children’s authors face when trying to get their published works into the hands of the buying public. That being said, I thought I would take this opportunity to shine the spotlight on a handful of my favorite indie authors whose books crossed our desks during the MCCBD 2016 event. Don’t forget; if you are an indie author who would like to be involved via an Author Sponsorship in MCCBD 2017, check out our Sponsorship Page for details and how to get involved in this very special event created just for young readers, parents and educators.
Painting for Peace in Ferguson by Carol Swartout Klein
After months of tension something appeared on the streets of Ferguson that hadn’t been seen there for a long
time… HOPE. Author and Ferguson native Carol Swartout Klein captured this story in the children’s picture book,
“Painting for Peace in Ferguson.” Written in child-friendly verse, the actual artwork painted on hundreds of boarded up windows illustrates the story. The book’s simple but powerful message is that when people reach out to each other across lines that divide us and work together, remarkable things happen. And both children and adults can make a difference.
Outstanding Book of the Year GOLD Award – Independent Publisher
2015 State of Missouri Selection for Library of Congress National Book Festival
“Painting for Peace in Ferguson” is being used in schools, around dinner tables, and around the globe. The book opens doors and starts positive conversation about all of the issues around race in America, not only in Ferguson, but in Baltimore, New York,Cleveland, South Carolina, and across the country. A single paintbrush can paint one picture but thousands working together can transform a community. Profits from the book benefit youth and recovery programs in the Ferguson area.
About the Author
Carol Swartout Klein grew up in Ferguson and was so inspired by witnessing the spirit of hundreds of volunteers coming together to bring hope to a community in shock that she wanted to capture the story and “Painting for Peace in Ferguson” is the result. A journalist and marketing professional by training, Klein saw how healing the actual process of creating the artwork was for all those involved … as the community came together to help others, the artists, business owners and volunteers benefited themselves … and created new connections that she hopes will continue to strengthen in the future.
Web: www.paintingforpeacebook.com, Facebook: Painting for Peace book
email: paintingforpeace.book@gmail Twitter: @paintpeacebook
Huffington Post blog: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/carol-swartout-klein/
Ben Woodard-Author of The Boy Who Flew With Eagles
“As a kid, I walked in the woods and fields on sunny days. When the weather turned bad, I’d spend my time in the library. Both were my refuge, my escape from the angst of childhood and adolescence. I almost lived in the local library. Reading was my retreat and the library was my portal. I loved boys adventure stories and have been amazed at the reports that say boys don’t read. So I decided to write the kind of stories I remembered. The Boy Who Flew With Eaglesis one of these. In it I could give boys (and girls) the sense of excitement I got when I first opened a book. And with this book I could indulge my other passion of the outdoors and tell of the need to protect our environment.
The book is short, intentionally so, to attract reluctant readers. I didn’t “write down” to the children who will read the book, but the language is straight forward and the story uncomplicated. A fun adventure that a child can read quickly and get a subtle lesson.
To add some heft to the book, professional artist Laura Leikona illustrated each chapter along with the cover. The illustrations give the book a feel similar to theMagic Treehouse series. And the final illustration is a story in itself.
Connect with Ben via his website, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, iTunes and Ben’s Amazon Page
Rafa The Refugee
By Terrie Hoops
Rafa the Refugee is a real-world tale of one young girl’s journey to the United States, her adoption of a new culture, and her journey to preserve her heritage as she finds her way and settles into the USA. Rafa tells the story about how she learned the value of retaining her first language and culture while learning English. As a new refugee, it is important to learn English but never lose your oral language and literacy in the first language. You need both languages and cultures to grow and succeed. Your culture is valued and your language is a gift, and it will go a long way. Never lose your language and you will never lose who you are. This story will inspire those who have immigrated to America or those who come from immigrant families. It provides the lessons of those who courageously developed—and thrived—in new regions without forsaking their origins.
Terrie Hoops is a passionate educator working in second language acquisition. Terrie develops K-12 curriculums for modern languages and ESOL programs serving migrant and refugee populations. She has a bachelor’s degree in anthropology and a master’s degree in administration and leadership from the State University of New York at Plattsburgh, as well as a Certificate of Advanced Study in curriculum, assessment, and instruction from the University of Maine at Orono. Terrie is originally from Montreal, Quebec, and is fluent in English, Spanish, and French. She lives in Bradenton, FL, with her husband David.
Connect with Terrie on her website, Twitter, Facebook
Catherine’s Pascha
by Charlotte Riggle
When Charlotte Riggle’s children were young, she wanted to give them books about Pascha, the celebration of Easter in the Orthodox Church. She found books with pictures of pretty pastel eggs, but none with blood-red eggs. She saw books that showed baskets full of candy, but none with baskets full of meat and cheese. She discovered books that showed families going to church on Easter morning, but none with families going to church in the middle of the night.
There were no books that reflected her children’s experience of Pascha. So she did the only thing she could do. She wrote one herself: Catherine’s Pascha.
In Catherine’s Pascha, you’ll see Catherine and her family celebrate Pascha in the middle of the night, with processions and candles and bells and singing. This year, Catherine is determined to stay awake all night long. Can she do it? Will her little brother wake up before Pascha is over? Will her parents really let her play with burning candles, smash hard-boiled eggs, and eat nothing but junk food on this, the holiest night of the year?
Find out more about Catherine’s Pascha, and about the celebration of Pascha, at the Catherine’s Pascha website.
Author Sandra L. Richards
The latest in the growing multicultural children’s books category is Rice & Rocks (Wise Ink Creative Publishing, 2016), the highly anticipated debut from author Sandra L. Richards.
Rice & Rocks centers on the adventures of Giovanni, a young Jamaican-American boy seeking to understand the importance of his family’s heritage. The charming and curious main character is based off Richards’ lost nephew of the same name, who passed away from meningitis at 8-years-old. After his death in 2007, Richards began writing as a way to preserve her memories of Giovanni.
The book’s title refers to the Jamaican staple rice and peas, a dish Richard’s nephew avoided eating because he thought the peas looked like rocks. The reference serves as the central theme of Rice & Rocks, which follows Giovanni and his magic parrot on a journey around the world to find other places where rice and beans are enjoyed. Young readers travel with Giovanni from Japan to Puerto Rico to New Orleans, returning home just in time for dinner to be served.
Richards, an American born daughter of Jamaican immigrant parents, hopes the book will serve as an educational resource for families seeking to teach their children the value of their heritage and the importance of cultural diversity.
Connect with Sandra via her website, Twitter, Facebook,Instagram, LinkedIn andPinterest
ABC, Adoption & Me by Gayle Swift
ABC, Adoption & Me has been awarded Favorite Read of 2013 by Adoptive Families Magazine, Notable Picture Book of 2013 by Shelf Unbound and Honorable Mention Gittle List 2013, and named Finalist in the Independent Book Publishers of New England 2014 Book Awards. Earned an Honorable Mention in the 2014 Purple Dragonfly Book Awards.
Another thing that I loved about ABC, Adoption & Me is that it presents adoption from the child’s point of view. This distinguishes it from the many books that focus on the joy parents experience through adoption and on reassuring adoptees how much they are loved. ABC, Adoption & Me celebrate
s the miracle of family and addresses the difficult issues faced in adoptive families as well. It truly provides an opportunity for readers to come away with a deeper understanding of what it means to be an adoptive family and provide teaching moments that bring families closer, connected in truth.Gayle H. Swift is the co-founder: GIFT Family Services and author: ABC, Adoption & Me: A Multicultural Picture book. Connect with Gayle and this book via Amazon Barnes&Noble Facebook Twitter Website Google+
What awesome Indie books have you read lately? Please share in the comments below!
**Some of these links are affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, MCCBD will get a very small commission. This money will be used to get more multicultural books into the hands of parents, teachers and librarians.
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Authors & Publishers: Sponsorship Info for 2017
Our Medallion Level Sponsorships (Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze) and our Author Sponsorships for MCCBD 2017 will re-open on September 25th, 2016. View 2016’s Sponsors and Authors Sponsors. We look forward to working with you! Go HERE for details and 2017 rates.
Would you like to be a Review for MCCBD 2017 and Receive aFree Diversity Book?
Bloggers can go here to sign up via a Google Sign-up and review a multicultural children’s book for this event. MCCBD is also open to reviewers do not have a blog, but have a strong presence on Facebook and LinkedIn.
How It Works
Bloggers are then “matched” with an author or publisher that will supply them with a free children’s book to review. Bloggers are encouraged to read the books and share their thoughts on the book (a basic book review) in the form of a blog post.Many bloggers add a book extension activity. Go HERE for the full details and instructions.
Once their book review blog post is live (any time between January 1 and January 27th is good), bloggers are invited to “link up” their blog post on the Linky that will be found on any of our CoHosts’ sites and also the MCCBD website. This linky will go live on January 27th..
(NOTE: We will not be shipping out any books for the 2017 online event until Nov/Dec of 2016!)
Direct all questions and inquires to becky (at) multiculturalchildrensbookday (dot) com
The post Indie Author Day 2016 and a Multicultural Indie Author Booklist appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
October 4, 2016
October #ReadKidsClassics: The Midnight Farm by Reeve Lindberg
Welcome to my October installment of the Read Kid’s Classics Challenge!
I’m so glad you’re here and I can hardly wait to see what you’re reading as well. As many of you already know, I am a huge fan of children’s classics and over the years my family has actively read old classics and discovered new ones. In 2016 one of my many goals is to discover even more classics and share them with you, my valued readers.
So from now on, every month during my Read Kids Classic Challenge, I am going to present one classic that I simply can’t live without! This month I want to share a sweet book called The Midnight Farm.
“Here is the dark when day is done,
Here is the dark with no moon or sun,
Here is the dark when all lights are out,
Here is the heart of the dark.”
(From “The Midnight Farm)
This very sweet and tender book was written by Reeve Lindbergh, daughter of Charles and Anne Morrow Lindbergh. Here daughter use to be afraid of the dark and Reeve would tell her what was happening around their farm at night.
She hoped by describing their animals at night in a warm and cozy way it would make the darkness of nighttime less frightening. This book is beautifully illustrated by the very talented Susan Jeffers. Each page has a captivating painting to go along with the enchanting words.
Something To Do:
Needed: Paper,pen or pencil, and a flashlight.
It’s time to take a night tour. As you say good-bye to the day and before you get ready for bed, grab your reading partner and take a nighttime tour of your house.
What do you see?
How is your house different at night?
What are the sounds of your house at night? Do you hear different things?
what are the people in your house doing?
Does furniture and favorite toys look different?It’s time to grab that flashlight because it’s time for the outside tour?
What is your yard like/
What are the birds in the tress doing?
What are the squirrels doing at night?
Are there any night animals out that you can see?
do you live in a neighborhood? What are your neighbors doing
do you live in a city? A farm? On a mountain? By the sea? Near a railroad track? by a bus stop?
What do you see at night?Something to do Part II
For each item that you wrote down on your piece of paper, let’s draw a picture. Oh…did I mention that we will be drawing on black paper? It doesn’t have to be perfect it just has to be a reminder to you of your Night-Tour. More importantly, since we will be drawing on black paper that means we get to use the white crayon in our crayon boxes. Isn’t that exciting? You can use all the colors in your crayon box except black.
You can also gather some bits and pieces of memorabilia from your nighttime adventures and use them for our next project as well. Once you are finished with your drawings we are going to make a book out of them. Have you heard the term “Junk Journaling?” If you haven’t, look it up on Pinterest-it is very fun! Junk Journaling the making of a fun, creative, chunky and colorful journal that is filled with more than just pages.
Creative genius Angela Blanchard had a great idea on creating a Junk Journal out of office product folders; the perfect solution for your Midnight Farm-theme pictures and treasures. Spend some time weaving your masterpieces together and creating a great talking piece that can be used again and again. Check out Angela’s easy tutorial on YouTube and have fun!
****Some of these links are affiliate links. That means if you click and buy, I may get a very small commission. This money goes towards postage and supplies to keep books and ideas in the hands of young readers!
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Breaking News! Proof that Dragons are indeed REAL!
My newest book, Dragons are Real is available and the excitement is almost blowing the roof off at Jump Into a Book/Audrey Press headquarters!
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 from 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 2, 2016
Weekend Links: Celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month with Booklists
September 15 to October 15 is National Hispanic Heritage Month and my travels across the interwebs this week has turn up soooo many amazing links, posts and resources for parents, teachers and young readers. Enjoy!
33 Latino Middle Grade Chapter Books You Should Know @JumpIntoABook
Top 10: Best Latino American Children’s Books (ages 2-16) @PragmaticMom
Best Books for Latino Heritage Children at Walking by the Way
Why We Need Hispanic Heritage Month-via @MulticulturKids
Bring Hispanic Heritage Month to Life: A Collection of Resources | Scholastic.com
Favorite children books about Ecuador culture in Spanish @HispanicMama
Children’s Books about Costa Rica via @alldonemonkey
Don’t forget our ginormous Back to School Library Book Bundle Giveaway!
It’s time for the 2nd Annual Multicultural Children’s Book Giveaway and KidLit TV is teaming up with Pragmatic Mom, Jump into a Book, Franticmommy, The Educators Spin On It, What We Do All Day, Teach Mama, and Multicultural Children’s Book Day to give parents, teachers, and librarians in need, a chance to win a multicultural book bundle for their school library.
Libraries play an important role in everyone’s life. The library is a place where knowledge and the love of reading shine! However, budgets for school programs are being cut, and school libraries have been heavily affected. Hours for library time have been shortened in some schools, and even non-existent in others.
Up until September 30th you can enter to win a curated bundle of multicultural books featuring StoryMakers guests and additional kid lit authors.
BOOKS IN GIVEAWAY BUNDLE!
A Morning With Grandpa
Written by Sylvia Liu, illustrated by Christina Forshay
Published by Lee & Low Books
Mei Mei’s grandpa is practicing tai chi in the garden, and Mei Mei is eager to join in. As Gong Gong tries to teach her the slow, graceful movements, Mei Mei enthusiastically does them with her own flair. Then Mei Mei takes a turn, trying to teach Gong Gong the yoga she learned in school. Will Gong Gong be able to master the stretchy, bendy poses?
My Forgotten Self
Written by Lynyetta G. Willis, illustrated by Michele Phillips
Published by Inner Pathway’s Publishing
Tiev is a playful girl who vividly dreams about the many paths her life can take. However, when she shares these dreams with her well-intentioned family, they quickly tell her why she cannot be any of the things her heart desires. Feeling lost, hurt, and confused, Tiev encounters a powerful and loving Being, I Am. Tiev gets a glimpse into who she truly is and the amazing gifts waiting for her along each of her desired paths.
Kai and the Magic Jacket Written and illustrated by Tricia Chinn Campbell
Published by Blissful Thinking PublishingWhen Kai receives an anonymous gift, he is unexpectedly introduced to ancestors from another time. In this coming of age story, Kai is offered guidance while confronted with choices and peer pressure. Kai And The Magic Jacket will encourage children to develop their instinct and confidence!
Monster Needs Your Vote
Written and by Paul Czajak, illustrated by Wendy Grieb
Published by Mighty Media Kids
Election season is here and Monster is ready to vote but, why cast your ballot when you can run for president instead? With speeches, debates, and a soapbox or two, Monster’s new tale is a campaign to encourage kids to stand up and fight for what the believe in!
Little Elliot, Big Fun
Written and Illustrated by Mike Curato
Published by Henry Holt & Company
Little Elliot, the polka-dotted elephant, and his friend Mouse go to the amusement park to see the sights and ride the rides water chutes, roller coasters, carousels, and more. But Elliot isn’t having much fun the rides are too wet, too fast, and just too scary until Mouse figures out a way to help him overcome his fears. Together, Mouse and Little Elliot can do anything!
Emma and Julia Love Ballet
Written and illustrated by Barbara McClintock
Published by Scholastic Press
Emma is little. Julia is big. They both love ballet. Emma takes ballet lessons. So does Julia. Emma is learning to be a ballerina. Julia is a professional ballerina. They are both excited about the big performance in the theater tonight. Emma will be watching from the audience. Julia will be dancing onstage! And afterward, Emma will go backstage to meet her ballet hero! Barbara McClintock’s richly illustrated, heartwarming story is sure to become a perennial favorite
Booked
Written by Kwame Alexander
Published by HMH Books for Young Readers
Twelve-year-old Nick learns the power of words as he wrestles with problems at home, stands up to a bully, and tries to impress the girl of his dreams. Helping him along are his best friend and teammate Coby, and The Mac.
Peep and Egg
Written by Laura Gehl, illustrated by Joyce Wan
Published by Farrar, Straus and Giroux
Peep wants Egg to hatch so they can do fun things together, like watch the sunrise, splash in puddles, and play hide-and-seek. But Egg is “not cracking.”
Marvelous Cornelius
Written by Phil Bildner, illustrated by John Parra
Published by Chronicle Books
In New Orleans, there lived a man who saw the streets as his calling, and he swept them clean. He danced up one avenue and down another and everyone danced along. The old ladies whistled and whirled. The old men hooted and hollered. The barbers, bead twirlers, and beignet bakers bounded behind that one-man parade.
Marta! Big & Small
Written by Jennifer Arena, illustrated by Jen Arena & Angela Dominguez
Published by Roaring Brook Press
As Marta explores the jungle, she knows she’s bigger than a bug, smaller than an elephant, and faster than a turtle. But then she meets the snake, who thinks Marta is “sabrosa “tasty, very tasty But Marta is “ingeniosa,” a very clever girl, and she outsmarts the snake with hilarious results.With simple Spanish and a glossary at the end, this fun read-aloud picture book teaches little ones to identify opposites and animals and learn new words.
Monster Slayer
Written by Gladys Barbieri, illustrated by Linar Safar
Published by Castlebridge Books
Spirited Gladys Elizabeth has a big problem: her pesky little sister. But when the monsters come out at night and interrupt her sleep, she realizes she is not up for the challenge. An unlikely ally shows up just in time, and Gladys Elizabeth learns a valuable lesson about the meaning of family
MORE TO COME…
Here’s how it works:
Enter to win via the Rafflecopter widget below.
Winners are chosen randomly. We’ll notify all winners via email.
You’ll give us the name of your librarian, and address of your school library.
We’ll send the books to your school library, in your name!
Thank you to these featured publishers for producing wonderful multicultural books.
Lee and Low
Inner Pathway’s Publishing
Blissful Thinking Publishing
Mighty Media Kids
Henry Holt & Company
Scholastic Press
HMH Books for Young Readers
Farrar, Straus and Giroux
Chronicle Books
Roaring Brook Press
Castlebridge Books
Current and former librarians share why they believe school libraries are essential:
“A school is just a building, a floor, walls, doors, windows and a roof, without a library. A vibrant library program is the life force of a school; a professional librarian, the heart which keeps it moving. Our school libraries foster innovative thinking, a desire to locate the truth in the most efficient way, and a sincere love of reading. School libraries are not a luxury; they are a fundamental and essential element in generating and insuring lifelong learning.”
— Margie Myers-Culver, K-12 Certified Teacher Librarian
“As a retired school librarian, I certainly know the importance of school libraries. With more and more school librarians being eliminated it is of the utmost importance that we advocate and publicize the important role they play.”
— Rocco Staino, Contributing Editor, School Library Journal Director, Empire State Center for the Book Host, KidLit TV’s StoryMakers
ABOUT
Pragmatic Mom
Pragmatic Mom was born of several circumstances; one child’s lackluster academic year, a mishap during a reading session, and realizing it was okay for a mom to love kid lit more than adult fiction. Mia Wenjen chronicles her family’s journey through education, parenting, and children’s literature via Pragmatic Mom. Mia is a leader in literacy and parenting. She is one of the co-founders of Multicultural Children’s Book Day.
Connect with Pragmatic Mom on Facebook, Google+, Pinterest, and Twitter.
Jump Into A Book
Jump Into A Book (JIAB) is a site about the love of children’s books and how they can be incorporated into our everyday lives through play, crafting, cooking, movies, games, traveling and author visits. At JIAB, they strive to pull books off shelves and stories off pages to create reading experiences for families. Amazon and iTunes best-selling author and founder of Audrey Press, Valarie Budayr is a play and reading advocate, whose mission is to inspire children, families, and communities to experience and create a world together through books while having fun.
Connect with Jump Into A Book on Facebook, Google+, Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter.
Franticmommy
Rebecca Flansburg (a.k.a Franticmommy), is a freelance writer, blogger and virtual assistant. Franticmommy.com, is filled with laughter and love about the joys of parenthood. Rebecca is also committed to helping women realize their work-from-home dreams, enjoying life beyond the cubicle, and find clarity in the work/life/family balance.
Connect with Franticmommy on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter.
Multicultural Children’s Book Day
Multicultural Children’s Book Day’s (MCCBD) mission is to not only raise awareness for the kid’s books that celebrate diversity, but to get more of these of books into classrooms and libraries.Children’s reading and play advocates Valarie Budayr from Jump Into a Book and Mia Wenjen from Pragmatic Mom have teamed up to create an ambitious (and much needed) national event. On January 27th, 2014 Jump into a Book and Pragmatic Mom presented the very first Multicultural Children’s Book Day as a way of celebrating diversity in children’s books. The results and support overwhelming as authors, publishers, parents, teachers, bloggers and librarians joined forces to offer up an online event designed to shine the spotlight on diversity in children’s literature.
Connect with Multicultural Children’s Book Day on Facebook , Instagram , Pinterest , and Twitter .
The Educators Spin On It
Making everyday moments into teachable opportunities is the focus of The Educators’ Spin On It. The site was created by educators Kim Vij and Amanda Boyarshinov, certified educators and experienced teachers, currently stay at home moms, who have found blogging and Pinterest a key social media tool to share resources with parents.
Connect with The Educators Spin On it on Pinterest, Facebook, and YouTube.
What We Do All Day
Here at What We Do All Day we find creative ways to fill the days of our adventurous, lovely and crazy urban life. We blog about the books we read, food we eat, places we go and a few extra thoughts just to keep you on your toes.
Connect with What We Do All Day on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.
KidLit TV
KidLit TV is a community of authors, illustrators, educators, and parents all working together to bring great books to kids. We hope to reinforce an appreciation of reading that children will carry with them for the rest of their lives. Click here for more.
Connect with KidLit TV:
Facebook | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube | Instagram
Sign up for the newsletter too!
Amy Kilpatrick Mascott is the creator of teachmama.com, where since 2008, she has shared tools and resources parents can use to become the best teachers they can be for their children.
A Reading Specialist, writer, and literacy consultant, Amy’s work has been featured on dozens of online and print publications, including Scholastic Parents, PBS Parents, readwritethink.org, PBS Digital Studios, and more.
Connect with Teach Mama on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter
GO HERE TO ENTER! ONLY 7 DAYS LEFT!
This post contains affiliate links.
All Rafflecopter entrants must reside in the United States and be at least 13 years old.
The post Weekend Links: Celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month with Booklists appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
September 27, 2016
Whispering Woods-Tales from the Caledonian Forest (and some Scottish Folklore)
Whispering Woods-Tales from the Caledonian Forest is a magical and enchanting walk through the Scottish forest told by Alan Crawford and exquisitely illustrated by Susan Gray.
Author Alan Crawford invites us to sit by the fire and read this collection of tales aloud, and that’s exactly what our family did. Whispering Woods is a collection of 5 stories divided each into 2 parts. This organization mass great starting and stopping points.
Tale is told based on five of Scotland’s well known trees, The Alder, Ash, Birch, Rowan, and Softs Pine. Whispering Woods delivers us into the world of each tree and the folklore associated with it.
Whispering Woods is a collection of stories about Scotland’s native trees, that weave together threads of mythology and lore, herbal medicine, uses of timber and wood, woodland ecology and imagination to produce unique tales that are appealing to adults and children alike.
These stories will both entertain and inform. Whilst entering into the imaginary world of the story, the reader or listener will also start to become more familiar with the features of our native trees and their associated flora and fauna, leading to a deeper understanding of how species, including ourselves, depend on one another and the environment for survival. These beautifully illustrated stories evolved through a fortuitous, accidental meeting between the author and a teacher searching for original stories to read to children in the forest – stories that would both capture their imagination and enhance their understanding of, and respect for, the woodland environment. They will bring much pleasure to all who love the natural world.-Amazon
One piece of advice I would give is to read the glossary section first before reading the tales aloud. Each day I’d go into the glossary section to learn the Gaelic pronunciations of names and places, and it helped to know this information before hand so I could deepen the experience for the kids as I read each night.
**Please, oh PLEASE do not let a little Gaelic deter you from reading this book! You will be depriving yourself of a Scottish nature adventure like you’ve never heard of.
I have to mention this next little bit as well; this book is an actual joy to hold and handle. The pages are soft and silky and the book opens easily. There is a great balance in the design of the book between the gorgeous illustrations of Susan Grey and the lovely little imprints of each specific tree. All of this beauty of a book is printed on paper made from responsible resources which means there will be plenty of forest to walk through in the future as well as clean air because Whispering Woods uses responsible sources for its paper and non-toxic ink for its text.
Whispering Woods isn’t just a great teaching tool into the people, traditions, and woodlands of Scotland but a call to everyone of the importance of the trees that surround us. By the end of this book everyone will want to sustain and protect their forests. Alan Crawford plants these seeds brilliantly and with the confidence that we can live up to the challenge.
Author and master storyteller Alan Crawford knows a lot about the forests of Scotland as he has walked through most of them as a woodland consultant for the Forestry Commission’s Native Woodland Survey of Scotland. His knowledge is woven beautifully into each tale.
Something to Do:
All five of these stories inspire the imagination to do a myriad of activities to jump into the pages of this very fine book. However, we have chosen to jump into The Ferryman and the Fern King (The Alder Tale)
To save the ancient trees of Coille na Fearna from being cut down by Colum MacAllan, the Ferryman enlist the help of his very creative friends. To save the forest we will need to make a waistcoat, felted slippers, and a wooden brooch.
Waistcoat:
Supplies:
Light-weight cotton lab coat .
A collection of dry leaves. If it isn’t autumn in your part of the world, you can use paper or felt leaves as well.
A glue gun. When working with children we always use a cold glue gun.
~ Gather a collection of leaves. You will need many of them for this project.
~ Start on the back of the lab coat and then work your way to the front section.
~Glue the leaves on the collar next.
~And then the sleeves.
It’s alright if you don’t cover the whole jacket. You can create a pattern with the leaves so that you have white sections and leafy sections of your jacket.
Felted Slippers:
felted boot photos by Jennifer Tan
I learned how to make felted slippers from the ever talented Jennifer Tan. By far one of the best tutorials I’ve ever encountered. This tutorial is step by step with very clear instructions. Here’s a sampling of what you can do.
Wooden Brooch:
Supplies:
Round wooden disks.
Colored Pencils
Pin clasp
1. Using colored pencils make a design on one side of the wooden disk.
2. Once finished add a pin clasp to the back side in a centered position.
We hope that you will read this amazing book, and if you do please share your experiences with us on Jump Into a Book, or on Whispering Woods’ Facebook Page.
Get your copy of Whispering Woods HERE. Happy Reading!
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Concerned that your kids aren’t getting enough “outside time?”
Despite data that shows that 80% of natural vitamin D comes from the rays of the sun, many children, roughly only 23% are spending enough time outside and welcoming the sun’s rays. Most children do not get enough vitamin D from food alone and are at risk of deficiency if they are spending prolonged periods of time indoors. Valarie Budayr from Jump Into a Book and Marilyn Scott-Waters from The Toymaker have combined their respective talents to not only create a clever solution, but also an amazing guidebook to help parents help their children regain their interest and love of nature.
With over 120 pages, with 150 original color illustrations and 48 activities for families to enjoy, learn, discover and play together, A Year In the Secret Garden brings the magical story to life while also enjoying nature and the great outdoors.
With fascinating historical information, monthly gardening activities, easy-to-make recipes, and step-by-step crafts, designed to enchant readers of all ages. Each month your family will unlock the mysteries of a Secret Garden character, as well as have fun together creating the original crafts and activities based on the book. Our goal is to not only raise awareness for the necessity of families spending more quality “unplugged” time together, but to also share monthly activities that incorporate nature and the outdoors as well. Get your kids moving, exploring and playing today. Get access to this wonderful children’s activity book here.
Meet you “in the garden!”
The post Whispering Woods-Tales from the Caledonian Forest (and some Scottish Folklore) appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
September 22, 2016
A Ride on the Red Mare’s Back Review and a look at Swedish Folklore
I have this collection of beautiful red dala horses from Dalarna Sweden. I’ve always wondered why they originated and if there is a folkloric story behind them.
The wait is over! Ursula Le Guin, my college English professor, has crafted a brilliant tale about a little girl who goes searching for her brother who has been stolen by trolls.
Author Ursula K. Le Guin writes:
“When I visited Sweden a couple of years ago, a friend there gave me as a parting gift a little red wooden horse, a Dalarna (or Dala) Horse, a symbol of Sweden. I then bought myself a very little one, a colt, to give my granddaughter, Lyra.
I thought perhaps there was some story about them. But there seemed to be no legend. The furniture-makers of Dalarna carved little wooden horses from their scraps of wood, and painted them red, with flower garlands – and everyone who saw them loved them!
As a child I had a book about a wooden horse that comes to life. The book was missing some pages – and it was in German! I would only make up the story by looking at the charming pictures. Perhaps it was memories of that half-told tale that made my little red mare begin to come to life in my mind. But the tale she told me was a new one.”
A Ride on the Red Mare’s Back by Ursula K Le Guin, illustrated by Julie Downing.
Having no one to guide her except for a little red toy horse pointing the way from inside her coat pocket, a young girl goes looking for her brother who was taken by trolls. As they approach a bridge, a troll jumps out from underneath. Springing to life, the red horse becomes the girl’s protector. For one night the horse is alive to help her find her brother.
Coming to a cave they find the young brother among many rude and ugly trolls. Using her knitting needles, wit and bravery, the young girl brings happiness back to her family by returning home with her brother.
Perfect for read-aloud time, this captivating story and beautiful illustrations has become a favorite which we read over and over again. This delight book is prefect for ages 4 and up. Get more details about A Ride on a Red Mare’s Back on Amazon.
***Some of these links are affiliate links. If you click a link and buy a book, I will get a tiny commission at no extra cost to you. I use this money for book shipping supplies and giveaways.
Something To Do:
Your own little Red Mare.
Would you like a little red mare to be your friend or to ride along in your pocket? Here’s one to make of your very own.
The Simple Scarf
The scarf and knitting play a big part in this book. The little girl brought a scarf she had knitted for her brother to keep him warm once she found him. To outsmart those trolls and to bring her brother back, she left them with some yarn and needles. As they tried to figure it out, she snuck out with her brother. Try a simple scarf of your very own.
Knitting Lessons For Kids
From Daily Knitting:
Download How to Knit for Beginners: Easy Knitting Instructions to Help You Learn to Knit!
This free eBook is full of tips and tricks for beginning knitters, including lots of illustrations. A great resource for learning how to knit.
Enjoy “A Ride on the Red Mare’s Back”
Listen to author Ursula K. Le Guin read “A Ride on a Red Mare’s Back”
There is a long music intro by Third Angel New Music Ensemble and composed by Bryan Johanson, which really sets the mood. We listened to this while we sat by the fire crafting. Such a jewel of an experience.
Blogging friend Lily Boot from Block-A-Day was also inspired by this lovely story and created a beautiful stitch pattern to remember it by. You can find it here.
Interested in Ursula Le Guin? You can find out more about her here.
taken 11/8/13 in the EMU Ballroom, University of Oregon campus, by Jack Liu, professional photographer / Jack Liu with permission granted to Ursula K. Le Guin from Jack Liu.
**Some of these links are affiliate links. That means if you click and buy, I may get a very small commission. This money goes towards postage and supplies to keep books and ideas in the hands of young readers!
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If you are in the mood for another and interactive story, check out the enhanced digital eBook for kids, The Ultimate Guide to Charlie and The Chocolate Factory!
The Ultimate Guide To Charlie And The Chocolate Factory is a step by step roadmap to this magical world. Just some of the fun includes:
A story filled with beautiful graphic illustrations including tantalizing Treasure Maps and vibrant tutorials.
Over 20 Crafts and activities that not only entertain, but educate.
You get to jump inside the book and enjoy creating the adventures yourself (Templates, maps, and more are included.)
Ever wonder where chocolate comes from? Or how gum is made? Wonder no more. Now you get to make your own.
Conduct activities in the areas of crafting, cooking, and game-playing as well as exploring many facets of candy production.
The option to take Charlie’s journey over the course of several days or take shorter journeys if you wish.
The creation of a new ritual of reading time with your family and the opportunity to experience the reading of this imaginative tale as a group activity, not a solitary event.
Go HERE to learn more and grab your copy from iBooks!
The post A Ride on the Red Mare’s Back Review and a look at Swedish Folklore appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
September 20, 2016
The Secret Child by Marti Healy (And a little look at Fairy Folklore!)
On a journey from one Gypsy tribe to another, young Marika encounters tragedy. Her beloved baby brother who has been accompanying her to meet her future husband and new tribe, falls horribly ill. Stopping in a small town in South Carolina, the experienced doctor is not able to save him. Marika keeps herself hidden from the doctor, his black assistant, and the woman to whose house Danny is taken. Unsure of what to do, Marika takes refuge in the woman’s barn, secretly doing chores for the owner while taking small bits of food for herself.
But eventually she shows herself to the woman–Miss Maggie–and is treated with kindness and love, given a warm meal, a bath, and clean clothes. Marika finds a friend in Miss Maggie and the doctor’s black assistant Joseph. Miss Maggie tells Marika of her life as a Quaker in the South, how they are accepting, kind people, and how they have church in her very house. She invites Marika to a service, but the young gypsy girl is not used to the custom’s of southern church services and the reserve in which they are practiced. She dresses in her most colorful garb, reddening her cheeks and lips, and letting her hair loose. The embarrassment she experiences upon setting foot into the church service, completely mismatched, sends her fleeing from her friends into the forest, led by Joseph, who takes her to the center of the forest at the Carolina Bay.
Soon enough, fairies make themselves known to her. She catches an ancient water fairy, Cian, whose respect for her spreads to the rest of the fairies. They share their names, their abilities and their love for her. They keep her safe from her proposed husband, Jacko, a prince among gypsies but who is known as a cruel man. The fairies agree to protect her for a year, but at the end of the year, she must choose to live in the human world or join the fairy world. She cannot have the luxury of both.
In her year of protection, she notices the growing strife in the human world between slaves, slave owners, and people who are ready for slavery to end. She sees the horrors of slavery as she stays by Joseph’s side, then she comes home to the peace of the fairies. Marika has a very tough decision to make in a short amount of time. And she must never, ever forget her brother, the secret child.
Marti Healy has created a beautiful, enchanting, heart wrenching story in The Secret Child that mixes magic and lore with the pain and corruption of the pre-Civil War South. Her writing style is reminiscent of a classic, with rich language and imagery. This story captured my attention and imagination, and the fairies are absolutely enchanting!! Grab your copy HERE.
**Some of these links are affiliate links. That means if you click and buy, I may get a very small commission.
This money goes towards postage and supplies to keep books and ideas in the hands of young readers!
Something To Do:
1. Want to learn more about Fairy Folklore? Check out Encyclopedia of Fairies in World Folklore and Mythology by Theresa Bane
2. How to attract Fairies to your home:
-Care for the earth that we all inhabit! That’s very important to fairies
-Be happy! Fairies are attracted to happiness and lightness. Keep a cheerful air about your home!
-Plant an oak tree – they love oak trees!
-Plant their favorite flowers, such as Sunflowers, Honeysuckle, and pansies
-Respect their secrecy and privacy–this is key. Fairies are very private creatures.
3. Give them their own space–build a village of fairy houses!
4. Want to experience the magic of a fairy forest? Take a family vacation to Mackworth Island and see all of the naturally-built fairy houses!
5. Jump Into a Book is also a huge fan of fairy lore and fairy house building! Check out this past post that shares secrets on how to make your own fairly house and maybe even make a few fairy friends.
In the mood for a little more imagination, wonder and delight? How about this; did you know that dragons are REAL??!!
My newest book, Dragons are Real is available and the excitement is almost blowing the roof off at Jump Into a Book/Audrey Press headquarters!
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
September 18, 2016
Weekend Links: Fizzy Lifting Drinks, Anyone? #RoaldDahlDay Fun
Can you guess what my most popular Pin on Pinterest was last week?
It was the one celebrating Roald Dahl Day (9/10) with a ton of fun activities, recipes and crafts for kids!
{Followed closely by the perrennial favorite of my Kindness Booklist for kids}
If you’d like to indulge in some Charlie and the Chocolate Factory-inspired Fizzy Lifting Drinks and much more, head over to Jump Into a Book HERE.
In the same of Roald Dahl magic, his The BFG book has made a comeback this year thanks to the movie by the same name {whizzpoppers anyone?}. So if your favorite Roald Dahl Book is The BFG, then you will LOVE this Dream Catcher Jar craft HERE.
With Halloween rapidly approaching now might be a good time to revisit my past post on another Roald Dahl classic, Witches.
“This is not a fairy tale. This is about real witches.” -The Witches by Roald Dahl
And don’t forget the witches brew! It might come in handy if you meet a thirsty witch who needs something to wash her down Mouse-Turning-Chocolate-Balls !
This is also a great time to discover why my enhanced digital e-book The Ultimate Guide to Charlie and The Chocolate Factory is appealing teachers and parents because of the ebook’s many extensions that relate to today’s criteria for common core. This unique ebook is a collection of inventive and creative book extensions inspired by the classic tale with the benefit of Common Core activities. Learn more about The Ultimate Guide to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory HERE.
Happy Reading!
If you are in the mood for another and interactive story, check out the enhanced digital eBook for kids, The Ultimate Guide to Charlie and The Chocolate Factory!
The Ultimate Guide To Charlie And The Chocolate Factory is a step by step roadmap to this magical world. Just some of the fun includes:
A story filled with beautiful graphic illustrations including tantalizing Treasure Maps and vibrant tutorials.
Over 20 Crafts and activities that not only entertain, but educate.
You get to jump inside the book and enjoy creating the adventures yourself (Templates, maps, and more are included.)
Ever wonder where chocolate comes from? Or how gum is made? Wonder no more. Now you get to make your own.
Conduct activities in the areas of crafting, cooking, and game-playing as well as exploring many facets of candy production.
The option to take Charlie’s journey over the course of several days or take shorter journeys if you wish.
The creation of a new ritual of reading time with your family and the opportunity to experience the reading of this imaginative tale as a group activity, not a solitary event.
Go HERE to learn more and grab your copy from iBooks!
The post Weekend Links: Fizzy Lifting Drinks, Anyone? #RoaldDahlDay Fun appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
September 15, 2016
Hiccups by Holly Sterling: A #PictureBook for Little Readers
Product Details
Age Range: 2 – 5 years
Grade Level: Preschool – Kindergarten
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children’s Bks (May 3, 2016)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1847807860
ISBN-13: 978-1847807861
A charming and very young picture book about a small child and her pet dog. When the dog gets hiccups the child tries everything to cure them, but nothing works until she brings out her favorite cat costume. And that does the trick . . . Or does it? Turn the page and . . . HIC! Now the child has hiccups. There are lots of fun noises to make and say in this perfect book to share with a toddler from a talented young artist.-Amazon
Holly Sterling is an interest storyteller as well! She is freelance children’s author and illustrator based in the North East of England who loves to work by hand using a variety of different media including watercolor, pencil and different printing processes. To date she has published or co-published eight children’s picture books.
In 2009, Holly graduated from the University of Sunderland with a first class honous degree in Illustration and Design and tt was here where she developed my passion for creating characters. In 2011 Holly decided to go back to university, to do a two year Masters at Edinburgh College of Art. After completing her Masters Degree, she worked at a greeting card company in the North East of England designing greeting cards for charities such as Macmillan Cancer Support, PDSA, RSPB, Epilepsy Action, Sue Ryder and Traidcraft. After a year in the industry, she decided to make writing and illustrating picture books a full-time commitment.
Holly’s sweet, playful little book is the perfect bedtime story! We all hate hiccups, and we cheer when they’re finally gone. But imagine how much worse hiccups would be in a dog! Whoof is right!
Something To Do
1. The internet tells us that this is a 100% effective hiccup cure. But you tell us:
Inhale through your mouth. Swallow twice, then exhale slowly through your nose.
2. I imagine this is what Oscar would look like with hiccups:
3. Craft A Magic Hiccup Wand:
Happy reading!
****Some of these links are affiliate links. That means if you click and buy, I may get a very small commission. This money goes towards postage and supplies to keep books and ideas in the hands of young readers!
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Breaking News! Proof that Dragons are indeed REAL!
My newest book, Dragons are Real is available and the excitement is almost blowing the roof off at Jump Into a Book/Audrey Press headquarters!
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
September 13, 2016
Police Officer and Astronaut Picture Books:Get to know the Busy People
As a child, author Lucy M. George wrote stories and poems, directed several plays (starring her sisters) and enjoyed making magic potions out of household goods. She studied English Literature at University and now lives in Wales near the sea where she writes and works. To date she has published over a dozen children’s books for young readers to enjoy and I was lucky enough to be able to enjoy her two latest titles from her Busy People series.
Busy People: Astronaut by Lucy M. George
Jenny, Chin, and Kim are finally astronauts after months of training and tests. It’s time to actually go up into the big, wide world of outer space! They do all their preparations, pack up in the rocket ship, and blast off into space! Once they get up there with the rest of the crew and Robo-bot, they have to clean, do experiments, go on space walks, and so much other exciting astronaut duties! They’re even able to communicate with their friends and families on Earth at the end of a long day! How cool is that?
Ever wanted to learn more about space? Here’s your chance in a simple, clear, exciting format! Not only is there an exciting adventure and an “oops” moment with Robo-bot, but they also do experiments! Lucy George includes interesting facts about space and other jobs that are involved with space but don’t necessarily mean traveling for months into a dark void! This is a book to inspire dreams!
Something To Do-Astronauts
1. How about jetting into space in a balloon?? Just kidding! But maybe you can try making this awesome balloon rocket:
2. Eat like an astronaut! Slap some of your favorite liquid-like food (applesauce maybe or yogurt) into a plastic bag and stick a straw in there!
3. Get in tune with your senses with this Galaxy Sensory Bin!
OR you could get really in-depth with thus free Roscoe’s Rocket craft. This was originally created for a Curious George book, but it could be easily adapted to this book.
Grab your Roscoe’s Rocket Tutorial HERE
Busy People- Police Officer
Officer Seth is a great police officer! He arrives to work just on time, makes sure that he has everything he needs for the day, tests out the sirens on his car, and he and his partner patrol the local festival to make sure that everyone is safe. When a little boy tells him that he has lost his parents, Officer Seth and Officer Thea do everything they can to help the little boy find his parents again because that’s just what police officers do!
Here’s yet another inspiring story to give kids professional dreams. Plus, this story shows kids that you can always go to a police officer when you need help. It’s their job to keep their community safe. But if being a police officer isn’t for you and you still want to help with crime, there’s also a Police Sergeant, Forensic scientists, Police dog handlers, and family liaison officers. Tons of jobs that help people just in one department!
Activities:
1. Interested in science? Here’s an awesome Fingerprint experiment at KCEdventures!
2. Every officer needs their radio! Why not recycle a juice box to make yours?
3. Police officers are helpful people in our community! So be like an officer and remember to do something nice and helpful for someone today!
**Some of these links are affiliate links. That means if you click and buy, I may get a very small commission.
This money goes towards postage and supplies to keep books and ideas in the hands of young readers!
–
Breaking News! Proof that Dragons are indeed REAL!
My newest book, Dragons are Real is available and the excitement is almost blowing the roof off at Jump Into a Book/Audrey Press headquarters!
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
September 11, 2016
Weekend Links: Celebrating #BacktoHogwarts Day and Harry Potter Fans
September 1st marks the day that all young witches and wizards from all over the U.K. head to Platform 9 3/4 to jump on the Hogwarts Express and leave for Hogwarts! It’s truly hard to believe it has been 25 years since the first meeting of this super-trio.
The real life King’s Crossing even got in on the festivities…
The epic online event included fun quizzes and songs from sites like Pottermore and Harry Potter World…
…and even a stern warning from Professor Snape.
If you missed the Hogwarts Express this morning, please do not take a flying car to school.
— Professor Snape (@_Snape_) September 1, 2016
I have had so much fun these past few days exploring the craziness connected to the #BacktoHogwarts hashtag on Twitter and finding exciting new Harry Potter-themed activities on Pinterest. Here are some of my top picks for things your family can do to bring the magic of Hogwarts to life.
From Golden Snitch Pops to a “Dementor Relief Kit,” BusyMomsHelper.com has 101 Harry Potter-inspired activities for kids!
Have some fun “Harry Pottering” up the books in your house with these free printable Hogwarts book covers!
Make your own Potion! Snape’s Magic Potion Printable Activity
Learn now to make Harry Potter’s Potions Class Experiments at Imagination Soup
Make your own Sorting Hat!
If you have older kids who are in the mood for mystery, magic an intrigue, check out Jump Into a Book employee Hannah Rials’ new YA thriller, Ascension!
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
The wait is over-Ascension is here! Thrilling and entertaining, like the experience on a crazy roller coaster. Hannah has grown into the most amazing writer. Watching her journey has been as much fun as holding the book in my hands. A “must read” for YA and thriller fans!-Valarie B
Grab your copy of Ascension HERE and visit Hannah on Facebook, Twitter and on her website.
The post Weekend Links: Celebrating #BacktoHogwarts Day and Harry Potter Fans appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
