Valarie Budayr's Blog, page 52
September 10, 2016
Celebrating Roald Dahl Day with Fun, Freebies and BOOKS!
Happy Roald Dahl day!
Roald Dahl Day takes place every September 13th, the celebrated birthday of one of the world’s favorite storytellers.
There are celebrations happening all over the world and Jump into a Book is no different. So to prepare for your own Roald Dahl Day, go have a look at some of these very fun activities on the official Roald Dahl site including crazy-fun things like, “Which Roald Dahl Character are You” , how to register for your very own Roald Dahl Day Party Pack and learn more about the man himself here.
Be sure and revisit some of JIAB’s past Roald Dahl book reviews, bookjumps and book extensions:
Witches-“This is not a fairy tale. This is about real witches.” -The Witches by Roald Dahl
Looking for more #RoaldDahl inspired fun? Our wonderful friend and supporter Amy Ambroult from Elemental Design and her family created some pretty amazing “Fizzy Lifting Drinks.”
How about some Wonka-inspired party snacks? Check out my Wonkalicious Chocolate Covered Pretzel Activity and recipe!
Get the full recipe details HERE.
If any of these recipes and creative learning activities look familiar…it’s because they can be found within the virtual pages of my award-winning enhanced digital e-book The Ultimate Guide to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
As many of you may already know, this ebook is the result of a labor of love, and this first-ever enhanced digital e-book inspired is by the classic tale of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
It’s been several years since my Ultimate Guide to Charlie and The Chocolate Factory enhanced digital e-Book hit the virtual shelves of the iTunes iBookstore and what fun adventure it’s been! We have much to celebrate:
We’ve seen “Charlie” top the charts to #1 on the iTunes iBookstore no less than 7 times.
We won the coveted QED award for innovative design.
We won a Bronze medal in the E-Lit Book Awards.
What We Encountered Along The Way thanks to Charlie:
We won our own golden tickets by sheer wit.
We entered into the jungle to learn how chocolate and gum were made and even got to make some of our very own.
We met Oompa Loompas and even had a wardrobe exchange. We’ve never truly been right since then as they have very short legs.
We learned the true secrets of gobstoppers. We’d tell you but our mouths are full.
Willy Wonka’s factory is a masterwork of mazes. We had to utilize our skill at them to work our way through this enchanting chocolate factory, including but not limited to the ever famous scissor maze where we walked clean through a piece of paper. Of course we haven’t kept that info to ourselves but have happily shared it with all of you
Feature Box TitleThis book is MAGIC! Have you ever wanted to visit Willy Wonka’s famous chocolate factory? I know I did when I was little. I still do!
Jump into a Book’s Ultimate Guide to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is a wonderful interactive book with so many goodies inside. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is a favorite in my family, so it was great fun to explore in the world of Wonka. There are lots of activities to enjoy with kids, embedded videos where you get to learn a bit more about what goes into his factory, beautiful artwork throughout. It’s a sizable book, so good to read through a little at a time, and turn over to the kids to explore on their own. If you’re a Charlie fan, this is a must-have.- FSParent
What many teachers and parents don’t realized about the enhanced digital e-book The Ultimate Guide to Charlie and The Chocolate Factory is that is contains many book extensions related to the classic tale by Roald Dahl; many of which meet the criteria for common core. It’s basically a collection of inventive and creative book extensions inspired by the classic tale, with the benefit of Common Core activities:
“Charlie” includes these Common Core Standards:
Math Skills
Social Sciences
Geography
Basic geometry
Biology
Mazes
Measuring
Hand/Eye Co-ordination
Other skills your young reader will be exposed to is basic cooking, map-reading, linear thinking and conservation.
Although The Ultimate Guide to Charlie is a beautifully illustrated interactive e-book, the entertainment comes from doing the crafts, recipes, and games once the book is shut. It’s good old fun ,21st century style. We loved creating a balance between the virtual world and the actual world. Magic comes from our inspirations and imagination. The Ultimate Guide to Charlie will lend itself to hours of fun again and again. Homeschooling families have also found this enhanced digital e-book helpful in their studies and this creativity-packed adventure is also available in PDF for homeschoolers as well.
AND now…announcing a very crazy, exciting, “Wonkalicious” deal!
AND The Ultimate Guide to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is on sale at the App Store for $3.99!!!
AND…For non-iPad/iPhone/iPod users, get the PDF version for$7.95 HERE.
Enjoy your Roald Dahl Day celebration on the 13th!!
**This book is not affiliated or associated with the author, publisher, or distributors of Roald Dahl’s book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
The post Celebrating Roald Dahl Day with Fun, Freebies and BOOKS! appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
September 7, 2016
Enter “the secret life of 6th graders”- Hundred Percent by Karen Romano Young
Am I ever excited today! We’re happy to be on the official blog tour for new release Hundred Percent by Karen Romano Young. I’m so glad to see Karen is back with another incredible story LIVE from the sixth grade.
Hundred Percent
by Karen Romano Young
ISBN: 978-1-4521-3890-9 | $16.99
296 pages | 5-5/8 x 8-1/8” | Hardcover | Ages 10 and up
Publication Date: August 2016
The last year of elementary school is big for every kid. In this utterly honest, equal parts funny and crushing, novel perfect for boys and girls alike, Christine Gouda faces change at every turn, starting with her own nickname—Tink—which just doesn’t fit anymore. Readers will relate to this strong female protagonist whose voice rings with profound authenticity and absolute novelty, and her year’s cringingly painful trials in normalcy—uncomfortable Halloween costumes, premature sleepover parties, crushed crushes, and changing friendships. Throughout all this, Tink learns, what you call yourself, and how you do it, has a lot to do with who you are.
Hundred Percent is a powerful read and hits the mark when it comes to viewing the last year of elementary school. Eleven to Twelve years-old can be a very difficult transition from child to young adult, finding one’s voice and discovering that it’s perfectly alright to unfold into someone new. The main character Tink/Christine takes us into her world through all the awkwardness that sixth grade holds. Karen Romano Young is such a brilliant writer. I’m so glad she’s back with this gem of a book and so happy she’s visiting us today.
Karen Romano Young has written nearly two dozen books for children, and has illustrated several, including the groundbreaking graphic novel, Doodlebug (a novel in doodles) and its sequel, Stuck in the Middle (of Middle School). She lives in Connecticut.
Today Karen shares with us some of the inner most secrets of sixth grade. Thank you to Karen’s publisher Chronicle Books, we a copy of 100 Percent to giveaway as well.
Karen’s new book HUNDRED PERCENT has been described by some as “the secret life of sixth graders.” Here are some of her thoughts about this wonderful middle reader book.
I’m not sure what the answer is meant to be and it doesn’t really matter, because this line is what I call my “elevator pitch” — summary great enough to sell you on the book, but short enough to communicate to you during a quick ride on the elevator where I happened to bump into you.
I’m going to tell you some secrets about those secrets. A lot of people — including my mom, my younger sisters, and my best friend — have been trying to tease these secrets out of me. A big part of this is that Tink, the heroine of my book, has a lot to say about her mom, her sisters, and her best friend. She has so much to say about her best friend Jackie that when I finished the book and prepared the dedication, there was only one person I could possibly dedicate it too — my best friend when I was in sixth grade, Barbara. It was either that or I’d have to be afraid she’d hunt me down and dowse me in — I don’t know, chocolate pudding or cheese-covered popcorn or something like that.
Barbara says she doesn’t remember all this. That’s okay, I say, because it didn’t happen this way for real. It didn’t? she asks. (She really doesn’t remember.) So I’ve had to do double-duty on the explaining, just to make sure that (a) she doesn’t think I’m telling her whole life story; and (b) she doesn’t think that what’s in the book is what really happened to her.
The secret is that most of the big things in the book happened to me, or to someone near me — including the crimes. When I wrote HUNDRED PERCENT, I started each chapter with an event. (I’m not going to put any spoilers in this post.) Here’s a partial list:
— Girl is forced to spend New Year’s Eve sleeping at kid’s house to help a friend babysit.
— Boy buys girl a little lion at the drugstore.
— Kids write stupid junk all over somebody’s yearbook.
— Girls go out on Halloween as a pregnant lady and a soldier, not realizing the potential relationship between the two.
And so on. This stuff really happened — even the crimes:
— Boy uses wrench to dismantle crucial school facility. . .
— Girl meanly teased by boy takes the opportunity to . . .
All these events did not happen to me, as I’ve said. Some happened to people I knew — friends at school or kids in classes where I student-taught (including one of the most ingenious crimes I’ve ever witnessed, which impressed me so that I was convinced I had no place in charge of a classroom.)
So I’d set up this event as the turning point of the chapter and then write the chapter leading up to it and down from it and all around it, imagining the event at the center of this group of characters.
The main characters, who are based on my friends and family, all look and act a lot like they did in real life. My sixth grade teacher is here in person, his name intact along with his record collection, which introduced me to Frank Zappa. But WHAT they did and WHAT they said and HOW they said and did it — that’s the stuff of invention on my part. HUNDRED PERCENT is one hundred percent fiction, as a result. And you know what they say about fiction; truth is stranger. There’s plenty that got dropped because it didn’t seem believable.
As for truth? Well, I put my foot down on the feelings. I do remember. I don’t know why I remember so clearly, but I do. I do remember how it felt to be involved in a group activity and feel like a part of the group — and then realize that nobody knew you were there (again, no spoilers, but they had their eyes closed). Or how it felt to be barked at. Or how it felt to remember, half way to school, that class pictures were today — but to not be able to remember if you’d brushed your hair. I’ll admit it, I forced my way back into those memories, did my best to forget the growing up and perspective-getting that followed, and instead to sink in and remember. Sometimes, writing these things, I’d shiver and cry.
But other times, well. Remember how it felt to have your best friend in the fold-out bed beside you? Or how going out the door in costume on Halloween felt? Or doing well at something? Or telling someone (in actions, if not words) that you liked him? Yeah. I got to re-experience that stuff, too.
**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!
Giveaway time! One lucky reader will one a copy of 100 Percent!
GIVEAWAY DETAILS
ONE winner will receive a copy of 100 Percent! Giveaway begins September 7, 2016
Prizing & samples courtesy of Authors of the above books
Giveaway open to US addresses only
ONE lucky winner will win one copy of 100 Percent by Karen Romano Young.
Residents of USA only please.
Must be 18 years or older to enter
One entry per household.
Staff and family members of Audrey Press are not eligible.
Grand Prize winner has 48 hours to claim prize
Winner will be chosen via Rafflecopter on September 15,2016
Thanks and good luck!
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The day has come! The much-anticipated release of Ascension by Hannah Rials is finally HERE!
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 Enter “the secret life of 6th graders”- Hundred Percent by Karen Romano Young appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
September 4, 2016
Weekend Links: Pete’s Dragon Inspired Activities and FUN!
The Disney movie Pete’s Dragon is undoubtedly by storm. But the 2016 movie is actually based on a musical that came to life in the late 1970’s. Pete’s Dragon was a 1977 American musical live-action animated film directed by Don Chaffey, produced by Jerome Courtland and Ron Miller, and written by Malcolm Marmorstein.
The original story is set in the early 1900s, a young orphan named Pete flees his abusive hillbilly foster family, the Gogans, with help from a huge dragon called Elliott who can make himself invisible. Pete and Elliott visit a small fishing town called Passamaquoddy, where the unseen Elliott’s clumsiness causes Pete to be labeled a source of ill luck. Lampie, the drunken old lighthouse keeper, stumbles out of a tavern and encounters Pete. Elliott makes himself visible, and a terrified Lampie runs into the saloon to warn the townsfolk. In a seaside cave, Pete scolds Elliott for causing trouble. Just as they make up, Lampie’s daughter Nora appears. She says that due to the ongoing tides from the sea, it’s unsafe for Pete to stay. She offers him food and shelter at the lighthouse, which Pete accepts. Pete tells Nora of the abuse he suffers at the hands of the Gogans and, as Nora offers to let him stay the night at the lighthouse, they strike up a friendship. Pete learns the story of Nora’s fiancé, Paul, whose ship was reported lost at sea the previous year. Pete promises to ask Elliott about Paul, and Nora accepts, believing Elliott to be an imaginary friend.-wikipedia
The original movie was also released as a Little Golden Book in 1979
Follow Disney’s Pete’s Dragon
Website: http://disney.com/petesdragon
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DisneyPetesDragon
Twitter: https://twitter.com/disneypetes
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/disneypetesdragon/
Pete’s Dragon Inspired Crafts and Activities
Free Pete’s Dragon Coloring Sheets + Kids Activities at Raising Whasians
Desert Chica has a great idea on how to Make your own Elliot with this easy Pete’s Dragon craft using a pool noodle & craft supplies!
Give your own little Dragon flight with this DIY Cheerios box dragon wings activity!
Then round up everyone and head for the kitchen to enjoy a little Dragon-inspired cooking. My Dragon Bread recipe is sure to please!
And while your at it, learn a little more about Dragons and how they are not only among us, but simply not as fierce as everyone thinks! 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 
Dragons are Real is now available for purchase on both Amazon and Gumroad! We are also offering a special free bonus gift of a Dragons Are Real Inspiration Activity Guide when you purchase your copy of this enchanting picture book.
The post Weekend Links: Pete’s Dragon Inspired Activities and FUN! appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
September 1, 2016
From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler-Read Kids Classics
Welcome to our September 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’d like to revisit a family favorite; From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler
Konigsburg was a much-loved author who was honored with John Newbery Medal in 1997 for her book “The View from Saturday” and in 1968 for “From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler.” The Newbery is one of the top honors for children’s literature. All told, she wrote 16 children’s novels and illustrated 3 picture books.
{click to tweet} “Before you can be anything, you have to be yourself.” E.L. Konigsburg
From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler.
12 year old Claudia Kincaid is bored and tired of the monotony of her life, the unfair amount of chores, her limited T.V. time, and her low allowance.
Claudia decides to run away , but she knows she doesn’t just want to run from somewhere she wants to run to somewhere. Somewhere far from her home and some place beautiful, comfortable, and indoors. Being the organizer that she is, she crafts together a Master Plan to escape to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, while convincing her little brother Jamie to come with her.
The story unfolds and shares their adventurous journey of living undetected inside the museum for a whole week. While there Claudia and Jamie take the opportunity to learn new things and while discovering each section of the museum, they run across a new exhibit housing a marble angel thought to be from the hands of Michelangelo, the famous Italian painter and sculptor.
Claudia and Jaime decide to figure out the mystery of the statue before retuning home, that is if their money will hold out. Using the last of their finances they locate the previous owner of the statue Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, who also happens to be the narrator of this classic tale as well. After much negotiation between Mrs. Frankweiler and the children, a deal is reached and the true craftsman of the statue is uncovered.
This book won the Newbery Medal in 1968 and its no wonder why. Each time I would wander into a new section of the museum I would wonder where I would hide if I decided to live in the museum. Unfortunately all good things must come to an end as did my time with this favorite read and looking at some of the greatest art in the world.
If you were going to live in a museum, where would you make your home?
To find out more about what inspired this book have a look at the Metropolitan Museum of Arts “From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler brochure.
Ever wondered how exhibits get chosen at the Metropolitan Museum of Art? Ask the professor!
Sadly, E. L. Konigsburg passed away April 19, 2013 at the age of 83, but her literary legacy lives on.
What kids’ classics are you reading this month?
**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 From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler-Read Kids Classics appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
Harry Potter Back to School Hogwarts Kit #BacktoHogwarts
Harry Potter Back to School Hogwarts Kit
Today is the day! September 1st is the day that young witches and wizards all over the U.K. head to King’s Cross Station, walk through the barrier onto Platform 9 3/4, jump on the Hogwarts Express and leave for Hogwarts!
All over the online world, Harry Potter fans will be converging to celebrate this monumental day with trivia, parties and giveaways using the hashtag #backtohogwarts. Last year even J.K. Rowlings herself joined in on the fun and there was even a stern message on Twitter from Professor Snape forbidding flying cars.
In the spirit of Harry Potter lore, fun and fantasy I started thinking about not only how my family could celebrate this day, but what a back-to-school kit for Hogwarts students would actually look like. Here’s what I came up with:
HOGWARTS Back to School Kit (first year students)
Uniform-3 standard black cloaks for everyday wear
Two charmable ties and one winter scarf in house colors
Wand
Productivity Timing Hourglass
Hogwarts Glossary of Terms
A Divination Weekly Planner
Hippogriff Quill
Marauder’s Map
Map of Diagon Alley
Hogwarts Book Bag
A Quiddich Broomstick
Chocolate (Chocolate is the perfect antidote for anyone who has been overcome in the presence of Dementors)
1 Cauldron (pewter, standard size 2)
1 set of glass or crystal phials
1 telescope
1 set of brass scales
Second Year Supply List
Third Year Supply List
Fourth Year Supply List
Fifth Year Supply List
Sixth Year Supply List
Seventh Year Supply List
Books ( Source-Harry Potter Wikia.com )
The Standard Book of Spells, Grade 1 by Miranda Goshawk
A History of Magic by Bathilda Bagshot
Magical Theory by Adalbert Waffling
A Beginner’s Guide to Transfiguration by Emeric Switch
One Thousand Magical Herbs and Fungi by Phyllida Spore
Magical Drafts and Potions by Arsenius Jigger
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them by Newt Scamander
The Dark Forces: A Guide to Self-Protection by Quentin Trimble
Owl, a Cat or a Toad Care Items
A suitable cage
Past issues of The Daily Prophet, Sunday Prophet or The Quibbler to line cages
Mice or flies for food.
Water recepticle
Something To Do
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!
Here’s an infographic that links Hogwarts classes to their potential real life equivalents.
Harry Potter DIY Wand Crafts at DoodleCraftBlog
And while your at it, learn a little more about Dragons and how they are not only among us, but simply not as fierce as everyone thinks! 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
Dragons are Real is now available for purchase on both Amazon and Gumroad! We are also offering a special free bonus gift of a Dragons Are Real Inspiration Activity Guide when you purchase your copy of this enchanting picture book.
The post Harry Potter Back to School Hogwarts Kit #BacktoHogwarts appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
August 30, 2016
The Friendship Doll Review + Origami Friendship Doll Activity
From the author of Hattie Big Sky, Kirby Larson weaves a brilliant tale about a beautifully created Japanese doll, Miss Kanagawa in the book The Friendship Doll.
Crafted by Master dollmaker Tatsuhiko, Miss Kanagawa was commissioned to be an ambassador of friendship between Japan and the United States. This part of the story is actually based on fact. 58 dolls in all were sent from Japan in 1927 to tour the United States with a doll to be left in each city of the tour. Tatsuhiko put a little something extra in the design of his special doll, she is able to “speak” to the children offering them advice, guidance, and reassurance along the way.
photo of Miss Mie by University of Nebraska
There are five special young people whose lives are greatly touched by the beautiful friendship doll.
Bunny:
The story begins in 1927 with Miss Kanagawa arriving in New York City. Bunny wanted to be the one to give the welcoming speech at the reception but Belle Roosevelt was chosen instead. Planning to undermine and ruin Belle’s speech, Bunny arrives early where she encounters Miss Kanagawa. I won’t spoil what happens next.
Lois:
Lois is invited by her Great-Aunt to the Chicago’s Worlds Fair. Set in 1933 in the middle of the great depression, Lois’s best friend is Mabel who is getting skinnier by the day due to lack of food. Upon hearing that Lois is going to the fair, Mabel is equally excited for her friend. The night before going to the fair, Lois’s father, gives her a quarter to do something extra special with while at the fair. Lois’s greatest wish is to ride on the “Sky-Ride”. Taking a detour, she finds herself with her aunt at the doll exhibit where she meets Miss Kanagawa. What will Lois do with her quarter?
Willie-Mae
The next story takes us to the hills of Kentucky, where Willie Mae lives in a holler with her family. though Willie Mae and her family are very poor, Willie Mae loves to read and waits excitedly for the librarian to bring her books. One day the librarian comes not only with books but with a paying job reading for an old wealthy woman named Mrs. Weldon. Mrs. Weldon is viewed as a self-centered eccentric but Willie Mae sees her differently and enjoys their reading time together, as well as, organizing Mrs. Weldon’s rock collection. This story especially grabbed out heart-strings as tragedy struck leaving Miss Kanagawa to give comfort to all.
Lucy:
Lucy Turner loves to write letters and along with the letters she is writing to her best firend Gloria Jean, Lucy writes to Eleanor Roosevelt asking for assistance. As Lucy and her father make their way from Oklahoma to Klamath Oregon, Lucy always has hope that a secure furture is around the corner. Finally they enter a FSA camp in Oregon where Lucy goes to school. One saturday her class went to visit Dr. Evans new museum. There, she discovers the “Land of the Sun”, a room about Japan. As Lucy spies Miss Kanagawa, she is completely captivated with her beauty and all of her accessories. As WWII begins, anything Japanese was considered unpatriotic and Dr. Evans was forced to put the lovely doll away.
Mason:
Jumping to the present day, Mason doesn’t want to visit his grandmother Seal. Seal is suffering from Alzheimers but all Mason wants is the grandmother that he knows and loves. No longer recognizing Mason or his sister Emma, the children leave Seal in their mother’s care and head up to the attic for a little exploring. They come across Miss Kanagawa in her little trunk. They bring the doll down to Seal who becomes very animated upon seeing her once cherished treasure. Holding Miss Kanagawas, Seal shares moments from her past for the first time in months. What secrets does she disclose?
We absolutely loved this book and couldn’t put it down. I think we read it out loud in two days. We read it everywhere we went. The historical details are well researched and woven seamlessly into the story. Kirby Larson is a creative storyteller who weaves the power of friendship into every page of this wonderful story.
Recommended for read a-loud starting at age 5 or 6 and solo reading for age 9. Grab your copy on Amazon HERE.
Something To Do: An Origami Friendship Doll
To bring the heart of this story home, we created our own version of an origami friendship doll. Often times origami can be very difficult to teach without sitting right next to the teacher. We worked on this pattern until we came up with a version that even the very smallest hands can do. Please click on the link below to download the tutorial. Enjoy!
Download Origami Friendship Dolls Tutorial
****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
Dragons are Real is now available for purchase on both Amazon and Gumroad! We are also offering a special free bonus gift of a Dragons Are Real Inspiration Activity Guide when you purchase your copy of this enchanting picture book.
The post The Friendship Doll Review + Origami Friendship Doll Activity appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
August 28, 2016
Weekend Links: Past Book Adventures Worth Revisiting (Part 2)
It’s time for Weekend Links and OH, what a busy week it’s been. So much going on at JIAB and so much on the way.
I’ve been in the mood lately to look back on past posts here at JIAB and let me tell you; it’s like visiting old friends! I am so blessed to be able to review and “jump into” amazing children’s books while encouraging families to pull books off of shelves and stories off of pages.
Last weekend I had so much fun sharing my past Past Book Adventures Worth Revisiting that I thought I would do it again! This is my opportunity to take moment this weekend to re-share some of the older, but still wonderful, book reviews that I have created. These books are unique, inspiring and something that is a “must read” for families. The accompanying crafts and activities have been a hit too!
REVISIT
Creepy Castles and Dark Dungeons: Haunted Histories
Back in 2013, my dear friend Marilyn Scott Waters has teamed up with J. H. Everett and created a fun book for middle readers called Haunted Histories: Creepy Castles, Dark Dungeons, and Powerful Palaces! Here’s my review PLUS an in-depth answer to the question, “What is gruel?”
Holes by Louis Sachar (And some Holes-inspired Activities)
Holes is my favorite Louis Sachar book. The history of Kate Barlow and Stanley’s great-great grandfather woven into the story brings a new dimension to a children’s chapter book. He gives children the ability to make connections between history and Stanley Yelnat’s story. He pulls you into the harsh conditions of Camp Green Lake and keeps you captivated with the mystery surrounding it. None of the camps I ever went to had buried treasure. I read this with my mom when I was ill. It’s not just a story for kids, but for kids and parents to enjoy together.
Horten’s Miraculous Mechanisms BookJump Adventure review can be found HERE. Ten year old Stuart stumbles on a note daring him to find his great-uncle’s hidden workshop full of wonderful mechanisms, trickery, and magic.
“I have to go away, and I may not be able to get back. If I don’t return, then my workshop and all it contains is yours if you can find it- then you’re the right sort of boy to have it.
Affectionately,
Your Uncle Tony
P.S. Start in the telephone booth on Main Street.
The Thief Lord Book Review & Activities
Set in Venice, Italy, this magical tale took us on a whirlwind visit to a mysterious and unknown destination.
Prosper and Bo are orphans on the run from their cruel aunt and uncle. The brothers decide to hide out in Venice, where they meet a mysterious character who calls himself the “Thief Lord.” Brilliant and charismatic, the Thief Lord leads a ring of street children who dabble in petty crimes. Prosper and Bo relish being part of this colorful new family. But the Thief Lord has secrets of his own. And soon the boys are thrust into circumstances that will lead them, and readers, to a fantastic, spellbinding conclusion.-Goodreads
Inkheart by Cornelia Funke is yet another amazing book I review and I have to say, the book extension activities I created are pretty amazing as well.
Lynne Farrell Stover has written a simply wonderful extension activity guide for Librarysparks.
What “edgy” fun and intriguing books have YOU discovered this week?
****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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The day has come! The much-anticipated release of Ascension by Hannah Rials is finally HERE!
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: Past Book Adventures Worth Revisiting (Part 2) appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
August 26, 2016
A Happy 100th Birthday! A National Parks Booklist and More
Happy Birthday to our National Parks! 100 years ago on August 25th, the National Parks were created to preserve the unique and wild areas of this vast and beautiful country.
Author Terry Tempest Williams says, “Our national parks are memory palaces where our personal histories reside.”
No truer statement can be said as my family and I live one mile from the entrance to the Smoky Mountains National Park visited by 11 million people every year and I get to say that this is my back yard.
Here’s a look at our mountains, taken just a couple of days ago by my talented friend Deb Campbell.
Now a century has past and it’s time to celebrate with what else but books!
There are some really great reads just not about the parks but chapter books set inside the parks. These books are good for middle grade readers but work just as nicely for young readers who may feel more comfortable listening.
A National Park Booklist
Picture Books
Whose Tracks Are These? A Clue Book of Familiar Forest Animals, by James Nail
This is an excellent book!! The illustrations are bright and beautiful coupled with a magnificent story. Each set of footprints are shown in their natural environment and they are accompanied by a full page of clues that start hard and get easier before you are shown the animal that the clues are about. There are a wide variety of animals and the prints they leave behind.
America’s National Parks: A Pop-Up Book, by Don Compton
America’s National Parks: A Pop-Up Book is a coast to coast journey featuring 18 of our most visited national parks, with six as stunning, double-page pop-ups: Everglades, Great Smoky Mountains, Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Glacier, and Yosemite national parks. See two bear cubs scrambling up a tree to safety, an alligator charging its prey, a dory boat crashing through the rapids of the Colorado River, a Red Jammer tour bus coming out of a mountain tunnel, Old Faithful Geyser erupting 13 inches above the page, and a mother Grizzly rising up to defend her cubs. Fascinating park action springs to life in cleverly designed mini-booklet pops. The beauty of our national parks comes to life in these pages. You and your family will be inspired to visit our national parks. Beside the large pop-ups with illustrations based on the Works Progress Administration posters from the 1930s, it also features mini pop-ups that show action in the parks. It was a Gold Medal Winner-Children’s Picture Book (All Ages) by Independent Publisher Book Awards 2013.
Who Pooped in the Park? series, by Gary D. Robson
Follow Michael and Emily as they learn about the animals in our national parks by the tracks and scat they leave behind. Each book in the series takes place in a specific park .Very engaging and fun.Early-Young Readers
Everglades
By: Jean Craighead George
Illustrated by: Wendell Minor
A beautifully written story by Newbery Award winner Jean Craighead George about protecting and conserving the wildlife around us. Masterfully told by an Indian storyteller as he guides 5 children into the sea grass of the everglades. He shares how the land’s formation was created and how it has changed to become the subtropical home to many special and unique animals, and plants. He invites them to be cautious and protective of the nature they have been entrusted with.
High Tide in Hawaii
By: Mary Pope Osborne, Sal Murdocca
Illustrated by: Sal Murdocca
Hawaii is home to no less than 8 national parks where natural wonders abound such as Volcanoes National Park. It’s really spellbinding. When the Magic Tree House whisks Jack and Annie off to Hawaii it’s for more than a vacation-they’re in search of a fourth kind of magic for Morgan! On the way they help an island community survive a tidal wave and, of course, take some time out to surf! Ultimately, they discover that the magic that they have found in this set of four books are everyday magics: the magic of the arts, the magic of the natural world, the magic of community; and the magic of fun.
By: Craig Brown
The Grand Canyon is one of the most amazing of our national parks which was created in the early 20th century. On the Southeastern rim is a little town called Supai which can only be reached by horse, helicopter, or mule. We learn of Anthony Paya, the postman who delivers mail to his hometown on the Havasupai Indian Reservation, by going down the steep awe inspiring Grand Canyon to deliver the mail.
Redwoods
By: Jason Chin
This is one of our all time favorites.A ordinary subway trip is transformed when a young boy happens upon a book about redwood forests. As he reads the information unfolds, and with each new bit of knowledge, he travels―all the way to California to climb into the Redwood canopy. Crammed with interesting and accurate information about these great natural wonders, Jason Chin’s first book is innovative nonfiction set within a strong and beautiful picture storybook. Chin’s approach makes this book a must-have!!
Susanna of the Alamo: A True Story
By: John Jakes
“Remember the Alamo!” is one of the most familiar battle cries in American history, yet few know about the brave woman who inspired it. Susanna Dickinson’s story reveals the crucial role she played during that turbulent period in Texas-American history.
The Camping Trip That Changed America
By: Barb Rosenstock
Caldecott medalist Mordicai Gerstein captures the majestic redwoods of Yosemite in this little-known but important story from our nation’s history. In 1903, President Theodore Roosevelt joined naturalist John Muir on a trip to Yosemite. Camping by themselves in the uncharted woods, the two men saw sights and held discussions that would ultimately lead to the establishment of our National Parks.
Yellowstone Moran: Painting the American West
By: Lita Judge
Follow Tom Moran on an unbelievable real-life adventure! In the summer of 1871, a young painter named Thomas Moran joined a team of scientists heading for the untamed land called ?the Yellowstone.? He couldn?t believe what he found there?steaming cauldrons of sulfur, belching geysers, even a thousand-foot-deep canyon. Tom had never ridden a horse or slept under the stars before, but the paintings he created on his journey from city boy to seasoned explorer would lead to the founding of America?s first national park.
Trained as a fine artist, Lita Judge captures the wild and rugged beauty of Yellowstone in this stunning book she wanted to write her whole life.
Middle Grade Chapter Books
Mysteries in Our National Parks, by Gloria Skurzynski and Alane Ferguson
Mysteries in Our National Parks books treat intermediate readers to the heart-pounding adventures of brother-and-sister sleuths, 12-year old Jack and 11-year-old Ashley Landon. Traveling with their mother, Olivia, a wildlife biologist, and their father, Steven, a nature photographer, the kids visit many of the country’s magnificent National Parks where they always seem to stumble upon a puzzle that only they can solve.
From confronting environmental challenges like the effect of snowmobiles in Alaska’s Denali park and speedboaters injuring manatees in Florida’s Everglades, to encountering dangerous wildlife like grizzly bears in Montana’s Glacier National Park or wild white mustangs in Utah’s Zion, the Landon’s adventures will keep kids on the edge of their seats while they learn about our country’s natural heritage and the role we all have in understanding and protecting it for the future. There are 13 books in the series all set in a different national park.
Wild Kratts series, by Chris Kratt and Martin Kratt
This series of leveled readers is based on the PBS series The Wild Kratts. The books take readers along with the zoologists the Kratt brothers as they explore different animal topics.
The Adventures of Bubba Jones: Time Traveling Through the Great Smoky Mountains, by Jeff Alt
This book series is really popular around here in East Tennessee. Tommy “Bubba Jones” and his sister Jenny “Hug-a-Bug” learn more about the Great Smoky Mountain National Park than they ever thought they would when Papa Lewis lets them in on a family secret: The family has legendary time traveling skills! With these abilities, Bubba Jones and Hug-a-Bug travel back in time and meet the park’s founders, its earliest settlers, native Cherokee Indians, wild animals, extinct creatures, and what the park was like millions of years ago. With this time traveling ability also comes a family mystery, but the only person who can help solve the mystery is a long lost relative who lives somewhere in the park. Explore the Smokies with Bubba Jones and family in a whole new way. There are 3 books so far in the series.
Adventures with the Parkers series, by Mike Graf
These books are well written and chalk full of vital and usable information. There are 10 books in all so far in the series. The author website has incredible guides for the various books in the series and is a great resource itself.
Here’s a bit more information about the series from Mike Graf’s Website.
“Join the Parkers, an intrepid family of four, as they adventure into the national parks. Nearly ten year old twins, Morgan and James, explore the natural and historic wonders of such destinations as: Bryce, Zion, the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Yellowstone, the Great Smoky Mountains, Olympic, Glacier, Rocky Mountain, the Badlands, Wind Cave, Mount Rushmore, Arches, Canyonlands, Acadia, and Grand Teton. Along the way, the family meets other travelers, rangers, and colorful characters pertaining to each park.
Adventures with the Parkers- a series for kids and families- is packed with action and excitement, as well as interesting facts about plants and animals, geology, the history of the parks, wilderness safety, and environmental and preservation issues effecting the parks. The books also offer tips and information on travel plans, great places top hike, ranger programs, historic points of interest, and much, much more.
Each book in the series contains maps and full color photographs that represent a possible family’s journey. The books are realistic fiction- everything that the family experiences could happen in real life, or maybe did happen to someone and the details were changed to fit the characters.
The Parkers books are a great way to get to know the national park you are planning to visit, or they also make a perfect souvenir for your stay in the park. Either way, you’ll have a fantastic outdoor adventure with you wherever you go while reading these books.”
Travels with Gannon & Wyatt: Hawaii by Patti Wheeler & Keith Hemstreet
Set inside the beautiful big Island of Hawaii and inside Volcanoes National Park Travels with Gannon and Wyatt are a fast track national park adventure. When an ancient map is found on a growing archeologist, the explorers shift their attention to uncovering the map’s secrets. To their astonishment, they discover that it might lead to one of Hawaii’s most puzzling mysteries, the burial place of the islands most-revered ruler, King Kamehameha the Great! Adding danger to an already perilous journey, someone else is after the map, someone who seems willing to do just about anything to get it.
Non-fiction
These national park guide books are a must have. Full of information and many of them contain fantastic activities as well.
Happy 100th Birthday, National Parks! Join the centennial celebration by reading all about these greatest of American treasures — from Acadia to Zion — in preparation for a parks visit sometime soon. Filled with color photos, information on animals, fascinating lists, fun facts, maps, cool things to do, conservation tips, and much more — think of this book as your trusted guide to these most majestic of places.
National Parks: A Kid’s Guide to America’s Parks, Monuments and Landmarks, by Erin McHugh
From Yellowstone to the Statue of Liberty, from Gettysburg National Battlefield to Mount Rushmore, National Parks is the only kid-friendly, family-oriented book that covers all of the U.S. national parks, plus famous monuments and landmarks. With a lively text and hundreds of color illustrations and photographs throughout, it offers fascinating, memorable information on every aspect of the parks, such as the history, geography, natural wonders, native wildlife and birds, and unique features that make each park special.
Organized alphabetically by state, National Parks takes readers on a whirlwind trip to 75 locations, including Denali National Park, Hot Springs National Park, Everglades National Park, Fort McHenry, White Mountain National Forest, Ellis Island, the Blue Ridge Parkway, Zion National Park, Block Island National Wildlife Refuge, Mt. Hood National Forest, and many more.
Also included are dozens of activities, such as quizzes, word and picture hunts, and car games, as well as a detachable national-park quarter collector, so kids can collect each of the 56 commemorative quarters to be issued by the U.S.
Junior Ranger Activity Book: Puzzles, Games, Facts, and Tons More Fun Inspired by the U.S. National Parks!, by National Geographic Kids
Calling all explorers and nature-lovers! From Acadia to Zion, discover all 59 of the United States’ amazing National Parks in this jam-packed book of games, trivia, jokes, fun facts, and so much more, all inspired by the National Parks outdoor-based Junior Ranger Program. Great for generating pre-trip excitement, long car rides, poking around historical sites, or general learning, these fun and sometimes silly activities will entertain while they draw kids into the majestic and historic importance of America’s national parks. Check out the most amazing park habitats, plus awesome sights and animals you might see, from birds to bears. Fun facts are jam-packed onto every page, so kids learn something amazing about each cool park.
Search and Find National Parks by Maud Llenard
This activity book contains illustrations of twelve North American national parks, in which children have to search for objects. It is both original and fun, and children will enjoy discovering different animals and landscapes and while looking for some hidden objects. In addition, on each page an intruder has escaped from the park and sneaked his way into the picture.
Wonders of America Ready to Read Value Pack by Marion Dane Bauer
Perfect for emerging readers, the Wonders of America series takes children on a tour of the landmarks that make our country great. From the Statue of Liberty to Mount Rushmore, the Grand Canyon to Niagara Falls, children will love discussing the amazing things they’ve learned about the geography and history of our great nation. Plus, check the inside of the packaging for a bonus set of tips to help your reading star soar to new heights. Included in this Ready-to-Read value pack are:
The Grand Canyon
Niagara Falls
The Rocky Mountains
Mount Rushmore
The Statue of Liberty
Yellowstone
Where is Mount Rushmore by True Kelley
It was world-famous sculptor Gutzon Borglum’s dream to carve sixty-foot-high likenesses of four presidents on a granite cliff in South Dakota. Does that sound like a wacky idea? Many at the time thought so. Borglum faced a lot of opposition and problems at every turn; the blasting and carving carried out through the years of the Great Depression when funding for anything was hard to come by. Yet Mount Rushmore now draws almost three million visitors to the Black Hills every year. This is an entertaining chronicle of one man’s magnificent obsession, which even today sparks controversy
My Yosemite: A Guide for Young Adventurers by Mike Graf
In eight chapters covering everything from “Yosemite’s Rich Past” to “Endless Things to See and Do,” Mike Graf calls on the park’s most knowledgeable insiders — biologists, rangers, even the park’s resident entertainer — to share their most exciting stories and best advice. Colorful photos and illustrations enable young readers to get up close and personal with Yosemite’s waterfalls, Giant Sequoia trees, sheer granite walls, and, of course, those famous black bears. This guide also recommends gear for a national park visit and offers safety tips, a wildlife observation how-to and birding guide, tips on managing a wildlife encounter, and a guide to rock climber lingo and a difficulty ratings system. Also featured are detailed accounts of famous climbs, tips on how to protect the park and keep it green, an historical timeline, and a list of popular hikes.
And More!!
If this booklist has inspired you to get moving and find a national park near you,…GREAT. NOW Go! Get Moving! Don’t Wait Another Minute!
If you’re planning a trip here are some sites to help you out.
National Parks: America’s Greatest Treasure
This site has info and photos of some of the more famous national parks.
The National Parks: America’s Best Idea
This is the companion site to Ken Burns documentary on his National Park Series which aired on PBS. There are incredible video clips, loads of national park and specific park info as well as a place for you to share your own national park stories.
This is the official National Park Website. It has info on every single park as well as great teacher and student info.
National Parks Conservation Association
The national parks were created to conserve our wild spaces. The National Parks Conservation Association makes sure this continues to happen. It’s a great resource website sharing all of the parks resources including natural,cultural, and historical.
United States National Parks for Kids
We love Mr. Nussbaum and his national park site. There is wonderful links leading to much information about the parks. It’s all kid friendly.
Best National Park Adventures for Kids:
National Geographic Travel shares which parks are the best ones to visit with kids.
Want to Know What’s Happening At Each Specific Park?
The following are sites that explore the national parks. Please check the park you’re look for to see daily and weekly activities.
Has great info on hiking with children.
This is the place to go to see all of the Junior Ranger Programs as well as a place to download info and activity books.
What can you do with your kids inside various national parks? This site offers great suggestions.
This is a great resource featuring hiking games, other activities one can do in any of our national parks and activity booklets and much more.
There is nothing better than a field guide to identify various plants, animals, insects etc. This is a great resource !!!
This is in no way a complete list. Please feel free to share your favorite national park books in the comment section below. Happy Reading and Many Happy National Park Adventures!
This list is not a comprehensive list-just a round-up of our family favorites. If you know of a wonderful children’s book that celebrates this nation’s National Parks, please leave your suggestion in the comments below. I’d love to know about more titles to add to my reading list!
****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!
Experience the magical story of a family of foxes that took up residence right in the front yard of the author and publisher, Valarie Budayr. The Fox Diaries: The Year the Foxes Came to our Garden offers an enthusiastically educational opportunity to observe this fox family grow and learn together.
From digging and hunting to playing and resting, this diary shares a rare glimpse into the private lives of Momma Rennie and her babies. Come watch as they navigate this wildly dangerous but still wonderful world. Great to share with your children or students, The Fox Diaries speaks to the importance of growing and learning both individually and as a family unit. It is a perfect book for story time or family sharing. Not only can you read about the daily rituals of this marvelous fox family, there is an information-packed resource section at the end of the book that includes lots of facts and even a few “fox movies” that you can enjoy with your family. Grab your copy of this beautiful and inspiring book HERE.
The post A Happy 100th Birthday! A National Parks Booklist and More appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
August 25, 2016
Creating a Hero’s Journey Activity for Kids
Recently I reviewed a wonderful book from author Alexis York Lombard called The Conference of the Birds.
Inside this inspiring tale, virtues such as humility, patience, detachment from our worldly goods, and courage are taught and shared through beauty, kindness and encouragement. This book is a fantastic teaching tool regardless of one’s race or religion in developing a moral compass of integrity and compassion. It made me think of The Hero’s Journey.
According to Wikipedia, A Here’s Journey is defined as: In narratology and comparative mythology, the monomyth, or the hero’s journey, is the common template of a broad category of tales that involve a hero who goes on an adventure, and in a decisive crisis wins a victory, and then comes home changed or transformed.[1]
The concept was introduced by Joseph Campbell in The Hero with a Thousand Faces (1949), who described the basic narrative pattern as follows:
In true Jump Into a Book form, I knew I needed to create a fun Hero’s Journey Activity for Kids
The Hero’s Journey
The Conference of the Birds is a “Journey Myth” or a Hero’s Story. The character of the story, in this case the birds, sets out on an incredible adventure which holds nearly impossible tasks to be accomplished.
Although there is always a destination to arrive at or a road where the journey ends, the hero’s journey isn’t really about place. The hero learns lessons about himself or herself. It’s about how the hero over come their fear, short-comings and losing their negative traits.
The Hero’s Journey has 3 major sections with steps inside each one.
*The first section is the separation from the hero’s usual life. Within this section is the call or invitation to adventure, the refusal of the invitation, and the meeting with the mentor who will guide them through the journey.
*The second section of the journey is the initiation into the trials, challenges, and difficulties. This part of the journey entails crossing the first threshold, enduring tests by allies and enemies, finding new approaches to solving the trials, and facing a major ordeal.
*The third and final section is the Hero’s Return. The Hero returns to his or her former life a changed person. Steps in the final section are the reward, the road back home, the final test known as the Resurrection and the Return.
There are many books and movies which have the hero’s journey as a theme. The Wizard of Oz, The Hobbit, Lord of the Rings, Chronicles of Narnia, Alice in Wonderland, Star Wars, The Hunger Games, and many more.
Go back and read the story finding elements of the hero’s journey in Conference of the Birds.
Who is the mentor in the story ?
What invitation doe he make to the birds?
What challenge does each bird face?
Where are they going?
What do they expect to find there?
What do they find when they arrive?
Conditions of the Heart Craft and Activity
In the Conference of the Birds, each bird has a personal trait that they need to look at, deepen or discard to continue the journey to the Simorgh. Oftentimes we wish to instill values,morals , and character into our children but how do we do this?
This wonderful book is a great tool to teach moral values and conduct.
The following craft and activity is a starting point to building young people who think critically and carefully. The best way to instill this in our children is through conversation. Children act out what they have been modeled. Open communication is a great way to know what your child/children are thinking and it gives us parents the opportunity to share our viewpoint as well.
Something To Do Hero’s Journey Craft:
Supplies:
12 Cut paper hearts or foam hearts.
Printed words and questions
Scissors
Tape
Print out the page with the words and questions.
Tape the word on one side of the heart and the corresponding question(s) on the back side.
How to play:
Put all of the hearts into a box or bag and mix them up. Sitting in a circle, have everyone pick a heart.
One by one share the word on the outside of the heart. Talk about the meaning of the word first.
Next turn the heart over. Answer and discuss the questions.
To download your FREE Conditions of the Heart discussion guide (which can help facilitate your discussions) go HERE.
To download your FREE Conditions of the Heart Words and Questions, go HERE.
I’d like to say a huge thank you for the kindness of Alexis York Lumbard and her family for providing a copy of The Conference of the Birds for my family to enjoy. Opinions expressed are purely my own.
****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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The day has come! The much-anticipated release of Ascension by Hannah Rials is finally HERE!
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 Creating a Hero’s Journey Activity for Kids appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
August 23, 2016
Naked Birds? Feathers for Peacock by Jacqueline Jules
Did you know that birds used to not have feathers?
They used to be naked, while all the other animals got to walk around with fur–how is that fair? So they decide to talk to the full moon, who is supposed to be wise and kind and will surely be able to help them with their problem. When they talk to the moon, she tells them that all they have to do is rub up against a plant at dawn, and their feathers will bloom. So that’s exactly what they do. The plants they chose gave them their color. All did this…except the peacock. He missed his opportunity.
The birds, feeling a sense of community, decided to share their new feathers with their friend the peacock. Each gave one of their feathers to create a warm but mismatched coat. The moon helped the peacock and gave him a beautiful plume of feathers that highlighted the kindness of his friends.
This story is a beautiful tale of a collection of animals and their kindness. I love the unique description of how the different birds came across the colors that we know them for. And I especially love the twist on the representation of peacocks. Their elaborate display of feathers are typically known for vanity, but this story recreates a peacock’s feathers to represent kindness. The illustrations are beautiful and complement this unique story.
Grab your copy of Feathers for Peacock on Amazon.
About the Author:
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Award-winning author Jacqueline Jules blends folktale motifs from around the world to offer an original explanation for why the peacock has such beautiful feathers. An appendix provides more information about peacocks. Helen Cann’s stunning illustrations give young readers fun opportunities to identify the colors and plant life of spring. Feathers for Peacock is a gently humorous tale of generosity and friendship. Jacqueline has many, many amazing books and has been an Author Sponsor during Multicultural Children’s Book Day since Day One. We completely appreciate her talent and her ability to create beautiful stories that kids love to read!
Connect with Jacqueline via her website, Facebook and Twitter
Something To Do
1. Make your own peacock with this craft from ArtsyCraftsyMom.com
2. This book is all about kindness, correct? So let’s remember ARK – Acts of Random Kindness. We should try to remember to do an act of random kindness everyday. So here are some ideas!
And if you want to become more involved, check out this website:
https://www.randomactsofkindness.org
3. Enjoy some quiet time/coloring time (for both adults and kids!) with these free Peacock Coloring Pages from HelloKids.com
****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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The day has come! The much-anticipated release of Ascension by Hannah Rials is finally HERE!
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 Naked Birds? Feathers for Peacock by Jacqueline Jules appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
