Valarie Budayr's Blog, page 55
July 7, 2016
Drum Dream Girl: How One Girl’s Courage Changed Music
Margarita Engle’s new book Drum Dream Girl: How One Girl’s Courage Changed Music is an inspiring story based on true events. And since I played drums in high school, this poem has a special place in my heart. Us female drummers have to stick together!
Girl’s didn’t drum. That’s just the way things were in Cuba. Men were meant to be drummers. But then one little Drum Dream Girl decided to change all that. She lived, breathed, and dreamt drumming. Her fingers would start tapping beats without her even realizing it. Little Drum Dream Girl was meant to be a drummer. But no one would listen to her. They just told her that drumming was for men.
She dreamed of pounding tall congas and tapping small bongós. She had to keep quiet. She had to practice in secret. But when at last her dream-bright music was heard, everyone sang and danced and decided that both girls and boys should be free to drum and dream.
Until one day, her father heard what an amazing drummer was and decided to get her a music teacher. And he believed in her too! And the little Drum Dream Girl went on to be one of the most famous drummers in history! She didn’t listen to convention. She made her own way and changed history!
Yet again, Margarita Engle creates an amazing story told through poetry. Drum Dream Girl is based on the life of a real Chinese-African-Cuban girl who challenged the traditions of her community. The poem is beautiful and inspiring, and Rafael López’s illustrations are just magnificent! They’re vibrant and lively and fit perfectly with the rhythm of the poem!
Author Margarita Engle is a favorite here on Jump Into a Book. Past review of her beautiful books include The Wild Book
Fefa struggles with words. She has word blindness, or dyslexia, and the doctor says she will never read or write. Every time she tries, the letters jumble and spill off the page, leaping away like bullfrogs. How will she ever understand them?
But her mother has an idea. She gives Fefa a blank book filled with clean white pages. “Think of it as a garden,” she says. Soon Fefa starts to sprinkle words across the pages of her wild book. She lets her words sprout like seedlings, shaky at first, then growing stronger and surer with each new day. And when her family is threatened, it is what Fefa has learned from her wild book that saves them.
**some of these links are affiliate links
Something to Do Activities:
1. Create your own drum AND save the planet by creating this Upcycled Pringles Can Drum from The Taylor House:
2. Here’s another cool drum activity. My Percussion Ensemble always did a bucket drum piece. So much fun!
3. Millo Castro Zaldarriaga performed with her sisters in their group Anacaona, Cuba’s first “all-girl dance band.” Here’s a recording and pictures of their group who played for U.S. Preside FD Roosevelt!
HANNAH RIALS: A Maryville native and current college student at University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Hannah began writing her first novel at age twelve. Eight years later, the result is her new YA novel Ascension; a modern day teenage romance filled with “double-blooded” vampires and revenge-seeking witches (to be released in August of 2016). When not spending time with her family and playing with her beloved Corgis, Buddy and Noel, Hannah leads a creative group, crafts and cultivates her writing skills. Connect with Hannah on Facebook, Twitter and via her website.
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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 Drum Dream Girl: How One Girl’s Courage Changed Music appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
June 30, 2016
Ready for Some Fiber Fun While Reading? Fiber Arts for Kids
JIAB Intern, Hannah, and I LOVE to knit. We can’t pass a yarn shop and are always looking for the next best pattern. Continuing on in our “Read to Follow Directions” series. Hannah gives us look into the new release Knit, Hook, and Spin by Laurie Carlson. I’ve long been a Laurie Carlson fan and was so thrilled and happy she wrote this Fiber Arts for Kids book.
Knit, Hook, and Spin is one of those books that I wish I’d had as a kid! There are so many different activities and crafts to fill your day with fun! Carlson talks about felting, weaving, knotting, stitching, knitting, crocheting, spinning, dyeing, and even recycling old projects! But not only does she give us all of these wonderful crafts, Carlson can’t leave us without a little information first.
Before readers even get to the activities, they first have to learn about the materials they are going to be working with. Each activity has a description and occasionally even a history of use included with it. We honestly didn’t know how many different types of yarn there was in the world! So many!
But I think my favorite part of this whole book is at the end. After learning how to do all of these wonderful activities, Laurie Carlson suggests putting our new found talents to good use: We can start making knit caps for premature babies, socks for homeless people, blankets to send to needy people around the world, comfort dolls to give to children who face abuse or tragedy prayer shawls, cancer caps…the possibilities are absolutely endless! Just get involved and make a difference with your crafting talents!!
I so wish that I’d had this book when I was a kid! I just recently found my love of knitting, and I wish I’d been more exposed to it as a kid. I would’ve had so much fun just crafting my way through this entire book! This gives children an outlet for their creativity in a productive, helpful way. This book is a library must-have!
Something To Do
1. So we decided to pull out one of the crafts from Ms. Carlson’s book! Last night, I spent a little while making yarn flowers with a fork. Super easy, fun, and cute! I had all the materials in my house, and they make the most beautiful bouquet! All you need is colorful yarn, green yarn, a fork, and a pair of scissors.
**Tip: weave your warn close together and almost all the way to the top of the fork’s tines for a fluffier, fuller flower.
**Tip 2: If you make the steps long enough, you can make your flower into a little bracelet!
2. Into knitting? Once you get the basics down, you can work up to knitting an afghan/quilt like this!
3. Want some more patterns to practice your new skill?
Got your crochet skills down? Try crocheting some cute little animals!
4. Interested in knitting/weaving/crocheting/spinning for a cause? Check out this website to see how you can get involved!
****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!
Just One More Thing-Inspire even more creativity this summer!
Enjoy more month-by-month activities based on the classic children’s tale, The Secret Garden! A Year in the Secret Garden is a delightful children’s book with over 120 pages, with 150 original color illustrations and 48 activities for your family and friends to enjoy, learn, discover and play with together.
Whimsical author/illustrator Marilyn Scott-Waters and I created this book to not only encourage families to read and participate in some “unplugged” activities, but to also delve into the beauty and the wonder of this classic children’s tale. Get the full scoop on this vibrant book HERE and “meet me in the garden!”
The post Ready for Some Fiber Fun While Reading? Fiber Arts for Kids appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
June 28, 2016
“Elementary, My Dear Watson!”
Enjoy this charming retelling of one of many Sherlock Holmes- The Hounds of Baskervilles tales, told specifically for kids!
In this installment, Sherlock and his assistant, Dr. Watson, are hired to solve the curse of the The Hound of the Baskervilles. After the lord of the Baskervilles dies of curious circumstances in the moors, his young heir from America comes to take over the care of his ancestral home. Except, it seems, that someone does not want any Baskervilles living on their land. Sir Henry’s life is immediately threatened before he even arrives on his property.
Sherlock sends Dr. Watson ahead of him with Sir Henry to the Baskervilles, while Sherlock stays behind to do some investigations in London. While the details of the curse are very convincing and terrifying, Mr. Holmes, the infamous detective known for his amazing use of observation and deduction, knows that there has to be a logical, non-supernatural explanation for the mysterious deaths that the locals say are caused by the devilish Hound of the Baskervilles.
Will Mr. Holmes and Dr. Watson be able to solve this mystery before another Baskerville dies? Is the Hound of the Baskervilles real or just a clever invention? You’ll have to read to find out!
This charming, clever retelling of Sherlock Holmes is perfect for young children, especially those kids who love Legos. All of the illustrations of the characters are Lego-style people! But the dark images and backgrounds capture the eery story being told! This story would be great to read around the camp fire! It’ll send a shiver up your spine! Grab your copy of this highly entertaining book here.
{click to tweet} “Elementary, My Dear Watson!” Check out this #kidlit retelling of The Hound of the Baskervilles http://wp.me/p1MmQB-3FM
Something To Do
Fingerprint Science to help you find the true culprit! Check out this fun fingerprint activity at KC Edventures-
Sherlock is famous for his Deerstalker Hat that he’s never seen without. Here’s how to make your own:
Sherlock’s main tool is deduction. Here is the key rule:
“Once the possible has been eliminated, whatever remains, however irrational, must therefore be the truth.”
Solve Some Mysteries! Now pair one of these wonderful book activities up with this free gift I am offering and you’ll have a busy afternoon of sleuthing fun! My Secret Codes, Mysteries and Adventures Activity PDF for kids will keep young minds percolating for HOURS!
Inside young super detectives will discover:
*19 pages of sleuthing fun for your family to enjoy.
*Use Pilot Frixion Pens and craft paper to create Invisible Secret Notes!
*Make I Spy Cookies!
*Discover a President of the United States who was a Master Code Creator!
This free activity guide is a great way to encourage kids to pull books off of shelves, discover the power of imagination and build a new excitement and anticipation for reading. Fill out the info below and grab your FREE copy. Enjoy!
My free gift to YOU!
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The post “Elementary, My Dear Watson!” appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
June 26, 2016
Weekend Links: Recaps and Round-ups of Summer Booklists
Happy Summer Solstice! Did anyone happen to see the Strawberry Moon? The “strawberry moon” is the first full moon we’ve had on Summer Solstice since 1948! It was truly spectacular.
It’s hard to believe July is just around the corner too. Summer is flying by! Kids are loving being off of school and not having to do homework, but summer is not the time to let reading habits slide. The following is a recap and round-up of some my book-inspired initiatives here at JIAB and some great Summer Booklists to check out as well. Enjoy!
The Breakfast Table Book Club: I get many books to read and review during the year and the really successful ones, the books that become favorites, are those that get the “The Breakfast Table Book Club” approval! The first book is so appropriate for this year of all years because it’s an election year. Check out 50 Things You Should Know About American Presidents published by the QEB publishing.
This time of year is also the perfect time to find new and exciting books to keep kids reading and boy, did I find a treasure trove of good ones! Check out New Summer Book Releases that Kids Will go Crazy for!
A few years back I created a wildly popular booklist series called Read Around the Continents. Then one day it dawned on me; I forgot Antarctica! Here’s my fresh new booklist to remedy that misstep! 11 Cool Reads about Antarctica: A Read Your World Antarctica Booklist
We’ve always been huge fans of Fairy House Building in our family. Imagine my surprised when I learned at it is International Fairy House Week! (June 21st-28th). Build a Fairy House or Den to help raise awareness of the importance of nature and creativity in a child’s life. Get the full (and fun) scoop HERE.
The lovely people of Tinker Crate have sent us a wonderful Tinker Zine and box full of activities full of fun and interesting activities focused on gravity. It included reading for discovery and following instructions to have us delving into where we’re centered….Gravity! That inspired me to create a booklist for middle readers “centered” around the topic of GRAVITY. View the booklist here
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. This inspired me to create a new series call Read Kids Classics (#ReadKidsClassics). Here is just one of many of my classic-inspired review and activities articles.
But the most exciting news from these past few weeks has been the release of my brand new picture book, Dragons are Real
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.
Happy reading!
The post Weekend Links: Recaps and Round-ups of Summer Booklists appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
June 21, 2016
International Fairy House Week and some Fairy House Fun
June 21st-28th is International Fairy House Week! Build a Fairy House or Den to help raise awareness of the importance of nature and creativity in a child’s life.
When my oldest was 7 she was given a gift which has forever been a staple in this house when it comes to fairies.
This lovely book, The Complete Book of the Flower Fairies by Cicely Mary Barker, enchants the mind and the senses with the thought that there are fairies in our flowers and gardens. These gentle and lovely illustrations not only depicts the beauty of our flowers in the garden but were our launching pad for believing in fairies and all that ensued.
Next came fairy food and cooking, fairy dolls and cloths, looking for fairy rings and finally building fairy houses and villages.
When we moved to our house, we discovered that our garden was magical. Our first find was our fairy ring and the tree it sits under. Many a child has caught a glimpse of flapping fairy wings. Would you like to see? It only takes believing to see a fairy and then there is the concrete proof. You see, our magic garden has foxes and everyone knows that where foxes roam there lives gnomes and above all else fairies.
Something To Do Book Review: How to Build A Fairy Garden
With springtime here the fairies have left their winter village and the protection of the fairy ring to build their summer camp out amongst the flowers and trees.
Fairies feel happy when there are children in the garden. They know that there will be many willing hands to help build their summer cottages and camp.
First gather a collection of
Sticks
leaves from the trees in your garden
little handfuls of beautiful flowers
pine needles
raffia twine
small stones for walkways
Building a gravel field helps to set the sticks into place. Once your stick structure is built, place leaves to build the walls. You can also build walls out of the sticks themselves.
Knowing that the fairies love to play games, “O” has built a colliseum to house this summer’s games.
Once completed the thought of food comes to mind. Maybe they would like a kitchen too he thought.
Not long after building such a fine cook house,and only turning his back for a moment, he found it was already complete with everything ready to cook with. Clearly, the fairies liked their new summer camp.
After a long morning of building, the Royal Fairy Tree was summoning.
Inside, past the guarding oaks at the entrance of the tree, live the Spring fairy king and queen. Have they awoken from their long winters nap?
On this day there has been no sign of them. But little “O” is tired and while he lies on his back to watch the clouds he falls asleep.
Was he dreaming of the fairies? Did he hear their songs and laughter? Did he feel the beating of their wings?
It wasn’t a dream. When he woke up the fairies had built their first summer cottage. Complete with the most beautiful flowers. It is spring again and all is coming alive. Our fairies are out and loving spring.
Look at the flowers and believe that there could be a fairy or two there. Why not build a house and village of your very own? I know you can build the most beautiful place.
I would love to see what you’ve created. Please leave a link to your fairy house and/or village in the comments or upload a photo to our flickr page.
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Now Available on Amazon and GumRoad!
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 International Fairy House Week and some Fairy House Fun appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
June 19, 2016
Father’s Day, Asteroid Day and Other Fun Upcoming Events!
June is a busy month but, oh my! This upcoming week is particularly fun and exciting with important events (Father’s Day) and other unique recognitions. Enjoy!
19th of June is Juneteenth! Also known as Juneteenth Freedom Day, it commemorates the abolition of slavery in Texas, and more generally the emancipation of African American slaves throughout the Confederate South. On June 19th 1865 the Union soldiers brought the news to Texas that the war had ended and the slaves were now free. Here are 10 wonderful books celebrating Juneteenth from Colours of Us.
Did you know that the 21st is In honor of World Giraffe Day? Me either! Here are some fun Giraffe-inspired books to enjoy at the Jenny Evolution.
June 21st-28th is International Fairy House Week! Build a Fairy House or Den to help raise awareness of the importance of nature and creativity in a child’s life.
The 21st will be “Charlie’s Birthday” Who is Charlie? Well I am referring to my book The Ultimate Guide to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory that I created and launched four years ago! This enhanced digital interactive e-book is truly a one-of-a-kind! To this day, I am very proud of my “Charlie.” Learn more here: http://audreypress.com/portfolio/ultimate-guide-to-charlie-and-the-chocolate-factory/
Mark your calendars for #AsteroidDay happening 30 June! In the lead up to this global awareness campaign, let’s get familiar with these celestial objects. Read more about Asteroid Day here
And let’s not forget about Father’s Day! Here are a few booklists and activities to help Dad enjoy his special day.
Books for Father’s Day from Buggy and Buddy
3 Fun Picture Books for Father’s Day & GIVEAWAY via @PragmaticMom
Free Multilingual Printable Father’s Day Picture Frame – via @MulticulturKids
What exciting things do you have planned this coming 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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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 Father’s Day, Asteroid Day and Other Fun Upcoming Events! appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
June 16, 2016
Where the Mountain Meets the Moon Review & Activities
Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin is one of those magical books that resonates with you long after the book is closed
From the moment we picked up this book we embarked on a journey through a magical China with a girl named Minli who was looking to change her families fortune.
Minli is a girl whose family is very poor. Her mother is very bitter about their lack of fortune. Her father tries to cheer the family up with his nightly tales. All day the three work in the rice fields and barely eek out enough to survive on, only one bowl of rice a day. A gift of a gold fish, a talking gold fish, steers her in the direction of finding the Old Man of the Moon. It is he who holds the book of fortune and can not only tell you of your future, but he can change it.
On her journey to Never Ending Mountain to find the home of the Old Man of the Moon, she encounters a wingless dragon who cannot fly. He has lived years in the forest all alone. During their journey together they meet the very rich and the very poor, learning lessons from all about herself, her family, and her fortune.
Told by the characters they meet, and interwoven into the story are Chinese folk tales. They are the string which connects this story to it’s place and destiny just like the strings of fortune the Old Man in the Moon ties on to the people living here on earth.
The author Grace Lin has not only written the story but is a very talented artist and illustrated the book as well. This very engaging story is on the top shelf of our bookcase and will be read again and again.
Something to Do: Chinese Fortune Sticks
In Chinese culture it is said that a person’s future becomes his/her past through the present. According to Chinese tradition, the successful person is the one who understands well what has happened in the past, experiences actively what is happening now to understand and create the future.
There are no guarantees that these fortune sticks will bring you good luck, but you can have a lot of good fun doing them.
What’s needed:
Use or make multi-colored stir sticks
Write out 10 different fortunes on strips of papers. You will need multiples of the same fortune in each cup.
Ten little cups,box,baskets, number them one to 10
Place the sticks in a cup and hold them at an angle in front of you, parallel to the ground.
Shake until some sticks poke or fall out.
Count the number of sticks, this is your number
Go to the cup with your number on it and read your fortune.
Gook Luck!
Here are some fortune examples but have fun and make up funny ones on your own.
The beginning of wisdom is to desire it.
You find beauty in ordinary things, do not lose this ability.
It takes more than good memory to have good memories.
Plan for much fun ahead.
Something you lost will turn up soon.
Make two grins grow where there was only a grouch before.
Don’t forget, you are always on the hearts of those who love you.
A friend is a present you give yourself.
You will step on the soil of many countries
A single kind word will keep you warm for years.
If you want the rainbow you must put up with the rain.
****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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FREE Gift! Free 180 Multicultural Book Ideas ebook to inspired fun Summer Reading!
School is out and our youngsters are settling into a new summer routine of sleeping in and hopefully doing some exploring and discovering. With the hectic days of summer just beginning, oftentimes one of the first habit to go by the wayside is the habit of daily reading.
Reading is always an important part of our children’s lives no matter what time of year it is so I decided to wrap my knowledge of fun kidlit books and activities up with my experience as one of the co-founders of the very successful Multicultural Children’s Book Day and create a unique resource for parents who are looking for creative ways to keep their kids reading this summer. Reading is important, but so is helping our young readers learn about other cultures, religions and traditions through the pages of these books. Here are some great booklists and resources that I have created over the years at Jump Into a Book that will not only give parents and readers great ideas on diverse kids’ books, but fun activities related to books that will bring stories to life!
Sign up below for quick and free access to 180 Multicultural Book Ideas: World Travel through Kidlit Summer Reading!
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The post Where the Mountain Meets the Moon Review & Activities appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
June 14, 2016
The Summer Reading Tree: A-Z Ways to Get Kids Reading
There is never a shortage of Summer Reading programs for kids once school ends and many offers prizes, points, graphs, and charts as a way to keep your child reading during the summer months.
This is not a bad thing at all. But as a lifelong learner, educator, and mom I can tell you that many kids will do better with reading if they don’t feel it’s “mandatory.” Sometimes when things feel a little too much like homework during the summer break, your young readers can slam on the proverbial brakes!
Reading Tip #1: The best way to motivate your reader is to know what inspires them!
Making reading an adventure and not a “task/ chore/requirement” during the summer months is a great way to help the increase the desire to read and keep them interested as well. Sit down together and pick out your summer reading or make a family trip to the library. Here’s some more tips:
Reading Tip #2: Skip the List-Make the Shelf:
Make book reading like a seasonal shift in your wardrobe. One of our first family activities when school gets out is to make The Summer Shelf. Off come the passing seasons books and on comes the fun books of summer. Some are old friends and others are new, but The Summer Shelf is a way to herald in the summer reading season.
Reading Tip #3: Leave ’em Hangin:
You can leave your readers “hanging” and create a desire to come back to the story by pausing your read-aloud jjjussst before the end of a chapter. This creates so pretty big anticipation to keep them engaged and wanting more. Amp it up by throw in a little book-jumping adventure to go along with the story as well. While reading Tom Sawyer to my kids I practiced the “leave ’em hangin” method and threw in spontaneous bouts of white washing, cave touring, and river rafting. These activities created great anticipation and had them asking “what’s coming next?”
I’ve had very different experiences with all of my children on when exactly to plan our little reading adventures. My eldest daughter and youngest son like to intersperse their reading with related activities, while my second daughter insists that the entire book is read completely before we dive into the pages. By mixing up everyone’s reading and book jumping preferences, will help to keep them clamoring for the next reading session.
Reading Tip #4: Reading in Snippets:
Reading isn’t just for books only. On the breakfast table, family room and screen porch coffee tables, and in certain bathrooms, I leave bite size reading materials like trivia, jokes, riddles, and quizzes which keep readers engaged. Reluctant readers do especially well with “snippets” of information.
Reading Tip #5: Take-Alongs: Reading Gear for Families on the Move!
Reading while in the car traveling has been an absolutely life-saver. As a family we tend to travel a lot and even more in the summer months. The back pockets of the car seats are brimming with some of our favorite kids magazines. Magazine are a great “portable” reading options for kids and again, is “bite-sized” information to keep them interested and learning. There are so many wonderful and educational kids magazine available theses days too. Some of our favorites include:
Highlights,
Cricket
Muse
Ask
BabyBug
Dig
Click
Faces
Ladybug
Chop Chop
Time for Kids
Kids and Code
Owl Magazine
ChickaDEE
Brainspace
Military Kid’s life
National Geographic kids
Ranger Rick
Stone Soup for young writers and artists
Wilderness kids.
The Leaves of the A-Z Book Jumper Tree
A. A summer of reading starts Special Reading Place. Where’s yours?
B. Be a Dream Collector (with some help from a Big Friendly Giant).
C. Challenge yourself: Try a new skill or craft.
D. Discover the wonders of Gravity or Ballet.
E. Explore your world with cool new booklists
F. Discover news ways to make our World more Beautiful.
G. Go Rediscover the Library: Check out your local library and sign up for kid’s reading hour.
H. Have a books swap and trade books with friends.
I. Investigate a good mystery!
J. Join in the learning of new ways to love and support birds and bees.
K. Kenny and the Dragon is just one way to discover that Dragons Are Real!
L. Love Abraham Lincoln? Here’s the Ultimate Abe Lincoln Booklist
M. Magazine! Kids love Magazines that are created just for them. See the list above.
N. Native American culture and traditions are fascinating.
O. Oceans away! Discover great books about pirates and our oceans.
P. Poems, Poems, and more Poems!
R. Rick Riordan and his Percy Jackson books are all the rage. If your reader loves Books Like Percy Jackson, go here.
S. Swing through the Jungle! Well, not really, but you’ll love my Jungle Book review and “jungle-y” activities!
T. Teach Kindness. The world needs more kindness.
U. Unite, talk, snuggle, play and reconnect with your family over a good book.
V. Visit places like South America and Africa through the pages of a book.
W. Wonkalicious! Team up with Willy Wonka and Charlie and The Chocolate Factory for some wonkalicious activities!
X. eXplore: Explore new Kidlit Summer Releases that your kids will go crazy for!
Y. Your Imagination is your guide to all the wonders of the world. Start by pulling books of shelves and stories of pages today.,
Z. EnthuZiasm! Read can be fun if you work with your kids to help make it enjoyable and interesting. Read on!
What are your summer reading picks?
**Some of these links may contain book reviews with affiliate links
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FREE Gift! Free 180 Multicultural Book Ideas ebook to inspired fun Summer Reading!
School is out and our youngsters are settling into a new summer routine of sleeping in and hopefully doing some exploring and discovering. With the hectic days of summer just beginning, oftentimes one of the first habit to go by the wayside is the habit of daily reading.
Reading is always an important part of our children’s lives no matter what time of year it is so I decided to wrap my knowledge of fun kidlit books and activities up with my experience as one of the co-founders of the very successful Multicultural Children’s Book Day and create a unique resource for parents who are looking for creative ways to keep their kids reading this summer. Reading is important, but so is helping our young readers learn about other cultures, religions and traditions through the pages of these books. Here are some great booklists and resources that I have created over the years at Jump Into a Book that will not only give parents and readers great ideas on diverse kids’ books, but fun activities related to books that will bring stories to life!
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The post The Summer Reading Tree: A-Z Ways to Get Kids Reading appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
June 12, 2016
Weekend Links: Summer Reading Booklists Inspired by Nature
Welcome to weekend links! The weather has been amazing here in my hometown and our whole family is looking forward to a summer filled with fun, sun and nature. With that in mind, I’ve discovered some wonderful reading booklists and activities that include “Nature-y” topics that I thought everyone might like. Enjoy!
Honey Bee Activities from KC Edventures
Learning and Writing About Landforms at Around the Kampfire
21 Ocean Themed Books and More for Kids via @Dustybug
Fish Books for Kids via @jennyevolution
Book-Jumper Summer Reading Series-The Great Redwood Tree Booklist
Books About Rocks for Young Kids via @Shaunna_FFL
Just Like Me Climbing a Tree: Exploring Trees Around the World
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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 Weekend Links: Summer Reading Booklists Inspired by Nature appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
June 9, 2016
11 Cool Reads about Antarctica: A Read Your World Antarctica Booklist
One of the continents that has most intrigued me is Antarctica. A whole land shelf of ice. What lives there? How does one survive there ? Do they have any seasons? All of these questions I’ve asked myself for my entire life.
Then come the explorations and discoveries. Though few have made it to Antarctica, the ones who have, had to endure much some even losing their lives.
The list below is my celebration of Antarctica and all the mystery and magic it holds. Be sure to find some great reads and activities.
Happy Reading about the bottom of the world!
Shackleton’s Journey by William Grill Ages 7-12
Winner of the 2015 Kate Greenaway Medal
A New York Times Best Illustrated Book of 2014
Best Children’s Book of 2014, Wall Street Journal
Best Children’s Book of 2014, Brain Pickings
A 2015 USBBY Outstanding International Book
Young, up-and-coming illustrator William Grill weaves a detailed visual narrative of Shackleton’s journey to Antarctica.Grill’s beautiful use of colored pencils and vibrant hues effortlessly evokes the adventure and excitement that surrounded the expedition. His impeccably researched drawings, rich with detail, fastidiously reproduce the minutiae of the expedition.
Children will love examining the diagrams of the peculiar provisions and the individual drawings of each sled dog and packhorse. This book takes the academic and historical information behind the expedition and reinterprets it for a young audience.
Byrd & Igloo: A Polar Adventure by Samantha Seiple ages 8-12
BYRD & IGLOO is the first narrative nonfiction book to tell the daring adventures of legendary polar explorer and aviator Richard Byrd and his lovable dog explorer, Igloo. Byrd is known for being the first to fly a plane over the North and South Poles, while Igloo is famous for being the only dog to explore both the North and South Poles. The adventures of Byrd and Igloo opened the door for science and research in the Antarctic. Featuring direct quotes from letters, diaries and interviews, newspaper clippings, expedition records, maps, charts, as well as never-before-seen photos, it will give the complete story of the explorers’ journey. Though rooted in history with evidence from many museums and research centers, Byrd & Igloo will be exciting in tone, making it accessible and interesting for young readers.
In August 1914, Ernest Shackleton and 27 men sailed from England in an attempt to become the first team of explorers to cross Antarctica from one side to the other. Five months later and still 100 miles from land, their ship, Endurance, became trapped in ice. The expedition survived another five months camping on ice floes, followed by a perilous journey through stormy seas to remote and unvisited Elephant Island. In a dramatic climax to this amazing survival story, Shackleton and five others navigated 800 miles of treacherous open ocean in a 20-foot boat to fetch a rescue ship.
Shipwreck at the Bottom of the World vividly re-creates one of the most extraordinary adventure stories in history. Jennifer Armstrong narrates this unbelievable story with vigor, an eye for detail, and an appreciation of the marvelous leadership of Shackleton, who brought home every one of his men alive.
Who Was Ernest Shackleton? by James Buckley and Max Hergenrother Ages 8-12
As a boy he preferred reading sea stories to doing homework and, at age 16, became an apprentice seaman. Subsequently, Ernest Shackleton’s incredible journeys to the South Pole in the early 1900s made him one of the most famous explorers of modern times. His courage in the face of dangerous conditions and unforeseeable tragedies reveal the great leader that he was. His historic 1914 journey aboard the Endurance has all the drama of an action movie.
DK Eyewitness Books: Arctic and Antarctic by Barbara Taylor Ages 8-12
A fabulous resource of photos and information
Sophie Scott Goes South by Alison Lester Ages 6-9
Nine-year-old Sophie is going on a month-long voyage to Antarctica, with her dad, the captain of an icebreaker. Sailing the frozen seas round-trip from Australia to Mawson Station in the South Pole, Sophie recounts the adventure of a lifetime in her own words, illustrations, and color photographs. She’ll show us icebergs, penguins, seals, and whales! It’s a dangerous journey, but Sophie is well prepared for the thrills and chills that await her on top of the world.
This friendly, informative, and beautifully presented picture book is based on the author’s own experiences and shows the wonder of Antarctica through a child’s eyes.
Frozen Secrets: Antarctica Revealed by Sally M. Walker Ages 10 and Up
Antarctica is a land of frozen secrets, with scarcely a handful that have been completely divulged. Join Sally M. Walker as she explores both historical and modern-day scientific expeditions to the continent and examines what secrets might still be locked in the continent’s icy cloak secrets that might help scientists understand what the future holds for Earth and its changing climate.Antarctica: Journey to the Pole (Open Road Media Book 1) by Peter Deranges Ages 9 and up
National Geographic Readers: Penguins! by Anne Schreiber Ages 5-8
They waddled into stardom in National Geographic’s March of the Penguins film. These guys are now nature’s ROCK STARS! If you’re age 5, you’re probably as tall as an Emperor. But why do they throw up so much? March this way, and find out all!
Amazing Arctic and Antarctic Projects:You Can Build Yourself by Carmella Van Vleet Ages 9-11
The faraway lands of the North and South Poles are examined in this revealing guide, enabling children to explore the coldest places on Earth from the warmth of their homes. From polar exploration and penguins to Inuit cultures and the tundra, simple yet thorough explanations are provided for a range of Arctic and Antarctic topics while copious vocabulary notes and fun factoids enrich the material. More than two dozen interactive projects and experiments—ranging from making an Inuit boat, polar bear paw prints, a model of a dog igloo, midnight rations, and snowshoes—provide children a chance to see polar principles in action, without major adult involvement or fancy materials.
Explore Antarctica by Bobbie Kalman and Rebecca Sjonger ages 6 and up
A wonderful resource for those wanting to know more about Antarctica.
A Smart Kids Guide to Abundant Antarctica: A World of Learning at your Fingertips by Liam Saxon Ages 5 and above
Bestselling children’s author Liam Saxon presents “A Smart Kids Guide To ABUNDANT ANTARCTICA”. This book uses captivating images and expertly written words to teach children about a range of subjects
Perfect reading for any occasion and especially ideal for bed times, long journeys or for bonding with your child.
****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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FREE Gift! Free 180 Multicultural Book Ideas ebook to inspired fun Summer Reading!
School is out and our youngsters are settling into a new summer routine of sleeping in and hopefully doing some exploring and discovering. With the hectic days of summer just beginning, oftentimes one of the first habit to go by the wayside is the habit of daily reading.
Reading is always an important part of our children’s lives no matter what time of year it is so I decided to wrap my knowledge of fun kidlit books and activities up with my experience as one of the co-founders of the very successful Multicultural Children’s Book Day and create a unique resource for parents who are looking for creative ways to keep their kids reading this summer. Reading is important, but so is helping our young readers learn about other cultures, religions and traditions through the pages of these books. Here are some great booklists and resources that I have created over the years at Jump Into a Book that will not only give parents and readers great ideas on diverse kids’ books, but fun activities related to books that will bring stories to life!
Sign up below for quick and free access to 180 Multicultural Book Ideas: World Travel through Kidlit Summer Reading!
Sign up for 180 Multicultural Book Ideas for Summer Reading
* indicates required
Email Address *
First Name
Last Name
The post 11 Cool Reads about Antarctica: A Read Your World Antarctica Booklist appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
