Valarie Budayr's Blog, page 64
December 10, 2015
The Code-Cracking Booklist (and An Hour of Code-cracking activities!)
The week of December 7-13 is a celebration of computers and computer science. The Hour of Code is a global movement reaching tens of millions of students in 180+ countries. Anyone, anywhere can organize an Hour of Code event. One-hour tutorials are available in over 40 languages. No experience needed. Ages 4 to 104.
You can go to the hour of code website and host an hour of code event, party, classroom challenge, and win some really big prizes for you and your school.
We’re celebrating too. Here on Jump into a Book we’re starting our celebration with books! And then I have some suggestions to get everyone up and coding which is just another form of writing. In fact, let’s call it creative writing!
Meeting demand, publishers are beginning to publish excellent titles to get kids coding. I thought I’d share a few of those with you today. Some aren’t even out yet so you’re getting the scoop here first. Drum roll, let’s bring it on…
The Code Cracking Booklist
Hello Ruby: Adventures in Coding by Linda Liukas
Meet Ruby―a small girl with a huge imagination, and the determination to solve any puzzle. As Ruby stomps around her world making new friends, including the Wise Snow Leopard, the Friendly Foxes, and the Messy Robots, kids will be introduced to the fundamentals of computational thinking, like how to break big problems into small ones, create step-by-step plans, look for patterns and think outside the box through storytelling. Then, these basic concepts at the core of coding and programming will be reinforced through fun playful exercises and activities that encourage exploration and creativity.In Ruby’s world anything is possible if you put your mind to it.
Python for Kids: A Playful Introduction to Programming by Jason R. Briggs
For Kids Aged 10+ (And Their Parents)
The code in this book runs on almost anything: Windows, Mac, Linux, even an OLPC laptop or Raspberry Pi!
Python is a powerful, expressive programming language that’s easy to learn and fun to use! But books about learning to program in Python can be kind of dull, gray, and boring, and that’s no fun for anyone.
Python for Kids brings Python to life and brings you (and your parents) into the world of programming. The ever-patient Jason R. Briggs will guide you through the basics as you experiment with unique (and often hilarious) example programs that feature ravenous monsters, secret agents, thieving ravens, and more. New terms are defined; code is colored, dissected, and explained; and quirky, full-color illustrations keep things on the lighter side.
Chapters end with programming puzzles designed to stretch your brain and strengthen your understanding. By the end of the book you’ll have programmed two complete games: a clone of the famous Pong and “Mr. Stick Man Races for the Exit”—a platform game with jumps, animation, and much more.
As you strike out on your programming adventure, you’ll learn how to:
Use fundamental data structures like lists, tuples, and maps
Organize and reuse your code with functions and modules
Use control structures like loops and conditional statements
Draw shapes and patterns with Python’s turtle module
Create games, animations, and other graphical wonders with tkinter
Super Scratch: Learn to Program by Making Cool Games by The LEAD Project
In Super Scratch Programming Adventure!, kids learn programming fundamentals as they make their very own playable video games. They’ll create projects inspired by classic arcade games that can be programmed (and played!) in an afternoon. The book’s patient, step-by-step explanations of the code and fun programming challenges will have kids creating their own games in no time.
This full-color comic book makes programming concepts like flow control, subroutines, and data types effortless to absorb. Packed with ideas for games that kids will be proud to show off, Super Scratch Programming Adventure! is the perfect first step for the budding programmer.
ScratchJr is a free, introductory computer programming language that runs on iPads and Android tablets. Inspired by Scratch, the wildly popular programming language used by millions of children worldwide, ScratchJr helps even younger kids create their own playful animations, interactive stories, and dynamic games.
The Official ScratchJr Book is the perfect companion to this free app and makes coding easy and fun for all. Kids learn to program by connecting blocks of code to make characters move, jump, dance, and sing.
Each chapter includes several activities that build on one another, culminating in a fun final project. These hands-on activities help kids develop computational-thinking, problem-solving, and design skills. In each activity, you’ll find:
Step-by-step, easy-to-follow directions
Ways to connect the activity with literacy and math concepts
Tips for grown-ups and teachers
Creative challenges to take the learning further
By the end of the book, kids will be ready for all sorts of new programming adventures!
Secret Coders by Gene Luen Yang, illus. by Mike Homes
Welcome to Stately Academy, a school which is just crawling with mysteries to be solved! The founder of the school left many clues and puzzles to challenge his enterprising students. Using their wits and their growing prowess with coding, Hopper and her friend Eni are going to solve the mystery of Stately Academy no matter what it takes!
From graphic novel superstar (and high school computer programming teacher) Gene Luen Yang comes a wildly entertaining new series that combines logic puzzles and basic programming instruction with a page-turning mystery plot!
Coding Games in Scratch by Jon Woodcock
Coding computer programs is one of the most valuable skills for anyone to have. Written for children with little to no coding experience, Coding Games in Scratch guides children through building platform games, puzzles, racers, and 3-D action games.
Schools have incorporated computer coding into their curriculum, beginning as early as kindergarten to ensure students understand the languages and uses of computer coding. The step-by-step guides are simple and easy to follow with Minecraft-style pixel art. Children will learn essential coding skills while having fun and creating games to play with their friends. The many different styles and types of games are covered, such as classic and arcade games. When people learn to code in Scratch, they learn important strategies for solving problems, designing projects, and communicating ideas.
Lauren Ipsum: A Story About Computer Science and Other Improbable Things
Lauren Ipsum is a whimsical journey through a land where logic and computer science come to life.
Meet Lauren, an adventurer lost in Userland who needs to find her way home by solving a series of puzzles. As she visits places like the Push & Pop Café and makes friends with people like Hugh Rustic and the Wandering Salesman, Lauren learns about computer science without even realizing it—and so do you!
How to Code in 10 Easy Lessons by Sean McManus
From writing simple coding instructions using Scratch software, to learning the coding skills to create your own computer game and even design your own website, this book leads the way. By breaking this daunting subject down into the 10 “super skills” needed, young readers can get familiar with computer coding and build on their skills as they progress through the book. Starting off with a short introduction that poses the question, “What is coding?,” the super skills of coding then explains how to use Scratch coding software to give coding instructions, write simple code, and use loops; debug and fix code; and use coding knowledge to create a simple computer game and a webpage using simple HTML. With easy-to-follow explanations accompanied by clear, step-by-step graphics throughout, this is a great first coding book for middle-school children, ages 8+ interested in learning about computer science and web design.
Out in 2016
Learn to Program with Mine Craft: Transform Your World with the Power of Python by Craig Richardson, out in 2016
Coding Games in Scratch Workbook by Jon Woodcock ,out in January 2016
So you Want to be a Coder ? by Jane Bedell , out in May 2016
Something To Do
Incredibly Amazing Coding Tutorials
Don’t know how to code ? Have no idea what I’m talking about ? Ten to one your child does. Here are some great and engaging hours of code to inspire anyone !!! Yep and I mean that, anyone !!!
Girls Who Code
Do you have a daughter in your home per chance?
Girls Who Code programs work to inspire, educate, and equip girls with the computing skills to pursue 21st century opportunities. Girls Who Code is committed to providing computer science education to 1 million girls ages 11-18 by the year 2020. How do they do that ? By providing mentorship, education and experience and their club locations and summer immersion programs.
KIBO
One of the authors on our book list, researcher Marina Umaschi Bers has created KIBO. KIBO are toys for learning about technology. Children build their own robot with KIBO, program it to do what they want, and decorate it – all without a PC, tablet, or smartphone. Not only that but KIBO is more than a robot kit. It allows children to make anything they want. They can use everyday materials, such as recyclables and arts and crafts, and integrate them into their KIBO projects. When getting a KIBO one has access to lots of fun activities to do both at home and school. KIBO robots are for ages Pre-K to 2nd grade.
Learn To Code, Code To Learn
Mitch Resnick from MIT has created new programming language called Scratch which makes it easier for kids to code their own animated stories, video games, and interactive art.
“I see coding (computer programming) as an extension of writing. The ability to code allows you to “write” new types of things – interactive stories, games, animations, and simulations. And, as with traditional writing, there are powerful reasons for everyone to learn to code.” Mitch Resnick
Dash and Dot
Opening their eyes to how the world around them works, Dash and Dot guide kids through the world of coding and robotics, turning ideas into adventures. Children learn through play. Combining a real robot with coding fires up a child’s imagination.
Using Dash and Dot in Education:
Coding Curriculum for K-5
Our curriculum makes it easy to integrate coding into school day. We provide scaffolding to guide beginners as well as extensions to challenge more experienced coders.
All lessons include detailed lesson procedures, guiding questions, evaluation rubrics. Find out more about robotics, coding, and relevance to the Common Core.
Here are some actual lessons being taught in over 600 elementary schools.
Wishing you a wonderful week of coding and reading!
**some of the above links are affiliate links which means; when you click and buy, I may get a small commission. This money is put towards postage when I am mailing out books to young readers.
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Holiday Book Love Sale
Note from Valarie: As the holiday season approaches, consider adding the gift of books to your shopping list. There are many wonderful booklists available for parents looking to give their child the gift of reading and adventure. A book makes a great gift because they are meaningful, beautiful, portable, appealing, and inexpensive and it’s a gift that can be opened again and again. Books are the perfect gift for any age and a gift that doesn’t require batteries or sizing instruction!
If you would like to get started on your family reading adventure, or would just like to add to your family bookshelf, Audrey Press has some special deals on their catalog of books to get readers and gift-givers on their merry way. From November 30th to December 15th, give the gift of reading, adventure and education at extra-special (and extended) Black Friday prices! Go here for the full scoop on the Holiday Book Love Sale!
The post The Code-Cracking Booklist (and An Hour of Code-cracking activities!) appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
December 6, 2015
Weekend Links- Recapping National Ninja Day
Did you know that December 5th was National Ninja Day? I didn’t know either until I stumbled upon the #NationalNinjaDay hashtag on Twitter! What fun!
So even though I am a day late on celebrating this “stealthy” event, I think we all need to tap into our “inner ninja” and do some ninja-related reading and activities! Luckily, Corey Rosen Schwartz has some amazing activities, book suggestions and in her free National Ninja Day PDF.
Corey has two delightful ninja-ish books to her credit including the upcoming Hensel and Gretel Ninja Chicks
I also learned that, thanks to Corey’s wonderful PDF, my ninja name is Ru-Ka-Ta 
Mia at Pragmaticmom has a list of the Top 10 Ninja Books for Kids Ages 4 through 16
The Magic Treehouse Classroom has some books extension activities for the Magic Treehouse book Night of the Ninjas.
Origami Ninja Star, easy to follow instructions.
Homeschool giveaway blog has some great ideas for All Things NINJA Resources ~ printables, crafts, recipes & MORE!!
Did you do something fun for National Ninja Day? Or did it “sneak” up on you? 
December 3, 2015
A multicultural picture book about the Pueblo Indians-Whispers of the Wolf
There is something truly magical about forming a bond with a wild animal. Do I need to say that one must exercise caution ? However one doesn’t need to exercise caution when a bond is formed between a boy, a wolf, and the human reading the story. Such is the case with Whispers of the Wolf by Pauline Ts’o.
Whispers of the Wolf is a beautifully illustrated story for children ages 5 and older. Set among the Pueblo Indians before their contact with Europeans, it tells the story of a young Pueblo boy named Two Birds, coming to know himself through the friendship he has with a small wolf pup that he found while out hunting and gathering herbs with his grandfather. Two Birds who before the wolf pup entered his life was very much a loner. The wolf pup however became an ice breaker and helped Two Birds interact with his peers. During their time together, Two Birds becomes an impeccable story-teller using his wolf as the vehicle to do this. In time, the wolf hears the cries of his fellow wolves in the wild and longs to be with them. Two Birds loved the wolf and understood is desire and let him go.
Whispers of the Wolf is a beautiful picture book set around 500 years ago among the Pueblo Indians of the desert Southwest. A heartwarming piece of historical fiction, it weaves together themes of community, tradition, self-esteem, and respect for all life, creating a realistic portrait of a culture that continues to exert a vibrant, living influence today. -Amazon
In her first release Whispers of the Wolf, Pauline Ts’o wanted to create characters who could have actually lived before the Spanish came and colonized. Many Native American communities in the American Southwest live in villages called Pueblos, in fact the word Pueblo means the village in Spanish. The pueblos of today are distinct communities, each with their own pueblo name, traditions, stories, songs, foods, and many have their own language.
The story is beautifully captured in rich and captivating pastels. I love her illustrations of the wolf, they are spell binding.
Pauline Ts’o is an Academy Award winning visual effects artist who has won many academy awards for her work on Life of Pi, babe, and The Golden Compass. She is also an author, illustrator, and photographer who both wrote and illustrated Whispers of the Wolf.
Whispers of the Wolf is a book that will delight and captivate children, teachers, and parents. I highly recommend and you must know that it has become a family favorite.
Wisdom Tales books creates beautiful books reflecting the cultures and spiritual traditions of our world. They were so kind to give a review copy. Grab your copy (makes a great gift!) HERE.
Something To Do
Wolf Facts
Would you like to learn more about the Wolf? Here are some very fun facts from the International Wolf Center in Ely, Minnesota. This site not only offers wonderful insight on the lives of the wolf, it is a wonderful place to visit. JIAB Head Elf, Becky, has visited this world-renown facility twice and her family has loved it! You can read more details of her family’s most recent visit HERE.
Wolf Quest
WolfQuest is a web-based video game that simulates the wolf’s hunt for food, habitat and a mate. Play alone or with friends in on-line multiplayer missions. Learn about wolf ecology by living the life of a wild wolf in Yellowstone National Park. Oddly enough, Head Elf, Becky told me that her family loves this games as well and learned about it from The International Wolf Center. The Center has two computers with this game on it available for visitors to play and learn while on site!
Map Skills
What states are in the Southwest region. Look at a globe or an atlas or even do a search on the internet to discover which states exist in the southwest region of the US.
Pueblo Natives
Here’s an introduction to the Pueblo Indians.
Adobes
Pueblo homes can have multiple levels that you reach by climbing a ladder. Did you know that some Pueblo homes don’t have doors and windows but enter their homes through a hole in the roof via a ladder.Go exploring !!! Find different photos and pictures on the web searching Pueblo homes. Discuss the differences and the similarities to the house you live in. Now here comes the fun part, make a model of a Pueblo home. In your research, discover if the pueblos of today have doors and windows or if they continue the old traditions. Please try and make your pueblo as authentic as possible.
Pottery
Let’s explore Pueblo pottery. A really wonderful story about the art of pot making is Byrd Balor’s When Clay Sings. Remember as you do your research that each pueblo community has its own culture and style of pottery. It’s time for you to make a pot of your very own.
Pueblo Pots for Little Hands
You can make your own clay by mixing 1 cup cornstarch, 2 cups baking soda, and 1 1/4 cups water in a pan. Cook it over medium heat, stirring it constantly until it from into clay.Spread the clay onto a smooth surface and knead it until smooth. Cover it with a damp cloth so it doesn’t dry out. Let it cool.
Directions:
Roll out a flat slab of clay for the base of your pot.
Roll long ropes of clay with the palm of your hands and spiral the clay ropes around and around the base of your pot.
Smooth the surface of each row with wet fingers. Then let your pot dry for a day or overnight.
The next day feel free to paint your pot !!!
Pueblo Pots for Older Hands
This pueblo pot activity is good for kids ages 6-13 and gets more in-depth and with more detail than the above activity.
Kachina Dolls
Kachina dolls are hand-carved representations of the ancestral spirit-beings of the Pueblo Indians. The dolls are used to teach children the identities of the kachinas and the symbolism of their colorful costumes.Kachinas are viewed as the divine spirits of ancestors who serve as intermediaries between gods and people. Though often associated with the Hopi Natives, Kachina dolls can be found among the Pueblos as well. The Pueblo tradition believes in Kachinas, or sports of their ancestors. There are hundreds of different kachinas and many Pueblo children play with kachina dolls to familiarize themselves with their ancestors and the stories. Research different kachina dolls from different Pueblo tribes. Look at how each one is different and discover what it represents.
Now it’s time to make a kachina of your very own. If you’re doing this in a classroom, or with family and friends, be sure to share with each other who your kachina is representing. Here’s one version and here are some more ideas.
Flat Kachinas
Using geometric patterns, black paper and white chalk is another way one can make a kachina doll. Go ahead and add feathers, and don’t forget to use lots of color. For ideas have a look here.
Pueblo Children’s Game
Corn Husk Shuttlecocks
In the shuttlecock game, children make shuttlecocks out of bundled corn husks and feathers. Children from the Zuni Pueblo use their hands to bat the shuttlecock into the air, keeping it there as long as they can without missing.
Shuttlecock Variation
In another version, children stand in a circle and bat the shuttlecock around the circle to the right.
I invite you to explore the world of the Pueblo Native Americans as well as discovering more about wolves. Whisper of the Wolf is a perfect book to launch such a journey. Enjoy !!!
**some of the above links are affiliate links. I was gifted a copy of Whispers of the Wolf and the opinions expressed are purely my own.
Note from Valarie: As the holiday season approaches, consider adding the gift of books to your shopping list. There are many wonderful booklists available for parents looking to give their child the gift of reading and adventure. A book makes a great gift because they are meaningful, beautiful, portable, appealing, and inexpensive and it’s a gift that can be opened again and again. Books are the perfect gift for any age and a gift that doesn’t require batteries or sizing instruction!
If you would like to get started on your family reading adventure, or would just like to add to your family bookshelf, Audrey Press has some special deals on their catalog of books to get readers and gift-givers on their merry way. From November 30th to December 15th, give the gift of reading, adventure and education at extra-special (and extended) Black Friday prices! Go here for the full scoop on the Holiday Book Love Sale!
The post A multicultural picture book about the Pueblo Indians-Whispers of the Wolf appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
November 30, 2015
The Audrey Press Holiday Book Sale!
It’s time! Time for The Audrey Press Holiday Book Sale!! Giving Young Readers the Gift that they can Open Again and Again!
As the holiday season approaches, consider adding the gift of books to your shopping list. There are many wonderful booklists available for parents looking to give their child the gift of reading and adventure. A book makes a great gift because they are meaningful, beautiful, portable, appealing, and inexpensive and it’s a gift that can be opened again and again. Books are the perfect gift for any age and a gift that doesn’t require batteries or sizing instruction!
If you would like to get started on your family reading adventure, or would just like to add to your family bookshelf, Audrey Press has some special deals on their catalog of books to get readers and gift-givers on their merry way. From November 30th to December 15th, give the gift of reading, adventure and education at extra-special Black Friday prices!
Discover the joys of delving into this timeless children’s literature classic and see the Secret Garden through new eyes and a modern twist! Kids and nature go hand-and-hand and enjoying the bounty that the great outdoors brings is not just a “summer thing.” 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. Grab your copy ASAP for the Holiday Book Sale price of $15.00 More details HERE!
Do your young readers love nature and all of nature’s critters? 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. Grab your copy ASAP for the Holiday Book Sale price of $12.00 HERE.
The Waldorf Homeschool Handbook is a simple step-by-step guide to creating and understanding a Waldorf inspired homeschool plan. Within the pages of this comprehensive homeschooling guide, parents will find information, lesson plans, curriculum, helpful hints, behind the scenes reasons why, rhythm, rituals, helping you fit homeschooling into your life. Discover The Waldorf Homeschool Handbook: The Simple Step-by-Step guide to creating a Waldorf-inspired homeschool will makes a great gift so grab your copy ASAP for the Holiday Book Sale price of $17.00
The Ultimate Guide to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Enhanced Digital eBook is an entertaining and educational children’s book enhanced with animations, games, recipes, videos, and more providing hours of fun for kids and parents alike. Based on the beloved story of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory this interactive children’s e-book is filled with action and adventure. With over 20 crafts and activities (including creating Gobstopper Gum and Chocolate Rivers, golden tickets, handmade Willy Wonka hats, etc.), this beautifully illustrated e-book re-lives the wonder and amazement through Willy Wonka’s world of magic. Download your copy ASAP for the Holiday Book Sale price of $3.99
Don’t have an Apple device, but still want to experience the thrill, activities and magic of The Ultimate Guide to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory? This entertaining and educational children’s book based on the beloved story of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is available in PDF form! With over 20 crafts and activities (including creating Gobstopper Gum and Chocolate Rivers, golden tickets, handmade Willy Wonka hats, etc.), this beautifully illustrated PDF re-lives the wonder and amazement through Willy Wonka’s world of magic. Download your PDF copy ASAP for the Holiday Book Sale price of $5.00!
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Review Bloggers! We Need YOU! MCCBD 2016 Review Blogger Sign-up is OPEN!
***Review Bloggers-Sign up is HERE (Sign-up is open until December 31, 2015. There are no guarantees everyone will be matched with a book donator)
Our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/MulticulturalChildrensBookDay
-Our Twitter https://twitter.com/MCChildsBookDay
-Our hashtag #ReadYourWorld.)
The post The Audrey Press Holiday Book Sale! appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
November 29, 2015
Weekend Links: The Highlights of November
What a whirlwind November has been! From national events like Native American Heritage Month, The Polar Express 30th Anniversary Edition Book Review & Giveaway and my week+ adventure doing author appearances at the Frances Hodgson Burnett Sesquicentennial Event, November has been an exciting and “book-filled” month! Here’s a quick recap of the highlights of November.
Native American Heritage Month links and booklists:
November is Native American Heritage Month, or as it is commonly referred to, American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month.
The month is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native people. Heritage Month is also an opportune time to educate the general public about tribes, to raise a general awareness about the unique challenges Native people have faced both historically and in the present, and the ways in which tribal citizens have worked to conquer these challenges.
As always, the amazing authors and bloggers have gone above-and-beyond in sharing the best-of-the best in quality Native American booklists, activities and reviews.Go HERE to view some of my top picks along with some great posts from the JIAB archives.
The Polar Express 30th Anniversary Edition Book Review & Giveaway
Has it really been 30 years since that magical Christmas tale of a train pulling up into a young boys front yard and hurling him over hill and dale until he reaches the North Pole? To my astonishment, it’s true. Thirty years later, The Polar Express has become a holiday Caldecott Medal-winning classic leaving children all over the world laying quietly in their beds on Christmas Eve, hoping to catch a ride on that magical train. For 30 years author/illustrator Chris Van Allsburg has inspired us to “believe.”
In honor of this event, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt has released a 30th anniversary edition complete with a new jacket design, expanded interior layout meaning we get to see and experience more goodness, a letter from Chris Van Allsburg, a downloadable recording of the story read by none other than renowned actor Liam Neeson and a gorgeous golden keepsake ornament. AND….I get to give one copy away to one lucky winner thanks to this The Polar Express 30th Anniversary Edition Book Review & Giveaway!! Go HERE for details and to enter-to-win.
Author Appearances at Frances HodgsonBurnett Sesquicentennial Event:
You may remember my mention of the upcoming Frances Hodgson Burnett Sesquicentennial Event Celebration. If you read that post you know how excited I was to celebrate an author who has touched my life in so many ways, and also one who is from my home state of Tennessee.
This year the New Market/Knoxville areas are celebrating 150 years since Frances Hodgson Burnett’s moved to the United States in 1865. On hand will be her great grand-daughter Penny Deupree, as well as her great great grandchildren. Penny Deupree, Frances Hodgson Burnett’s great-grand daughter, is coming from her home in Texas to give three free public presentations and display some of Burnett’s personal belongings. You can see all the places I made author appearances here.
As you can imagine, this event was absolutely spectacular and it was such an honor to be invited by Frances Hodgson Burnett’s family! Here are some pictures and highlights from this memorable event:
I was fortunate enough to meet, and spend time with, Frances Hodgson Burnett’s great granddaughter, Penny.
The young readers at the New Market School were some of the many groups that enjoy book extension activities from my book A Year in the Secret Garden.
What were some of your November highlights?
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Attention K-8th Teachers! Get a FREE Diversity Book for Your Class!
2016 Multicultural Children’s Book Day Classroom Reading Challenge begins November 1, 2015!
Multicultural Children’s Book Day Classroom Reading Challenge is a special project connected to Multicultural Children’s Book Day (1/27/16) that gives classrooms the opportunity to earn a FREE Diversity Book for their class!
Teachers: We want to help you build your classroom library with diverse, inclusive and multicultural books! Here’s how to get a free book through Multicultural Children’s Book Day during the month of January. Teachers and classrooms can also win a Skype author visit with a children’s book author and the drawing will be made from the pool of teachers who signed up before 1/27/16. {author to be announced} This special project is free of charge to all teachers and schools and helps MCCBD achieve their mission of getting multicultural books into the hands of young readers and teachers.
What is it:
The Classroom Reading Challenge is a new project for us but it is a way for teachers to sign up, read up to four multicultural books in their classroom and earn a free multicultural book from us.
All Books are pre-screened and approved by the Junior Library Guild: Having Junior Library Guild on board assures that the free book that classrooms earn from MCCBD is a pre-screened, library-quality book that maps to Common Core. This is a HUGE and exciting benefit for this project.
The MCCBD team would like to take a moment to say a huge “Thank You!” to Junior Library Guild, for allowing us to tap into their collection of library-quality books for kids. Their development and book review service relied upon by thousands of schools and public libraries and we are grateful they are sponsoring Multicultural Children’s Book Day Classroom Reading Challenge by donating the books for the classrooms!
The Junior Library Guild editorial team reviews more than 3,000 new titles each year, in manuscript or prepublication stage. They have a keen sense for finding the best of the best. Over 95 percent of their selections go on to receive awards and/or favorable reviews.
Go HERE to view some of the books that teachers can earn and win as part of our Multicultural Children’s Book Day Classroom Reading Challenge and sign your classroom up to earn a few book!!!!
The post Weekend Links: The Highlights of November appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
November 22, 2015
Weekend Links: Books and Experiences for #NativeAmericanHeritageMonth
November is Native American Heritage Month, or as it is commonly referred to, American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month.
The month is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native people. Heritage Month is also an opportune time to educate the general public about tribes, to raise a general awareness about the unique challenges Native people have faced both historically and in the present, and the ways in which tribal citizens have worked to conquer these challenges.
As always, the amazing authors and bloggers have gone above-and-beyond in sharing the best-of-the best in quality Native American booklists, activities and reviews. I’ve share a few of my top picks here along with some great posts from the JIAB archives:
Joseph Bruchac, Abenaki descent, newest book “The Hunter” It’s an informative blog posting with “The Hunter’s Promise” a book summary, link to an interview with the author, some teacher resources and two recipes that tie in with the book at Ever Ready.
“The egg of the thunder bird in The Thunder Egg was actually inspired by geodes. The Thunder Egg book extension and review.
Custer’s Last Battle by Paul Goble {A Wisdom Tale’s Book} book review.
The Wisdom Tales website has wonderful tipi patterns for book extension activities. See what happened when we downloaded them and created a village!
Crafty Moms Share: Pine and the Winter Sparrow Book Review & #extension activities for kids.
Tribal Nations Maps and books about inspiring Native American Women at Crafty Moms Share.
Great booklist from “Comanche-inspired author” Max Oliver-Native American Books for Kids- A Recommended Reading List
Plimoth Plantation: Learning About Native Americans at Pragmaticmom
Stumped for ideas? Ways to Celebrate Native American Heritage Month via the American Indian College Fund
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This holiday season, give your children the gift that will nurture a lifetime of positive habits; give the gift of a book.
As parents, we want/need quality books with extension activities to help our young ones unplug and create memories. Pulling books from shelves, and stories from pages, is also an important act that will aid in them being life-long readers. Quality books with companion book extension activities are not only work to create special family time, it allows kids to solve the world’s problems without major consequences.
A Year in the Secret Garden is just such a book. This delightful children’s book from authors Valarie Budayr and Marilyn Scott-Waters offers unique and original month-by-month activities that allow readers to delve deeper into the classic children’s tale, The Secret Garden! 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.
This book will make a great gift and be the catalyst of many hours of family growth, learning and FUN! Grab your copy ASAP and “meet me in the garden!” More details HERE!
The post Weekend Links: Books and Experiences for #NativeAmericanHeritageMonth appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
Weekend Links: Books and Experience for #NativeAmericanHeritageMonth
November is Native American Heritage Month, or as it is commonly referred to, American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month.
The month is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native people. Heritage Month is also an opportune time to educate the general public about tribes, to raise a general awareness about the unique challenges Native people have faced both historically and in the present, and the ways in which tribal citizens have worked to conquer these challenges.
As always, the amazing authors and bloggers have gone above-and-beyond in sharing the best-of-the best in quality Native American booklists, activities and reviews. I’ve share a few of my top picks here along with some great posts from the JIAB archives:
Joseph Bruchac, Abenaki descent, newest book “The Hunter” It’s an informative blog posting with “The Hunter’s Promise” a book summary, link to an interview with the author, some teacher resources and two recipes that tie in with the book at Ever Ready.
“The egg of the thunder bird in The Thunder Egg was actually inspired by geodes. The Thunder Egg book extension and review.
Custer’s Last Battle by Paul Goble {A Wisdom Tale’s Book} book review.
The Wisdom Tales website has wonderful tipi patterns for book extension activities. See what happened when we downloaded them and created a village!
Crafty Moms Share: Pine and the Winter Sparrow Book Review & #extension activities for kids.
Tribal Nations Maps and books about inspiring Native American Women at Crafty Moms Share.
Great booklist from “Comanche-inspired author” Max Oliver-Native American Books for Kids- A Recommended Reading List
Plimoth Plantation: Learning About Native Americans at Pragmaticmom
Stumped for ideas? Ways to Celebrate Native American Heritage Month via the American Indian College Fund
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This holiday season, give your children the gift that will nurture a lifetime of positive habits; give the gift of a book.
As parents, we want/need quality books with extension activities to help our young ones unplug and create memories. Pulling books from shelves, and stories from pages, is also an important act that will aid in them being life-long readers. Quality books with companion book extension activities are not only work to create special family time, it allows kids to solve the world’s problems without major consequences.
A Year in the Secret Garden is just such a book. This delightful children’s book from authors Valarie Budayr and Marilyn Scott-Waters offers unique and original month-by-month activities that allow readers to delve deeper into the classic children’s tale, The Secret Garden! 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.
This book will make a great gift and be the catalyst of many hours of family growth, learning and FUN! Grab your copy ASAP and “meet me in the garden!” More details HERE!
The post Weekend Links: Books and Experience for #NativeAmericanHeritageMonth appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
November 19, 2015
The Polar Express 30th Anniversary Edition Book Review & Giveaway
No certainly this can’t be true? Has it really been 30 years since that magical Christmas tale of a train pulling up into a young boys front yard and hurling him over hill and dale until he reaches the North Pole? Oh, with hot chocolate of course.
To my astonishment, it’s true. Thirty years later, The Polar Express has become a holiday Caldecott Medal-winning classic leaving children all over the world laying quietly in their beds on Christmas Eve, hoping to catch a ride on that magical train.
For 30 years author/illustrator Chris Van Allsburg has inspired us to “believe.”
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt has released a 30th anniversary edition complete with a new jacket design, expanded interior layout meaning we get to see and experience more goodness, a letter from Chris Van Allsburg, a downloadable recording of the story read by none other than renowned actor Liam Neeson and a gorgeous golden keepsake ornament.
The added benefit is that HMH has generously given Jump into a Book a copy to give away! See below for Rafflecopter Giveaway details.
Along with this good news are oodles of things to do.
Somethings To Do
Want to Ride the Polar Express
This season there are more than 50 Polar Express train rides around the United States. Riders will enjoy listening to author/illustrator Chris Van Allsburg reading the book, while they drink hot chocolate, eat nougat as they travel north to meet Santa Claus. Of course there will be a jingle bell to help each traveler to “believe” in the magic of December 24th.
Now here’s the big news……The Polar Express is having a sweepstakes where one lucky family of 4 will get to journey north on the Polar Express from Durango Colorado. The Sweepstake runs from October 15-December 31st 2015. To learn more about how you can enter please visit www.polarexpress.com
One (1) Grand Prize winner will receive:
Four tickets to ride THE POLAR EXPRESSTM Train Ride in gorgeous Durango, Colorado*
Four round-trip airfare tickets
Two nights in a hotel
Four free ski lift tickets to Purgatory Resort
A free signed copy of The Polar Express: 30th Anniversary Edition
What inspired author/Ilustrator Chris Van Allsburg to write the Polar Express?
This great interview on Story monsters will give you a up close and behind the scenes look at what inspired Chris Van Allsburg to write this classic holiday tale.
Tasty Treats From the North Pole Kitchen
You know that you get to eat everything you’re not suppose to on the Polar Express and one never gets a belly ache. Here are some favorite recipes from that magical train ride. How could we ever refuse Snowball cakes, cozy hot chocolate, or reindeer chocolate mint cookies ? Well we can’t and it’s as simple as that.
Interactive Count-down Calendar
Starting December 1st, you and your family, classroom, or community, can experience an innovative way the count down to Christmas. Each day holds a ew delight for families, such as Polar Chocolate Nougat Caramel squares, reindeer crafts, online games, mazes, and more. Be sure to go each day to find a little moment of goodness. You can find it right here.
The Ultimate Polar Express Party Kit
All Aboard !!!! Why not host a Polar Express Pajama Party? This kit has everything you’ll need to have hours of fun. Not only are there round trip tickets, but amazing games, crafts, invites, name tags, ideas about how to present the story, more amazing recipes, music, print outs and much much much more. Loads of fun.
GIVEAWAY DETAILS
ONE winner will receive a copy of The Polar Express 30th Anniversary book. Giveaway begins November 19, 2015
Prizing & samples courtesy of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Giveaway open to US addresses only
ONE lucky winner will win one copy of each of the above books.
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 12/31/15
The post The Polar Express 30th Anniversary Edition Book Review & Giveaway appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
November 17, 2015
The Wild Book by Margarita Engle and a look at dyslexia
One of the things I greatly admire is the ability of Newbury award-winning author Margarita Engle of creating an immersive experience in her books. She does this in a variety of ways. First she not only creates characters that we attach to immediately but somehow identify with even if we’ve never met such a person before in our lives. Inside Margaria Engle’s stories you will always meet a wide array of characters that you wouldn’t usually see together such as a slave, a Swedish suffragette in her book The Firefly Letters. To deepen the experience even further, she writes using language in a most unique way, free verse. The Wild Book is such a treasure of a story. Margarita Engle shocks us by making us look at how language is being used and conveyed. For the brave who embrace this style of story telling, you will not be sorry nor will you turn back.
For little Fefa, life in the Cuban countryside is not as free and exciting as one might think. When Fefa is diagnosed with word blindness, known today as dyslexia, by an uncaring doctor, she is distraught. In school, people make fun of her. At home, her siblings make fun of her. She is an outcast, and she is embarrassing.
To Fefa, words are slippery, elusive creatures that cause frustration to the point of tears. She tries so hard to hold on to them, but no matter her efforts, they manage to escape her grasp. Reading out loud is her biggest fear. If people make fun of her not being able to read silently, what will they do if she tries to read to a crowd? It’s a horrifying nightmare.
However, world-blindness is not the only trouble that Fefa and her family struggle with. When Fefa’s parents were just married, the country was in a time of turmoil, and they were imprisoned in a camp. For a time, the country has been safe. But a new trouble is bubbling: bandits stealing children for ransom money. Since Fefa’s family is wealthy, and the bandits would have a lot of children to choose from, the family is very afraid that one of their children will be targeted.
Also, the land around her family home is quite dangerous. One day, her oldest brother decides that he is going to take down a crocodile that has been threatening their home. He is confident that he can beat this beast; unfortunately, he’s not as capable as he thinks he is. The crocodile wounds him in such a way that farm work is no longer an option for his future. After struggling over his injury, he decides to become a teacher. And his first pupil? Who better than his own sister, Fefa!
As with all her books, I loved this one. I loved it so much I couldn’t keep it a secret and so I shared it with crafting buddy and emerging author Hannah Rials. Hannah joins us today with some great extension activities to bring The Wild Book alive and let you explore the wonders of Fefa’s world.
I was a little taken aback by the poetry format of The Wild Book; however, after only a few pages, I was hooked. The language that Margarita Engle chooses to use for Fefa is absolutely beautiful and captivating. Her descriptions are unique, phrases that I’ve never heard of. This story also does a wonderful job of tastefully writing about a young girl struggling with Dyslexia. She does nothing to degrade the struggle, but almost makes it beautiful. She gives Fefa hope, even when the girl is struggling. Fefa can help children with Dyslexia to understand that they are not alone, and they are not a problem. Dyslexia is not impossible, it is just a hindrance that can be overcome.
Something To Do:
1. Make your own chapbook to put your own poems, thoughts, and dreams in. Here’s a great tutorial at English Drawings. 
2. Here is a link to a list of apps that are helpful for students with dyslexia.
3. Fefa’s mom’s favorite place was the beach, where they only visited once a year. And what do you do at the beach? Collect seashells! Here’s a cool new activity from Rainy Day Mum if you have too many seashells to know what to do with.
4. Cuba-The culture of Cuba is rich in just about everything. To learn more about the beautiful country National Geographic Kids has done a great job.
Here some fun crafts, this Cuban Today Bird craft is perfect for kids as well as this Sugar Cube necklace (Sugar is the principal economy in Cuba!).
There is nothing better than music and Cuba has a reach history of music. Here are some Cuban Children’s Songs to have you singing and playing away.
For the older kids and adults enjoy some of these great classic Cuban songs.
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Multicultural Children’s Book Day Classroom Reading Challenge-
Get a FREE Diversity Book for Your Classroom Library!
Teachers! We want to help you build your classroom library with diverse, inclusive and multicultural books! Here’s how to get a free book through Multicultural Children’s Book Day on January 27th. You can also win a Skype author visit with a children’s book author! We will draw a winner from the teachers who signed up. This year the Skype author visit is with (to be announced).
LATEST EXCITING UPDATE! Junior Library Guild has agreed to sponsor this portion of the MCCBD 2016 event and donate up to 200 books for classrooms and teachers!
Go HERE for more details or to sign up your classroom and earn a FREE handcover multicultural children’s book!
The post The Wild Book by Margarita Engle and a look at dyslexia appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
November 15, 2015
Author Appearances at Frances Hodgson Burnett Sesquicentennial Event
You may remember my mention last week of the upcoming Frances Hodgson Burnett Sesquicentennial Event Celebration. If you read that post you know how excited I am to celebrate an author who has touched my life in so many ways, and also one who is from my home state of Tennessee.
While researching my book A Year in the Secret Garden I discovered that author of the original classic children’s take The Secret Garden, Frances Hodgson Burnett, lived in the United States from 1865 until she went back for a visit to England in 1872. Another great discovery was that she lived in the town next to our Knoxville and then up in the Jefferson City area of Tennessee.
This year the New Market/Knoxville areas are celebrating 150 years since Frances Hodgson Burnett’s moved to the United States in 1865. On hand will be her great grand-daughter Penny Deupree, as well as her great great grandchildren. Penny Deupree, Frances Hodgson Burnett’s great-grand daughter, is coming from her home in Texas to give three free public presentations and display some of Burnett’s personal belongings.
The new piece of this puzzle is that I will be making many appearances during the month of November in honor of this wonderful event! Below are some places you can meet up with me or join me in experiencing The Year in the Secret Garden like you never have before!
Tuesday, November 17th 5:30-6:00pm Secret Garden Activities for kids at the New Market School in New Market, TN
Tuesday, November 17th at 6:00-6:30pm Book Signing of A Year in the Secret Garden at New Market School in New Market, TN
Thursday, November 19th 10:50 to 11:45am The importance of Extension Activities in Children’s Literature, Carson Newman College in Jefferson City, TN.
Thursday, November 19th 3:00pm Jefferson City Public Library Homeschool Event Exploring the World of the Secret Garden. Fun and Activities included.
Thursday, November 19th 5:30-6:00pm Book Activity at the Jefferson City Courthouse
Thursday, November 19th 6:00-6:30pm Book Signing of A Year in the Secret Garden at the Jefferson City Courthouse
Saturday November 20th Live and Silent Auction. A Year in the Secret Garden Basket, and a chance to bid on a real live Secret Garden Tea Party. New Hope Blount County Children’s Advocacy Center.
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This holiday season, give your children the gift that will nurture a lifetime of positive habits; give the gift of a book.
As parents, we want/need quality books with extension activities to help our young ones unplug and create memories. Pulling books from shelves, and stories from pages, is also an important act that will aid in them being life-long readers. Quality books with companion book extension activities are not only work to create special family time, it allows kids to solve the world’s problems without major consequences.
A Year in the Secret Garden is just such a book. This delightful children’s book from authors Valarie Budayr and Marilyn Scott-Waters offers unique and original month-by-month activities that allow readers to delve deeper into the classic children’s tale, The Secret Garden! 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.
This book will make a great gift and be the catalyst of many hours of family growth, learning and FUN! Grab your copy ASAP and “meet me in the garden!” More details HERE!
The post Author Appearances at Frances Hodgson Burnett Sesquicentennial Event appeared first on Jump Into A Book.
