25.8 - Oma1229's Task: Children Make Christmas Fun!

[Dlmrose, Moderator Emeritus]

25.8 - Oma1229's Task: Children Make Christmas Fun!

Realizing that the Winter Challenge is more that the December holiday, I have chosen Christmas and children to be the theme of this task. As a child Christmas was so special to me, however, as an adult seeing it through the eyes of a child gave it a sense of wonderment. I like this quote from one of my favorite children authors Laura Ingalls Wilder.
"Our hearts grow tender with childhood memories and love of kindred, and we are better throughout the year for having, in spirit, become a child again at Christmas-time"

So, for this task all books read must have the genre Children on the book's main GR page.

In the spirit of Childhood and Christmas, each book need only meet the 100 page requirement. All other SRC requirements for children's book will apply-Rules effective Spring 2013

Note: When evaluating a book under the Children's book Transitional rule, ask yourself, "Who is the intended audience of this book?". If the author, publisher or a retailer indicates that the book is aimed at an audience 9 years old or younger, it probably doesn't work for SRC tasks.

These listopia lists can help find books but remember not all might meet each requirement for a task. Books to Read Before You Grow Up, Children's Book written prior to 1950's

For this task read a book from two of the listed options. You must read two books.

Option 1- Novelty Christmas songs are favorites of many children and adults. My favorite is 'I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas" which was recorded by 10 year old Gayla Peevey. (Here is a link if you would like to listen) Gayla Peevey
Read a book that has a living creature (non-human, non-fantasy) that you might see in a zoo or petting zoo on the cover.
required: Post the cover if you choose this option

Option 2-December is a month of holidays celebrated all over the globe. In this international spirit, read a book that was originally written in a language other than your native language.

For example, my native language is English so I could read Pippi Longstocking which was originally published in Swedish (so glad it was translated!).

Required:Please Post your native language and the original language in which the book was published

Christmas is special for me because of my two grandsons Hunter and Alexander. The next two options will be based on these two wonderful 'loves-of-my-life'

Option 3 - Hunter's Book: Hunter is a nine year old in the 4th grade. Hunter has bright red hair and a face full of freckles and is the tallest young man in his class (as if the hair and freckles did not make him stand out!). He is quiet and reserved, loves to read and loves sports.
Read book that has been nominated or won any literary award. This link may help Children's Literature Awards, but make sure that your book follows SRC rules. Or
Read a book with any sports paraphernalia on the cover. OR
Read a book with a red-haired child with freckles on the cover or listed in the book's main GR description.
Required:If you chose the book cover option please post cover

Option 4- Alexander is a four year old in Pre-K. Alexander is an outgoing and loud individual. He loves to hug everyone he meets--young and old. He really loves Christmas, the Christmas Story, decorations, presents-but still is a little afraid of Santa! Jake and the Neverland Pirates is his favorite Disney show.

Read a book where Christmas is prominent in the storyline and mentioned in the book's GR description OR
Read a book about pirates or one with a pirate on the cover.
Required:If you chose the bookcover option please post cover.

Required: Identify the options when you post.

Optional Activity Take a little time out of this busy season and read a book to a child---I am sure that you will enjoy it as much if not more than that child!

Happy Reading and enjoy a trip back to your inner child and a Happy Holiday Season to All.

[Wanda]

Reserved-Approved Books



A note of clarification about pirates for Option 4.
Fiction or non-fiction books are acceptable. Also, pirates from any time period are okay including modern day pirates- have fun Mateys!

[Wanda]

Reserved-Books Not Approved

[Dlmrose, Moderator Emeritus]

This help thread is open!

[Pamela Su]

Would The Bad Beginning be an acceptable choice for Option 3?

I haven't read this book so I am not sure whether this would fall under "transitional" and therefore be unacceptable or if it's okay to use in this task.

[Kathy G.]

For #3 does it have to be an award on that page?

I wanted to read


There are some awards listed on the main page.

Thanks

[Kathy G.]

Are rabbits in a petting zoo?



Thanks-

[Rochella]

Can I read Peter Pan & Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens for option 4 (pirates)?

[Erin (NY)]

I am confused by this rule:

Note: When evaluating a book under the Children's book Transitional rule, ask yourself, "Who is the intended audience of this book?". If the author, publisher or a retailer indicates that the book is aimed at an audience 9 years old or younger, it probably doesn't work for SRC tasks.

Can you give an example of a book that would work, and the book that wouldn't under this rule?

Also I'd like to read these:
The Graveyard Book or The One and Only Ivan for option 3 (both newbery winners)
And for option 2: (My native language is Russian) either Liar & Spy or The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate
Do they work?

Thanks!

[bamaace83]

I was wondering would this book work for option 4? It seems like the kids have to fight off pirates based on the description, but the kids aren't actually pirates. I just wanted to make sure. I love to see James Patterson write children's books.

Treasure Hunters

[Julie]

Great task! Could you please verify that the following two books qualify?

Option 1 The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
(It has the Cowardly Lion on the cover, but it is a cartoon picture. I wasn't sure if it needed to be an actual photo or if an illustration of an animal that exists in the zoo would count.)

Option 3 The Lightning Thief
(It's won multiple awards!)

[April]

Will The Medusa Plot work for #1?

I was thinking the snakes.

[Karen Michele]

Would this tiny, cute little seahorse in the top right corner work for #1?
The Pt. Defiance Zoo and Aquarium has them, but I don't know if you are counting sea creatures.

[Dee]

Love it Wanda!!!

[Dee]

Erin/Pamela sue - transitional books are like American girls - larger fonts; more white space etc

[Wanda]

Ellen wrote: "Band Director Terry:

I'd like to read Pippi Longstocking for Option 3 because she has read hair and freckles. Can I get this approved please?

Thanks!"

Yes this book is good for option #3.

[Wanda]

Pamela Su wrote: "Would The Bad Beginning be an acceptable choice for Option 3?

I haven't read this book so I am not sure whether this would fall under "transitional" and therefore be unacceptable or i..."

Yes, The Lemony Snicket books are okay.

[Wanda]

Kathy G. wrote: "For #3 does it have to be an award on that page?

I wanted to read


There are some awards listed on the main page.

Thanks"

Yes that is a children's book award listed on the main GR page so it is good. Good choice, I really enjy this series.

[Wanda]

Kathy G. wrote: "Are rabbits in a petting zoo?



Thanks-"
I have petted rabbits in a petting zoo so this book is fine.

[Wanda]

Erin (NY) wrote: "I am confused by this rule:

Note: When evaluating a book under the Children's book Transitional rule, ask yourself, "Who is the intended audience of this book?". If the author, publisher or a reta..."

I know it can be confusing. I usually check the children's books on Amazon--I go to the product detail and it will give an age level and reading level. If it is an age level of 8-12 it will probably be okay but you should ask for approval to make sure. If it is labeled 'easy to read'
has larger type and illustrations every few pages then it it not acceptable an example would be Stepping Stones Books

[Wanda]

Erin (NY) wrote: "I am confused by this rule:

Note: When evaluating a book under the Children's book Transitional rule, ask yourself, "Who is the intended audience of this book?". If the author, publisher or a reta..."

All of the books listed are acceptable as children's books and are fine for the options chosen. would also work for Option #1-elephants and apes are found in zoos.

[Wanda]

bamaace83 wrote: "I was wondering would this book work for option 4? It seems like the kids have to fight off pirates based on the description, but the kids aren't actually pirates. I just wanted to make sure. I l..."

Well, you have to have pirates in order to fight with them so yes, it would work for Option #4.

[Wanda]

Dee wrote: "Love it Wanda!!!"


I thought that you might! I love to read children's books (comes from being a retired teacher) and hoped that maybe others might find a renewed joy in children's literature.

[Erin (NY)]

Thanks! Makes sense! I have twin 5 year-olds and they are now reading books that I wouldn't consider "challenge-worthy" :) So basically NOT what they are reading! :)

[Kathy G.]

Thanks- for both my choices!

P.S. If anyone wants to read The Boy in the Striped Pajamas it has all kinds of awards and
is a great read!

[Wanda]

Erin (NY) wrote: "Thanks! Makes sense! I have twin 5 year-olds and they are now reading books that I wouldn't consider "challenge-worthy" :) So basically NOT what they are reading! :)"

Julie wrote: "Great task! Could you please verify that the following two books qualify?

Option 1 The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
(It has the Cowardly Lion on the cover, but it is a cartoon picture. I wa..."

Julie wrote: "Great task! Could you please verify that the following two books qualify?

Option 1 The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
(It has the Cowardly Lion on the cover, but it is a cartoon picture. I wa..."


Option 1 is okay-might be a cartoon but it is a cartoon of a 'real'animal.

Option 3-Yes--The Percy Jackson series is okay

[Wanda]

Kathy G. wrote: "Thanks- for both my choices!

P.S. If anyone wants to read The Boy in the Striped Pajamas it has all kinds of awards and
is a great read!"

I agree

[Wanda]

Erin (NY) wrote: "Thanks! Makes sense! I have twin 5 year-olds and they are now reading books that I wouldn't consider "challenge-worthy" :) So basically NOT what they are reading! :)"

Yes, that is a good measure.

[Wanda]

April wrote: "Will The Medusa Plot work for #1?

I was thinking the snakes."

Of course, you find snakes in a zoo although not one of my favorite living creatures.

[Julie]

Thanks Wanda! Hope you have a wonderful holiday with your grandsons. I just found out I am going to be a Grandma for the first time next April! SO EXCITED! :)

[Wanda]

Rochella wrote: "Can I read Peter Pan & Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens for option 4 (pirates)?"

But of course---where would Jake and his Neverland Pirates be without Captain Hook and Mr. Smee?

[Wanda]

Julie wrote: "Thanks Wanda! Hope you have a wonderful holiday with your grandsons. I just found out I am going to be a Grandma for the first time next April! SO EXCITED! :)"

It is the best part of your life!!!! JUst sugar them up and send them home!!

[Wanda]

Karen GHHS wrote: "Would this tiny, cute little seahorse in the top right corner work for #1?
The Pt. Defiance Zoo and Aquarium has them, but I don't know if you are counting sea creatures.

[bookcover:Who Could That..."


An aquarium is part of a zoological garden system so yes the seahorse counts---pretty tough looking hombre!

[Sandy, Moderator Emeritus]

Erin (NY) wrote: "Thanks! Makes sense! I have twin 5 year-olds and they are now reading books that I wouldn't consider "challenge-worthy" :) So basically NOT what they are reading! :)"

Think in terms of anything that would normally be read by kids in 4th grade and younger - that's really not the age group that this challenge is designed for, LOL!

[Karen Michele]

Wanda wrote: "Karen GHHS wrote: "Would this tiny, cute little seahorse in the top right corner work for #1?
The Pt. Defiance Zoo and Aquarium has them, but I don't know if you are counting sea creatures.

[bookc..."

Thanks! I have a few other ideas, too, and the Newbery and Coretta Scott King awards will be announced in mid-January, so I may wait and see what wins this year before making my final decision.

[Deborah]

Does this work for Option 3
Children's Book Council of Australia Awards under Children's Book of the Year Award: Younger Readers 2004

[Deborah]

Good for Option 4?

[Amy]

I'd like to get approval for:

Option 2: Reckless (translated from German)
Option 3: The Westing Game (Newberry Medal winner)

Thanks!

[Susan A]

Well, my children took great delight in finding me some books for this task. We have some others that we think work, but these were the winners. Can I have these approved please?

For Option 1, animal from the zoo on the cover. 128 pages

***Please note: according to my son, the cobras are real, regular cobras, but the people in the story shrink - -this is why the cobras look so big on the cover
***King Cobras can be seen at the Philadelphia Zoo

Option 4:
Christmas listed on GR main page, 128 pages
A Ghost tale for Christmas time


These are by the same author. Is that okay?

Thanks for your help.

[Wanda]

Looks great,however,I noticed that it is almost the last genre listed on the main page. You might consider having it approved under genre help thread just in case the 'children's listing moves off the page before the end of the challenge

THis approval post is for Message #39 for Amy-Not message #40 for Susan.

[Wanda]

Deborah wrote: "Good for Option 4?
"


Yes, I think Alexander would heartily approve. Enjoy

[Wanda]

Amy wrote: "I'd like to get approval for:

Option 2: Reckless (translated from German)
Option 3: The Westing Game (Newberry Medal winner)

Thanks!"

Both of these are approved for each listed task. However, I noticed that Recklessis very close to the end of the genre listing on the main page. You might want to have the genre verified in the genre verification help thread in case it slips off the page before the end of the task.

[Wanda]

Susan A wrote: "Well, my children took great delight in finding me some books for this task. We have some others that we think work, but these were the winners. Can I have these approved please?

For Option 1, a..."

[Wanda]

Susan A wrote: "Well, my children took great delight in finding me some books for this task. We have some others that we think work, but these were the winners. Can I have these approved please?

For Option 1, a..."


Susan,

I am sorry about the previous post. The books that you have listed are not acceptable as they are early elementary reading levels and fall into the 'transitional' category. I did,however, enjoy your son's explanation about the giant cobras!

[Bea]

- would this work for #1 Zoo?

[Susan A]

I am sorry about the previous post. The books that you have listed are not acceptable as they are early elementary reading levels and fall into the 'transitional' category. I did,however, enjoy your son's explanation about the giant cobras!

Where do you go to determine this info? I don't want to keep nagging you with books that don't work. Since he is in 3rd grade and the teacher has these books, I figured it was the minimum reading level. I can do reasearch before I post, but I am not sure what to look for.

[Susan A]

One more question -- can I use the same author twice?

[Vicky]

Just want to double check on The Midwife's Apprentice. It's RL5 and AR BookFinder lists it for Grades 4-8, so I think it's okay in regards to the transitional rule, but wanted to double check!

[Jayme(theghostreader)]

Any suggestions for Christmas themed childrens books?

[bamaace83]

Susan A wrote: "I am sorry about the previous post. The books that you have listed are not acceptable as they are early elementary reading levels and fall into the 'transitional' category. I did,however, enjoy you..."


Susan A if you look on the back of most newer books near the barcode it will have the letter "R" and a number beside it. This would be the appropriate reading level for said book. I hope this helps a little bit.