Book Review: Grandma's Gloves

Author: Cecil Castellucci
illustrated by Julia Denos
Interest Level: Ages 5-8

A Note From the Publisher: Grandma is always on her knees in the dirt, with her gardening gloves on, talking to her roses. Her home brims with plants and blossoms, and on hot days, she even waters the little girl in this story, her "most special flower of all," with the hose.

But a day comes when Grandma isn't there to care for the little girl anymore. She feels sad and small and alone until she remembers all that her grandmother taught her- and all that she has to teach. Full of light and life and the solace of green, growing things, this moving and beautifully illustrated picture book explores a timeless bond with warmth and joy.

Hello, Gorgeous Illustrations!

Why It's On My Bookshelf: I couldn't help but to tear up while reading this. It is such BEAUTIFUL bibliotherapy. When I was a child, I would have wanted to read this to help with grief. It's the type of life lesson that puts a smile on your face when you close the book. There is so much we can teach children about what they can do with the memories they have of a grandparent. Author Cecil Castellucci reminds us to take these gifts and wisdom and keep passing them on. In Grandma's Gloves the little girl appreciates her Grandma's adoration of gardening. Her memories are filled with Grandma working in her garden and always having her gloves nearby. A relationship and bond formed out of this hobby. It's the connection to her Grandma. Who knew a pair of garden gloves could mean so much to a little girl. They mean so much that she wants to keep the tradition alive...so lovely.

It got me thinking about a set of bowls I have in my kitchen. When my own Grandmother passed away they were given to me. I love them because of the meaning behind them. They remind me of the memories of the wonderful meals she would make us on Sundays.

My Grandma's Bowls

Although it's sad she's not around to make us her yummy German recipes, I take comfort in having the bowls in my home. And when I use them - it's very special to me....just like the gloves in the book.

This would be a wonderful read aloud to a classroom. Make sure to share your own memories and treasures from your grandparents.....


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Book Review: Brontorina

Author: James Howe
illustrated by Randy Cecil
Interest Level: Ages 4-8

Publisher's Note: Brontorina had a dream. I want to dance! But Brontorina was rather large - too large to fit in Madame Lucille's dance studio. And Brontorina did not have the right shoes - and everyone knows you can't dance without the proper dance shoes. Still, Brontorina knew, deep in her heart, that she was meant to be a ballerina.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: If you were at Barnes and Noble a couple of Sundays ago and saw a grown woman reading a children's book with a big adorable dinosaur on the cover and hugging it afterwards...well, that would be ME. What's so great about those moments is when I realize how much the kids are going to enjoy my new find for them. And it is an AWESOME find. Brontorina covers acceptance, rejection, being yourself, differences, and following your dreams quite beautifully.

When Brontorina enters Madame Lucille's Dance Academy she is met with warmth and curiosity. But she's also met with a little bit of an attitude by two girls who just can't seem to find anything nice to say. It's like they want her to fail. They have a very minor role but I pointed out their put-downs. A kiddo said, "They are trying to stand in front of her dream!" Luckily, there are two other dancers, Clara and Jack, who want nothing more then to help her succeed. We need to lift each other up - not cut each other down. This was a well received message thanks to Brontorina. Major kudos to the author for picking a dinosaur to be a ballerina. This kept both boys and girls engaged. The last illustration got a heartwarming "AHHHHHH" from all the students. Oh, and from me too!


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Book Review: School Anxiety

First Grade Jitters

Author: Robert Quackenbush
illustrated by Yan Nascimbene

Interest Level: 1st Grade

From the Book Jacket: Here is the story of a young boy who is about to enter first grade and doesn't know quite what to expect. Will his friends be there? Will he have to know how to read and spell? What if he can't understand anything his teacher says? Looks like a case of first grade jitters! Robert Quackenbush and Yan Nascimbene tell a reassuring story that is sure to chase away those jitters for any soon-to-be first grader.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: One of my favorite things about this one is the word - Jitters. What a FANTASTIC way to describe difficult feelings like fear and anxiety to a six year old. Most children don't know how to communicate those types of emotions because they are not equipped with the language and coping skills. It makes me think about the importance of emotional intelligence. As an educator I am a big part of helping the inner growth of a child. Bibliotherapy like this is a great step in supporting that growth especially when students are feeling school is a fearsome place. I showed First Grade Jitters to both of our 1st grade teachers and they read it at the start of the school year. Apparently, at the end of the day one of the teachers commented to her students she was nervous about something. "Oh, well then you have the jitters," replied one of her students. This gave me an "I heart kids" moment. It will be nice as the school counselor to use the word jitters as a communication and validation tool.

Dinosaur Starts School
Author: Pamela Duncan Edwards
illustrated by Deborah Allwright
Interest Level: Grades K-1

From the Book Jacket: “What would you do if on the very first day of school Dinosaur wasn’t smiling his big, toothy dinosaur smile? You’d say, ‘Don’t worry, Dinosaur. School will be fun.’”

So begins the story as a little boy helps his dinosaur friend overcome his fears of the first day of school.  All sorts of questions that children might ask are addressed by the little boy - why does he have to go to school, what if he has to speak up and say his name, what if he doesn't like what they serve for lunch?  His answers should calm the tummies of any young student.  And best of all, he explains how to make new friend.  By the end of the day, Dinosaur loves school and can't wait to come again the next day.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: I read this a few weeks into the school year with kindergarten classes. I'm well aware there are school anxiety issues going on with lots of different kids those first few days or weeks. This is great to use as a check-in with students. All of the questions proposed throughout the book are PERFECT. Even though the little boy has an answer for each of Dinosaurs worries, I was excited to hear how the kids would respond. Maybe this would be a confidence booster. It definitely was. School jitters decreased!


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Book Review: Don't Lick the Dog: Making Friends with Dogs - Guest Post by Maggie

I'm really excited about my guest blogger today! A fellow elementary school counselor in my district, Natalie, has a furry co-counselor that works with the students in her school. She helps kids immensely with feelings and behavior. Very awesome! So without further adieu let me introduce you to the amazing Labradoodle - Maggie. And yes, SHE is the guest blogger! We wanted to give her an opportunity to share her perspective on a cool book she's been reading with kids this school year called Don't Lick the Dog: Making Friends with Dogs. Enjoy! Ruff!

Author: Wendy Wahman
Interest Level: Ages 4-8

Description from the Publisher's Website: Meeting a new dog is exciting, but it can also be scary. This humorous how-to manual shows kids the best ways to interact with unfamiliar dogs, providing helpful tips about all sorts of dog behavior. Children often don’t understand what dogs’ actions mean and can misinterpret a threatening signal for a friendly one and vice versa. Kids and parents will return to Wendy Wahman’s playful illustrations again and again for useful reminders: Slow Down. Stay very still. And remember, don’t lick the dog!

Why It's On Maggie's Bookshelf: Hello, my name is Maggie and I’d like to take this opportunity to personally thank Wendy Wahman for writing Don’t Lick the Dog: Making Friends With Dogs.

I work at an elementary school in Portland, Oregon as a canine counselor. I try to help out as many teachers and students as I can! I have done a lot of different things ranging from teaching students about using gentle hands to walking with kids around the playground when they feel like they have no one to play with. Although the hours are long and the work is hard (1st grade recess duty always wears me out!), I love all of my students and enjoy coming to school each day!

On occasion, there have been a few not-so-great experiences with young students who got a little over-excited around me. Don’t get me wrong, I love the kids at my school, but I REALLY want to stand up for my dog-rights, too! Everyone wants to feel respected and loved, no matter how hairy they are!

Earlier this school year, Roxanne told Natalie (my colleague) about a book focused on teaching dog-friendship skills. Natalie and I reviewed Don’t Lick The Dog and decided all the K/1 classes would have one lesson focusing on dog-friendship skills. Since most of the kindergartners and some of the 1st graders had never met a dog-counselor before, we thought we should read this book to them before I made my introductions.

Reading my new book with a student!

Well, the Don’t Lick The Dog lessons were a success! In the past, whenever the students saw me on the playground, they would rush over to me. This wouldn’t have bothered me so much if it were only four or five kids. But when it’s TWENTY or THIRTY kids RACING towards me and SCREAMING my name, I’m down-right surprised I didn’t poop my pants (if I wore pants) right there on the spot! After the lessons, I’ve noticed many students “curl [their] fingers underneath” and let me sniff-out exactly who they are before they pet me gently. Also, so far no one has given me a “Whap! Whap! Whap!” Last year, a little kindergartner whapped me on the back and it really hurt my feelings!


I love students!

My favorite part of Wendy’s book is near the end. She writes:

Dogs aren’t toys to hug and squeeze
Or poke or chase or tug or tease.
Just like you and just like me,
Dogs have personalities.

Wendy, these lines are PURE GENIUS! Not only did you make them rhyme, but it’s like you read my heart!! How did you know there have been times when I felt I was being treated more like a furry toy than a hard-working canine counselor?! It really is hard being so cute because sometimes people don’t take you seriously! Many days, I wish I were born a slobbery Great Dane or a tough Bull Mastiff!! Don’t Lick The Dog has reminded me of my rights and has helped young kids learn to show respect and love to me and my canine peeps.

In conclusion, Don’t Lick The Dog is a must-read for all young children who want to make some canine friends. I give it my official “2 PAWS UP”, way up! Wendy Wahman, thanks for representin’!! You go, Girl!


2 Paws Up for this book!

A little more about the guest blogger:
Maggie loves little kids!  She's a very gentle and affectionate dog who prefers kids over adults. One of her favorite things at school is to be surrounded by a mob of kindergartners.  She loves visiting the school secretary in the office (especially because she gets treats from her!).  Sometimes, if an unsuspecting student is walking Maggie in the hall near the office, she will lead the student right into the office! She sure knows where those treats are!  Bananas are one of her favorite foods. Maggie recently rifled through Natalie's bag and ate a piece of banana bread. She has NEVER stolen food before so she must have really wanted it. And Roxanne secretly wishes she had a Maggie at her school.


Maggie being goofy!

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Book Review: Mouse Was Mad (Guest Blog Post)

Since starting my blog, I've made so many wonderful connections with many amazing people who also share a deep passion for childrens books. One of those amazing people is Barbara Gruener, a fellow elementary school counselor. Read her guest blog on one of her favorites...Mouse Was Mad.

Author: Linda Urban
Illustrated by Henry Cole
Interest Level: Ages 4-8

Why It's On Barbara's Bookshelf: From the moment you open Mouse Was Mad, you know the adorable little Mouse in Linda Urban's treasure is clearly very angry, but you never really know why. I love that about this tale, because the author leaves it open to possibilities. Start this read-aloud out by showing the cute illustrations of Mad Mouse on the inside of the front cover and pose the question, "What do you think Mouse is SO mad about?" I think you'll be surprised at what your little listeners say while you gain insight into what kinds of things make them mad. Be ready for some crazy responses; I was shocked when one of my kiddos said, "Someone has probably called him an idiot again." Ouch!

But what's the best way to be mad? Bear stomps. Hare hops. Bobcat screams. But Mouse? When he attempts to take his friends' lead, he just can't get it right. His rage grows as he tries to rid himself of the unpleasantness of his anger. When he finds the way that works best for him - getting perfectly still - he discovers he might be pretty good at managing anger after all.

The story, as well as the watercolor, colored pencil, and ink illustrations by Henry Cole, are cute and funny, filled with the kind of light-hearted playfulness that young kids especially enjoy.

Mouse's story is so incredibly cute and full of the entertaining playfulness that kids (and adults like me!) enjoy. Your students are likely to catch on quickly to the repetition as the enraged little rodent attempts to mimic the bear by stomping or be like the bobcat and get it out with a good scream. Students may even get a good laugh when he lands, over and over again, in a "mucky mud puddle." But that's not my favorite part. What grabbed me about this gem is the built in anger-management skills our little learners can use long after the read-aloud is over.

Mad lasts until it's done, right? I used this book in small group as a springboard for a "What-works-for-you?" discussion about how to get over being mad. How each friend resolves his anger makes for a wonderful discussion about what technique might work best for each student. In the end, Mouse gets still, breathes deeply, then craves a bubble bath, so we talk about the calming effects of deep breathing and warm water.

Activity:
I give each student a small bottle of dollar-store bubbles that we blow as we practice taking deep breaths. The deeper and more controlled the breath, the bigger the bubble, a simply way to perfect an effective anger-management strategy. You could also get some bubble wrap and encourage students to pop each bubble individually to help their "angries" disappear.

Finally, talk with your students about other anger-management techniques they've used. What works, how does it help, and why? Expect answers like exercise, talking it out, writing it down, punching a pillow, taking a time-out, screaming. Validate these healthy choices for when anger chooses them. Then teach them this little ditty using the music from The Adamms' Family:

When I get mad (snap, snap), When I get mad (snap, snap) -

Here's what I do, to get me through, when I get mad (snap, snap).

I practice my deep breathing, I slowly count from one to ten.

I talk it out or exercise, 'til I am glad again!

For enrichment, encourage students to Insert other ideas into the two "strategy" lines and write another verse. 

Enjoy!

Barbara Gruener is an elementary school counselor at Westwood Elementary. Barbara is a published author whose work has appeared in magazines such as Teaching Tolerance, Teaching K-8, and Daughters. She also has an IMPRESSIVE web page called The Counselor's Corner and writes for the website Character Counts!   I can only imagine how blessed the teachers, parents, and kiddos feel to have her as their counselor!

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Book Review: No Kidding About Bullying

No Kidding About Bullying: 125 Ready-to-Use Activities to Help Kids Manage Anger, Resolve Conflicts, Build Empathy, and Get Along (Bully Free Classroom)
Author: Naomi Drew
Interest Level: Grades 3-6

From the Publisher's Website: School bullying is a serious problem in today’s schools—one that can have severe and long-lasting effects on victims. Based on a nationwide survey of more than 2,000 students and their teachers, No Kidding About Bullying gives educators and youth leaders a diverse range of activities they can use to help kids in grades 3–6 build empathy, manage anger, work out conflicts, and stop bullying by peers. Featuring 125 mini-lessons that may be completed in 20 minutes or less, the book is a flexible resource that can be used as a stand-alone curriculum or a complement to bullying prevention and character education programs already in place.

Student activities—including games, role plays, group discussions, art projects, and language arts exercises—affirm the importance of respect, listening, and kind actions at school. Kids learn skills they can use to calm down and conflict resolution techniques for situations when strong emotions threaten to disrupt the peace. With a focus on preventing teasing, name-calling, fighting, exclusion, and other hurtful actions, No Kidding About Bullying also features activities for when mistreatment is occurring. A CD-ROM includes all of the reproducible handouts from the book.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: Every month I get together with my fellow elementary school counselors in my district to do curriculum planning and sharing. I believe the exact quote when I introduced this new resource was, "This book is FULL OF AWESOMENESS!" If you are going to spend money - do it on this one. You will not be disappointed...you'll be empowered.

In the picture below I have tagged just about every activity there is in my copy. I'm pointing this out because sometimes when I buy curriculum...I am only able to use a few of the activities (which is upsetting to both me and my wallet). I'd use ALL 125 activities in No Kidding About Bullying.

I must say....I'm impressed. And let me tell you, it takes a lot to impress me. One of the lessons I've used with students is called - Basement or Balcony? It's about using the highest or the lowest part of who we are. After the lesson, the teacher of the class came up to me and said, "As you were teaching your lesson. I was working on my weekly newsletter to parents and I started typing what you were saying. I love it and am going to ask parents to please use this concept and language at home because we will be using them here." When teachers love your lessons - jackpot.



A few more of my favorite lessons from No Kidding About Bullying are: A Get-Along Classroom; Leave It at the Door; Creating Your Place In Other People's Memory Banks; Peace Shield; Using Think Alouds; Responsibility vs. Blame; Basement or Balcony?; Staying in the Balcony; Staying Respectful with Someone You Don't Like; Unhooking from Mean Words and Actions; Don't Get Stung by Zingers; and The Courage to be an Upstander. And these are just a few....I pretty much love them all. They are having a solid impact on our students and giving me a whole new world of language to use with kids.

I also like how author Naomi Drew has put the lessons together. They are EASY to do and I really dig the language she uses for discussions. She's making me a better elementary school counselor! As you know, I love all of my bibliotherapy and these activities can be a good companion to the books I use. However, I've also been able to fill up a 30 minute lesson just using an activity on it's own. And hear me out, this guide is not just for school counselors it's for teachers too! I'd really love to get No Kidding About Bullying for all of the 3-5th grade teachers at my school. It's a major community builder and a wonderful approach to building student relationships. My school year just got a lot better!

Find more educator goodness at Free Spirit Publishing

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Book Review: Katie Loves the Kittens

Author: John Himmelman
Interest Level: Ages 4-9

From the Book Jacket: Katie is just so excited when Sara Ann brings home three little kittens that she can't stop herself from howling "AROOOOOO!" She loves them so much! But Katie's enthusiasm frightens the kittens, and she's sad when they run away from her. Don't they know that she just wants to play?



Why It's On My Bookshelf: Katie Loves the Kittens is delightful, adorable, and even teaches an important social skill - self-control!! I can't even remember how I found this lovely little piece of kid-lit but the first time I read it I couldn't stop giggling! Katie the dog is having the hardest time controlling herself and can't stop howling at the kittens with absolute joy and excitement. The kittens want nothing to do with her and are a bit freaked out by her behavior. I've read this to all of our K-2 grades and the concept of self-control has been so EASY for me to teach thanks to Katie and her impulsive ways. I bring up the word self-control in the middle of the book and I have the kids repeat it. They are total pros now on the concept of controlling oneself and why it's so important. I love the ending to this story. Katie wakes up with the kittens fast asleep and they are snuggled up to her. The picture of her trying to keep it together and not start howling is so cute. I also love how the illustrations show her getting revved up with the wagging of her tail. I ask the kids, "Why isn't Katie howling?" And they say, "Self-control!"

I wanted to add a little more to this post and introduce two puppets I use to help kids master self-control. Meet Impulsive Puppy and Slow Down Snail! (And yes, that is the ghetto fabulous chair in my office) They come to all the K-1 grades with me the first month of school. Impulsive Puppy is my model for not using self-control. I have him bark at me and interrupt my lessons, roll around on the carpet, and bug kids. And then I talk to Impulsive Puppy in front of the kids asking him to please use self-control like Katie. I tell the kids he is learning to be a student and we need to help him by being good models. I don't know why but this mind judo works every time! I see major behavior improvement in kids immediately just by bringing this type of visual to their attention.

Impulsive Puppy

Slow Down Snail is Puppy's buddy and he reinforces the learning behaviors I'm trying to teach. I have to tell you....they are hits. (it also doesn't hurt that I am part dramatic actress) I've got K-1 kids running up to me at recess asking me how Impulsive Puppy's behavior is and if he's getting better. HA HA! I love it. If you want to get these two guys in your puppet collection, just google them.....

Impulsive Puppy and Slow Down Snail

Just got this workbook over the summer......it rocks.

Drawing Together to Develop Self-Control
Author: Marge Eaton Heegaard
For Ages 5-12

This is a new workbook I'm using this year. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT! Good stuff for individual, group, or classroom use.




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Book Review: My Mom's Wedding

Author: Eve Bunting

Illustrated by Lisa Papp

Interest Level: Ages 5-8

From the Book Jacket: A child of divorce, seven-year-old Pinky is torn by feelings of loyalty to her father and affection for the man her mom is about to marry. As she prepares to be the ring bearer for the upcoming wedding. Pinky is both excited and reluctant, but mostly she feels guilty. It's not until she accepts that her parents will never get back together that Pinky understands it's okay to love both her dads. As non-traditional families increasingly become the norm, this positive story will continue to grow in relevance. My Mom's Wedding offers a comforting message and helps children to work out their conflicted emotions about divorce. Parents, too, have something to learn from the amicable kindness that Pinky's mother, father and stepfather show each other.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: "Do you have any books on divorce?" This is a question I get a lot from parents. When I first became an elementary school counselor I had maybe one on my shelf. I did have a book list with lots of recommendations listing divorce bibliotherapy. Did I actually read any of them at the time to see if they were any good? Um no. Eventually, I went and checked out some of the books on my list. I realized I was recommending books I did not like and wouldn't put my counselor stamp of approval on. So over the years, I've accumulated a lot of good books on divorce. And I'm happy to not just hand out my list, but allow parents and children to actually check them out or read them in my office. My Mom's Wedding is a new addition to the list and my shelf. 

A lot of kids at my school will relate to Pinky's story and her feelings. Students often want to talk about and let me know the changes or additions happening to their family. Some of them are excited about the changes but also have a hard time figuring out where their feelings fit between their parents. There is a lot of validation in this story. It ends with Pinky's father attending her mom's wedding and being supportive. Now, not all situations end this happily. However, from a counseling perspective I see it as an opening to talk about optimism, positive perspective, and that it's okay to wish for such peace. Not every child's book on divorce has to mirror the current situation in their life. Look for and use the nuggets of wisdom you find on certain pages.....that's how bibliotherapy should be used. I've put a lot of books back on the shelf because I felt they didn't hit the mark exactly. That's a mistake I don't make anymore. My Mom's Wedding may not be every child's exact story, but lots of good nuggets in it for kids. Very thankful it's in my collection.

Below are a few really good workbooks I use to help kids cope with separation, family changes, and divorce. Art therapy is SO healing. These workbooks give kids a much needed outlet. If you are a counselor, make sure you have these on your shelf. They are so awesome as a communication tool for feelings. (I used to use the Helping Kids Deal With Divorce - The Sandcastles Way Workbooks, but I don't think they publish them anymore. Darn!)

When Mom and Dad Separate

Children Can Learn to Cope With Grief From Divorce

written by Marge Heegaard

to be illustrated by Children

When a Parent Marries Again

Children Can Learn to Cope with Family Change

written by Marge Heegaard

to be illustrated by Children

The Divorce Workbook

A Guide for Kids and Families

written by Sally B Ives

(no image)

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How I Organize My Books

I received an email asking how I organize all of my books. I do not have a fancy sophisticated system. I tried to keep a list on my computer, but I am always buying so many books I couldn't keep up. So I decided to use good ol' fashion construction paper and just divide them by subject matter.

I've got about four shelves full of books. Not all of them get categorized. But the ones I use in classrooms and recommend to parents - get the full treatment. There is nothing worse than needing a book for a lesson and not being able to locate it.

This system has worked GREAT for me. Hope this helps anyone needing ideas on how to keep all of your bibliotherapy organized.

Book Reviews: Coping With Sibling Disability

My Sister, Alicia May
Author: Nancy Tupper Ling
Illustrated by Shennen Bersani
Interest Level: Ages 4-9

From the Book Jacket: In many ways, Rachel and Alicia are like any sisters. But Rachel knows her sister is different, and very special. She has Down syndrome. Based on the lives of two real sisters, My Sister, Alicia May expresses the joys and challenges of growing up with a sibling who has special needs.

Esquisitely written with humor and compassion, this heart-warming story provides a familiar setting for precious children with special needs and those who love them. It offers a window into their world for all children as well as for teachers and members of the global community. The breathtaking illustrations by Shennen Bersani make the pages of My Sister, Alicia May as captivating visually as the story is to read.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: I work in an inclusive school. That means there are students with all kinds of special needs in regular education classrooms. Some of them have siblings who also attend our school. A few of those siblings have had a hard time because they've been teased (doesn't happen often - but it HAS happened) for having a sister or brother with a disability. When I read My Sister, Alicia May I immediately knew I wanted to read it to all of our students to confront this 'sometimes' problem. This is exactly what I've been trying to teach kids about being sensitive, compassionate, and understanding towards students who have a sibling with special needs. It's also written from the perspective of big sister Rachel. She explains the ups and downs of their daily lives in and out of school. She loves her sister, but at times feels exhausted by what is required to help her. But one day, Alicia May is putdown and teased. Big sister Rachel steps in and puts a stop to it and tells them to, "Knock it off." I think this is an eye opener for many kids in my school. I'm going to ask them to take a moment to put themselves in someone elses shoes.....maybe those shoes are more difficult than they believed. This story provides perspective and validation. Love it.

My Brother Charlie
Authors: Holly Robinson Peete and Ryan Elizabeth Peete
Illustrated by Shane W. Evans
Interest Level: Ages 4-9

From the Book Jacket: Callie is very proud of her brother Charlie. he's good at so many things - swimming, playing the piano, running fast. And Charlie has a special way with animals, especially their dog, Harriett. But sometimes Charlie gets very quiet. His words get locked inside him, and he seems far away. Then, when Callie and Charlie start to play, Charlie is back to laughing, holding hands, having fun. Charlie is like any other boy - and he has autism.

In this joyful story, told from a sister's point of view, we meet a family whose oldest son teaches them important lessons about togetherness, hope, tolerance, and love. Holly Robinson Peete, bestselling author, actress, and national autism spokesperson, has paired with her daughter, Ryan, to co-author this uplifting book based on their own personal experiences with Holly's son and Ryan's brother RJ, who has autism.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: Often times, when we hear someone has autism we feel bummed out for them and their family. When I finished My Brother Charlie I felt uplifted and encouraged for those families and especially the kids who will read this book. Callie is paving the way for a lot of kids like her brother Charlie and their siblings. She doesn't want the reader to feel sorry for her brother. Like she says in the book, "Charlie has autism. But autism doesn't have Charlie." You feel the pride and love Callie feels for her brother. She does a wonderful job describing who he is....a smart, loving, quiet, and interesting brother. And she does touch upon the sadness and difficulties autism can sometimes cause. But they don't quit on Charlie. They embrace him even more...."And so we do right by Charlie. We love Charlie strong." Thank you, Callie, for the words and validation you are giving families...."I'm blessed to be Charlie's sister and to share so much. I count my "Charlie Blessings" every day." WOW! 


PS. I mentioned in another blog post we are starting a special needs/guidance section in our school library. I cannot wait to put both of these on the shelf tomorrow. Students should be able to have access to this kind of bibliotherapy..... 

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Book Review: Where Do Babies Come From?

Last year, one of my sisters asked me for book recommendations explaining the birds and the bees to children. Her second and fourth grader were starting to ask the big questions! And from the hilarious story she told me - her scientific explanations weren't going over very well. So I went to my local bookstore and read every book they had on the subject. I picked out a few books and these are the two that went over very well with her kiddos. I talked my sister into sharing her thoughts on how it went. Here is her review........

Amazing You! Getting Smart About Your Private Parts

Author: Dr. Gail Saltz

Interest Level: Ages 4-8

From the Book Jacket: "Mom, where do babies come from?" Many parents live in fear of that question which inevitably comes up, often as early as the preschool years. Here is a picture book designed especially for young children who are becoming sexually aware, but aren't ready to learn about sexual intercourse. Written with warmth and honesty, Amazing You! presents clear and age-appropriate information about reproduction, birth, and the difference between girls' and boys' bodies. Dr Saltz's upbeat tone promotes a healthy attitude about body image, while Lynne Cravath's lighthearted illustrations enliven the text, making this a book that parents will gladly share with their young ones.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: This was my daughter's (second grader) favorite book out of the bunch. It was easy for her to understand thanks to the simple explanations and concrete illustrations. I recommend this as a good first book when kids are a little younger (second grade and under). It does not go into too many details which can confuse kids. With the other books, I watched her kind of "zoning out" because it was too complicated for her to understand and had way too much information for her to process. Amazing You also gave a little preview of the boys and girls changing bodies which prompted some good questions from my daughter. Loved the messages about sex being for people in love. The message that it's okay to ask questions was also something I appreciated. That felt encouraging for my daughter. My son (fourth grader) did not like this book at all. He felt it was way too childish. Read on......

Changing You! A Guide to Body Changes and Sexuality

Author: Gail Saltz

Interest Level: Ages 9-12

From the Book Jacket: Kids have a lot of questions - and things can get tricky when those questions are about sex. In her follow-up to Amazing You!, Dr. Gail Saltz navigates curious youngsters through anatomy, body changes for boys and girls, sexual intercourse, reproduction, and emerging sexuality with her renowned brand of warmth and candor. Lynne Avril Cravath's lively, endearing illustrations complement the text's direct, honest approach to questions about sex and the human body. This refreshingly accessible book also includes an author's not to parents.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: This was my son's (fourth grade) favorite. He said he liked it very much. My son is very inquisitivie, and this one had the appropriate amount of details to help his understanding and answer his many questions. But my younger daughter thought it was too confusing with too much information. In fact she said, "I will never remember all this stuff". I felt this book was perfect for someone my son's age. It addressed not only the physical changes but the emotional changes kids go through during puberty. I liked how it addressed and illustrated body changes like growing hair, more frequent erections, how breasts grow and menstruation. All of the things that are very difficult to explain on my own. Even though my daughter is too little right now, I felt it was good for my son to get a little understanding about this. I also loved how they stated girls can feel "crampy and grumpy". Again, like the other book I liked the message that men and women have sex when they love each other. And that it feels good for both men and women. This was a question both of my kids had about sex, thinking that it sounded painful. Changing You also took a positive perspective on men and women in love. It explained that kissing and cuddling is a very special way of expressing how much they love each other. I understand as they get older, they may get different messages (negative) from different sources about sex.....messages I don't want them to get.  But I would like them to start out with a positive message. 

Book Review: Manners on the School Bus (Way to Be! Manners Series)

Author: Amanda Doering Tourville
Interest Level: PreK - Grade 2

What should you say to the bus driver? Find out how good manners make bus rides pleasant for everyone.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: Okay, listen up...the honeymoon is over...I repeat...the honeymoon is over. Those of you who work in education know exactly what I'm talking about. Yep, the dreaded bus referrals are here. So I've decided to get proactive this school year. And of course, I can't do that without a trusty book!

Manners on the School Bus has been making its rounds with me to the K-2 grades. Here's what's really cool - the students LOVED learning and reading about good manners and behavior on the bus! The skills modeled in the book are concrete which I love. It shows behaviors like kids sitting safely in their seats, keeping their hands to themselves, and showing respect to each other. Each page ends with a repetitive phrase about good manners. The kids started saying the phrases with me as we read. It's so much more interesting for students (and myself) to talk about bus rules and safety in a way that doesn't come across like some professional lecture. I also jazz up the skills being taught with fun role plays. So next time a referral comes rolling in....if it's a K-2 student they will be re-reading this story with me. I've already had a student on their way off the bus say, "I am having good manners, Mrs. D." A good social skills book strikes again!


Find the rest of the Way to Be! Manners Series at Capstone Publishing's Website