Children's Literacy- EDU 337

 

The Colors of Us by Karen Katz

Summary 

The Colors of Us is a heartwarming story about a young girl named Lena who begins to paint a portrait of herself and reaches for brown paint. However, after a walk around her neighborhood, she realizes that brown comes in a variety of shades, each equally beautiful. The book celebrates the differences and similarities that exist among all people. Karen Katz designed The Colors of Us for her daughter, Lena, whom she and her husband adopted from Guatemala six years ago.

Genre

Karen Katz's The Colors of Us is a fictional picture book. It focuses primarily on race and ethnicity, as well as themes of confidence and multiculturalism. The book is intended for children and includes illustrations depicting variations in skin color.

Illustration

Karen Katz's book "The Colors of Us" features vibrant and captivating illustrations. Katz, who wrote and illustrated the book, used collage, gouache, and colored pencils to create the visual world on its pages12. The story celebrates diversity and delves into skin color from an artist's perspective. Readers learn about brown from seven-year-old Lena's perspective. Lena's journey teaches us to appreciate both the differences and similarities that unite all people. The bold and lively illustrations beautifully complement the book's positive message, making it a delightful read for children aged four to eight.

Student Activities 

Extended Learning: Investigate further by discussing cultural traditions, clothing, and foods associated with various skin tones. Encourage students to research and share stories about their own backgrounds and family heritage. Encourage discussions about diversity, inclusion, and the value of accepting differences.
Food Comparison Statements:Ask students to think of a food that corresponds to their skin tone. Challenge them to create a comparison statement, such as "My skin is the color of sweet and chewy caramel." Connecting people's beautiful colors to familiar foods encourages creativity and celebrates their diversity.

Resource

The Colors of Us. (n.d.). Goodreads. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/19600.The_Colors_of_Us

"All of Me" by Greg Smedley Warren

My hands are for clapping

My arms can hug tight

My fingers can snap

Or can turn on the light

My legs are for jumping

My eyes help me see

This is my body,

And I love all of me!

Summary 

Greg Smedley Warren's poem All of Me is about a boy who begins with one part of his body and then goes on to list all of his body parts until he says, "And I love all of me". This poem emphasizes the importance of self-love and how we may not always be satisfied with all of our body parts. This applies to everyone, regardless of body size, shape, or gender identity. This is an excellent poem for anyone struggling with body confidence or self-love and acceptance! The main idea of this poem is to love yourself and your entire body, regardless of what society says.

Genre

"All of Me" is not only a delightful poem for children, but it also serves as a powerful reminder to people of all ages to fully appreciate themselves. "All of Me" by Greg Smedley-Warren is a delightful poem in the poetry genre. The poem is simple, making it suitable for younger readers. It follows a repeating pattern, with each stanza introducing a new body part and its function. 

Illustration

"All of Me" by Greg Smedley-Warren is a delightful poem about self-love and acceptance. The charming simplicity and heartwarming message conveys The poem begins with the speaker acknowledging different body parts: "My hands are for clapping," "My arms can hug tight," "My fingers can snap…"

It goes on to list other body parts and their functions.

The final line, "And I love all of me!" expresses the essence of self-acceptance and body positivity.

Student Activities 

Collaboration Art Project: Create a large mural or poster titled "All of Us" or "All of Our Class". Each student contributes by drawing or writing about a body part that they value. Assemble all of the pieces to celebrate each student's uniqueness.

Body Part Exploration: Start by reading the poem aloud to the students. Discuss each body part mentioned in the poem (e.g., hands, arms, fingers). Ask students to point to their own body parts as they are mentioned in the poem. Encourage them to share how they use each body part.

Resource

V. (n.d.). All of Me Poem for Kids. VEDANTU. https://www.vedantu.com/poems/all-of-me

"We Don't Eat Our Classmates" by Ryan T. Higgins

Summary 

Ryan T. Higgins' delightful children's book "We Don't Eat Our Classmates" introduces readers to Penelope, an adorable little Tyrannosaurus rex. Penelope Rex is a nervous T. rex who is about to begin her first day at school. She is excited to meet her classmates, but she soon realizes there is a problem: they are all delicious human children! It is difficult to make friends when you are tempted to snack on them. Penelope attempts to fit in, but her carnivorous instincts get the best of her. She ends up eating her classmates, which obviously does not go over well. They are now all afraid of her. When Penelope feels lonely, she turns to Walter, the class goldfish, for comfort and friendship. Walter has a lesson in empathy for her, which she is unaware of. The book is full of humor that both children and adults will appreciate. It's ideal for reading aloud, with unexpected twists and engaging storytelling. The story discusses empathy, friendship, and understanding others.

Genre

This book falls into the fantasy fiction genre because, while the story takes place in a school setting familiar to young readers, the presence of dinosaurs (particularly a T. Rex) alongside humans adds an element of magical realism. Magical realism combines the ordinary and the extraordinary, making it a common theme in fantasy literature.

Illustrations

Ryan T. Higgins' illustrations are a highlight of the book. He creates visually appealing pages by combining scanned textures, graphite, ink, and Photoshop elements. The diverse class includes characters of various skin tones, hair colors, and body types. Notably, there is a girl wearing a hijab, a child wearing glasses, and a boy wearing a kippah to promote diversity. Ryan T. Higgins' illustrations are both humorous and endearing. Penelope's toothy grin and her classmates' stunned expressions perfectly complement the story.

Student Activities

- Make a Venn Diagram to compare and contrast yourself with Penelope Rex.
- Make a list of Penelope Rex’s character traits.
- Make a timeline of the important events in “We Don’t Eat Our Classmates”.

Resource

We Don’t Eat Our Classmates (Penelope Rex, #1). (n.d.). Goodreads. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36341954-we-don-t-eat-our-classmates

"What are Stars?" by Katie Daynes

Summary 

"What are Stars?" by Katie Daynes is a delightful children's book that delves into the fascinating world of stars. In this interactive book, curious young children can lift over 30 flaps to discover answers to questions such as, "What exactly are stars?" Which is the nearest star to us? Can humans visit a star? The book includes simple explanations and beautiful illustrations on each page. It teaches young readers about the wonders of stars and the night sky. Children can actively engage with the book's content. These flaps provide additional information and make learning enjoyable. Every page of the book is filled with beautiful illustrations that capture the magic of the night sky. Children can visually explore the stars and constellations. The flaps are designed to be just the right size for small hands while remaining sturdy enough to withstand repeated use. Reading about stars gives children a basic understanding of celestial objects, which fosters curiosity about the universe. So, whether your child aspires to be an astronaut or simply enjoys stargazing, "What Are Stars?" provides an engaging and educational experience! 

Genre

This book is science fiction because it offers simple explanations and beautiful illustrations of stars for young students.

Illustrations

The book challenges the common perception of stars as pointy shapes. In fact, the tiny twinkling stars in the night sky do not resemble stars at all. They are actually huge burning balls. Each page includes beautiful illustrations and simple explanations.

Student Activities

Students can compare the objects in the book to what they knew about them prior to reading it and what they learned about them afterwards. For example, children see a star with pointed edges. The book describes them as a ball of fire.

Resource

M. (2018, June 5). Book review: What are stars? By Katie Daynes and illustrated by Marta Alvarez Miguens. Mamma Filz. https://mammafilz.com/2018/03/14/book-review-what-are-stars-by-katie-daynes-and-illustrated-by-marta-alvarez-miguens/

A Story, A Story: An African Tale” by Gail E. Haley

Summary 

This enchanting book explores African folklore. It tells the story of Anansi the Spider, a popular character in African folklore. Anansi sets out on a quest to obtain stories from the Sky God, weaving a captivating story that honors African cultures' rich oral traditions. Available in print and digital formats.

Genre

"A Story, A Story: An African Tale" is a delightful folklore that reminds us that even the most terrifying adversaries can be outwitted by a wise or determined "small" person, similar to the biblical story of David and Goliath.

Illustrations

Gail E. Haley created the illustrations. In this beautifully crafted story, Haley retells the African story of how the cunning trickster Anansi was able to obtain stories from the Sky God to share with the children of Earth. The book's illustrations are colorful and engaging, capturing the essence of African folklore. Gail E. Haley expertly uses colorful woodcut prints with African motifs to bring the story to life. Her artistic style complements the narrative's rich cultural context, transporting readers into the magic and wisdom of Anansi's quest.

Student Activities

Music & Dance 

African Rhythms: Play African music or drum beats in class. Encourage students to move and dance to the rhythm. You can even plan a mini "African dance party."

Make shakers: Assist students in creating simple shakers from recycled materials (for example, empty water bottles filled with rice or beans). They can decorate the shakers with African-inspired designs

“Cendrillon: A Caribbean Cinderella” by Robert D. San Souci, illustrated by Brian Pinkney

Summary 

This delightful retelling of the classic Cinderella story takes place in the Caribbean. Meet Cendrillon, a young girl who overcomes obstacles with the help of magical creatures and a stunning gown. This book's vibrant illustrations and cultural nuances make it a delightful exploration of Caribbean folklore and traditions.

Genre

"Cendrillon: A Caribbean Cinderella" is a charming folklore retelling that takes the classic Cinderella story to the vibrant and enchanting world of the Caribbean.

Illustrations

Brian Pinkney's illustrations for Robert D. San Souci's book "Cendrillon: A Caribbean Cinderella" are stunning. Brian Pinkney's artistic talent shines through as he captures both vibrant movement and the exotic palette of the Caribbean setting. Pinkney's oil and scratchboard illustrations bring the lush textures of "green-green island in the so-blue Mer des Antilles" to life. The scratchy quality of the artwork adds a unique dimension, making the characters appear realistic and colorful at the same time. Overall, the illustrations perfectly complement the new retelling of this classic fairy tale, told from the perspective of the magical godmother in a Caribbean setting.

Student Activities

Read Aloud and Discussion Start by reading the book aloud to the students. Encourage them to pay attention and discuss story elements such as characters, setting, and plot. Ask students, "Who is the main character in this story?" "Where does the story take place?" "What magical elements are present?"

Magic Wand Craft Make simple magic wands out of craft sticks, glitter, and colorful ribbons, just like Nannin has. Discuss what magical abilities the wands may have.

"Penny and Her Marble" by: Kevin Henkes Illistrated by: Kevin Henkes

Summary 

"Penny and Her Marble" is the third installment in Kevin Henkes' delightful Penny series. In this simple story, Penny, the mouse, finds a beautiful marble on her neighbor's lawn. However, she is faced with a moral quandary: should she keep the marble or return it? This book is ideal for beginning readers because it uses age-appropriate vocabulary, has compelling characters, and a memorable plot. "Penny and Her Marble" is a treasure for young readers, beautifully illustrated and full of valuable lessons. Kevin Henkes' mouse characters, including Penny, continue to captivate readers, establishing this book as a new classic for beginning readers.

Genre

"Penny and Her Marble" is a realistic fiction book that beautifully depicts the emotional journey of a young mouse called Penny. Real-Life Dilemmas: Penny's discovery of the blue marble and subsequent internal struggle are reminiscent of real-life situations. The moral quandary—whether to keep or return the marble—resonates with readers who have faced similar decisions. Penny's guilt and anxiety are palpable. Her emotions are relatable, especially to younger readers. The story does not shy away from expressing genuine emotions, which makes it realistic. Penny's decision to confess and return the marble highlights the complexities of human behavior. Her freedom and joy after reconciling with Mrs. Goodwin exemplify the relief we experience when truth prevails. 

Illistration

Kevin Henkes, the author and illustrator, expertly captures emotions in meticulous vignettes. The illustrations enhance the story and provide visual cues for new readers.

Stdent Activities

Honesty Lesson: Teachers will use the book as a starting point for discussing honesty.
Share personal childhood experiences in which students did something they knew was wrong. Discuss how they felt and what they did. Compare these experiences to Penny's dilemma in the story.
Craft and Character Traits: Create a craft based on Penny's character traits. Students can draw or write about Penny's characteristics, which include honesty, curiosity, and empathy. Pair this with comprehension questions to help them better understand the story.

Resources

Description: Penny and her marble. (n.d.). https://search.schlowlibrary.org/Record/387072/Description

"The Story of Ruby Bridges" by Robert Coles Illistrated by George Ford

Summary

"The Story of Ruby Bridges" by Robert Coles is a moving and powerful biography about Ruby Bridges, a brave 6-year-old girl who helped shape history during the Civil Rights movement. The book depicts Ruby's unwavering courage as she became the first African-American student to attend an all-white school in New Orleans. Despite jeers, insults, and adversity, Ruby's resilience shines through, making this a moving and necessary read. In a world still striving for progress, "The Story of Ruby Bridges" serves as a timely reminder of resilience, empathy, and the pursuit of justice.

Genre

This book falls into the historical fiction genre. This is the true story of an extraordinary 6-year-old who made history by becoming the first African-American to be assigned to first grade in an all-white school. This moving book depicts the courage of a young girl standing alone in the face of racism.

Illistration

The Story of Ruby Bridges" skillfully blends storytelling and artistry to convey Ruby's bravery and the transformative impact she made on history. Students enjoy this book because it contains large words and beautiful illustrations that perfectly depict the story of Ruby Bridges. This book is an excellent way to teach children about race relations in this country. It gives them a clear view of history as well as an inspirational young girl.

Student Activities

Character Word Selection: Students should choose a character word that best describes Ruby based on the painting and Coles' book. Students will write a short paragraph to support their chosen word.
Making Connections: Help students understand Ruby Bridges' contribution to society and how it relates to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the civil rights movement. Discuss how their actions collectively affect equality and justice.

Resource

The Story of Ruby Bridges Lesson Plan for Black History Month. (2024, February 10). My WordPress. https://mrscslibrary.com/the-story-of-ruby-briges-lesson-plan/

"I'll Follow the Moon by: Stephanie Lisa Tara "

Summary

Stephanie Lisa Tara wrote the heartwarming children's book "I'll Follow the Moon". In this enchanting story, we follow the first moments of a newborn sea turtle. The story begins as a baby green sea turtle awakens from a dream about home on a peaceful, moonlit beach. With a tap, click, and crack, the baby turtle begins a mysterious nighttime journey. The gentle, tender verse and enchanting illustrations transport this peaceful story from the sandy shore to the vast sea. The turtle's only instinct is to follow the moon, believing it will lead to its mother. Despite the challenges and struggles, the little turtle perseveres and eventually finds its way back to its mother. The book beautifully captures the love between mother and child, which resonates with readers all over the world. As an added bonus, every purchase of I'll Follow the Moon helps to save real sea turtles. This timeless story celebrates nature's magic, family bonds, and the determination to find our way home despite all odds.

Genre

"I'll Follow the Moon" is a beautifully illustrated children's picture book that tells the story of a baby green sea turtle who embarks on a mysterious nighttime journey from the beach to the sea. The gentle, tender verse and enchanting illustrations create a tranquil story that captivates young readers' imaginations. It draws inspiration from nature and animals; it falls within the realm of nonfiction.

Illustration

The illustrations in I'll Follow the Moon are enchanting and perfectly complement the peaceful story. Lee Edward Födi's delightful illustrations, set against soft, limitless, undersea green endpapers, feature an animated and engaging baby green sea turtle. Emerging from an egg buried in golden sand, the tiny turtle plows through damp sand, smells the salty sea air, and marches unerringly toward the moonlight glimmer—the turtle's guide to the ocean. The illustrations evoke a sense of wonder and serenity, perfectly capturing the story's gentle tone.

Student Activities

Nature Exploration: Study sea turtles and their life cycles. Talk about their habitats, migration patterns, and the importance of conservation efforts. Create a visual timeline or poster depicting the various stages of a sea turtle's life, from hatching to adulthood.


Art and Crafts: Create and decorate sea turtle masks or paper cutouts. Explain the significance of each part of the turtle's body. Create moon-themed artwork with various materials (paint, pastels, or collage) to depict the moon's glow and its role in the turtle's journey.

Resource 

I’ll Follow the Moon — 10th Anniversary Collector’s Edi. . .. (n.d.). Goodreads. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13092541-i-ll-follow-the-moon-10th-anniversary-collector-s-edition

"Mistakes are How I Learn by: Kiara Wilson" 

Summary

Kiara Wilson's "Mistakes Are How I Learn" is a rhyming story book for early readers. David will learn the nine mistakes he should avoid in life by observing how successful people deal with their own problems and comparing them to those who do not succeed. The book describes each mistake in detail, highlighting how it leads to failure.

Genre

The book "Mistakes Are How I Learn" is considered nonfiction literature. The book is part of the "Amazing Affirmations" series, which is designed to empower children through positive affirmations. It encourages them to dream big, overcome challenges, and enjoy the learning process. Tamara's journey, whether it's reaching for the stars or simply persevering in the face of daily challenges, speaks to young readers.

Illustration

Children can see Tamara's resilience in the illustrations. She continues to dream big, even when faced with difficulties. The visuals emphasize the idea that setbacks are stepping stones to success.

Student Activities

Story Sequencing: Students should arrange events from the book in chronological order.
Explain the significance of each event.
Rhyming Word Activity: Identify rhyming words in the book. Create new rhymes about learning from mistakes.

Resource 

Mistakes Are How I Learn: An Early Reader Rhyming Story. . .. (n.d.). Goodreads. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/57471427-mistakes-are-how-i-learn

“All Are Welcome” by Alexandra Penfold

Summary 

All Are Welcome is a picture book that celebrates diversity and inclusion at school. The book follows a group of children from various backgrounds, cultures, and religions as they go about their day at school, learning, playing, and sharing. The book demonstrates that everyone is welcomed with open arms and valued for their differences. Alexandra Penfold wrote the book, and Suzanne Kaufman illustrated it. This joyful picture book celebrates the wonderful diversity found at school. The beautiful illustrations help to tell the story of students celebrating one another's heritage and traditions. It's a heartfelt story about inclusivity and acceptance.

 

Genre

The book "All Are Welcome" by Alexandra Penfold falls into several genres. Cultural, realistic fiction, and fiction. This heartwarming picture book celebrates diversity and inclusivity, emphasizing that every child has a place and is welcome at school. It follows a group of children through their day, where children from different backgrounds play together, learn from each other's traditions, and share celebrations. This inclusive school community welcomes everyone, whether they wear patkas, hijabs, yamulkes, or baseball caps.

 

Illustration

Alexandra Penfold's "All Are Welcome" is a heartwarming picture book about diversity and inclusivity, illustrated by Suzanne Kaufman. The book follows a group of children through a typical school day. The illustrations show a vibrant and diverse group of children from various backgrounds, cultures, and traditions. The school environment is portrayed as warm and welcoming. Children of different ethnicities play together, wearing patkas, hijabs, yamulkes, and baseball caps. The message is clear—everyone is welcome with open arms. The illustrations beautifully depict moments in which students learn from one another's traditions. The school encourages cultural exchange, whether through Lunar New Year celebrations or the sharing of songs and stories. The artwork emphasizes that everyone, no matter who they are, has a place and a space in this school. The illustrations convey a sense of belonging and acceptance. Overall, Suzanne Kaufman's illustrations enhance Alexandra Penfold's uplifting text, resulting in a strong message of unity, friendship, and acceptance.

 

 

Student Activities

List of welcoming places. Ask students to make a list of all the places they feel comfortable. It could be at home, school, the library, or a friend's house. Discuss why these places make them feel safe and accepted. Another activity would be to teach the children how to speak up for others. Encourage students to express empathy when they see someone sad or unwelcome. Discuss how small acts of kindness can contribute to a more inclusive environment (All Are Welcome Literature Guide | Learning to Give, n.d.).

 

Resource

All Are Welcome Literature Guide | Learning to Give. (n.d.). https://www.learningtogive.org/resources/all-are-welcome-literature-guide#:~:text=Activities%201%20Draw%20a%20picture%20of%20a%20group,Read%20the%20book%20%22The%20Day%20You%20Begin%22.%20

 

“Everybody Cooks Rice” by Norah Dooley:

Summary 

"Everybody Cooks Rice" by Norah Dooley is a charming multicultural picture book. The plot revolves around Carrie, a young girl who sets out on a quest to find her brother, who is late for dinner. As she visits various neighbors' homes, she notices a heartwarming commonality: each family, despite coming from different countries, prepares a rice dish for dinner. The book beautifully highlights diversity and the universal love of food. Readers can also explore simple recipes for each family's unique rice dish. It's a delightful story that brings people together through the shared enjoyment of cooking and cultural traditions. In this multicultural picture book, a sister decides to bring her brother home for dinner. While looking for him in her neighborhood, she discovers that, despite their diverse backgrounds, all of the families prepare rice for dinner (Everybody Cooks Rice Lesson Plans & Worksheets Reviewed by Teachers, n.d.). This book will help your children see the beauty in the similarities and differences all around them.

 

 

Genre

Norah Dooley's "Everybody Cooks Rice" is a multicultural picture book. In this delightful book, young readers follow Carrie as she visits her neighbors' houses in search of her brother, who is late for dinner. Each family she meets is from a different country, but they all share one culinary tradition: making a rice dish for dinner. The book not only celebrates cultural diversity, but it also includes simple recipes for each family's unique rice dish, inviting readers to explore the flavors of the world through food.

 

Illustration

The illustrations vividly depict the warmth of each household, evoking cultural diversity and shared traditions. From Barbados to Vietnam, China to India, and Haiti, each family's distinctive rice recipe is lovingly depicted. Readers can almost smell the fragrant spices and experience the warmth of a home-cooked meal. Carrie discovers her brother while sampling the various rice dishes and gains a deeper appreciation for her community's rich tapestry. The book subtly promotes unity, friendship, and the universal language of food.

 

Student Activities

Students should create a map highlighting the countries or regions mentioned in the book where rice is a staple food. They can label each location and include images of traditional rice dishes from that area. This second activity can be carried out over a longer period. Divide students into small groups and give each group a rice-related task (planting, harvesting, cooking, or selling). Students can conduct research and present their findings, highlighting the economic aspects of rice production and distribution (Everybody Cooks Rice Lesson Plans & Worksheets Reviewed by Teachers, n.d.).

 

Resource

Everybody Cooks Rice Lesson Plans & Worksheets Reviewed by Teachers. (n.d.). Lesson Planet. https://www.lessonplanet.com/search?keywords=everybody+cooks+rice