This is a unique time of year to pause and reflect on what we are grateful for. With time scarcity and many competing priorities as educators, we don’t want to forsake the practice of gratitude. In fact, the act of giving thanks changes our brains and makes us happier, healthier people which in turn helps our teaching and learning.
So we wanted to take a moment to give thanks. Top on our list in the gift of great children’s literature. What a gift it is to curl up with a good book. Great books can take us on an adventure or remind us that we are not alone in our experience or give us language to emotions that we are feeling. We love books and reading and apparently, we aren’t the only ones. Even in our digital age, the written word is far from dying. In fact, studies show that people still prefer reading physical books to e-books or audiobooks.
So with all our gratitude for great books, we wanted to let you know of a few new ones that we are loving these days. Perhaps you might check them out at your local library over the Thanksgiving break or add them to your wish list for the holiday season.
(In order from top to bottom, left to right)
Seeds and Tree by Brandon Wallace Beautifully written and illustrated, this book shows children the power of their words and the positive or negative results of them in time to come.
Sofia Valdez, Future Prez by Andrea Beaty Another in the highly loved series, Sofia is a young girl who wants to change the world. In the same playful poetry Beaty delivers another great read to empower young girls and boys alike.
Merci Suarez Changes Gears by Meg Medina A chapter book for the older elementary readers in your life. Merci is an easy-to-love character with her charms and quirks. This is a story of family and change and learning how to handle grandparents getting older.
Island Born (English Version) Lola (Spanish Version) by Junot Diaz Acclaimed adult author, in his debut children’s book. We couldn’t stop staring at the gorgeous illustrations in this book as the young girl Lola learns about her native island home through stories of her family and friends for a class project.
What books are you loving? We’d love to know!
