Jen and Kellee host a weekly meme called "What Are You Reading? From Picture Books to YA." It encourages folks to share what they read during the previous week and to share what they plan on reading during the current week. I am borrowing Mr. Colby Sharp's format. Thanks, Jen, Kellee, and Colby!
It Jes' Happened: When Bill Traylor Started to Draw. By Don Tate. Illustrated by R. Gregory Christie. Lee and Low, 2012.
Why did I read it?
I requested it from the Naperville Public Library after reading Betsy Bird's review.
When will I recommend it?
An art teacher: "Mr. Schu, can you recommend some picture book biographies about lesser-known artists?"
A social studies teacher: "I'm looking for an engaging biography about an African American artist."
A third-grade teacher: "I need a picture book that shows the power of memories."
Knuckle and Potty Destroy Happy World. Written and illustrated by James Proimos. Henry Holt and Company, 2012.
Why did I read it?
Three-time Newbery Honor winner Jennifer L. Holm's blurb caught my eye: "Wonderfully wacky!"
When will I recommend it?
A second grader: "Will you please help me find a funny book that includes some comics?"
A third grader: "Do you know of any books with characters who are tired of being cute?"
A third grader: "Is there a book that was blurbed (is that even a word?) by Jennifer L. Holm, Eric Wight, and Sara Varon? (Can you imagine if a third grader actually asked this question???)
Oink-a-Doodle-Moo. Written and illustrated by Jef Czekaj. Balzer + Bray, 2012.
Why did I read it?
Jef Czekaj joined Twitter last week, which lead me to Oink-a-Doodle-Moo.
When will I recommend it?
Mr. Schu: "I need a book that will make my kindergartners laugh." (Is it strange that I recommended a book to myself?)
A school social worker: "I'm teaching a mini-lesson on active listening."
A first grader: "I read Cat Secrets last night. Does the author have any other books?"
Ginger Pye by Eleanor Estes
Secret of the Andes by Ann Nolan Clark
Splendors and Glooms by Laura Amy Schlitz
