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Reading Aloud: Picture Books

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By Leslie Grant, Graduate Assistant, McLure Education Library

Reading is one of the first things we learn in school and for good reason. Education in almost any subject relies on the ability to read. Strong readers are much more likely to succeeding in future academic endeavors, whether it be a standardized test or a college diploma. This might seem obvious, but for further proof, look at articles like “Reading Can Make You Smarter!” by Anne Cunningham and Keith Stanovich.

So how do we create good readers?

In his book, The Read-Aloud Handbook, Jim Trelease advocates (as you might have guessed from the title) for more time spent on read alouds. Reading out loud to children is one of the best ways to improve their reading and listening skills, as well as foster a love of books. Throughout the book, which I would highly recommend reading, Trelease discusses the importance of reading and reading aloud. Additionally, he shares tips and techniques for reading to kids of all ages. The last section includes his “treasury” of books well suited to reading aloud, including a brief description and age range.

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Here are a few suggestions of picture books good for reading aloud:

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin, Jr.; Illus. by Eric Carle (PZ8.3.M418 Br 1983bx)

Corduroy by Don Freeman (PZ7.F8747 Co 1990x)

Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak (PZ7.S47 Wh)

Froggy Gets Dressed by Jonathan London; Illus. by Frank Remkiewicz (PZ7.L8432 Fro 1995x)

If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Joffe Numeroff; Illus. by Felicia Bond (PZ7.N964 If 1989x)

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst; Illus. by Ray Cruz (PZ7.V816 Al 1984)

Miss Nelson is Missing! by Harry Allard and James Marshall (PZ7.A413 Mi)

If I Ran the Zoo by Dr. Seuss (PZ8.G276 If)

Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs by Judi Barrett; Illus. by Ron Barrett (PZ7.B2752 C)

These are just a few of my personal favorites, all of which are available here in the Education School Library downstairs. And don’t forget to browse through the oversized books, which are great for sharing with classes!

Books to Movies: Spring 2014

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By Leslie Grant, Graduate Assistant, McLure Education Library

We’ve reached that hectic part of the semester where every professor is trying to cram in one last paper or test (or both!) before spring break. Once you’ve turned in the paper and aced the midterm, reward yourself. Identify your junk food of choice and watch that movie you’re dying to see.

There are several new movies based on books coming out in theatres and on DVD. If you’re a book loyalist, you’ll want to read these first. Maybe you loved the movie and have been inspired to read the original. Or you can’t wait for the sequel to find out what happens next. Either way, you’re in luck. Here are a few we have at the library.

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

On DVD: March 11

At the library: PZ7.Z837 Boo 2006

The Book Thief tells the story of Liesel Meminger, a young girl living in Germany during World War II, and her relationship with her new foster home and the written word. This deeply touching work of historical fiction deserves a read for numerous reasons, including Zusak’s hauntingly beautiful prose and masterful storytelling, along with the many intricacies lost in its translation to film.

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

On DVD: March 7

At the library: PZ7.C6837 Cat 2009

The second book in Collins’ bestselling Hunger Games trilogy, Catching Fire has Katniss Everdeen at odds with the Capital again during the 75th Annual Hunger Games. The movie is worth a watch if you’re a fan of action, dystopia, or Jennifer Lawrence. Brush up on your knowledge with a re-read in preparation for the release of Mockingjay. Part one comes to cinemas this November.

Divergent by Veronica Roth

In theatres: March 21

At the library: PZ7.R7375 Di 2011

If you’re looking for the next big series, look no further. Divergent capitalizes on the dystopian trend with the story of Tris Prior, who lives in a futuristic version of Chicago where people are divided into “factions” based on their defining characteristic. Tris must decide between a life of selflessness with her family or embracing her inner bravery by starting a new life, and she finds out what happens to people who believe they can do both. Roth’s stunning conclusion to the trilogy, Allegiant, was released last fall, so fans of the books eagerly await as it comes to the big screen later this month.

The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

On DVD: April 8 (Part 2)

In theatres: Dec 17 (Part 3)

At the library: PZ8.1.T576 Ho

For fantasy enthusiasts, a read through of Tolkien’s work is always in order. This Lord of the Rings prequel is a perfect choice with the release of parts two and three of The Hobbit this year, on DVD and in theatres, respectively. And if The Hobbit is too easy, you can always check out The Silmarillion as well for even more knowledge about the Tolkien universe.

Good luck with your assignments, and don’t forget to borrow one of these books while you’re in the library studying!

Love Is In The Air – Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a book about Love

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Books About Love: Valentine’s Day Recommendations

Blogpost by Leslie Grant, Graduate Assistant, McLure Education Library

 

Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

Twilight by Stephanie Meyer

One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

 

With February 14 rapidly approaching, love seems to be on everyone’s mind. You can’t walk through the grocery store or turn on the TV without being assaulted by red and pink hearts. If books are your one true love, then consider checking out some of these books from the library.

eleanor & park

Eleanor & Park

PZ7.R79613 Ele 2013

“Eleanor was right. She never looked nice. She looked like art, and art wasn’t supposed to look nice; it was supposed to make you feel something.”

Rainbow Rowell’s honest story about two outsiders trying to survive high school in the eighties has taken the world of Young Adult fiction by storm. This story epitomizes the power and importance of young love. A 2014 Printz Honor book, Eleanor & Park would be a good Valentine’s read for fans of teen romance and good music.

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The Fault in Our Stars

PZ7.G8233 Fau 2012

“As he read, I fell in love the way you fall asleep: slowly, and then all at once.”

In this book, John Green tells the story of two teens who meet in a support group for cancer survivors. Green has quite a following, and you’ll know why after reading this witty and heartbreaking book. Plus, The Fault in Our Stars comes to the big screen this June, so why not read the book first? But don’t forget to bring tissues!

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Twilight

PZ7.M57188 Tw 2005

“About three things I was absolutely positive. First, Edward was a vampire. Second, there was a part of him-and I didn’t know how potent that part might be-that thirsted for my blood. And third, I was unconditionally and irrevocably in love with him.”

While Twilight receives a lot of criticism, don’t discount its popularity. The now ubiquitous love story of Bella Swan and teen vampire Edward Cullen is a perfect guilty pleasure for this holiday. To be read while eating an entire box of chocolates by yourself.

 on and only ivan

One and Only Ivan

PZ7.A6483 On 2012

“Right now I would give all the yogurt raisins in all the world for a heart made of ice.”

If friendship is more your style, then check out Katherine Applegate’s One and Only Ivan, winner of the 2013 Newbery Medal. Ivan, a gorilla on display at the mall, must learn to care for his fellow animals in order to find a way to spare their newest addition, a baby elephant, from sharing the same sad existence. Inspired by the real life story of a gorilla who lived in a mall in Tacoma, Washington for 27 years.

 

All of these books are available at the McLure Education Library, so come by to find your perfect match. Have a happy Valentine’s Day!

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