Choose Kind

I am so excited that one of my all-time favorite books, Wonder by R.J. Palacio, has been turned into a movie! I don't usually get too excited about the movie-version of books. After all, it's not easy to translate an amazing 300 page novel like Wonder into a 2 hour movie. However, I have to say that this trailer has sparked my interest. I'm looking forward to the movie next fall!

Check it out and let me know what you think.

If you haven't read Wonder, put it on your Summer Reading List. 

Then you can watch the movie in November and compare the two! 

I promise you'll like the story. Pinky swear.  

The audio version is great too!

Happy Reading!

Summer Reading... Girl Edition

Now that I have two boys, I'm completely out of the loop when it comes to girl books. My goal this summer is to read as many girl-recommended novels as I can. In order to reach my goal, I've solicited book suggestions from my students, my neighbors, my sons' friends' sisters and random girls spotted with books out and about.

Each novel must meet the following criteria:

1. It's appropriate for 4th-6th graders.

2. The main character is a girl.

3. The book was written by a female.

I've read quite a few, and I already have favorites that I know my 4th-6th grade girlfriends will enjoy. As a young lady, I attended the Beverly Cleary School of Realistic Fiction. I still enjoy novels about kids who act like kids, even when overcoming life's obstacles. The books below made my list of favorites because they are innocent, touching, character-driven stories with a thoughtful storyline. Most importantly, the main characters are unique. When you put each book down, you will feel like you have made a new friend.

A Crooked Kind of Perfect by Linda Urban

Love, Aubrey by Suzanne LaFleur

Ida B and Her Plans to Maximize Fun, Avoid Disaster, and (Possibly) Save the World   

by Katherine Hannigan

The Magic Half by Annie Barrows

Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech

Because of Winn Dixie by Kate DiCamillo  

Secrets of a Cicada Summer by Andrea Beaty

 

I will continue to add information about the books I read this summer... if they are worthy of sharing, that is. If you would like to share a wonderful children's novel or if you would like to comment on a title listed above, feel free leave a comment!

Kid's Summer Reading Programs

Many stores, restaurants and amusement parks offer rewards for summer reading. Bring in your reading log or book report and receive a free book, coupons or free admission! Here are a few of our favorites, but I'm sure there are more out there...

Scholastic Summer Reading Challenge

Barnes and Noble Imagination's Destination 
Borders & Walden Books Double Dog Dare
Pottery Barn's Summer Reading Challenge
Book Worm Wednesdays (at select movie theaters) 
Check your local library for more summer reading rewards!

Looking for a good book this summer? This website is worth a click: www.bookadventure.com. You can choose books by genre, reading level, and other categories. There are also free educational activities for kids in the Kids Zone, suggestions for teachers and parents in the Teachers Lounge and Parents Place and more! If you would like some ideas for summer reading, this is the place for you! 

What are you reading this summer?