Nora’s Chicks

Posted on January 30, 2014 by carriegelson

Our BLG book this week was Nora’s Chicks written by Patricia MacLachlan and illustrated by Kathryn Brown.

What a wonderfully lovely title that could be used to talk about what it is like to move somewhere new, away from friends, family and country. Little Nora moves with her family to the prairies from Russia. Nothing looks or feels the same and she is desperately lonely. Some little chicks and two geese become her adopted companions and lead her to both friendship and joy. A wonderful historical fiction selection.

I loved how one of my little Junior Book Club members made a connection to Charlotte’s Web (our current novel). When Nora got some chicks that were all her own, she cried out, “That’s just like Fern – she got a little pig for all her own.”

Thanks to Magnus for sharing this title with us!

Student reviewers respond:

Hyo Min rates this book 10/5 and writes: How many chicks are there? Is it bright at a farm? Is a farm in Canada or not? There is a lot of weeds. Me and Nora are sad because we moved to a different country. Maybe she misses snow people like her Grandma and Grandpa. Maybe she misses her friends from Russia. This story reminds me when I moved to Canada. I felt sad. I missed my friends, the sun and the nature. I visit and stay for a few weeks.

Steven rates this book 5/5 and writes: I like the chicks. Nora feels sad because no tree, no friends and no hills. She had chicks and a dog. She had a new friend.

Arianne rates this book 4/5 and writes: Nora was sad because she had no one to play with until one day she got some chicks. How did they travel to America?

Brian rates this book 3/5 and writes: My favourite part was when nora found a dog. I think that dog lost its owners. Then Nora wanted to keep that dog but then Willie started playing with Milo. Then Nora’s Dad got some baby chicks. After that, she started having so much fun because they followed her everywhere. The chicks helped Nora make friends with Susannah.

Ava rates this book 2/5 and writes: I have a connection. My Aunt is named Natasha like one of the chicks. I think it needs more action and it would improve it.

Kevin rates this book 5/5 and writes: The family is clean and has pretty cloth. First Nora was lonely. Then a friend showed up and then Nora was happy. It was a happy ending. At the end, she was happy because Susannah showed up. She missed her home. Susannah was shy to ask Nora out to play. Milo got a dog and Nora have a friend and lots of chicks. So it’s even. What did they do to get to America?

Joeli rates this book 4/5 and writes: I think Nora was a nice person. She kept the chicks alive and fed the dog. But she was still sad because Willie played with Milo. She does not have any friends. So finally she has a friend in the end and her name is Susannah. They became friends because of the chicks and the chickens.

Heman rates this book 3/5 and writes: My favourite part is when Nora found the dog. Nora named the dog Willie. Willie liked Milo more than Nora. Milo is Nora’s little brother. Nora was lonely. She wanted a friend. Nora’s dad gave her chicks and two geeses. Nora named all the chicks and geese. Nora once lived in Russia but she needed to go to live in a prairie in America. Nora was homesick. she didn’t like this place because there were no trees or mountains. Nora’s chicks followed Nora everywhere she went. Nora named the chicks Russian names.

Kassidy rates this book 5/5 and writes: I love the book because she finds a new friend. Nora was sad because she was lonely and had no friends. Nora was shy when she first met Susannah. Susannah was shy too. Nora’s Dad wanted to eat the chicks but he doesn’t because he gives them to Nora. Nora loves the chicks but she was still lonely. Nora was homesick. Nora promises Susannah to give her some chicks.

Soleen rates this book 5/5 and writes: Nora had no friends and she was so sad. Now Nora has a friend and she is happy. She was homesick. Nora was very shy when she tried to talk to Susannah but it was hard for her. She names the chicks Susannah, Eva, Natasha, Friend, Galna, Ivan, Fritz, Polina, Wolfgang, Clacker and Hoots. She talked to Susannah and promised she will give some to her. That’s how they became friends. She lost a chicken and Susannah found it.

Pheonix doesn’t rate the book but offers this comment: Those chickens look tasty.

🙂 This was a laugh out loud discovery in the pile of reviews!

Lost Cat

Posted on January 25, 2014 by carriegelson

Our BLG book this week was Lost Cat by C. Roger Mader

Come and see the world from the perspective of a little lost cat, left behind when her owner moved. From a cat’s eye view, it’s all about the footwear! Every person this cat meets gets named according to what he/she is wearing on his/her feet. Slipper is looking carefully for a new owner. When she finally picks someone and follows her home, it turns out that she has made the perfect choice!

Reviewers certainly differed in opinions this week. Some students raved. Others were a little more reserved. But all agreed – these illustrations were incredible!

Student reviewers respond:

Hyo Min rates this book 5/5 and writes: I loved the book because there’s lots of details in the pages. How old is the girl with the shiny shoes? Why did the author make green eyes for the cat? This book was cool. How did the cat climb up the tree? Is Slipper (the cat) a boy or a girl? This book had a happy ending. It made me feel happy.

Pheonix couldn’t commit to a rating. He writes: I like this book because there was a motorcycle.

Soleen rates this book 5/5 and writes: Mr. Big Boots suggested to the cat that it should go to town and maybe he or she can find their owner. I like this book because it is interesting. The cat is really cute. I like the pictures. Is the cat a he or a she? Why does he/she call people by their shoes or boots?

Giovanni rates this book 5/5 and writes: I gave the book 5/5 because I liked the picture that said lost. The reds and oranges are so nice.

Joeli rates this book 5/5 and writes: Why did all the people have their shoes, boots, sandals, heel shoes as their last name? Because if you change your shoes, you will have to change your name. So you will have to wear them forever! Why did Slipper try to catch up? Because what happens if he does catch up but there is no pets allowed in there? Slipper should stay at home. When Slipper went to a guy with a snake on his boots, why did Slipper think that it is real? Look at the difference: the one on the boot is coloured yellow. Is Mrs. Fluffy Slippers a Grandma or a Woman? Why did the person with a motorcycle put Slipper inside a basket? Slipper might move a lot and he will fall down. This story has a happy ending.

Vicky rates this book 5/5 and writes: My favourite part was when the cat followed the girl home and then when she got home, she showed her grandma who followed her home. How old was the cat? How old was the little girl? Maybe he will write another book that has an answer.

Calvin rates this book 3/5 and writes: I like the part when the cat meets a man on a motorcycle and the cat jumped on a motorcycle. The man was riding and the cat jumped off. then the cat met a man with a semi.

Sara rates this book 8/5 and writes: My favourite part was when Mrs.Fluffy Slippers was reunited with Slippers. I gave the book an 8 because it has a happy ending and it was funny. I loved the book because it was fun to read. I thought the pictures were well illustrated.

Kevin rates this book 5/5 and writes: The cat’s eyes are creepy. If I had a cat, I will be excited and call her Mrs. Fluffy Slippers. The cat found a good owner. Does the cat like shiny shoes? I think why they call her Mrs.Fluffy Slippers is because she loves slippers. The cat had a reason to choose a right owner. She doesn’t like boots or shoes. She only wants slippers and shiny shoes.

Heman rates this book 3/5 and writes: My favourite part is when Slippers found an owner. I liked the cowboy boot with the snake on it. I liked the part when Slippers was riding on a motorcycle. Slippers got lost because Mrs. Fluffy Slippers forgot him when she went to live with her daughter. I liked the pictures. The pictures show only the shoes.

Grace rates this book 2/5 and writes: The picture with the fire and the cat was very powerful. The kitty cat looked very realistic. My cat kind of looks like that. This book is very cute. It is okay. It was nice but not that exciting. the problem is too easily solved. I would like to read a story with not a really happy ending sometimes.

Brownie Groundhog and the Wintry Surprise

Posted on January 19, 2014 by carriegelson

Our BLG book this week was Brownie Groundhog and the Wintry Surprise written by Susan Blackaby and illustrated by Carmen Segovia

What a delightful winter story – full of humour, charm and spectacular surprises. These characters are irresistibly wonderful and it is difficult to judge even possible mischievous intentions when the friends arrange such a special surprise for Brownie Groundhog. She simply must be woken from her winter sleep to witness it! Poor Brownie eventually gets back to her long slumber. But first there are lights, feasting and pie. Makes one want to set out to a snowy meadow for an enchanting winter party similar to the one beautifully depicted in this story.

For more story details, read these student reviews.

Student reviewers respond:

Grace rates this book 5/5 and writes: My favourite part was when Brownie said to Fox, “Don’t eat Bunny, she’s company.” I loved the illustrations. They were so good. My favourite pie is lemon meringue – it’s so yummy. My favourite character was Brownie but I also liked all of the personalities. The tree was colourful and full of light. It was a fantastic book.

Ibtihal rates this book 5/5 and writes: I liked the part when they did the big feast. It was funny when Brownie was grumbling. The tree has a lot of decorations. There were so many good characters in the book. The author did an amazing job with the book. My favourite character is the rabbit because she is responsible and funny and cute.

Joeli rates this book 4/5 and writes: Why fox did not make his own house instead of just stealing? Or just cut his tail and make it to a coat? Or he can just cut all his fur including his tail to make a very fluffy coat. My favourite character is the bunny because he is tiny.

Andrew rates this book 3/5 and writes: I like the tree. I like pie. My favourite part was the pie. They made a big surprise for Brownie. They had a good feast. My favourite character is the fox. I like the fox because he’s funny. The bunny was honest and nice. The fox was stealing Brownie’s stuff but he was creative.

Soleen rates this book 5/5 and writes: I enjoyed the book because it was funny. I liked the characters because the bunny was so responsible. I liked the surprise because it was so beautiful.

Kevin rates this book 5/5 and writes: I noticed that they eat a picnic in the park. My favourite pie is all the pie. I like the sign is called “Do Not Disturb!” They work hard on the tree and the tree looks full of light. The fox is really sneaky. The bunny was really honest and nice. Brownie is a groundhog and when he was sleeping, he was grumbling, mumbling and saying words.

Vicky rates this book 5/5 and writes: The fox is a thief. He did not understand what Brownie said. But when he made the tree, it was a big surprise. My favourite pie is apple pie. My favourite characters are Fox and Bunny because the fox thought Brownie let him use everything but Bunny said no, it’s not that. In the end, Brownie forgave them because it was a surprise and it was sweet.

Jerry rates this book 4/5 and writes: The big surprise for Brownie is a big decorated tree. Fox and Bunny set it up for Brownie because Fox wanted to make Brownie happy. They they had a party and some crackers. The the party was done. Brownie went to bed and Bunny said, “That was fun” and Bunny gave Fox a cake. Then they all ate together.

Hyo Min rates this book 5/5 and writes: My favourite part was Brownie was talking funny. I love when Fox and Rabbit made a surprise. It was a great book. Why did they make a surprise? I loved the book. My favourite character was Rabbit because he said no to the fox. Bunny was more responsible than Fox. Maybe it was a winter party.

Heman rates this book 4/5 and writes: My favourite part is when the fox, the Rabbit and Brownie were eating pie. I liked when Brownie saw the winter surprise. I think the Bunny was responsible and I think the fox was creative (when he decorated the tree). Brownie was sleeping and the fox asked “Can we borrow the ladder?” Brownie said in a very mumbly voice, “Goey wave slop blubbering bee” and he thought she said, “You can use whatever you want.” Bunny thought she said, “Go away, stop bothering me.” What is the bunny and fox’s names? I wonder why the author didn’t give them names.

We reviewed another title by this author/illustrator team here: Brownie Groundhog and the February Fox.

Herman and Rosie

Posted on December 15, 2013 by carriegelson

Our BLG book this week was Gus Gordon‘s Herman and Rosie. Absolutely charming, a story of friendship, of following your passion and of celebrating the busy rhythms of a big city.

Pancakes. Jacques Cousteau. Jazz tunes. The joy and the solitude of New York city. Finding someone who gets you and shares your quirky tastes. It all comes together in this delightful story.

For some specifics of what was wonderful and some things that happen, read these amazing student reviews!

Student reviewers respond:

Kelvin rates this book 5/5 and writes: I like the beginning because Herman was creative. He played cool music. I didn’t like the ending. It was too emotional. It looked like Herman was about to kiss Rosie. This made me feel uncomfortable. I am a kid. I don’t like a love story.

Steven rates this book 5/5 and writes: In the book Herman and Rosie, I connected to their music. I thought the pictures were interesting. It was so cool that both Herman and Rosie liked hot dogs.

Grace rates this book 5/5 and writes: I noticed that they both watched the same TV show. Rosie got kicked out of the jazz club. Herman and Rosie met on top of a roof. I also like pancakes. Wait, I love pancakes like Rosie. I think that later on Herman and Rosie will make their own jazz club. There is cool and unique pictures.

Shereese rates this book 5/5 and writes: My favourite part is when they met. I like the pictures because it looks like they are treasure maps. They have things in common like watching the same TV show. They have a happy ending because they play in a band.

Soleen rates this book 5/5 and writes: I like the part when it was musical. I connect to another book with a Rosie in it. They are meant to be friends. I like the pictures because I like how it is ripped. I think they they are going to find a band and let other people come and join the band. That would be a happy ending.

Heman rates this book 4/5 and writes: My favourite part is when they met on the roof. I noticed that Rosie and Herman do the same things. Herman and Rosie both lost their jobs. Rosie and Herman both like music. Rosie and Herman were meant to be together. The illustrations were interesting. There was a happy ending because they aren’t lonely anymore.

Ava rates this book 5/5 and writes: My favourite part of the story is about the jazz because a lot of picture books aren’t about groovy jazz tunes. It goes sad and happy and sad and happy and sad and ends with a happy ending because they got to be together as friends. The met on the roof. Rosie hums to the tune of the oboe. Herman plays the oboe in the jazz band.

Joeli rates this book 4/5 and writes: If Herman likes music, why he did not get a job on the music club? Why is it an animal story? How can Rosie jump that far on top of the building? She might fall! I think it is a friendship story. They both like music.

Andrew rates this book 4/5 and writes: I liked the pictures because it looks handmade. I noticed Herman and Rosie met on the roof. I connected to the roof because I walked 1 000 steps up the Temple of China. I noticed they both lost their jobs. It was a sad but happy ending. To the author/illustrator: I loved your book! I loved the pictures. I totally think Herman and Rosie are better together.

Vicky rates this book 5/5 and writes: Herman and Rosie are meant to be together because of some of the things they both liked. Herman lost his job because he didn’t sell that much stuff where he worked. Rosie lost her job because there wasn’t anybody watching. At first the beginning was sad. At the end it was happy. They were playing music together.

Kassidy rates this book 4/5 and writes: I think that Rosie and Herman should be together. They both do music and the girl is a singer and the boy does the oboe. I like to sing on Thursdays in the choir. They both walk all over the place and they both watch the same movies. At the end it was so a happy ending for me. For me and them. I like the book because it is all about love and friendship. I like the ending because they both do a band together and that is the best part for me. I think they both should be together. I think that they are both in love.

Rosie Revere, Engineer

Posted on December 7, 2013 by carriegelson

Our BLG book this week was Rosie Revere, Engineer written by Andrea Beaty and illustrated by David Roberts. Thanks to Magnus, our BLG reader this week, for sharing this title with us!

There are many reasons to treasure this book. The illustrations are absolutely fantastic. Our hero is a heroine – little Rosie who has big dreams of building, inventing and creating. It inspires the question . . . what might you want to be when you grow up? And then there are the themes that we can never have too much of: perseverance, courage, creativity, invention . . . But best of all, it reminds us that on the path to everything there are failures and mistakes and that we can celebrate the effort as much as the success.

The cover reveals one of Rosie’s inventions – helium pants! The story itself is full of amusing and unique creations dreamed up and built by young Rosie.

The plot? It is hinted at in delightful ways through these student reviews:

Student reviewers respond:

Joeli rates this book 3/5 and writes: Why Rosie calls it a cheesecopter instead of a helicopter? Why did Rosie’s Great, Great, Great Auntie make fun of her when she fell? How is falling from a helicopter funny? Then her aunt told her the first might be a mistake but the second try, the better it is.

Kelvin rates this book 5/5 and writes: I like how she did not give up. I like how she is creative. How could she build a helicopter?

Soleen rates this book 5/5 and writes: I like the part when she tried to be an Engineer. She was really brave because she kept on helping. She helped her Aunt. Rosie build a cheesecopter to try and help her aunt. She didn’t give up. She will always love to invent.

Jerry rates this book 4/5 and writes: I liked when Rosie picked one of the old things from the garbage and she bring it home and she is gonna invent something good and new. But then her aunt said she built an airplane before when she was a pilot. Then Rosie thought of something that she want to be a pilot too. Rosie build a helicopter. She fly to the sky, then Rosie crashed down. Her Aunt laughed but she wasn’t really laughing.

Ava rates this book 5/5 and writes: My favourite part was when Rosie made a cheescopter to make her Aunt fly. There is a lesson in this book to believe in yourself. Rosie Revere was so brave to stand up for herself.

Kevin rates this book 5/5 and writes: I love that Rosie build engineer stuff so her Aunt can fly. I like that she used old stuff into new stuff and build an invention. She is a brave girl. I like when she build a cheesecopter. She is not a quitter. Rosie failed but she did not give up. She worked so hard to build a plane for her Aunt. She did a perfect job. She is a good builder.

Brian rates this book 3/5 and writes: Rosie never gave up. She made a really big cheesecopter. She builds really cool things. Rosie is really brave. The Great Aunt laughs at her.

Kassidy rates this book 4/5 and writes: Rosie was happy to be building stuff for other people. Her Aunt Rose was laughing but she did not care about that. She is shy and she still builds stuff. She helped her Aunt build stuff. She made pants to fly. Now she builds stuff with her Aunt. Her Aunt believes in her. Rosie did not believe in herself. But now she does.

Calvin rates this book 5/5 and writes: Rosie was nervous to share. But she was brave. She wanted to be an engineer. Her Gramma was proud.

Heman rates this book 4/5 and writes: My favourite part is when Rosie built a cheesecopter. I noticed that Rosie was shy. Rosie was sad when she failed and her cheesecopter broke. Rosie liked building stuff. I like the rhymes in this book. When I grow up, I will be an architect.

Steven rates this book 5/5 and writes: Rosie made a plane. She was sad because her plane broke. She is happy because she keep trying.

The Man with the Violin

Posted on November 30, 2013 by carriegelson

Our BLG book this week was The Man with the Violin written by Kathy Stinson and illustrated by Dušan Petričić Thank you to Lisa, our newest BLG reader for sharing this beautiful book with us!

How lovely to have this book come into our classroom – it is already easily one of my favourite picture books for 2013 and both author and illustrator are Canadian! This book is also especially meaningful for students because music is such a large part of many of their lives. Some students are fortunate to be part of the St James Music Academy (SJMA) after school programs and play a variety of instruments. Every week all students sing joyously with Jill Samycia as part of the outreach program of St James Music. Music is magic. We need no convincing!

But this beautiful book reminds everyone about the power of music to touch us, if we only let it in. Students were intrigued to hear how this book was based on a true event where musician Joshua Bell took his instrument into the metro in Washington D.C. for a free concert. Dressed in regular clothes and with no special signs, he just played. And sadly, he was mostly ignored. After 43 minutes of play, only seven people stopped to listen. Nobody clapped. His open violin case had only $32.17 even though people all over the world would easily pay $100 for a ticket to listen to him play on stage. Joshua did notice children try to stop and listen but they would be hurried along by their parents.

Kathy Stinson tells the story of what it might have been like for one particular child who experienced hearing Joshua Bell play in the metro station. With captivating illustrations by Petričić, this is an important story of what we miss by not being in the moment. How many beautiful experiences are lost on us as we rush through our days?

Student reviewers respond:

Gracie rated this book 4/5 and writes: I kind of liked this book. It was pretty good. My favourite part is when the man played his beautiful music. Why did the famous violinist dress up as anybody? I play violin. I was surprised when no one listened to that pretty music.

Andrew rated this book 5/5 and writes: I have a connection because I play the violin too. I noticed the Mom didn’t notice anything. I have a connection to SJMA. When I went to the Surrey Flea Market, I saw a man playing his guitar. Yesterday, my violin teacher went and played in the concert.

Kala rated this book 5/5 and writes: I like when Dylan was spreading the colour. He was listening and when others stared at him, they all started to feel the music from him. The Mom was just kept on going. Dylan stopped and looked at Joshua Bell. He did nothing and just standed there. But the Mom grabbed him and kept walking. When he left, he was still listening.

Hyo Min rated this book 5/5 and writes: My favourite part was when he followed the music. I love the book! It makes me feel happy. I think his Mom is not listening to the music. Maybe she should listen instead of rushing.

Arianne rated this book 4/5 and writes: Dylan wanted to stop to listen to the music. Mom told him we have to go home now. Dylan pulled his Mom toward the music. Why did his Mom not listen? His Mom didn’t notice because she was rushing and maybe thinking she needs to cook.

Jorja rated this book 5/5 and writes: I love it because it was beautiful. Why did the boy want to stop?I wonder what the music sound like? I like the colours.

Kevin rated this book 5/5 and writes: I know that Dylan came home and listed to the music. I know that Dylan is peaceful and his Mom is in a rush and a hurry always. What kind of violin does the man play? I can’t believe that only kids came to hear the music and only pay him $32.17. I love that some of the pictures are back and white.

Ava rated this book 3/5 and writes: I have a connection because I play the violin. Dylan was the only one to stop to listen to the music of the violin. My favourite part of the story was the pictures. Dylan was the only one who was colourful.

Shereese rated this book 5/5 and writes: I think the book is a nice book. My favourite part is when he plays the violin. Dylan stops to listen to the violin, to the beautiful song.

Giovanni rated this book 4/5 and writes: Dylan liked the music. He wanted to stop and listen.

Heman rated this book 3/5 and writes: My favourite part is when Dylan and his Mom was listening to Joshua Bell songs in the radio. I connected like I play violin just like Joshua Bell. I noticed that the illustrator made the pictures black and white except the things that Dylan was noticing. I noticed that Dylan was floating when he was listening to the music.

Picture Day Perfection

Posted on November 24, 2013 by carriegelson

Our BLG book this week was Picture Day Perfection written by Deborah Diesen and illustrated by Dan Santat. This funny book was read to us by Peter, a BLG reader new to our classroom. Welcome Peter!

This book is quite a clever story with an interesting ending that surprised us all in a wonderful way. The boy in this story has been planning for Picture Day for months and months. It seems like everything that could possibly go wrong in his day, does. There is “sticky uppy” hair, breakfast that doesn’t stay on the plate, a favourite shirt that was unearthed from the bottom of the laundry basket. The day progresses to trouble on the bus, nausea from all the people saying “cheese” and art class mess. When it is finally time to have his picture taken, we discover that picture day perfection can mean many different things for different people. And a happy smile was perhaps not part of the plan . . . (except for Moms).

Spend time exploring the book jacket and end pages – many hilarious picture day snaps and even a frame to include your own photograph.

Student reviewers respond:

Kassidy rated this book 4/5 and writes: He put syrup on his face to make a worst smile. The photographer click the picture on time for him to smile. He did not like to get his picture taken. I liked the part where he smiles and the mother said, “This is the best one ever.”

Steven rated this book 5/5 and writes: At breakfast, he made a mess. He was dripping syrup. The picture was funny. When he smiled he has a missing tooth. I like the face.

Shereese rated this book 5/5 and writes: I loved the book. It was a funny picture when he wore a stinky shirt for picture day. His Mom picked a grey background that he did not like.

Sara rated this book 5/5 and writes: He is funny because he made a mess in his hair. It Iooks like his face is like the Grinch. He planned for next year.

Arianne rated this book 5/5 and writes: I thought it was weird – he wanted a bad picture day. He had syrup on his face. He wanted a funny picture.

Hyo Min rated this book 5/5 and writes: My favourite part was when he made a funny face. I love the part when he got caught from the click. Why did he made funny faces? The illustrator made pretty pictures. I liked the pictures because it’s all wonderful, like the faces makes me laugh.

Vicky rated this book 5/5 and writes: I love the part when he spit spitballs on the driver because it was gross and also funny. I think the photographer was tricking the boy to make him so he can make him smile. To the author: Why did the boy not have a name?

Ibtihal rated this book 100/5 🙂 and writes: It was sunny when he made faces. Why he didn’t paint on his shirt? Why did he pore syrup on his self? He looked sleepy. Why does he hate picture day? I have a connection – when it’s picture day, I have a bad hair day.

Kelvin rated this book 5/5 and writes: What is the boy’s name? Why is the boy making silly faces? Why is the boy always goofy in picture day? I liked how the boy spit balls at the driver. I liked how the illustrator made every picture bright. If the colour was black and white, it will be boring. With colour, it will be beautiful.

Gracie rated this book 4/5 and writes: I liked when the boy who has no name made goofy faces. It was surprising when his idea of a good picture day was a goofy face. Note to author: Why do you not tell us his name? My favourite part is when he was mad because his mom chose the same boring grey background. I liked this book. It was funny.

Jerry rated this book 5/5 and writes: I liked when the boy try to choose a face. When it was picture day, he had to eat breakfast. At the bus he shoots spitballs at the driver. In school the teacher ask the boy have you choose a colour yet? The boy thought his Mom pick grey colour. When it’s picture time, the boy hates cheese. Then it’s his turn for picture time and he doesn’t like cheese so he chooses a funny face. Then his Mom sees him in the picture. He has a missing tooth but not his brother.

The Three Little Pigs and the Somewhat Bad Wolf

Posted on November 16, 2013 by carriegelson

Our BLG book this week was The Three Little Pigs and the Somewhat Bad Wolf by Mark Teague read by BLG reader, Dan.

We all know and love the tale of The Three Little Pigs. This story is an extremely amusing twist on the classic story. Here we have pigs with bad junk food habits, luxurious swimming pools and escape vehicles like scooters and bicycles. Early on in the story in became evident that the third pig was again the pig with the most brain power! One female student pointed out that this pig was the only girl pig. This started a little whispering among a few boys.

“Girls are quite smart.”

“I’m smart and I’m not a girl.”

“True . . . “

Students were quite perplexed that pig number one and two were eating potato chips and drinking pop and not making any nutritious choices. When they saw the third pig picking carrots and tomatoes from her garden, there was a collective relief. “Very healthy!”

There were many giggles at how the pigs responded to the wolf’s request to let him in and general consensus that pig number three had built a house that we would all like to live in!

“I wish I had that house.”

“Me too.”

“Me too.”

“Me too.”

Student reviewers respond:

Andrew rates this book 5/5 and writes: My favourite part is when the wolf was exhausted and lying on the grass from all that huffing and fuffing. I noticed spots on the 2 pigs. I have a connection from The Three Ninja Pigs – like the 3rd pig was wise too. What show were the pigs watching? I like the happy ending in the book. to the author: I like your book!

Joeli rates this book 3/5 and writes: Why did the wolf did not ask for food from the pig in the first place? Why instead did he want to eat the pigs? Why did the wolf think he can blow bricks. It is impossible to blow bricks. Why is potato chips so important for the first pig? Which one is important to the pig – potato chips or his life?

Brian rates this book 5/5 and writes: My favourite part was at the end when it said the wolf will be bad “hardly”. I am worried that the wolf might eat the 2 pigs. The funny part was when the wolf fell on the grass. What was kind was that the first pig said “Do you want a chip?” and the second pig said “Do you want a soda pop?”

Soleen rates this book 5/5 and writes: I like the part when the pigs were watching TV. I like the part when the wolf was on the grass and when the wolf said he will not be mean again. I wonder if he will be mean again and eat the pigs?

Sara rates this book 5/5 and writes: The pigs are funny because they can swim. I don’t like the wolf. The pigs are cool because they can build.

Shereese rates this book 5/5 and writes: The funny part was the wolf was on the grass. The pigs gave the wolf chips. The wolf and the pigs went swimming.

Grace rates this book 5/5 and writes: I think it was funny when the pigs said, “Not now – we are watching our favourite show.” The girl pig is healthy and the other pigs eat sody pop and potato chips. I wonder if the wolf is going to eat the pigs because the wolf said “hardly” My favourite part is when the girl makes the other pigs clean their rooms and then they swim.

Kevin rates this book 5/5 and writes: I loved when the wolf fell in the grass. I loved when the wolf tried to blow the brick house down and I like when the pigs said We are watching our favourite show and got knocked out. I loved when the wolf made friends with the pigs. The first pig was not smart and the second pig was not smart too but the third pig was smart because she build a brick house.

Ibtihal rates this book 5/5 and writes: I liked the part when the pigs were watching a show. How did his face turn green? Why was he so angry? Why did he huffed and puffed? He was so funny in the end that wolf. I wish I was the 3rd pig. Whey did they like potato chips and pop and shows?

Vicky rates this book 5/5 and writes: My favourite part is when the wolf was lying on the grass because it looked like it fainted. I have a connection to The Three Little Pigs. My favourite part is when the wolf blew the houses down and then one pig went on his scooter.

Hyo Min rates this book 5/5 and writes: My favourite part was when the wolf couldn’t blow the number 3 house. Why did the wolf say hardly? My other favourite part was at the end of the book, the wolf was nice. The number 3 pig was smart. Maybe the bricks are stronger.

Calvin rates this book 4/5 and writes: I love how he never knows he can blow down the houses. The wolf got knocked out. I liked the part when the pigs and the wolf was in the pool.

Ben Rides on

Posted on November 11, 2013 by carriegelson

Our BLG book this week was Ben Rides On by Matt Davies which I must confess is already an absolute favourite of mine for 2013. Some of the students knew this book but for many it was brand new and we were delighted to share in an entertaining read aloud session with Bill, one of our beloved BLG readers! As Kala said early on in the read aloud, “I love listening to Bill!” And then a few whispers began . . . “Yea remember when he read the pirate book?” Bill was the ideal guy to read us this story! And many people liked his pinstriped pants! Hurray for guest readers! 🙂 And books like this . . .

This story speaks right to the part of all little elementary school children’s brains that has a high sensitivity to FAIR. If someone hasn’t been kind to you, do you have to do the right thing by that person? Really? Ben must face this question when he literally finds Adrian, the big mean bike thief, hanging by a tree branch. Is it all on him to help him? Even after what Adrian has done to him?

Hardly a typical book that explores the bully/victim dynamic. This title has many themes – bullies, compassion, and the joy of a kid on a bike. How do we treat others when given the opportunity for revenge? This book poses that question in the most hilarious and sensitive of ways.

Little listeners get very big eyes listening to this book. It unveils a story that speaks directly to the question “What is the right thing to do? No matter what . . . ” Just about four pages into the story, one listener announced, “I already got about three things to write about this book!” And write they did . . .

Student reviewers respond:

Kelvin rates this book 5/5 and writes: My favourite pat was Ben helped Adrian. Adrian almost fell from a branch and got saved by Ben. I liked it because Ben noticed that Adrian is a bully and at the same time, a friend. Ben did the right thing even though Adrian did the wrong thing.

Arianne rates this book 5/5 and writes: He can jump over 5 buses. The big kid pushed him. Adrian fixed his bike. Ben helped Adrian up from the cliff.

Joeli writes: When Ben might have made his revenge, why does his face look weird? Also why did he jump over a lake with sharks without any hill? How did Adrian pay for a bike repair When Ben helped Adrian, why he did not get a rope instead of his T-shirt?

Jerry writes: I liked when Adrian steals Ben’s bike and I liked when Adrain fell down to the hill. Ben helped Adrain but then Adrian stole his bike again. Oh no!

Ava writes: My favourite part is when Ben decided to not do revenge. Ben has a new bike and he is so happy for his new bike. He takes the really long way to school but he is not so happy when he gets to school. Where did he get his new bike?I think he really likes it.

Andrew writes: How does Ben ride his bike over five school buses? How does Ben ride over three sharks? I noticed that on almost every page it has the crow. I wonder if the crow is Ben’s best friend?

Heman writes: My favourite part is when Ben and his friend saved Adrain. I liked it when Adrain fixed Ben’s bike. I wonder how Ben jumped over the school bus and the sharks? Why didn’t Adrain wear a helmet when he rode Ben’s bike?

Brian writes: My favourite part was when I had a connection with Desmond and the Very Mean Word. The books are kind of the same because both books have the same things of bullies.

Steven writes: I saw a boy jump over a bus. The bike was broken. He helped Adrian.

Soleen writes: My favourite part was when the bike was very carefully leaned against the gate. Ben’s smile was a revenge smile. I had a connection from Desmond and the Very Mean Word because Desmond and Ben both had boys become their friend.

Kevin writes: I loved when Ben ride over four school buses. I like when Ben saved Adrian and I liked it when Adrian fixed Ben’s bike. I loved it when Ben did a revenge smile but he saved Adrian’s life and said don’t let go. I know why he wants to take the long cut because he loves his bike so so much.

Calvin writes: The big kid with the bike went too fast. He crashed in the tree and maybe the brake is broken.

Pheonix writes: I like revenge! I like revenge because it’s mostly evil and even.

Gracie rates this book 4/5 and writes: My favourite part is when Adrian fixes Ben’s bike. Ben had karma. He did something good by helping Adrian not fall off of the tree branch and something good happened to Ben. Why is the crow always following Ben? I wish I could do all those things like jumping over buses and sharks. I wonder if before Ben got his bike he didn’t like school.

Clark the Shark

Posted on November 2, 2013 by carriegelson

Our BLG book this week was full of rhymes, funny sea creatures and lots of laughs. Deborah, our BLG reader read us Clark the Shark written by Bruce Hale and illustrated by Guy Francis. We were so excited to see Deborah return as one of our classroom readers again this year!

Clark is an exuberant student at Theodore Roosterfish Elementary School under the sea. He has a few (well, a lot actually) challenges with keeping calm and quiet in his classroom and plays a little too wildly during play time. How is he going to have more success and not annoy his friends? His teacher, Mrs. InkyDink (a beautiful octopus) gives him a mantra: “Stay Cool!” Clark finds that by repeating this often and by coming up with some other rhymes of advice, he can navigate his school day with more success. Our favourite was “Only munch your own lunch!” Clark sometimes forgot the “ask before taking your neighbour’s sandwiches” etiquette of the lunchroom!

Students were very attentive while listening to Deborah read aloud. They noticed the rhymes and alliteration and enjoyed repeating certain lines along with Deborah. There were some worries that Clark might just decide to eat all his fish friends (“But I don’t get it. He’s a shark. Sharks eat fishes. They do!”) Eventually, they relaxed into the book and even made up a few of their own rhymes full of school advice:

“When we sit on the rug to learn. Remember to take your turn!”

“Don’t shout out or your teacher will pout!”

Student reviewers respond:

Kassidy rates this book 5/5 and writes: I like Clark because he learns to stay cool. Clark is the nicest shark in the whole world. And that book is the coolest. Deborah is nice to all of us. She is the best. She is my favourite one.

Joeli rates this book 3/5 and writes: I wonder why all the names of the characters is like a rhyme. Why did Clark the Shark eat everybody’s lunch? Why he did not bring his own lunch box? When Sid the Squid came, why did he not watch his step because he stepped on the slide and the swing.

Kevin rates this book 5/5 and writes: I love the rhymes! How could a school be under water? If the shark is under water, he won’t eat the fish? I like when Clark the Shark stays cool in Main School.

Steven rates this book 5/5 and writes: Stay cool Deborah! I like the story. The shark was sad. I love books!

Soleen rates this book 5/5 and writes: My favourite part is when the teacher said stay cool. I enjoyed this book. I love the teacher’s name. I like the rhymes and the pictures. I wonder if the Squid will be friends with the Shark? I thought that part was amazing.

Kala rates this book 3.5/5 and writes: I loved the pictures most. My favourite picture was when the shark made a friend. Why was the shark so big? I think we should use “Stay cool in school!” for our class! So we will be the coolest class in the school!

Giovanni rates this book 4/5 and writes: I liked that Clark the Shark made friends with the Squid.

Andrew rates this book 5/5 and writes: My favourite part is when Clark helped Sid the Squid. To the author: Why is Clark’s Teacher named Mrs. InkyDink? I have a rhyme for you: Clark the Shark sitting in the park staying cool on April fools!

Heman rates this book 3/5 and writes: My favourite part is when Clark the Shark made friends with Sid. Everyone ran away from Sid the Squid except Clark the Shark. I think everyone ran away from Squid because they were afraid of him. I like the rhymes in this book.

Calvin rates this book 5/5 and writes: My favourite part is when the Big Kid Squid came down because it was funny.