Review: Writing Instruction That Works: Proven Methods for Middle and High School Classrooms

Writing Instruction That Works: Proven Methods for Middle and High School Classrooms by Arthur N. Applebee
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed the chapters devoted to the other disciplines. As a literacy coach, I am always looking for more ways to incorporate authentic writing into all disciplines and help kids to see the transference. At times, I felt parts of the book were too wordy and I just wanted to move on to the next chapter. All in all it is a good resource to have on my shelf.

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Calling All Teachers.....Do you like Wine, Cheese, Books....FREE stuff???

Oblong Books in Rhinebeck is offering a teachers night that is sure to satisfy the book nerd in all of us.  Please come out to support teachers and local indie bookstores.  Tuesday October 13th, hope to see you there.  Click on the link below for more information.


Fall Teacher Night

How To Raise A Reader

Have you ever wondered, "How can I get my kid to understand that reading is important?" or "How can I get my kid to read more?"  Well here are 10 things you can do to help raise a reader.  Have fun, create reading nights in your house, visit the library together, attend author events at your local bookstore.  Reading is a great family activity that promotes love of reading, conversation, family bonding and helps develop your child's sense of who they are.  Happy reading and feel free to post pictures, comment or share other fun family ideas.

1. Have books everywhere.

2. Let them see you read.

3. Celebrate books and acknowledge authors as the rock stars they are.

4. Give books as gifts.

5. Keep it fresh. Find out about new books coming out.

6. Encourage unsupervised reading.

7. Let “going to the library” be more than just checking out books.

8. Help them find books that align with their interests.

9. Never force it.

10.Create a bedtime reading routine.

An Interview with Brian Selznick

I love all of Brian Selznick's books and The Marvels is no exception.  I received an ARC in May and immediately dove in with eyes wide open.  Brian's drawings are so spectacular that you almost don't need the words to tell you a story.  However, the narrative is particularly inviting and the way he weaves the two stories together is spell binding.  If you haven't read this book yet, don't wait any longer.  Better yet, check out his interview with Joe Donahue on WAMC.
http://wamc.org/post/book-show-1419-brian-selznick

Review: Olive's Ocean

Olive's Ocean by Kevin Henkes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars



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My Current Lit Coach Recommendations
So many teachers as me for book recommendations or what are you reading, that it usually sparks a conversation instead of a one word answer.  I usually read several books at a time and keep at least a dozen on my teacher rec. shelf.  I decided to share what is currently on my shelf.  It ranges from graphic novels to middle grade to YA.  Enjoy and post your feedback or tell me about what's on your recommend shelf.

Roller Girl
-Victoria Jamieson

This is by far, one of the best graphic novels I have read thus far.  Astrid is a twelve year old that has always done everything with her best friend Nicole.  Now as the two girls enter into a new phase of life, their lives seem to be taking different paths.  Enter the world of Roller Derby...I was super excited to see this sport woven into this story.  I also love Astrid, following her journey of self discovery is awesome.  This is a great story for girls, roller derby fans, anyone who wants to read a story that shows readers it's okay to be who you are should read this novel.  You will not be disappointed! #GNCelebration