Book Review: Pink!

Author: Lynne Rickards
Illustrator: Margaret Chamberlain
Interest Level: Ages 5-9

From the Book Jacket: When Patrick finds out he's turned bright pink, he sees RED! "Whoever heard of a pink penguin?" he cries. "And boys can't be pink!" The doctor checks her big medical book, but cases of pink penguins are very rare indeed. Patrick has soon had enough of being teased at school. "I don't fit in here anymore," he tells his parents. Then he packs up his pajamas and sets off on a long journey to a land where there are lots of pink birds, both boys and girls! Does Patrick belong with them?

Why It's On My Bookshelf: Okay, hold onto your hats people. I found a PINK penguin to go along with this wonderful book. You see....this is what makes a story come alive! And this is what helps deliver the important message of acceptance. We recently had a new student start at our school who looked VERY different from other kids. I went around speaking to classes about this particular child and how to be a kind caring friend. Lots of kids started naming books and characters we have studied in books that also face challenges because of their physical differences. Warms my heart to know they REMEMBER. I'm pretty sure Pink! is going to have the same effect. Now I just gotta get some black and white penguins to really put on a show.

not my best photography work

A teacher over at the blog Just Add Clipart had her students make these adorable pink penguins:

image via Just Add Clipart

 I'm thinking I am going to tweak this lesson a little bit next year to add an element of social/emotional writing.  

We can get so caught up in physical differences and even to the point where we start seeing it as a negative thing which often can lead to bullying. I use books like this throughout the school year - not just once. Glad to add this one to my collection. 

A Link to This Book:

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Book Review: Chamelia

Author/Illustrator: Ethan Long
Publisher: LB Kids
Interest Level: Ages 4 and Up

From the Book Jacket: Meet Chamelia! Chamelia is a chameleon. Most chameleons like to blend in, but Chamelia prefers to stand out. She just loves being the center of attention. But when standing out means being left out, can Chamelia learn to share the spotlight?

Why It's On My Bookshelf: I'm always on the lookout for "Be Yourself" books. This one had a little bit of a twist on it. I have a feeling it's going to get mixed reviews from some folks. Here's my thoughts.......

First off, I love the reference to chameleons and how they try and blend in with everything. Those darn conformists! But here we have Chamelia who will do nothing of the sort. She is her own person and no apologies about it. She is pretty extreme to the point where she stands out maybe more than she really wants to. She has a very unique sense of style (like wearing high heels during soccer). Her standing out eventually leaves her feeling left out. Some people are going to get freaked out by this message because there will be an uproar that she should just be herself end of story ....happily ever after. Well, the real world doesn't always work that way. Kids have a desire to feel included and fit in. Chamelia wonders if there's a way to join in without giving up who she is. She ends up toning it down while still figuring out how to let parts of herself shine and feeling like she belongs.

So how will I translate this message to the kids? I want kids to know they can still find ways to be different and fit in at the same time. I know there are children in my school who feel like Chamelia. And guess what - they have a lot of gifts kids are missing out on because they end up isolating themselves. It's also important I challenge the other kids on how to support the Chamelia's of the world. Be smart in how you translate the message of Chamelia.

A Link to This Book: 

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Book Review: Wiener Wolf

Author/Illustrator: Jeff Crosby

Interest Level: Ages 4-9

From the Book Jacket: Wiener dog has a cushy life - an arm lap, plenty of chew toys and treats, and all the TV he can watch. But there's something missing. And Wiener Dog must strike out on his own to find it. Even if it means shedding his cozy sweater. Even if it means leaving Granny behind. But is being a lone Wiener Wolf all it's cracked up to be?

Why It's On My Bookshelf: I saw this book last week at Barnes and Noble and when I went out to the parking lot I KNEW I needed it. You see I am always telling (preaching) to our students the importance of finding a friend you can be your self around. The type of friend where you don't have to change who you are or throw out your values. You know it's the right friend fit when you feel good about how you're acting and feeling. Enter WIENER WOLF!!!!!

Oh gosh, I loved this story. Wiener dog wants to run with the wolves and become their buddies. But he comes to realize it's just not working out trying to be friends with the wild wolves. Their behavior is not a good fit for him. He has to be true to himself and go back home. This is the part of the story where I always like to ask the kids, "Have you ever had that feeling? Like something doesn't feel right in your heart? That you are going against what you know is right?" Wiener Wolf is going to help me deliver this message. Friendship is a yearlong journey for kids so I am always sneaking in great books to help be a support.  

Wiener dog meets the wolves......



Wiener dog goes home and meets friends who are more his fit......

So obviously I went back and purchased Wiener Wolf. I love adding NEW ones to my shelf for the fall. The students will love the story and message in this one. It's simple and the illustrations are so well done the kids are not going to want me to turn the pages too fast. Also, how can you not love a book about a wiener dog!?

A Link to This Book:

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Book Review: You Can Be a Friend

Authors: Tony and Lauren Dungy
Illustrator: Ron Mazellan
Interest Level: Ages 4-9

From the Book Jacket: When the new neighbor Hannah moves in, Jade can't believe her luck that there's finally a girl her age to play with in the neighborhood. When Jade meets the new family, though, she is taken aback by the fact that Hannah is in a wheelchair. With the gentle encouragement of her parents, Jade slowly gets to know Hannah, and the two become great friends. But when Jade's planned birthday party at the water park is on the horizon, Jade realizes while Hannah can do a lot of things, there are some things she can't.

Will Jade go on with her party plans, or will she revise them to accommodate her new friend? Jade's struggle and ultimately her solution prove that being a good friend takes a bit of thought, but is well worth it in the end.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: Forever. That's how long I've been trying to find a book like this. Of course, it's gotten an incredible response from the kids. It has a wonderful message about being a good friend and doing the right thing (even when you might not want to). The character Jade is a giving, caring, and selfless kid. She really sets the bar when it comes to thinking about a friend's feelings. I also like that she's not perfect. She has fears about being friends with Hannah who is in a wheelchair. Jade quickly comes to realize it's not the wheelchair that matters but who Hannah is as person that counts. The friendship quickly blossoms as she discovers what a neat friend she has found. But she faces a dilemma when she has to decide whether or not to invite Hannah to her birthday party...which is at a water park. Hannah will not be allowed to participate in the activities. This is when the students sort of gasped....like 'OH NO! What will she decide?' You will love the ending. This is definitely making my 2011 favorites list.  

A Link to This Book:

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Book Review: My Princess Boy

Author: Cheryl Kilodavis
Illustrator: Suzanne DeSimone
Book Website: www.myprincessboy.com
Interest Level: Ages 4-8

From the Book Jacket: This little boy loves the color pink, and Sparkly things. Sometimes he wears dresses, and sometimes he wears jeans. He likes to wear his princess tiara crown, even when climbing trees. He's a Princess Boy, and his family loves him exactly the way he is. Inspired by her son, and by her own struggles to initially understand, this is one mother's story about unconditional love, and one remarkable family. 

Why It's On My Bookshelf: I applaud author and mother Cheryl Kilodavis for writing such an important and beautiful book. Kids learn stereotypes at a very young age. When we put someone in a stereotypical role, out the door goes acceptance and understanding and in comes judgment and division. 

My Princess Boy is an encouraging story that helps kids to not take part in stereotyping behavior. One of the important parts of this book is when the put-downs and teasing happen. It's very hurtful.  Right away students said, "That is not okay to bully him!"  

The author writes:
If you see a Princess Boy...
Will you laugh at him?
Will you call him a name?
Will you play with him?
Will you like him for who he is?

WOW. Powerful. I didn't even have to create discussion questions. They are right there in the pages. I'm so thankful I am able to use literature like this to break down stereotypes. Lets connect kids now at a young age so they don't have to experience pain or hurt each other as they grow up. It doesn't matter if boys like pink, if girls play with trucks, or if boys want to play with dolls. All that matters is that we are loved, respected, and accepted for who we are inside and out. 

Other Children's Books Breaking Down Gender Role Stereotypes:

William's Doll
Author: Charlotte Zolotow
More than anything, William wants a doll. "Don't be a creep," says his brother. "Sissy, sissy," chants the boy next door. Then one day someone really understands William's wish, and makes it easy for others to understand, too. 

Oliver Button Is a Sissy 
Author: Tomie dePaula
A little boy must come to terms with being teased and ostracized because he'd rather read books, paint pictures, and tap-dance than participate in sports.
 

Amazing Grace (Reading Rainbow Books)
Author: Mary Hoffman
Grace loves to act out stories. She eventually overcomes restrictions of gender and race to play the part of her dreams, Peter Pan, in the school play. 

The Story of Ferdinand (Reading Railroad Books)Author: Munro Leaf
All the other bulls would run and jump and butt their heads together. But Ferdinand would rather sit and smell the flowers. So what will happen when our pacifist hero is picked for the bullfights in Madrid? 

Ira Sleeps Over
Author: Bernard Waber
When Ira is invited to sleep over at Reggie's house, he must decide whether to take his beloved teddy bear. In the end, he learns that it is acceptable for boys to have teddy bears. 

When I Grow Up (Little Critter) (Look-Look)
Author: Mercer Mayer
Little Critter’s sister dreams about all the wonderful things she’s going to do when she grows up. She imagines being a great ballet dancer, a world-famous doctor, a race-car driver, and more! 

It's Okay To Be Different

Author: Todd Parr
It's okay to need some help. It's okay to be a different color. It's okay to talk about your feelings. It's okay to make a wish... It's Okay to Be Different.

Pinky And Rex And The Bully (Ready-To-Read Level 3)
Author: James Howe
Pinky's favorite color is pink, and his best friend, Rex, is a girl. Kevin, the third-grade bully, says that makes Pinky a sissy. Deep down, Pinky thinks Kevin is wrong, but he's still worried. Does Pinky have to give up his favorite things, and worse, does he have to give up his best friend? 

Best Friends for Frances (I Can Read Book 2)
Author: Russell Hoban
Frances doesn't think her little sister, Gloria, can be her friend. But when Frances's friend Albert has a no-girls baseball game, Frances shows him a thing or two about friendship—and a thing or two about what girls can do. Along the way, Frances discovers that sisters can indeed be friends . . . maybe even best friends.

Players In Pigtails (Scholastic Bookshelf)
Author: Shana Corey
In a delightful tribute to the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League created during World War II - this story focuses on Katie Casey, who preferred "sliding to sewing" and "batting to baking" and is a "baseball-mad" girl! Determined Katie makes it all the way to the big leagues and finds a sisterhood of friends and players. 

Sam Johnson and the Blue Ribbon Quilt

Author: Lisa Campbell Ernst
When Sam Johnson inadvertently discovers how much fun sewing can be, he tries to join the Rosedale Women's Quilting Club. "Don't be silly," the club president says. "We can't have a man here bungling everything!" But Sam Johnson won't take no for an answer. 

Horace and Morris but Mostly Dolores

Author: James Howe
Horace, Morris, and Dolores have been best friends forever. They do everything together -- from sailing the seven sewers to climbing Mount Ever-Rust. But one day Horace and Morris join the Mega-Mice (no girls allowed), and Dolores joins the Cheese Puffs (no boys allowed). Is this the end? Or will Horace and Morris but mostly Dolores find a way to save the day -- and their friendship? 

If you have book suggestions, please put the title in the comments section below. Thanks! 

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Book Review: Square Cat

Author/Illustrator: Elizabeth Schoonmaker
Author/Book Website: www.eulathesquarecat.com
Interest Level: Ages 4-8

From the Book Jacket: Eula is a square cat living in a round world. Try as she might, Eula just doesn't fit in. Circle skirts, hoop earrings, doughnuts galore, nothing can change who she really is - a square cat. But what if her uniqueness is what makes her truly special? Author and illustrator Elizabeth Schoonmaker's debut picture book shows that it really is hip to be square.   

 
Why It's On My Bookshelf: Square Cat I'm so happy I've discovered you!! How did you know my bookshelf needed you? Actually, it's my students who really needed you. Students need books that say - you're beautiful and okay just the way you are! I talked to  kids about something a lot of us go through as we are growing up...sometimes we question who we are...just like Eula. She is trying to figure out how to fit her square self in what appears to be a round world. It's easy to forget our own beauty when we get focused on everyone else. But it's her friends who get her to see she already has her own gifts - not flaws. Being square is a gift and she actually fits in just fine! As one student said, "She shouldn't try to be like everyone else. I want her to be herself. I like her."  Strong message in this very lovely book and perfectly illustrated. Another student said, "Ohhhh, Eula is so cute!" I'm hoping for a series.

A Link to This Book and Others You Might Find Helpful:  

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Book Review: Brontorina

Author: James Howe
illustrated by Randy Cecil
Interest Level: Ages 4-8

Publisher's Note: Brontorina had a dream. I want to dance! But Brontorina was rather large - too large to fit in Madame Lucille's dance studio. And Brontorina did not have the right shoes - and everyone knows you can't dance without the proper dance shoes. Still, Brontorina knew, deep in her heart, that she was meant to be a ballerina.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: If you were at Barnes and Noble a couple of Sundays ago and saw a grown woman reading a children's book with a big adorable dinosaur on the cover and hugging it afterwards...well, that would be ME. What's so great about those moments is when I realize how much the kids are going to enjoy my new find for them. And it is an AWESOME find. Brontorina covers acceptance, rejection, being yourself, differences, and following your dreams quite beautifully.

When Brontorina enters Madame Lucille's Dance Academy she is met with warmth and curiosity. But she's also met with a little bit of an attitude by two girls who just can't seem to find anything nice to say. It's like they want her to fail. They have a very minor role but I pointed out their put-downs. A kiddo said, "They are trying to stand in front of her dream!" Luckily, there are two other dancers, Clara and Jack, who want nothing more then to help her succeed. We need to lift each other up - not cut each other down. This was a well received message thanks to Brontorina. Major kudos to the author for picking a dinosaur to be a ballerina. This kept both boys and girls engaged. The last illustration got a heartwarming "AHHHHHH" from all the students. Oh, and from me too!

A Link to this Book and Others You Might Find Helpful:

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Book Review: One of Us (Pt 2)

Author: Peggy Moss
Illustrated by Penny Weber
Interest Level: Ages 5-10

About This Book: Roberta James is new to Baker School. "I think you are going to love it here," the principal says. Roberta agrees as she notices the brightly painted walls, a library full of books, and a fabulous looking playground. But the school starts to feel anything but welcoming as she encounters the many different cliques of Baker School, each with it's own set of rules. There are the pony tail girls, the Monkey Bar Gang, the flowered-lunchbox kids, and the cowboy boot wearing "we only eat pita roll-ups" group. Roberta is shuffled from group to group realizing fitting in isn't as easy as the principal promised. Sitting alone in the cafeteria she meets a group that is a mixture of many things. The kids like different sports, foods, and hobbies. They let Roberta know "You're one of Us" just by being yourself. The illustrations are bold and colorful.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: I blogged about One of Us in July before the school year started so I didn't have an opportunity to read it to students. I've chosen it as one of my first reads this year to our 2nd-4th graders. I've been looking for a book that brings kids together, especially at the start of the year. I have chosen wisely because this one is a force. The silence in the room was my first clue that it was very impactful. All eyes were on the pages as Roberta's first day of school unfolded. And I'm not talking about kids sitting and being quiet because it's the respectful thing to do. The story directly relates to their own lives and what they witness on the bus, cafeteria, playground, and in their neighborhoods. Nobody said boo while I read. Not until I opened the floor with guided questions and related it back to our school. Inclusion and exclusion - those are big words for kids. Without giving the definition of exclusion, after the story I asked a second grade class what they thought it meant. They said, "Getting kicked out." Hands went up when I asked if anyone has ever been treated this way or maybe they've done the kicking out. As we continued our discussion, I could feel the empathy and care for one another increase in our conversations in each classroom. I would call this some serious community building!

I love this story. It is simple, concrete, and powerful. It's going to be great to reference back to when kids use exclusion behavior in friendships. As the school counselor of 400 some wonderful kiddos, I am encouraged as to the possibilities for more inclusion across our school. One of Us helped guide students' hearts in the right direction as they headed out to the cafeteria, recess, bus, and back to their neighborhoods. It will be a year long effort to help kids feel and remain connected. But so worth it.

The publisher has a wonderful lesson plan to accompany the book. I found it very helpful.

A Link to This Book:

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Book Review ( Pt1): One of Us

Author: Peggy Moss
Illustrator: Penny Weber
Interest Level: Ages 5-10

About This Book: Roberta James is new to Baker School. "I think you are going to love it here," the principal says. Roberta agrees as she notices the brightly painted walls, a library full of books, and a fabulous looking playground. But the school starts to feel anything but welcoming as she encounters the many different cliques of Baker School, each with it's own set of rules. There are the pony tail girls, the Monkey Bar Gang, the flowered-lunchbox kids, and the cowboy boot wearing "we only eat pita roll-ups" group. Roberta is shuffled from group to group realizing fitting in isn't as easy as the principal promised. Sitting alone in the cafeteria she meets a group that is a mixture of many things. The kids like different sports, foods, and hobbies. They let Roberta know "You're one of Us" just by being yourself. The illustrations are bold and colorful.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: I've been watching the new MTV reality series If You Really Knew Me. It's a series focusing on different cliques in different high schools and how they hurt and affect the students. As an elementary school counselor, this is a harsh reality I deal with even in the younger grades. Watching the series reminds me of the importance of reading books that encourage kids to accept one another and not hurt others based on what we wear, look like, or who we hang with. One of Us is a new story by author Peggy Moss and it's a beautiful example of how diversity should bring us together and not pull us apart. From my own professional experience I observe many students identifying themselves with a particular group. And sadly, sometimes these groups can become mean cliques and not very inclusive - they become hurtful and reject others. I see it across all of the grades (K-5) I work with. One of Us is a smart example of how to teach kids to be accepting of everyone and to cross boundaries. I already know this story is going to be a hit. Kids have huge hearts and want to be guided and encouraged to do the right thing. The possibilities of how to use this book with students are endless. It is going to be a solid resource in my school counseling curriculum for friendship, acceptance, diversity, bullying, and most importantly "Be Yourself." I cannot wait to start reading it this fall and I will be posting a part 2 review sharing the reaction and impact it had on students. As a school community, One of Us is going to be a helpful story to help students feel like one big group.

The publisher offers suggested activites to use with One of Us. Good Stuff!

A Link to This Book:

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Book Review: Crow Boy

Author: Taro Yashima

Interest Level: Ages 4-9

About This Book: Chibi has been an outcast since that frightening first day of school when he hid under the schoolhouse. Afraid of the teacher and unable to make any friends, Chibi passes his free time alone - alone at study time, alone at playtime, always a "forlorn little tag-along." But when Mr. Isobe arrives, the teacher sees things in Chibi that no one else has ever noticed. 

Why It's On My Bookshelf: Holy cow I love this book! And it completely speaks to kids...about a whole lotta issues. I'll start off with bullying. Chibi is picked on and made fun of because the kids think he is different. He's tiny, fearful, shy, poor, a loner, and lives in the country. It's a teachable moment about negative reactions to what we perceive as different. These are my favorite conversations to have with students because they are such passionate advocates for social justice. There are certain books in my library that get them "worked up" about this issue and Crow Boy is one of them. Any student who raises their hand during this part of discussion - gets called on. It's important that they get to SPEAK about how Chibi is slighted for no good reason. I've also got a good crop of shy students in my school. I know they are tuning in while I'm reading. It's an opportunity to talk about being sensitive and accepting of others. There is a real myth about shy kids. Leadership comes in all forms....sometimes quiet. The issue of friendship is huge in Crow Boy. And it's huge because I talk about it A LOT. Chibi's peers are so caught up in bully behavior that they didn't see his beauty. His inner beauty....he's actually talented and gifted (some might call that individuality) in many different areas. How can the door of friendship be opened when we are so quick to form opinions of one another? And not nice opinions. There is a good ending and the kids in the story experience remorse.  

A Link to This Book:

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Book Review: Don't Laugh At Me

Author: Steve Seskin

Illustrator: Glin Dibley
Interest Level: K-5

From the Book Jacket: Do you wear glasses? Ever been picked last for the team? Afraid you'll be called on in class? Have you laughed at someone else for the same reasons? Someone you thought was geeky or slow - someone different from you. For anyone who's ever been bullied - it's time to change your tune. This is not a book for whiners, but a new language that will give you the words you need to take charge and stop the cycle of teasing.

Why It's On My Bookshelf:  Build empathy, build empathy, build empathy, build empathy.....I can't say it enough. This book never gets old with kids. Why? Because of the powerful message behind the illustrations and words - love and respect one another. Check out the Don't Laugh At Me's website for the free teaching guide.

A Link to This Book and Others You Might Find Helpful:

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